The Owl 2013

The Owl 2013

BELFAST ROYAL ACADEMY The Belfast Royal Academy was founded in 1785 and is the oldest school in the city. Originally situated near St Anne’s Cathedral, in what is now Academy Street, it was transferred to the Cliftonville Road in 1880, when the present building was erected. For more than a century the School was named Belfast Academy. In 1888 Queen Victoria granted permission for the School to style itself Belfast Royal Academy.

It is a voluntary grammar school and its management is vested in a Board of Governors on which parents and teachers are represented, along with Governors elected by members of the Academy and nominees of the Minister of Education.

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Any past pupil who attended B.R.A for at least three years and who is twenty one or over, may, subject to the Governors, become a member of the Academy upon payment of a registration fee of £1. Applications should be made to the Bursar at the School.

Past pupils are encouraged to join the Old Boys’ and Old Girls’ Associations. The cost of membership and contact details are as follows:

OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION School Liaison Officer:

Catherine Scully

Hon. Treasurer:

Ms P. Burns, 1 Glebe Gardens, Newtownabbey, BT36 6ED

Life Membership

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Life Membership (School Leaver)

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£15.00 £10.00

OLD BOYS’ ASSOCIATION President: Mr D. Haslett Hon. Secretary: Dr L. Campbell, Belfast Royal Academy, Cliftonville Road, Belfast, BT14 6JL Hon. Treasurer: Mr N. Simon, 210 Belfast Road, Dunadry, Co. Antrim, BT41 2EY Life Membership

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Membership (School Leaver)

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£20.00

First year after leaving is free.

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BOARD OF GOVERNORS Mr. N. W. Beggs (Warden) Mr. S.J.S.Warke, A.C.I.I., Dip P.F.S., T.E.P. (Senior Vice-Warden) Mr. T.M.A. Baldwin, B.Sc., M.I.Biol., C.Biol.

Dr. K.M. Bill, M.B., Ch.B., F.F.A.R.C.S.I. Mrs. K. Burns, B.A. Ms. A. Chada, B.A., M.Sc. 2

Mrs. A. Clements, B.A. Mr. R. Connolly, B.Sc. Ms. C. Dillon, B.A. Ms. W.E. Graham, B.A., M.A., P.Q.H. (N.I.) Dr. J. A. Hill, F.R.Eng., B.Sc., Hon. D.Sc., C.Eng., F.I.C.E., F.I. StructE. Prof. D. S. Jones, D.Sc., C. Eng., C. Chem.

Mr. K.A. Knox, M.Sc. (Hon. Treasurer) Mr. J.W. Martin, F.R.I.C.S. Mr. P.S. McBride, B.Sc., M.Inst.P. Mr. B.W. McCormack, B.Sc. (Econ), F.C.A. Mr. S.B. Orr, LL.B. Mr. N. Reid, LL.B., F.C.A. Mr. D. Scoffield, M.A., LL.M Mr. P.S. Sefton, LL.B. Mrs. H. Siberry-Hay, B.A., M.Sc. Mr. G.R. Simon, F.R.I.C.S. Mr. D. Walsh, B.Sc., M.B.A., C.Eng., M.I.M.E. Mr. I. Warke, B.Sc. Mrs. J. Weir, B.Sc., C.Math., M.I.M.A. (Hon. Secretary) Mr. A.J. Wilkinson, F.C.A. Mr. M.T. Wilson, B.Sc. Mr. D. Carroll, B.A., M.Sc., M.R.T.P.I (Co-opted Governor) Mr. J.M.G. Dickson, M.A. (Headmaster – Non-voting member) Miss E. Hull, B.Sc., Dip(Acc), F.C.A. (Bursar – Acts as Clerk to the Board of Governors)

Staff Lists

MEMBERS OF STAFF Headmaster

J. M. G. Dickson, M.A.

Deputy Principal

Ms. C. N. Scully, B.Sc., Ph.D., A.L.C.M., P.Q.H. (N.I.)

Vice Principals

G.J.N. Brown, B.A., Ph.D. A. R. Creighton, B.Ed., P.Q.H. (N.I.)

Senior Teachers

T.M.A. Baldwin, B.Sc., C.Biol., M.S.B. Ms. W. E. Graham, B.A., M.A., P.Q.H. (N.I.) M. C. W. Harte, B.A. M. T. Wilson, B.Sc.

Deputy Senior Teacher

R. J. Jamison, B.Sc. M. R. Shields, M.A.

HEADS OF DEPARTMENT ART

Mrs. P. Kerr, B.A., A.T.D., M.Ed.

BUSINESS STUDIES

Mrs. G. McQuiston, B.Ed.

BIOLOGY

A. A. W. Bell, B.Sc., B.Agr.Sc., PhD.

CAREERS

Ms. J. R. Adams, B.Ed.

CHEMISTRY

B. T. McMurray, B.Sc., Ph.D.

CLASSICS

J. D. L. Reilly, M.B.E., B.A.

I. C. T.

P. Cupples, B.Sc.

ENGLISH

W. J. W. Spence, B.Ed., M.A.

GEOGRAPHY

C. A. Stewart, B.Sc.

HISTORY

J. A. McCombe, B.A., Ph.D.

MATHEMATICS

S. W. Graham, M.A.

MODERN LANGUAGES

P. C. Porter, B.A., B.D. (Comm.)

MUSIC

Ms. M. McMullan, M.A., Mus.B., L.T.C.L., A.L.C.M.

P.E. AND GAMES

W. I. McGonigle, B.Ed.

PHYSICS

R. Budden, M.Sc.

RELIGIOUS STUDIES

P. Dorman, B.Th.

TECHNOLOGY

K. Lunn, B.Ed.

SENIOR SUBJECT TEACHERS DRAMA AND THEATRE STUDIES

Miss S. Tinman, B.A.

ECONOMICS

J. M. Patterson, B.Sc.(Econ.), M.S.Sc., D.C.G.

GERMAN

Miss R. McCay, M.A.

HOME ECONOMICS

Mrs. R. Morrison, B.A.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Mrs. N. S. Nicholl, B.A.

SOCIAL SCIENCE

Mrs. J. Robb, B.Sc.

SPANISH

Mrs. S. S. Roberts, B.A.

SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS

Ms. D. Keenan, M.Sc.

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HEADS OF YEAR FORM I

Mrs. G. C. Morris, B.Ed. P. T. Stretton, B.Ed. Mrs. K. McIntyre, B.Sc. J. F. Buchan, B.E.M., M.A. Mrs. C. J. Adair, B.A., Ph.D. M. R. Shields, M.A. Mrs. A. M. Reynolds, B.Sc. S. C. Springer, M.Sci., Ph.D. Mrs. J. Robb, B.Sc. T. Hughes, M.Sc. Mrs. R. Morrison, B.A. C. R. McCarey, B.Sc. Miss S. R. Ardis, B.Sc. M. J. Neill, M.Sc.

FORM II FORM III FORM IV FORM V 4

FORM VI FORM MVI

CAREERS ADVISERS Ms. J. Adams, B.Ed. A. K. Moles, B.Sc.

S. B. Murphy, B.Ed. J. M. Patterson, B.Sc.(Econ.), M.S.Sc., D.C.G.

GRAMMAR SCHOOL Miss. K. S. Barnett, M.A. Miss. K. E. Brady, B.Sc. Miss. B Brittain, B.Ed. Mrs. E. Burch, B.Mus.Ed., B.A., ABRSM, ATCL Mrs. J. C. Bell, B.Sc. Mrs. K. A. Black, B.A. Ms. C. Burns, B.Sc., Ph.D., M.R.S.C. J. Carolan, M.A. Miss V. Carson, M.A., A.L.C.M. Mrs. J. M. Cleland, B.Sc. Miss L. Craig, B.A. D. Creighton, B.Sc. Mrs. C. E. Currie, B.A. Miss. D. Currie, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Mrs. F. A. Gilmore, B.Sc. Mrs. M. L. Gray, B.A., M.Ed. Mrs. S. Graydon, B.Ed. Mrs. N. Henry, B.Sc. Miss J. Herron, M.A. N. Irwin, B.Ed. C. P. Little, B.A.

P. J. Martin, B.Ed. Ms T. McBeth, M.A. Mrs. G. McCadden, Dip. A.D., A.T.D. Mrs. B. McCaughran, Dip. P.E. Mrs. S.B. McCoy, B.A. Mrs. J. McGowan, M.A. Ms. S. M. McIlhatton, B.Eng. Miss A. McMillen, M.Sci. Mrs. H. Miller, B.A. D. D. Morrison, M.Sc. O. Mort, BA., Ph.D. Mrs. D. M. Nicholl, B.A. Mrs. L. I. Nicholl, B.Sc. Mrs. R. L. O’Donnell, B.A., Dip. A.D., A.T.D. Mrs. L. Patterson, B.A. Mrs. M. C. Sheeran, B.A. Mrs. J. Smyth, B.A. Mrs. H. Tate, B.A. Mrs. A. P. Terek, B.Sc. Mrs. M. N. Wilson, B.A.

Staff Lists

PREPARATORY DEPARTMENT Principal Deputy Principal

Mrs. V. M. McCaig, B.Ed. W. T. Wilson, B.Ed., L.T.C.L.

P. J. Ingram, B.Ed., M.Sc. Mrs. P. Lennon, B.Ed. Mrs. B. Marshall, Cert. Ed. S. Patterson, B.Ed.

Mrs. S. Sherrard, Cert. Ed. Mrs. E. Wilson, B.Ed. Mrs. R. Wilson, B.A., B.Ed., L.T.C.L.

GRAMMAR SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION Bursar Finance Supervisor Part-time Headmaster’s Secretary/P.A. Part-time Headmaster’s Secretary/P.A. Bursar’s Secretary/P.A. Part-time Office Administrator Part-time Finance Administrator Part-time Librarian Part-time Librarian I.C.T. Manager General Office Supervisor Telephonist / Receptionist General Office Administrator Part-time Administrator

Miss E. Hull, B.Sc., Dip.(Acc.), F.C.A. Mrs. H. McClean, B.A., F.C.A. Mrs. P. McClintock Mrs. J. Sherry Miss G. Boyd, B.A. Mrs. J. Boyd Mrs. L. Hogg, B.A. Mrs. T. Corcoran, B.A. PG.Dip. I.M. Miss E. McAtamney, B.A. J. R. Cleland, B.Sc. Ms. P. Ferguson Mrs. A. Foy Mrs. L. Oliver Miss. J. Nesbitt, A.C.I.I.

ANCILLARY STAFF Laboratory Assistants

Technology & Design Technician Art & Crafts Technician School Matron Study Supervisor Estates Manager Grounds Maintenance Supervisor Swimming Pool Manager/Instructor Maintenance Staff Bus Driver Bus Driver/Assistant Janitor Janitor Supervisory Assistant Part-time Cleaner

Mrs. D. Beattie Mrs. J. Carroll Miss A. Caroux M. McCreight Mrs. L. Atkins Mrs. N. Loughran, R.S.C.N. Mrs. C. Clyde W. Thompson M. A. Gaw, B.Tech.

Mrs. E. Alexander, B.A. F. Workman P. McCartney W. Dunn A. Hermon K. Hogg D. McKee Mrs. A. Thompson C. Cork

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CLASSROOM ASSISTANTS Ms. C. Bernard, B.A., P.G.C.E.

Mrs. B. Rafferty, B.A., P.G.C.E.

Miss B. Burtenshaw, B.A., Dip.Ed.

Mrs. A. Rea, B.A, P.G.C.E., Adv.

D. R. J. Calvert

Mrs. J. Reid

Ms. C. Colwell, B.A., P.G.C.E.

Miss S. Stewart

Mr. A. Grimason, B.A.

Mrs. K. Tepe

Mrs. C. Henderson

Mrs. N. Watson

Mrs. E. Leinster, B.A., P.G.C.E.

PREPARATORY DEPARTMENT

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PRE-PREPARATORY AND DAYCARE ANCILLARY STAFF Secretary

Mrs. F. Gouk, M.A.

Classroom/After Schools Assistant

Miss H.E. Crossen, B.A.

Classroom Assistant

Mrs. E. L. Philpott

Pre-Preparatory Group Leader

Mrs. C. Sempey

Pre-Preparatory Group Assistant

Mrs. L. Kyle

After School Leader (temp)

Mrs. A. Millar

After School Assistant

Mrs. L. Todd, B.A.

General Assistant

Mrs. I. Campbell

General/Pre-Preparatory Assistant

Miss A. Reid, B.A.

Building Supervisor

R. Crawford

Supervisory Assistant

Mrs. C. Forsythe

Kitchen Supervisor

Mrs. L. Johnston

Kitchen Assistant

Mrs. M. McEwan

Contents 7

School Notes

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Diary of the School Year Valete

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Obituaries

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Literary Contributions

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School Societies

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Music in School

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Drama in School

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Distribution of Prizes

Miscellany

School Games

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Ben Madigan Preparatory School Former Pupils’ News

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215

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Degrees and Diplomas

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Births, Marriages and Deaths

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238 239

School Notes

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COMMONER AND PENSIONER PLACES

Sarah V A Sproule

Geography: Geographical Imaginations

University of Oxford Connor Brogan took up an offer from Merton College to read Chemistry.

Jenna Todd

Art and Design: Mapping the Visual

THE VILLIERS PARK TRUST

Christopher G Turnbull Mathematics: Chaos or Clear Cut?

An Educational Trust based in Cambridge which aims to inspire gifted and talented pupils.

Selected by the Trustees of Villiers Park for participation in the Annual Series of Reading Parties at Foxton, Cambridge: Rachel A Blythe

Creative Writing: Finding your Voice

Antonia A Campbell

English Language: Contemporary Dialect Change

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STAFFING We said farewell to four members of staff at the end of the academic year. Mrs Thompson (Latin), Mr Moore (Technology) and Mr Nash (Geography) retired. Mr Forrest left to take up the post of teacher of English at Friends’ School, Lisburn.

Appointments

Andrew D D Curtis

Computer Science

Full-time Permanent

Kieran C McGahan

Environment and Society: Living with Uncertainty

Jonathan A Rainey

Philosophy, Politics and Economics

Miss Katrina Barnett Miss Karen Brady Miss Leanne Craig Dr Oliver Mort

Kelly-Anne Rainey

French: Language and Identity

Paul E Rogers

Mathematics: Chaos or Clear Cut?

Elizabeth D Sinclair

Biology: Ecology and Evolution

Matthew S Smith

Biology: Cell Biology and Genetics

Politics/History PE English/Drama English

Cover for Maternity Leave Miss Bethan Brittain

PE (JRS)

Full-time Temporary (1 year) Miss Ashley McMillen

Mathematics (LMC)

Part-time Temporary (1 year) Miss Jennifer Herron

English/Drama

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School Notes

DEPARTMENTS Art & Design Ruairi Brogan and Angela Cao Form V gained full marks in the CCEA GCSE level examination 2013.

Jenna Todd Form LVI gained full marks in the CCEA AS level examination 2013.

Ben O’Donnell and Oriana Firgau Marcano Form MVI gained full marks in the CCEA A2 level coursework and examination.

Ryan Hamill and Kirsty McKerracher Form MVI gained full marks in the CCEA A2 Level coursework.

The following work was requested by CCEA for possible inclusion in the 2013 - 2014 True Colours exhibition.

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GCSE Level • Angela Cao – her Core Portfolio unit based on the theme ‘Portraits’ has a self-portrait painting outcome. Also requested is her examination unit that consists of a water colour diptych based on the theme ‘What makes me who I am’.

• Ruairi Brogan – his Core Portfolio unit of work based on the theme ‘Industrial Dilapidation’ with a painting outcome.

A2 Level • Oriana Firgau Marcano – her personal investigation unit based on the theme ‘Nativity’ with a ceramic and drawing outcome.

• Ben O’Donnell – his personal investigation unit based on the theme ‘The Natural World and Ceramics’ with a ceramic outcome.

• Ryan Hamill – his personal investigation unit based on the theme ‘Escapism’ with a painting outcome.

Mr. Roy Donaldson from Donaldson and Weir Graphics Ltd. presented two Art and Design MVI A2 level pupils with a Student Art Pack Award.

• Ben O’Donnell who has gained a place at the Glasgow School of Art to study product design and Oriana Figau Marcano who has gained a place at Ulster University Belfast to study Art and Design.

All Art & Design GCSE, AS and A2 level pupils attended the 2013 True Colours exhibition at the

Ulster Museum to view the best examples of N. Ireland’s CCEA Art and Design coursework and externally set assignments. They also toured the Ulster Museum exhibitions and collections.

Jenna Todd received a CCEA certificate of Excellence for gaining full marks at GCSE level.

The MVI and LVI Art and Design pupils visited the 2013 Royal Ulster Academy Annual Art Exhibition at the Ulster Museum.

The Department is used every week for Duke of Edinburgh Art & Design projects and CCEA GCSE and A level units of work.

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A dedicated team of pupils enjoyed constructing, painting and decorating the set for the Senior School Production, ‘Snared’.

The June 2013 Annual Art Exhibition included an excellent variety of work from all Forms. The Art Exhibition’s coffee morning raised £100 for Save the Children Fund. A further £90 was raised by teaching and non-teaching staff at a break-time preview of the exhibition.

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The Department continues to develop staff training in the use of ICT by attending courses in Photoshop, animation and iPad training. The Department has recently purchased two apple boxes to support the piloting of teaching and learning with the iPad. We look forward to the instalment of WiFi in the Department in the near future.

The Department continues to provide pupils with an insight into Art and Design career routes. This was supported by guest speakers: • Alannah Mawhinney, past pupil of BRA, gave LVI students a talk on Film and Media studies; • Steven Martin ceramic artist from Kilkenny Studio, who has been on work experience in the Department, resurrected the use of our Potter’s Wheel; • Martin McGinn and Mike McQueen from Ulster University gave presentations on Product Design and Architecture to Form MVI. Form IV Art and Design pupils attended the ‘World Skills – have a go day’ at Belfast Metropolitan College at which they had the opportunity to develop textile skills.

Rose Crossan and Ben O’Donnell Form MVI took part in the Belfast Print Workshop Culture project.

They each created a metre square lino print for a large fabric panel that was produced using a steam roller. The panel was put on public display at the Merchant Hotel square to celebrate the Belfast Culture Event 2013.

Mrs J Prenter (mother of Grace Prenter past pupil of BRA) from Charities Aid Foundation kindly donated £400 to the Art department to buy a much needed new camera. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Charity for their generous donation.

School Notes

Biology Biology at the Academy continued to be a popular subject with our students at GCSE and A-level. It remains one of the largest A-Level Biology centres in Northern Ireland. Our new relationship with Greenmount Agricultural College (CAFRE) was strengthened with a tailored field-trip to CAFRE for our AS pupils. This visit has proven invaluable in our teaching of key environmental issues associated with biodiversity. Guest speakers visited routinely throughout the year in the Senior Science Society as it continued to challenge and extend our subject beyond the classroom. Dr McCullough from QUB ran a bioethics day for those applying for medicine, dentistry and other healthcare related courses.

Visitors from the INIS Hydro Project (Scotland) ran a careers day for our students to illustrate the diverse range of careers linked to Marine Biology when considering the generation of electricity from tidal power. Elizabeth Sinclair attended Villiers Park.

chocolate bar. A range of Departments helped with the delivery – Technology allowed the pupils to design the moulds, Home Economics provided the pupils with the facilities to make a prototype, and the Music Department provided us with musical instruments to produce an advertising jingle.

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BCS This was the first year of running this course and the pupils had the opportunity to visit Aunt Sarah’s sweet shop and were taken through the production and development of the sweet sector.

Business Studies Mini Company This year the Mini Company was co-ordinated through Ben Madigan. Three companies were set up and all companies were able to pay a 5% dividend to their shareholders and make a good return on profit.

SOLD made a profit of £101.84 Madigan 12 made a profit of £250.71 BM8 made a profit of £333.37 The pupils made a variety of crafts and sweets and sold them during the Christmas concert, Ben Madigan sports day and the BRA sponsored walk.

Form IV Project This continued to be a success with pupils working in groups to launch a new app for the iPhone. Pupils worked extremely well as a group and became very competitive, not just with their class, but with all the pupils taking Business Studies at Form IV level.

Form III Chocolate Bar Another successful project was in the form of pupils researching, designing and launching a new

Dunbia Meats A group of LVI pupils had an opportunity to visit a meat processing plant and saw at first hand the processes involved in production and packaging of meat products for a variety of leading supermarkets.

Careers Co-ordination The Business Studies and Careers Departments continue to work together to provide opportunities for Business Studies pupils. This year involved Step and Zone (Form IV) an initiative aimed at product development, and Amazing Brains helping to channel product innovation and new ideas for Form III Business pupils.

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Chemistry The Chemistry Department had a 97% pass rate at GCSE and a 100% pass rate at A2 level.

Form III pupils attended a Have a Go at Broadcasting Day hosted by Aidan Browne and Lynda Bryans at Belfast MET.

6 pupils achieved an A* at A2 level.

Connor Brogan is studying Chemistry at Merton College, Oxford.

A team of 3 MVI pupils competed in the Northern Ireland Schools’ Analyst Competition, held in Stranmillis College.

Classics 12

We are delighted that Parisa Shirazi, as a result of all her hard work, achieved a grade A in A-Level Latin.

We are also delighted that Rowan Madden and Alan Campbell achieved a grade A and Eric Macaulay a grade A* in GCSE Latin.

39 pupils from Forms I, II and III and four members of staff thoroughly enjoyed the four day Classics trip to Hadrian’s Wall in June.

GCSE and A-level Drama students went on a number of theatre visits during the year, including Macbeth at the Lyric Theatre and The Picture of Dorian Gray at the Black Box. Form V pupils Caolan Lyttle and James Moorehead even got in on the act, joining the cast onstage at The Mac for Bruiser’s hilarious production of the Broadway hit The 25th Annual Putnam Spelling Bee. Carly McCullough (Form IV) starred in the lead role, Maria, in Belfast Youth in the Arts’ production of West Side Story. Chloe Lynas and Ciera McCotter (both Form IV) had supporting roles in the production which ran for five nights at the Waterfront Hall, Belfast in April 2013.

A-level Drama students presented their practical work to family and friends during a showcase evening in May. The Junior Drama Club was very successful and attracted over twenty pupils on Tuesday afternoons.

A small and enthusiastic group of pupils from Forms I, Lower VI and Middle VI attended Classical Greek classes twice a week at lunchtime with Mrs. Thompson and Mrs. McGowan.

We wish Mrs. Elisabeth Thompson a very long and happy retirement, and thank her so much for her highly dedicated work for the Department and Academy pupils over the years. We miss her greatly as a colleague and as a friend.

Drama The Drama and Music Departments teamed up in May to produce the Junior Musical Little Shop of Horrors. An enthusiastic cast and crew helped ensure a very successful and enjoyable production.

Economics At AS level, pupils in one class were joined by five pupils from St Malachy’s College. The collaboration worked well despite the need for the St Malachy’s pupils to be taught after school on a Friday from time to time, due to timetabling difficulties. Motivation to study the subject, natural ability, being the only St Malachy pupils in BRA, and a positive attitude from the pupils contributed to this success.

Three AS pupils participated in a Co-operation Ireland/Morgan Stanley visit to London. They were involved in meeting others from a range of backgrounds, learning about the work of Morgan Stanley and in making presentations.

School Notes

All A2 pupils participated in a visit to the IKEA store at Holywood, which provided an opportunity to learn about concepts such as “economies of scale” and “environmental sustainability.”

The majority of A2 pupils applied to study the subject, or a related area, such as accountancy or finance, at degree level. Several have been offered places on prestigious courses e.g. the Accountancy and Business course offered by the Henley Business School at Reading University in conjunction with PWC and the Institute of Chartered Accountants of England and Wales.

English 90 pupils studied English Literature at GCE ‘AS’ and ‘A’ Level, while a further 42 pupils opted for GCE ‘AS’ and ‘A’ Level English Language. 86% of ‘A2’ Literature students obtained grades A*-C, and 90% of ‘A2’ Language students achieved grades A*-C. 207 pupils studied GCSE English Language. 178 pupils also completed GCSE English Literature. 85% of Language students obtained grades A*-B, and 93% of Literature students achieved grades A*-B. Sixth Form pupils had the opportunity to attend seminars hosted by Queen’s University about their set ‘A’ Level texts. Lower Sixth students attended ‘The Great Gatsby’ lectures at Stranmillis Universtiy College. A pioneering collaboration between the English and French Departments led to a series of ‘A’ Level lectures being held on Albert Camus’ ‘The Outsider’/‘L’Étranger’ and ‘The Myth of Sisyphus’.

Texts were illuminated for ‘A’ and ‘AS’ Level Literature students in both departments.

Claire McCollum, a freelance broadcaster and former pupil, who has worked for CNN and UTV, spoke to Lower Sixth students about journalism and broadcasting. As part of a one-day workshop with BBC’s Thomas Niblock, Form Three pupils scripted, filmed and edited their own news programme. Participants gained an insight into the

world of the Media and considered future careers in journalism.

BRA pupils once again finished in top positions at the West Belfast Festival Short Story Competition.

11 – 13 years old category: 2 nd– Jasmine Ross. 14 – 16 years old category: 1 st – Mary Cousins. Kevin Morrison and Conall McCorry from Feile Belfast visited School to present the prizes. 30 Academy pupils were published in the ‘Around The World In 80 Words’ anthology. 26 Academy pupils were published in ‘The Poetry Games – Poems from Northern Ireland’ anthology.

In collaboration with the Library, ‘‘Accelerated Reader’’ was established successfully across Form I and from September 2013 will be continued with Form I and Form II pupils. The Headmaster gave gift cards from Waterstone’s to the ‘Millionaires and 100% Club’ winners – those pupils who had read over a million words or achieved 100% in their reading quizzes.

National Poetry Day was celebrated in the Library around the theme of ‘Stars’ and a poetry competition was held to coincide with this venture. Winners received book tokens from Scholastic Book Fairs. To celebrate National Poetry Day, a reading was held at lunchtime in the Library at which staff and pupils read their favourite poems on the theme of ‘Stars’ to a large audience.

The Library, supported by the English Department, celebrated World Book Day by hosting a Book Fair and Short Story competition. Pupils were invited to watch online the ‘Biggest Book Show on Earth’.

World Book Day book tokens were distributed to all pupils. Form I pupils enjoyed a visit by children’s author Katherine Roberts.

Other Departmental activities during the course of the year included: £3,263 being raised for the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children during ‘Read-On’ week by Forms I and II pupils; support

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in Belfast, and examining the microclimate of the greater Belfast area.

for the Library’s Scholastic Book Fair by raising £600 in free books; hosting of visits by Swedish and Danish teachers as well as Erasmus students from Germany; participation in the Kids’ Lit. Quiz at Wellington College; establishing relationships with the Literacy Co-ordinator in St. Malachy’s College and developing existing practices with Cavehill Primary School. During the month of September, Mary Currie enjoyed a successful work experience in the Department.

The Department was sorry to learn that David Nash would be leaving; his valuable contribution to the Department will be remembered by all his colleagues over the years.

Geography

Lower VI pupils enjoyed the annual visit to Stormont where they had the opportunity to meet and question MLAs and press officers from several parties.

Middle VI attended an event for schools from North and West Belfast with a panel of MLAs at Stormont.

MVI geographers had the opportunity in September to study the effects of coastal erosion at Dundrum Bay in Co Down. They also surveyed members of the public in Newcastle on their views of tourism in the local area.

Kieran McGahan and Sarah Sproule both attended residential courses at The Cambridge Centre at Villiers Park, Foxton, Cambridge in October. Their respective courses were Environment and Society: Living with Uncertainty, and Geography: Geographical Imaginations.

In November three pupils in Form IV (David McLarnon, Micah Hipolito and Cameron Chism) competed in the Northern Ireland final of the World Wise Quiz at Queen’s University, Belfast.

Government and Politics

History History in Belfast Royal Academy continues to thrive. Last year History was again the most popular non-core GCSE subject studied by the pupils of the Academy (122 members of the Fourth Form studied GCSE History).

A number of teachers in the History Department received favourable comments on their work from members of the Education and Training Inspectorate during the inspection of March 2013.

In 2012-2013 the History Department maintained its strong tradition of facilitating pupils’ academic success. At GCSE level, 86% of our pupils achieved grades A*-C. The performance of the History candidates at Advanced Level was particularly impressive. At AS level, 88% of our pupils gained grades A–C (5% above the Northern Ireland Grammar school figure). At A2 level, 95% of our pupils gained grades A*–C (3% above the Northern Ireland Grammar school figure).

The entire Middle Sixth cohort passed Advanced Level History. Callum Browne was awarded an A*.

In January LVI geographers and biologists had the opportunity to attend a careers workshop in the school library run by industry professionals related to INIS Hydro project (Scottish Marine Institute).

The workshops focused on potential career pathways related to the INIS Hydro project.

Each Key Stage had experience of fieldwork outside the classroom. This involved collecting information and producing a finished report. Topics studied as part of fieldwork include a local weather study within the school, coastal defence measures at Holywood, Co Down, a study of the attitudes towards migration

ICT Natalie Cole, LVI, was selected to attend a reading week at Villiers Park.

Mathematics 64% of Form V pupils achieved an A*/A in AQA GCSE Mathematics. 92% achieved A*-B. 74 students were entered for CCEA Additional Mathematics with 95% achieving A*-C.

School Notes

At AS level 87 pupils were entered for Mathematics with 51% achieving A-B. 70 pupils completed A2 Mathematics; the largest cohort on record. 74% (52 pupils) of the MVI cohort achieved an A*/A at A2 level which is also the highest on record in the Department.

Fourteen students (out of 151 in Northern Ireland) studied Further Mathematics achieving 8 A*, 2A, 3B and 1C grades.

Extensive efforts were made by the Department to prepare a pupil for the STEP Examinations for Cambridge entry and four pupils for Oxbridge interviews. This took considerable preparation time and contact time after school. This is the third year in a row that preparation for STEP examinations has taken place.

Hundreds of pupils once again took part in the UK Maths Trust’s Individual and Team challenges.

At Senior level, pupils achieved 4 Gold, 10 Silver and 11 Bronze awards. Chris Turnbull and Tom Hanna went on to compete in the first and then second round of the British Maths Olympiad. At Intermediate level pupils achieved 5 Gold, 14 Silver and 19 Bronze awards. Ruairi Hurson qualified for the next round of the competition. At Junior level pupils achieved 6 Gold, 12 Silver and 13 Bronze awards. Megan Carson and Daniel Quigley qualified for the Junior Maths Olympiad in which Daniel received a distinction (placing him in the top 300 in the UK) and won a Bronze medal for the quality of his answers. In team competitions, the Senior team came fourth in the NI regional finals and the Junior Team won the regional final for the first time and went on to represent NI at the national final in London.

Modern Foreign Languages The French Department hosted a conference for A Level Teachers. The conference was led by Steve Glover, a former Head of Department, who now

publishes resources on line for students and teachers of French. The conference was attended by Heads of Department and teachers of French from Grammar schools across Northern Ireland. The event proved to be very successful and it is hoped that it will become an annual event.

Modern Language students had a wide variety of visitors to the Department last year. We had visits from Danish students, German students and Chinese teachers and principals. These events were positive experiences for visitors and pupils alike as many cultural and linguistic exchanges took place with each visit.

The Spanish Department welcomed Dr. Stanley Black from The University of Ulster. He gave a seminar on the A2 literature component. The lecture, attended both by pupils from BRA and St. Malachy’s, focused on the prescribed text with emphasis on essay-writing technique and was very inspiring for all present.

Many former students came back to speak with pupils about the benefits of studying languages at university. Jasmin Campbell (QUB prize winner 2013) and Neil Fulton, who both achieved A* at A level, shared their experiences of university life and studying Modern Foreign Languages both at QUB and at ULiP (University of London in Paris).

The Modern Language Department welcomed many students in their work experience last year. Aoife McAtamney, Charlotte Noble and Alastair Ogilby all from LVI experienced the varied workload of a Modern Language teacher. We also welcomed Kayleigh Williams, a final year PGCE from QUB, and Rosa McMahon, a former Academy pupil who is considering a course in teaching Modern Foreign Languages. All the students had a very positive experience of the Department and contributed to the life and learning of the pupils with whom they came into contact.

This year Le Club Français changed its focus and name and became Le Zone Francophone which offered pupils the chance to speak only in French during lunchtime in order to improve their conversational skills. The Club which was facilitated by the French Assistant and Mr Porter and open to Form V and above, had regular attendance from a variety of students from these forms. Many pupils engaged in meaningful conversation while enjoying some lunch together. This opportunity gave them great confidence and helped them to improve greatly in the art of French conversation on various topics.

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The Owl 2013

Music 94% of Form V pupils achieved an A*-B in CCEA GCSE Music. Ruari McGowan, Jordan Mullan, Megan Gordon and Georgia Sloan achieved full marks in their recital at GCSE and Ruari McGowan, Victoria Campbell and Victoria Haddock achieved full marks in the composition paper.

86% of pupils at AS and A2 achieved grades A – C in CCEA Music. Daniel McKenna and Marcus Porte achieved full marks in their recital at AS Level.

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Sarah Minford and Faye Kidd each gained a place in the Ulster Youth Choir and both Stephen Doyle and Michael Bell gained places in the Ulster Youth Orchestra. All four pupils performed with these groups at various concerts throughout the summer months.

A2 students attended an A Level Sociology Conference held at Queen’s University, Belfast in November and heard talks by the AQA Chief Examiner for A and AS Level as well as several University Lecturers.

Technology & Design The Technology and Design Department received approval from CCEA for the KS3 ICT Accreditation Task.

Martin McGinn and Mike McQueen (UUJ) gave presentations on Product Design and Architecture to all Art and Technology & Design Sixth formers.

Physical Education The PE Department has continued to develop throughout the 2012/13 year. 100% of candidates achieved A-C at AS and 100% A-E at A2 level. GCSE PE was successfully introduced by the PE Department and planning was carried out for the introduction of BTEC level 3 in Sport in September. Miss Brady joined the PE Department. We had another successful Sports Day in June. The inspectors commented very favourably on lessons observed during their visit.

There were numerous extra-curricular activities organised throughout the year. Sports days were run for primary schools in January and June. Girls’ rugby and cricket enlivened the curriculum and the PE Department signed up for the CCEA ICT initiative.

Physics

Form V girls visited Schlumberger for a Gender Diversity Event at Monkstown.

Form III girls visited W5 to participate in an International Women’s Day event.

A group of 16 Sixth Form Technologists visited Ikea at The Holywood Exchange for a tour and a seminar on Ikea Product Design.

All of the MVI cohort passed Advanced Level Physics, with 82% attaining grades A* - C. Tom Hanna was awarded an A*.

At GCSE Level 98% of pupils attained A* - C, an increase of 5% on last year’s performance.

Religious Studies The Religious Studies Department began an iPad pilot which will run throughout 2013-2014. All staff were issued with iPads and Apple TV to offer wireless use of the devices. Form Three had a drugs and alcohol talk from Jackie Burke.

Sociology The Sociology Department achieved a 100% pass rate at Advanced Level in 2012/2013, with 82% attaining grades A-C. At AS Level 80% of pupils attained grades A-C.

The Technology Department acquired a 3D printer.

This was used extensively by Sixth Form pupils to manufacture complex components for their A level projects.

School Notes

Martin McGinn (UUJ) gave a Masterclass on Product Design to all Sixth Form Technologists.

A group of Form I pupils visited the local Fablab.

A group of Sixth Form girls participated in the UUJ Engineering Insight Morning.

During the last week of the summer term, eighty Form II Technology pupils participated in The Sentinus STEM Robotics Roadshow. The aim was to use a netbook computer to programme a Mars Rover vehicle to navigate a route on the Martian surface.

A group of Sixth Form pupils, who had expressed an interest in Aeronautical Engineering, attended a “High Flying STEM Careers Event” at B/E Aerospace in Kilkeel. **** SPORT Aquatic Sports Lifesaving – We won the Smyth Cup, for the most lifesaving awards won and passed by any club/school in Northern Ireland. Our Senior Boys were 1st and 2nd in Ulster and Lori Turkington was 3rd in Senior ladies.

Eorann O’Neill, Ruairi Hurson and Lori Turkington were selected for the Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games Team which competed in Canberra, Australia. The NI team won 22 medals and our pupils picked up five of those awards.

Swimming – The swim team had another brilliant year; we were the top Grammar School in Ulster, winning an impressive 132 medals throughout the year. Many of the pupils made the Ulster Squad.

Among the outstanding performers were Conor Ferguson, who won eight Irish age group medals (7

Gold and 1 Silver) and 3 Golds at the British Agegroup Championships, and Katie Baird, who won five Irish medals (3 Gold and 2 Silver).

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Waterpolo – three senior boys were selected for the Ulster U17 team which won the Irish Inter-provincial Championships in September 2013. Two of the boys, Tom Donnelly and David Speers, were selected for the Irish U17 squad. Five Junior girls were selected for the Ulster U14 team, and two were picked for the Ulster U16 team.

Athletics (Girls) Ulster Schools’ Championships (May 2013) Minor Aime Bradley 3rd 100m and 6th 800m Junior Alex Beattie Erin Moffett Katie Ritchie Lauren Hamilton Intermediate Melissa Moffett Kellie McLean Victoria Beattie Mykila Donaldson Rachel Millar Rebecca Harbinson Megan Geddis Senior Hannah Allen Emma Kelso Anna Hutchinson Faye Kidd Relay

1st Pole Vault 2nd Hammer 3rd Pole Vault 5th Hammer

2nd Hammer Q 3rd Pole Vault 5th Pole Vault 5th Hammer 5th 300mH and 7th 80mH 6th High Jump 7th 200m and 8th 100m

1st Hammer and 6th Javelin 1st Pole Vault 5th Triple Jump 6th 1500m 6th

The Owl 2013

Irish Schools’ Championships (June 2013)

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Junior Alex Beattie Katie Ritchie Erin Moffett

3rd Pole Vault 6th Pole Vault 6th Hammer

Intermediate Melissa Moffett Kellie McLean

7th Hammer 8th Pole Vault

Senior Emma Kelso Hannah Allen

1st Pole Vault 5th Hammer

Congratulations to Charlotte Anderson, Trinity Geddis, Erin Moffett and Beth Magill who were chosen to represent District B in the Minor Inter District Competition held at the Antrim Forum on 13th June. Also, congratulations to Victoria Beattie and Melissa Moffett who competed at the Irish Schools’ Inter-provincial competition at Tullamore on 29th June. Victoria went on to represent Northern Ireland in the UK Schools Games held in Sheffield in September, finishing 6th in the Pole Vault achieving a new personal best.

Athletics (Boys) District Championships The Minor and Junior Athletics Club competed at the District Athletics Championships at the Antrim Forum on Tuesday 7th May. In excellent conditions there were some outstanding performances, including new District records for Stephen McCorry in the Junior Hammer and Matthew Dalton in the 80m Hurdles. The Junior Boys were to finish the competition as overall champions in the team event.

Shane Martin Jack Agnew

Minor Dominic Rhodes 4x100m Relay Charlie George

Matthew Dalton

Thomas Carey Rakeem Marica Shane Martin Matthew Borne Lewis Davidson Jonathan Dickson Ryan Davison Daniel Davison Lewis McCoubrey

1st Hammer (District Record) 45.12m & 3rd Discus 28.70 1st 80 m Hurdles (District Record) 11.6 secs and 2nd High Jump 1.72m 1st Triple Jump 10.50m and 4th Long Jump 4.82m 2nd Hammer 33.65 and 2nd Javelin 32.17m 2nd Triple Jump 9.63m 3rd Javelin 28.90 m 4th 80 hurdles 13.6 secs 6th 200m 27.5 secs 5th 1500 m 4 mins 56 secs 6th 1500m 4 mins 57 secs 6th High Jump 1.40m

1st Long Jump 4.23m 3rd 56.5 secs 5th Shot 7.50m

The Senior and Intermediate District Athletics Championships were held at the Antrim Forum on Saturday 11th May. The poor weather conditions did not affect the Academy athletes, who performed well, with both the Senior and the Intermediate Boys’ teams finishing second overall on points. The Junior Pole Vault and 800m events were also concluded on Saturday. Shane Martin won the Pole Vault which, when added to the Junior Boys’ team’s excellent performance on Tuesday, was enough to see the Junior Boys’ become District champions. The Boys’ team finished second in the Victor Ludorum when results in all age-groups were added together. Jack Agnew competed in the inaugural T54 events with great success, winning both the 100 and 200m.

Senior Boys Robert Moffett Alan Curtis Calvin Lawrence Stewart Martin Daniel Dass Jordan Hylton Angelo Onang

Junior Stephen McCorry

1st Pole Vault 2.30m 1st T54 100m 19.7secs and 1st T54 200m 39.1secs

Intermediate Boys Scott McMurtry Gareth McAdams Roy Chia Callum Dalzell

James Carey Alex Steenson Rhys Donaldson Ben Sayers Peter Boyd

1st Hammer 48.59m 1st 400m Hurdles 60.2 secs and 1st Long Jump 5.93m 1st 400m 59.2 secs and 2nd 200m Steeplechase 8.02 2nd Discus 35.14m and 2nd Shot 10.69m 3rd Triple Jump 10.90m and 3rd Shot 10.57m 3rd 100m 11.4secs and 3rd 200m 24.3secs 4th Javelin 33.01m

1st Hammer 44.57m and 3rd 400m 60.3m 1st Javelin 38.61m and 3rd Discus 31.92m 3rd 100m 11.7 secs and 6th 200m 25.0 2nd 1500m Steeplechase 5.45min and 4th 1500m 4.55m 2nd Long Jump 5.75m and 3rd Triple Jump 11.50m 2nd Shot and 5th Discus 30.59m 2nd Javelin 38.11m 4th Hammer 22.64m 5th Shot 9.49m

School Notes

4x100m Relay David Campbell

4th 50.5secs 6th 400m 61.7secs

Ulster Schools’ Championships The Ulster Schools’ Athletics Championships took place at the Antrim Forum on Friday 17th and Saturday 18th May. On Friday, in perfect conditions, Stephen McCorry set a new Ulster record in the Junior Hammer, throwing a massive 50.43m; Robert Moffett retained his Senior Hammer title and Jack Plackett won the Junior Pole Vault. Unfortunately, the weather on Saturday was atrocious, with localised flooding on many parts of the Forum. However, this change in conditions did not stop Jack Agnew (T54 100m and 200m), Matthew Dalton (Junior 80m Hurdles and High Jump) and Alan Curtis (Senior 400m Hurdles and Long Jump) from becoming double Ulster Champions. Thomas Carey also performed brilliantly in winning the Junior Triple Jump. There were many other fine individual performances which contributed to the Junior Boys’ team becoming Ulster Junior Champions and the Boys’ team finishing as second overall school.

Senior Robert Moffett Stewart Martin

Irish Schools’ Championships On Saturday 1st June, Academy athletes competed at the Irish Schools’ Athletics Championships in Tullamore. Matthew Dalton (Junior High Jump) and Shane Martin (Junior Pole Vault) performed extremely well and became Irish Champions. Matthew also finished second in the Junior 80m Hurdles, as did Thomas Carey in the Junior Triple Jump. Robert Moffett (Senior Hammer) and Alan Curtis (Senior 400m Hurdles) won Bronze medals. The Junior Boys’ team once again performed extremely well – winning the overall Junior Boys’ Championship.

Matthew Dalton Shane Martin Thomas Carey Robert Moffett Alan Curtis Stephen McCorry Scott McMurtry Stewart Martin Jack Plackett

1st Junior High Jump and 2nd 80m Hurdles 1st Junior Pole Vault 2nd Junior Triple Jump 3rd Senior Hammer 3rd Senior 400m Hurdles and 5th Long Jump 4th Junior Hammer 4th Intermediate Hammer 4th Senior Hammer 7th Junior Pole Vault

Calvin Lawrence Daniel Dass

1st Senior Hammer 49.56m 2nd Discus 34.51m and 5th Shot 9.49m 1st Long Jump 5.80m and 1st 400m Hurdles 58.24s 5th 400m 58.6s 6th Shot 9.21m

Representative Honours Congratulations to Alex Steenson, Shane Martin, Matthew Dalton, Stephen McCorry, Victoria Beattie, Gareth McAdams and Melissa Moffett who were selected to represent Ulster at the AVIVA Tailteann Irish Schools’ Inter-provincial in Tullamore on Saturday 29th June, where they performed with distinction.

Intermediate Scott McMurtry Rhys Donaldson Gareth McAdams Alex Steenson Callum Dalzell

2nd Hammer 46.60m 6th Javelin 33.96m 6th Discus 26.39m 4th Shot 12.94m 5th Steeple Chase 5.05.8

Congratulations also to Shane Martin, Jason Poots, Trinity Geddis, Beth Magill, Charlotte Anderson, Tyler Barclay and Erin Moffett who were selected to represent District B in the Year 9 U14 Inter District competition on Thursday, 13th June at the Antrim Forum. Again, they were to perform with great credit.

Alan Curtis

Junior Jack Agnew Matthew Dalton

Jack Plackett Thomas Carey Shane Martin Rakeem Marica

1st T54 100m and 200m 1st 80m Hdls 11.78s and 1st High Jump 1.58m 1st Hammer 50.43m (Record) and 4th Discus 25.89m 1st Pole Vault 2.00m 1st Triple Jump 10.86m 7th Triple Jump 10.18m 4th Hammer 40.68m

Minor Dominick Rhodes 4 x 100m Relay

3rd Long Jump 4.17m 6th 57.5secs

Stephen McCorry

Badminton The Badminton Club continued to meet weekly.

Teams competed in the Senior Girls’ League and, for the first time, in the Junior Boys’ Cup. Basketball Jack Agnew (II) was selected for the GB wheelchair basketball side for the Paralympic Youth games in Utrecht, Netherlands.

Cricket The School had a successful Cricket season. Jordan Carlisle was the U19 Ulster Schools’ Captain.

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The Owl 2013

Andrew Forbes represented both Ulster and Ireland U19s. Siblings Jack and Max Burton were selected for the Northern Cricket Union U15 and U13 squads, respectively. Ben Kane, Ross Bryans and Daniel McFadden all made the trial sides. Michael Wilson scored a 100 for the Colts XI against Dungannon.

The 1st XI had their most successful year in recent history, winning 9 games out of 10. The Junior Colts XI reached the semi-final of the Derriaghy Cup, beating Methody and Sullivan on the way. Jack Burton and Samuel Osborne were vital members of this successful team with both bat and ball.

All teams performed well throughout the season.

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Cross Country Although no Academy runners qualified for the Irish Schools’ Championships, there are promising signs of a revival in the fortunes of the club. Aimee Bradley and Ellen Dalzell (both Form 2) qualified comfortably for the Ulster Schools’ Championships.

So, too, did the Senior Boys’ team comprising Matthew Donnelly, Mannix McAlister, Malachy McKenna, James Duffy (all of Form MVIth) and Caolan Lyttle (Form V). Here they were to finish in a very creditable 6 th place.

Football The Football XI competed in the Belfast Cup and Northern Ireland Cup. Golf (Girls) Judithe Allen and Amy O’Donnell represented the School at the Ulster Schools’ Championship on a very cold and wet day in March at Portstewart Golf Club. The format required teams of three to compete with the two best scores counting. Judithe and Amy battled courageously through the horrendous conditions, as a team of two, remarkably winning the Ulster Junior Cup outright. This is the first time that Belfast Royal Academy has won this prestigious trophy.

Having won the Ulster section of the Championship, the girls had the honour of representing Ulster Schools at the Irish Schools’ Championship at Milltown Golf Club, Dublin on 29th April. Playing within the same format as the Ulster Championship, Judithe and Amy once again triumphed winning the Irish Schools’ Junior Cup. They are the Irish Schools’ Junior Champions. It was a privilege and pleasure for me to attend the event and see the girls excel in their field. They deserve all credit that comes their

way for this outstanding achievement. I have little doubt that the girls will go on to achieve much more during and beyond their school life.

Of further note, during the summer break, Judithe played and won all three of her matches as the Ulster U18 team won the inter-pro competition.

Golf (Boys) The golfing season began in disappointing fashion as we failed to qualify for the next stage of the Irish Schools’ Senior Match-play Competition, held on 10th September 2013 in Edenmore Golf Club. It was our first competitive fixture of the year and with the exception of Aaron Cairns who played to his handicap, the boys (Jamie Dwyer, Pierce Clements and Kieran McGahan) didn’t perform to their usual high standards. This, however, would serve as an experience on which to build. Our new target was to achieve success in the Ulster Schools’ Winter League Competition.

Having defeated Methodist College and Aquinas Grammar School comfortably in the group stages, our Senior golf team faced Our Lady of St. Patrick’s College, Knock at Dunmurry Golf Club in the Semifinal of the Winter League Competition.

Our captain, Jamie Dwyer led from the front with a very convincing victory 6&5. Aaron Cairns also won his match with a hard fought but deserved victory 4&2, eagling and birdying 2 of his last 3 holes. Pierce Clements fought back well after a slow start to lose narrowly his match 3&2, and Kyle Higginson having led for much of the round, narrowly lost his match 2&1. Fortunately, the margin of our victories by Jamie and Aaron saw us win the match overall and put us through to our 1st golfing final, to be played at Royal Portrush.

The final, unfortunately, proved to be one step too far. The standard of the opposition was extremely high and the difficult weather conditions on the North Coast made scoring difficult. Pierce Clements drew one of his matches and lost the other but Jamie, Aaron and Kyle were narrowly defeated in both their matches. Despite the disappointment of losing in the final, the boys should get much credit for achieving 3rd place. Furthermore, it had been a very enjoyable day out and the boys have certainly benefited from the whole experience.

Hockey (Girls) Every Saturday morning eight teams were fielded, four at Junior and four at Senior level.

School Notes

The 1st yrs had a practice every Saturday until later in the season when they played friendly fixtures and competed in the annual 1st Year tournament.

Our Mini hockey section also took place every Saturday morning and Owls Hockey Club have now successfully taken over the running of this.

The story of the Girls’ Hockey Club this season was the success of the 1st XI, who reached the semi-final of the Schools’ Cup. They lost 4-1 to eventual winners Lurgan College.

The Cup squad then travelled to Marbella a few days after this to finish their season against Spanish opposition.

The players from the squad who gained representative honours were: Judithe Allen Faye Kidd Abbie Brown Erin Getty Lucy Stewart Irish Alvarado

Belfast U17 Belfast U17, Ulster U17 (Captain) Belfast U17, Ulster U17 Ulster U15, Ireland U16 Belfast U15 (Captain), Ulster U15 development Belfast U15

Hockey (Boys) The 1st XI team enjoyed limited success in the Prior Shield and Burney Cup. However, the team overall progressed and developed well throughout the year.

Several promising young players made a breakthrough into the 1st XI squad and this bodes well for the future, especially as the core of the team were MVI leavers.

The Colts and Junior teams performed well at times, although not progressing in any Cup competitions.

There were encouraging numbers of boys playing hockey in Games in the Junior school.

Judo There was unprecedented success for the Academy at the 2013 Northern Ireland Schools’ Judo Championships on Saturday 1st June 2013, when the school team took home three individual Gold medals and a team Silver medal. Kiah Reid (Form III) won Gold in the Under 40kg class; Matthew Elliott (Form II) won Gold in the Under 60kg class; while James Reid (Form IV) won Gold in the Under 73kg class.

The Boys’ team of Matthew Elliott, Dylan Getty (Form III) and James Reid won a Silver medal for BRA in the team event. The boys fought admirably and were beaten by a much older and heavier Wallace team in the final.

In September 2012, James Reid became one of the youngest recipients of a ‘Black belt’. In March 2013 James represented BRA in the British Schools’ Judo Competition in Sheffield and won the Bronze medal.

In April 2013 he won the Gold medal at the Northern Ireland Open at Queen’s University.

Netball This year we had eight senior teams playing competitive games. The Intermediate ‘A’ team reached the semi final of the Cup and the Intermediate ‘B’ team also had a very successful year, winning their section of the Belfast League.

Individual success was also a characteristic of this season. Lauren McCullough and Naomh McGuigan achieved a place on the Belfast Area Podium Squad, while Abbie Brown, Courtney Duncan, Judithe Allen and Emer Gribbon were selected for the U15 Belfast Area Netball Academy.

Rugby The 1st XV played well last season winning the Former Pupils’ Cup as the most successful team in the School. Daniel Dass and Stewart Martin played for the Ulster Schools’ U18 team in the Interprovincial Championships. The side defeated Carrickfergus Grammar handsomely in the 3rd Round of The Danske Bank Schools’ Cup, but suffered defeat in the 4th Round match against a talented and spirited Sullivan Upper School side.

The 1st XV reached the final of the subsidiary competition, defeating Belfast High School and Coleraine Inst. on the way. The final, at Ravenhill, was against Campbell College. In a hard fought and entertaining match it was the Campbell College side who came out on top. Congratulations to Daniel Dass, Stewart Martin, Angelo Marica, Jordan Hylton, David Campbell and Matthew Dalton who have been included in various Ulster under-age squads for next season’s Inter-provincial Championships.

Congratulations also to Scott Macauley who was selected for the Ulster U16 panel.

Captained by Matthew Simpson (MVI), the 2nd XV had a very enjoyable year, if not an entirely successful one. Losing as many games as they won made it less successful than they had hoped, but some very good and memorable performances saw convincing wins against a strong Wallace High School team, Regent House and Portora Royal (in the Cup). Unfortunately, they were defeated by a good Campbell College team in the quarter-final of the Cup, which called the end of the season

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The Owl 2013

The 3rd XV, under the expert guidance of Mr Moffett, developed as the season progressed. They struggled to get many fixtures as other schools were unable to field a 3rd XV. However, numbers at practices were good and many of these players should come through to form the backbone of Senior rugby next season. In the 3rd XV Cup they defeated Strabane Grammar on a very wet day at Roughfort before losing to a very strong Methody side at Pirrie Park.

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The Medallion XV had a very promising season.

They made good progress on the pitch, winning more matches than they lost. They progressed to the quarter final of the Medallion Shield, where they lost controversially to a strong Coleraine team. The highlight of the season was a win at Roughfort against a much-fancied Ballymena Academy team, when BRA was well below strength.

The U14 had a very pleasing season. They have continued their progress from last year and were within a couple of scores of all opposition, which bodes well for next year. Fittingly, the last game of the season was on tour in Cambridge, where the boys beat an undefeated Perse School side, 27 points to 5.

The Form I Rugby team had a very promising debut season. They got to the final of the Plate Competition in the annual Coleraine Tournament. They have huge potential and some exceptionally gifted rugby players.

A purpose-built Strength and Conditioning Facility has been developed in the Sports Hall.

Many international and representative jerseys of former pupils from various sports have been framed and displayed at Roughfort. This initiative was supported by the Old Boys’ Association.

Show Jumping The Open Show Jumping team won the MEC League for the fourth year in a row. They finished second in the Ulster Schools’ league, with the novice team finishing in fourth place.

Tennis The Intermediate and Senior teams both won their league sections. The Senior team progressed to the final of their competition, but were beaten by Victoria College. The team members were Anna Hutchinson, Elizabeth Sinclair, Amy Mellor and Faye Kidd.

OTHER EXTRA-CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES Air Training Corps Recruitment in 2012-2013 was quite good and we ended the year with 30 cadets on strength. During the year, cadets undertook the usual range of activities, flying, gliding, shooting and Wing Sports. Several cadets represented the Wing in rugby, soccer and swimming. Some also took part in the Wing Annual Parade and the Squadron performed the wreath laying ceremony in the School for Remembrance Day. Members have now got used to most of their exam subjects being completed and examined on-line.

Those interested in Target Shooting did a full season of both full-bore and small-bore. James Duffy was selected for the Air Training Corps small-bore team in the Inter-Service match in the winter and Jake Magill was on the full-bore Inter-Service team in the summer, at Bisley. He also came second in the Individual 300yd Competition, first in the Individual 600, second overall in the Cadet Hundred and third in the Bossom Cup for the overall aggregate. Jake Magill, Peter Gilleece and Eric Macauley stayed on at Bisley for the National Rifle Association Annual Meeting, the ‘Imperial Meeting’. Jake and Peter were selected to attend the Athelings Pre-Selection Coaching Course at Bisley in September, Peter going for a place on the 2014 Athelings Team to Canada, Jake for 2015. Peter was successful in getting one of those places. Jake will return next year for the 2015 selection.

Bridge The Bridge Club had another very successful year, with the School winning the Ulster Schools’ Teams in Belfast (Luke Taylor, Ryan Lightowler, Melissa Antonio, Rebecca Rowan) and the Irish Schools’ Teams in Galway (Chris Turnbull, Philip Rowan, Angela Cao, Eilis O’Loan). Luke Taylor, Ryan Lightowler, Melissa Antonio and Rebecca Rowan represented Northern Ireland in the Home Internationals U20 competition (The Peggy Bayer).

School Notes

We took seven teams, representing pupils in all forms, to the Irish Teams in Galway and over 30 pupils competed in different levels of competition against other local schools. The Club continues to thrive and currently has over 50 active players.

Civitas This year Lower VI girls organised a number of speakers to come to talk at Tuesday Assembly. We hope to build on this initiative in the coming school year.

The Classics Society and the Greek Club During the year, the Classics Society met at lunchtime every Thursday in J13. The meetings were attended by a very lively group of First-Formers led by an even livelier Middle Sixth group. There they acted out Roman Comedies (usually written by themselves) and also watched the television series: ‘The Roman Mysteries’, and ‘The Last Day of Pompeii’.

The Greek Club met every Monday and Friday in J13 and had a mixture of Middle Sixth and First Formers attending, as well as one Fifth Former. Attendance was very good and progress was made by all, with everyone working at their own pace.

Creative Writing This year our Creative Writing Club aimed to build on last year’s accomplishments.

We continued our impressive success in the Feilé an Phobail Short Story Competition, showing once again that we produce some of the finest young fictional prose writers in Northern Ireland, with Jasmine Ross finishing second in the 11-13 category and Mary Cousins finishing first in the 14-16 category.

30 Academy pupils were published in the ‘Around the World in 80 Words’ anthology. These short tales highlighted an exciting and eclectic range of interests and skills.

27 Academy pupils were published in ‘The Poetry Games’ anthology. These poems show-cased perception, technical ability and diversity.

The Creative Writing Club also supplied articles for the Amnesty International Young Reporter Competition, scripts for drama and short stories for The Owl.

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Debating This was another positive year for the Senior Debating Society with good levels of participation, especially from Form V and MVI pupils.

Lunchtime debates began with a lively discussion of the right of the French press to publish photographs of Kate Middleton topless, which was followed by a debate on the legalisation of cannabis.

In November the focus of the Society’s activities moved towards preparation for the Northern Ireland Schools’ Debating Competition. Our team consisted initially of MVI pupils Holly Hamill and Matthew Smith and in our first debate we opposed the motion: “This House believes that it is time for unemployed people to work for their benefits,” against a team from Coleraine Academical Institution. As the teams were very evenly matched the competition organisers decided to allow our team through to the second round, despite a narrow loss in the first round. After Christmas, Matthew Smith decided not to continue with the competition and was replaced by Ryan Gaffikin for the second round debate against Abbey Christian Brothers Grammar School in Newry.

Unfortunately, our team was defeated when we opposed the motion: “This House believes that the current ‘A’ level examination system is too narrow, too academic and no longer fit for purpose”.

Our exit from the competition did not dampen enthusiasm for debating in school and there were other well attended lunchtime debates which tackled weighty issues including same-sex marriage and abortion.

The Owl 2013

The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award The Academy has the largest school-based Award Centre in Northern Ireland, and possibly the United Kingdom, with a membership of 418 pupils from Forms III to MVI. During 2012-2013, 37 Bronze Awards, 20 Silver Awards and 7 Gold Awards were gained. The total Awards gained from 1984 to date are Bronze – 1164, Silver – 631 and Gold – 420.

In the Expedition section, 235 pupils were involved throughout the year in theory classes, training weekends and practice and qualifying expeditions.

Expeditions took place in the Mountains of Mourne, North Antrim Hills, River Bann, Upper and Lower Lough Erne and the Glencoe/Fortwilliam area in Scotland.

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The 23rd Annual Mournes’ Clean-up and Environment Day was held on Saturday, 8th December, 2012. Taking part were 119 pupils, all Duke of Edinburgh’s Award members from Forms III to Middle VI, as well as 36 adult helpers, including former pupils who are Gold Award holders, parents and teachers. In excess of five tonnes of rubbish were collected from thirteen different sites in the Mournes’ area. The pleasing sum of £2301.87 was donated to our funds.

Congratulations to Kevin Cheung for gaining the Mountain Leadership Certificate (Summer) and to Shelley Wilson, Peter McArthur and Carolyn Murphy for gaining the Hillwalking Levels 1 and 2 Certificate. Martin Scott is currently completing work for the Mountain Leadership Certificate (Summer). Keith Laverty has nearly completed work for the U.K.C.C. / B.C.U. Levels 1 and 2 Paddlesport Coach qualification.

In recognition of their outstanding commitment and long years of service to our Centre, Mr. David Sharp and Mr. Frank Workman each received the “Long Service Recognition” Certificate from The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. An Award Ceremony was held on Tuesday, 12th February at Hillsborough Castle where Mr. Workman was presented with his Certificate by HRH Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex. On Tuesday, 5th March in the Headmaster’s Study Mr. Dickson presented Mr. Sharp with his Certificate.

We thank Dr. Lomas very much for her outstanding commitment and long years of service to our Centre as Co-ordinator of the Skills section and wish her a long and happy retirement. We are very grateful to Mrs. L. Nicholl for agreeing to become the new Skills section Co-ordinator.

Guitar Club The Guitar club continued to meet during lunchtime every Friday when enthusiastic new and existing members were able to work collaboratively and share their musical knowledge.

Model United Nations The MUN Club had a very successful season, with delegations (teams) entering the Methodist College/Wallace High two-day event held in Belfast, at which we were very successful taking several Highly Commended delegates, a Best Delegation and a Best Delegate. At the three-day George Watson’s MUN we entered a full delegation of 12 and won the highest number of awards in this competition. Adam Barnes and Lucy Kinnear both won Highly Commended delegates out of a very large number of delegates. In the Wesley College three-day event, we also performed very well indeed, with Kuda Kunaka winning Best Delegate in his Committee. The Junior MUN held in School in June had the biggest number of entrants and was very well organised and managed by the fourth years, led in particular by Lucy Kinnear.

Music 2012/13 was a very busy year for the Music Department, with pupils performing at the School Musicals, Senior Carol Service, Junior Carol Service, Prize Day, Open Nights, School functions, Spring Concert, Headmasters’ Conference and ABRSM practical exams. The Traditional Group performed at the NEC in Birmingham in July 2013 as part of the Youth Proms. As a result of this performance they have been invited to perform in the Royal Albert Hall in November 2013.

Boys’ Choir The Boys’ Choir continues to thrive. The first performance of the year was at the Community Service Christmas party for members of Drumross Special School. The choir was then invited to participate in a special Christmas assembly held in the Assembly Hall. The boys also sang at the Belfast Royal Academy Spring Concert in the Ulster Hall,

School Notes

where they performed Bill Withers’ Lean on Me and Labi Siffre’s Something Inside So Strong. Two Form V pupils, Louis Gibson and Ruairi Linden, made their debuts as soloists.

Reading Group The Reading Group (Staff and Sixth Form pupils) met in the Louis Lord Building on Week 2 Tuesday afternoons for lively discussions about the members’ latest reads.

Leadership Award for being entirely pupil-led. To finish a fantastic night, the team placed 2nd overall.

Scripture Union (Junior) Junior Scripture Union was held weekly during Wednesday lunchtime. Throughout the course of the year we studied Joseph, challenges to Christianity and the parables. The pupils also attended the S.U. Christmas Party, Scripture Union Weekend and Pizza Evening.

Scripture Union (Senior) Senior Scripture Union was held every Friday at lunchtime. Throughout the course of the year we looked at hurdles in the Christian life and the Armour of God. In addition to Senior pupils leading the weekly sessions, we had a number of guest speakers from a variety of organisations such as Operation Mobilisation.

The annual weekend to Castlewellan Castle, organised in conjunction with Junior Scripture Union, and the Pizza Evening, were well supported and very well received by both pupils and staff.

Rock Challenge On Monday 15th April, a team of 50 pupils returned once again to the Waterfront Hall to compete in Rock Challenge 2013.

Standards were very high in all aspects of the competition this year and the team competed against Ballee Community High School, Hazelwood Integrated College and Little Flower. Ashfield Girls’ School and the Girls’ Model also show-cased at the event.

The dancers put on a spectacular show and received three awards: Choreography, Performance Skill and Soundtrack. The team also received the Student

Senior Science Society Members of the Society enjoyed talks by visiting speakers on a diverse range of subjects including: Invasive Species, Bird navigation: from quantum physics to global migration, Biodiversity, The glue that holds us together – how external factors influence cancer cell behaviour and Exercise and Spinal Injury.

Speech and Drama This year pupils from Belfast Royal Academy participated in a number of Speech and Drama competitions.

Jessica McVeigh and Laura Fleck (Form III) took part in the first stage of the Poetry Aloud Competition, held at the Linen Hall Library in October. The girls recited a poem by W.B. Yeats

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followed by a poem of their own choosing. This year saw the highest recorded number of entries of schools from all over Northern Ireland.

Jessica competed in the Belfast Speech and Drama Festival held in the Lyric Theatre in March, where she was commended for her Sight Reading and Junior Verse. In May, she participated in the Carrickfergus Speech and Drama Festival with similar success.

The pupils were a credit to Belfast Royal Academy and are already looking forward to representing the School in next year’s competitions.

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Senior Traditional Group In addition to performing at the School’s Open Evenings and Spring Concert, the Senior Traditional Group had a number of significant performances last year. In October they played at the HMC Conference in the Titanic Building and at the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Silver Award Ceremony at the University of Ulster. In March they submitted a video entry to the Music for Youth Regional Festival, winning through to the National Final in Birmingham in July. Their performance there earned them a Certificate for Achievement in Music Performance and a place in the Schools’ Proms in the Royal Albert Hall this coming November.

Junior Traditional Group The Junior Traditional Group was led in 2012-2013

by Damian McIlroy, meeting to practise throughout the year on one lunch time per week. The group delivered an impressive performance at the School’s Annual Spring Concert and they played in the foyer of the Crombie Building for the Open Morning in May. They also attended the cross-community Celebration of Irish Culture at St Patrick’s College, Bearnageeha in March.

Warhammer Club The Warhammer club continues to meet every Tuesday lunchtime, with a very enthusiastic group of pupils attending. The title Warhammer, however, has become more of a “catch-all” title for those interested in gaming generally. This has included video gaming, modelling and even LEGO building. While the Club could not be seen to be very competitive, it is a place where imaginative young people meet to socialise and have fun.

Young Engineers Club The Young Engineers Club continued to meet at lunch times. In March, the Club travelled to W5 for an educational session in an interactive workshop.

Young Einstein Club The Young Einstein Club has enjoyed another good year. We were encouraged by the enthusiastic way in which the Junior Pupils approached each experiment and their keenness to add to their knowledge of science in an informal setting. Our experiments this year have included Fizzy Fun, Invisible Ink and Designing and Building Load Carrying Paper Rafts. We were once again assisted by a very able LVI Committee.

TRIPS Hadrian’s Wall This proved to be another very enjoyable trip to The Wall, with twenty-nine pupils from Form I and five pupils from each of Forms II and III. The accompanying teachers were Mr McGonigle, Dr Springer, Mrs Thompson and Mrs McGowan.

We began our trip at the Roman Army Museum to get an overview of the purpose of the wall and then visited Chester’s Roman Fort on the way to Newcastle. The next morning was spent at Segedunum - a Roman fort at the end of the wall, discovered under the site of the Tyne and Wear Shipyard. Segedunum boasts a fine ‘working’ bathhouse (unfortunately never working when we are there for health and safety reasons) and an interactive museum showing life as a Roman Auxiliary in a cavalry barracks. On the third day, we went to Arbeia - the store-house for the wall, as the Romans were only too aware that an army marches on its stomach.

We then spent the afternoon in a re-enacted mining community – Beamish. Everyone loved travelling on trams and eating boiled sweets. In the evening, we went to the cinema. On our way back on Saturday, we visited two of the most beautiful sites on the Wall – Housesteads and Vindolanda. We had planned to walk a short section of the wall but, unfortunately, the weather did not permit this. Once again all the pupils behaved extremely well and were great company.

Malawi The summer of 2013 proved to be another fantastic year for our international work experience in Malawi.

Our 62-strong team experienced Medicine, Teaching, Business and so much more of educational value as they went head to head with the realities and challenges of healthcare, teaching and economics in the context of a developing country. Cultural differences were shared and much fun was had as our partners and friends in Mulanje got to know our 2013 team. Exciting developments were seen with a local

School Notes

27

food-producing factory which, in the future, will provide progressive and mutual benefits between the many stakeholders at the mission station and the Academy. This was the largest single team to travel from our School to Malawi and it would not have happened except for the service of the staff team and the fact that our young people’s conduct was remarkable even when faced with very challenging and unpredictable circumstances. The young people of the 2013 team were a credit to our School and we should be very proud that students of such ability and integrity wear the BRA uniform.

Form II Trips to Paris Two groups visited Paris this year. At Easter 26 pupils and three staff travelled, while in June 45 pupils were accompanied by five staff. Many of the famous tourist attractions were visited: the Arc de Triomphe, the palace and gardens of Versailles, Montmartre and, of course, the Eiffel Tower. Pupils had an opportunity to sample snails, frogs’ legs, onion soup and other Parisian delicacies in the Latin Quarter. Both trips concluded with a day spent in Euro Disney.

The trips were much enjoyed by both pupils and staff.

The pupils in both groups did the School great credit: in June the manager of the restaurant on the Dover to Calais ferry spoke to the pupils to compliment them on their behaviour; our coach driver remarked on their behaviour, pleasantness and good manners, while the pilot on our homebound flight publicly announced the gratitude of his crew for the pupils’ behaviour – an unprecedented occurrence.

Romania Seven of our LVI pupils travelled to Romania for the period 20th June – 1st July 2013 as part of a Habitat for Humanity Global Village Build. We visited the families of those for whom we were building houses, and gained a greater appreciation of the conditions they must live in, with a lack of basic facilities and privacy. Educational and cultural elements were also built into the experience. We observed classes and made presentations to students at Colegiul Technic “Victor Ungureanu” and visited the Turda Gorge, the local salt mine, as well as the Romanian Opera.

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Rome Senior pupils studying Religious Studies travelled to Rome in October for the annual A-Level Church History trip. 20 students enjoyed the opportunity to see their course come to life as they visited attractions such as the Colosseum, the Roman Forum and the Pantheon.

Sri Lanka The 1st XI cricket team had a very successful tour of Sri Lanka at Easter, becoming the first school team from Northern Ireland to tour that country.

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South Africa On July 12th 2012 thirty five boys and six staff departed for a two-week rugby tour of South Africa.

The team visited Cape Town, Stellenbosch, Pretoria, Johannesburg and Bella Bella. In all, eight fixtures were played over a ten-day period against very strong opposition. BRA won two of the eight matches, but gained much from the experience of playing against some of the best schoolboy teams in the world. Off the field the team soaked up much of the South African culture with many enjoying the fine food and shopping. The boys also gained an authentic South African experience by being hosted by local families for four nights.

Highlights of the tour included a trip up Table Mountain in Cape Town, a visit to Nelson Mandela’s prison cell on Robben Island, meeting the Blue Bulls Super 15 side at Loftus Stadium, watching the Western Stormers taking on the Rebels at Newlands in the Super 15, petting cheetahs and lions at animal sanctuaries, visiting Langa Township and enjoying dusk and dawn game drives on horseback and on quad bikes at Mabulla Game Reserve.

The squad also visited Tygerberg Children’s Hospital to donate a cheque for £5000 which they had raised as part of their fund-raising. This was a charity selected by Ulster Rugby captain Johaan Muller who had done much to help with fund-raising activities.

Spain Our pupils took part in their 5th School Exchange with pupils from Asturias. 15 Spanish pupils accompanied by two members of staff, Elena and Dioni, spent an enjoyable week in N. Ireland in September. The pupils stayed with our pupils and enjoyed a range of activities and visits which included a visit to the Titanic museum and the new Causeway Centre. Our return trip to Asturias in October was equally enjoyable and memorable.

BRA pupils stayed with their exchange partners and experienced a taste of ‘real’ Spain. This trip

was of both linguistic and cultural value to all our pupils.

Sweden In 2012/2013 we had no exchange programme, as the second school of our programme, Vilunda Gymnasium in Upplands Vasby has closed down, and a new Gymnasium has opened up. Unfortunately, the teachers who were part of our Exchange Programme all retired. We have been working hard to secure a second school for the ongoing exchange, and Dr Lomas travelled to Sweden to meet up with two teachers working in schools in the Stockholm area who are very interested in joining the Exchange.

It was not possible to organise a small trip in February to see them, so we hope to establish the first connections in February 2014 when we plan to visit Sweden again with the BRA pupils.

We did, however, have a visit from Maria Allstrom (who led the first few student trips from Sweden and is now in Uppsala University as a teacher-trainer in the post-graduate degree courses offered in the university), Maria brought 12 teachers of English and Social Science subjects from all over Sweden to visit Belfast Royal Academy and they spent a full day in the School visiting classes and talking to teachers.

They thoroughly enjoyed their stay and were most grateful to all the BRA staff and pupils who made them feel so welcome.

OTHER MATTERS Big Day of Science 105 pupils from three primary schools – Lowwood, Ben Madigan and Whitehouse – attended the Big

School Notes

Day of Science. They participated in activities in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Careers MVI pupils received help, advice and guidance with UCAS and CAO applications.

30 pupils attended the ‘Meet the Marines’ event at Palace Barracks, Holywood.

Jenna Todd was selected to participate in the Institute of Directors work shadowing programme following an application and interview process.

198 LVI pupils secured a week of work experience in February. Pupils experienced a range of work opportunities including Engineering, IT, Occupational Therapy, Banking, Medicine, Law, Dentistry, Journalism and Marine Biology. A group of pupils and staff went to Malawi.

MVI pupils attended many Open Days including QUB, UUJ, UUC, Stranmillis, St Mary’s, Belfast Metropolitan and Northern Regional College. A number of pupils also attended the Methodist College Careers Convention.

5 LVI pupils also took advantage of the Army work experience training at Ballykinler Training Centre and 5 pupils took part in the PSNI work experience programme

A representative from LJMU spoke to pupils about how to write a winning personal statement.

Jenna Todd of LVI represented the school in the Rotary Youth Leadership competition.

A number of presentations were given to MVI and LVI pupils from representatives of QUB, UU, LJMU, St. Andrews, Leeds and many of the Scottish Universities.

Representatives from Student Finance NI explained the process of university funding to MVI pupils.

A representative from Oxford University spoke to a group of LVI pupils. They were joined by pupils from Dominican College, Belfast.

Senior Prefects participated in a ‘Leadership and Team Building’ event at JungleNI.

A representative from QUB spoke to all Form III pupils about the benefits of going to University and distributed an information booklet called ‘Find Your Future’.

A number of pupils and their parents attended an Engineering Parents’ Evening and a Humanities Parents’ Evening at the Whitla Hall in QUB. Numerous MVI pupils availed of the mock interview scheme. Interviews were held for pupils applying to Medicine, Accountancy, Oceanography, Veterinary Science, Nursing, Dentistry, Teaching, Social Work and Languages.

Aspiring medical, dentistry and veterinary students participated in a ‘Multi Mini Interview’ event organised by Purple Patch. They were joined by pupils from Dominican College and St Malachy’s.

Eye4Education ran a programme called Aim Higher with 20 of our Form IV pupils.

Form V pupils attended an introductory session about the role of the Careers Service NI and each pupil was interviewed by the DEL Careers Adviser.

5 Form V girls participated in a ‘Gender Diversity’ event at Schlumberger Engineering Plant in Monkstown.

All Form V pupils attended anEye4Education event called ‘Labour Market Information’. This was an interactive event designed to up date pupils’ knowledge of the labour market and where jobs will be in the future.

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54 Form IV pupils attended the NBEP Careers Convention at Ballysillan Leisure Centre.

10 LVI pupils attended the RCN event on ‘Future of Health in NI’.

All Form III pupils participated in a STEM carousel organised by Eye4Education and funded by the ALC.

75 pupils attended the UCAS Higher Education Event at the King’s Hall.

Pupils participated in three Work Inspiration Programmes organised by Charter. These were held in Tughans, and Pinsent Masons for Law, and AV Browne for Marketing.

20 Form IV pupils attended an Android App and Mobile Web Taster Day at BMC.

18 pupils attended a STEM and Women’s Day event at W5.

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All Form III pupils took part in a ‘Learn to Earn’ workshop, linking Modern Languages and Business Studies to various careers.

Belfast Metropolitan College held an information session on alternative courses of study. Some Form V and MVI pupils attended.

LVI pupils took part in a four-stage Interview Skills programme. Stage 1 was completion of an application form. Stage 2 was undertaking a psychometric test. Stage 3 involved participating in group assessments and Stage 4 was a panel interview.

A number of teachers made work-place visits to enhance their knowledge of careers in each field; Ms Nicholl visited Almac, Ms Adams visited AV Browne and Bombardier and Mr Lunn, Mr Murphy, Mr Morrison and Ms Adams attended a STEM event at BMC which featured over 30 NI companies.

All Form IV pupils attended an event called ‘Experiences of Work’ organised by Sentinus. This had a STEM focus.

20 Form III pupils attended a broadcasting workshop at the newly opened e3 Campus at BMC. The course was delivered by UTV newsreader Aidan Browne and television presenter and journalist Lynda Bryans, both lecturers at the College. Pupils had the opportunity to record a radio interview and read the news in state-of-the-art radio and television studios.

Sixth Form students attended a presentation by Guy Flouch from Eunicas on the opportunities available those who wish to study abroad through the medium of English.

A number of Professionals held talks for our LVI pupils. These included, Dr K Adams (Medicine), Mr M Corkey (Barrister), Mr Allen (Business Management), Mr R Creighton (Studying Law as a base degree), Miss Rachel Hassan (Careers using Science), Mr K McDevitt and Miss S Grant (Pharmacy), Miss L Kerr (ICT) and Mrs Bell (Social Work).

20 Form IV pupils attended a Fashion Taster Day event at the e3 Campus at BMC.

A number of pupils attended an event called ‘A Flavour of Psychology’ at the Whitla Hall. This was organised by the British Psychological Society.

20 Form III pupils attended a ‘Health and Well Being’ Day at the Grove Leisure Centre.

A number of pupils attended an information session on ‘Speech and Language Therapy’ at Carrickfergus Health Centre.

Mr Shane Brogan from Volunteer Now spoke to a group of LVI pupils about the Millennium Volunteer Scheme.

A number of pupils attended the QUB School of Dentistry Insight Day.

Michael Reynolds, Amy Wilson and Jordan Meighan attended a Careers Event at Morgan Stanley, London.

This is a global financial services firm and a market leader in securities, asset management and credit services. This was kindly organised by Co-operation Ireland.

A number of pupils attended ‘A day in the life of a Physiotherapist and Radiographer’ at the Royal Victoria Hospital.

School Notes

Mr Darren Nixon from Eye4Education gave a Labour Market Information presentation to all staff.

Careers provision was rated ‘very good’ in the recent inspection.

ICT and English BBC Newsbeat with Thomas Niblock Form III pupils scripted, filmed and edited their own news programme with the BBC’s Thomas Niblock in a high-pressured, one-day workshop. They gained insight into the world of the media and considered the possibility of a career in journalism.

International School Award Belfast Royal Academy has completed the first of three years having International Schools Award status. Over the next two years we will be exploring new opportunities to expand our international focus with a view to being successfully reaccredited in 2014. Opportunities may arise to investigate online collaboration with International schools.

CATCH Project Co-operation Ireland Form Three pupils participated in the CATCH project this year for the first time. They joined other North Belfast schools in team-building exercises and postconflict debates in the three workshops. The project ended with an educational visit to the Crumlin Road Gaol.

Community service A number of pupils volunteered at Woodlands Day Centre. They took part in a variety of activities. The annual Christmas parties continued to be a great success.

Habitat for Humanity N.I. BRA LVI pupils collaborated with boys from De La Salle College to take part in the Habitat for Humanity N.I. Schools’ Programme. The project consists of two days of workshops fostering cross-community co-operation and examining the global issue of poverty. A further day is spent carrying out volunteer work. This year the pupils were involved in the renovation of a Simon Community shelter in Downpatrick. Throughout the year pupils also fundraised £1,250 for the Habitat for Humanity Building Project.

Mini-company Last academic year we decided to offer the Mini company enterprise opportunity to pupils in Prep 6 and Prep 7 at Ben Madigan. Over 25 pupils engaged in this after-school activity and three mini companies were formed. The pupils produced and made a range of products to be sold at their school nativity play and set up stalls at sports day and BRA sponsored walk.

All companies realised a profit (split between the directors/pupils) and shareholders received a 5% return on investment.

Primary School Experience The popularity of the Primary School Experience programme continued last year with 45 Lower Sixth pupils attending 16 primary schools on a weekly basis for classroom experience. About half of the primary schools were in the Shankill area and the school minibus was used to transport our LVI pupils to and from these schools. The majority of other primary schools were in the Antrim Road/Cliftonville areas and our pupils made their own way there either on foot or using public transport. The pupils enjoyed the programme very much and they benefited in a range of ways, from developing their communication skills, to learning about working in a professional environment. Due to the new two-week timetable, Wednesday afternoons were mainly used to avoid pupils going out at different times on different weeks, so for those not doing Games, this was a very constructive option. Pupils were encouraged to show initiative and to put their particular talents at the disposal of their host school. Reports were completed on all pupils by primary school staff and, as ever, they were overwhelmingly positive, with phrases such as ‘a pleasure to have around’ being common.

Recycling 6930 kg of cardboard and paper was recycled.

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Extra curricular activities such as Junior Book Club and Middle School Book Club met on a weekly basis and members took part in a number of activities within and outside of school.

• National Poetry Day was celebrated around the theme of Stars. A poetry competition and Scholastic Book Fair were organised to coincide with this and the Fair generated £600 in free books for the library.

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The School Council • The School Council met each term to consider and respond to the requests of the Pupil Council.

• Junior Book Club shadowed the NI Book Award and took part in a number of events; Launch of award at RBAI, author signing by author Jo Craig, meeting author Robert Muchamore at Methody, attending the Grand Finale of NI Book Award at Bangor Grammar and listening to guest speaker Debbie McCune.

• The School Council reported back directly to the Pupil Council on how it has carried forward the issues raised.

• Displays showing the Star Poetry competition, Books We Loved, Millionaire Club/ Accelerated Reader 100% Club, featured throughout the year.

• The School Council also delivered reports during whole school Assemblies in December and April.

• Ms Graham chaired the meetings and was ably assisted by the Head Boy, James Donnelly, and Head Girl, Laurie-Anne Bartsch.

• The annual Kids’ Lit Quiz took place in Wellington College and pupils dressed as their favourite book character.

• The issues considered by the School Council this year included: n n n n n n n n n n

Promotion of extra-curricular activites Lunchtime Arrangements Transport Uniform Toilets and Water Fountains Girls’ lockers New school timetable Assessment Methods Bicycle Racks Charity Collections and Fundraising

• Several School Council representatives attended workshops organised by Belfast Metropolitan College.

• Detailed minutes of the School Council Meetings are displayed on the School Council Noticeboard (outside LL1) and are available from Ms Graham or Ms McBeth.

The School Library The past academic year was very busy in the School Library. Weekly visits from Forms I and II continued throughout the year with the introduction of an excellent new reading programme, Accelerated Reader which has proved to be very successful in increasing reading for pleasure for Junior pupils.

• Purchase of new eResources such as Weblinks and Complete Issues has proved useful in supporting subjects across the Curriculum.

• World Book Day was celebrated by hosting a Book Fair, the distribution of book tokens for all pupils, and inviting pupils to the library to watch the online streaming of Authors reading aloud from their books.

• Author Katherine Roberts visited Form I pupils and signed copies of her new book.

• A new booking system was introduced for staff wishing to hold meetings/events in the library and it seems to have helped in minimising disruption to classes and library opening.

• As there is a growing emphasis on ICT use within School, the library decided to split the lunchtime in order to accommodate the growing numbers wishing to access computers and provide equality of opportunity for all of our pupils to access necessary and quality resources.

• Pupil Librarians and prefects have been a great help and support to the smooth running of the library throughout the year and they are very much appreciated by library staff.

We look forward to the new academic year in the library and the continuation of the Accelerated Reader Programme for Forms I and II and a new Quiz club starting in October.

School Notes

STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) This year the profile of STEM subjects continued to be developed in a broad range of areas from the everpopular Sentinus STEM Robotics Road Show to the ALC funded STEM carousel organised by Eye4Education. This year two members of staff made workplace visits in order to enhance their knowledge of the companies. Mrs L Nicholl visited Almac and Ms Adams visited AV Browne and Bombardier. In June Mr Baldwin attended the launch event for STEM Clubs NI organised through W5 at the Odyssey. He was presented with a prize cheque for £250 to be used to promote STEM events in School.

Student Teachers 2012-13 The following students were given School Experience and Teaching Practice at the Academy in the academic year 2012/13: Queen’s University • Annaliese McCrisken • Linsey Norton • Peter Warke • Kayleigh Williams

Biology with Science Chemistry Mathematics Spanish and French

University of Ulster • Sarah Ballentine • Aedin Eastwood-O’Neill • Robert Logan • Mark Patterson

Technology & Design Home Economics Geography P.E.

Registration Charity collection The weekly charity collection raised just over £3,600.

Save the Children Fund The Save the Children Fund Committee raised over £3,500 in 2012/13, from events such as BRA’s Got Talent, a Non-Uniform Day and the BBQ at the Sponsored Walk.

Sponsored Walk Poor weather and the remnants of the Easter snow saw the annual sponsored walk being rescheduled to June. It turned out to be a very successful day. 900 pupils participated with everyone safely completing the course. The good weather and activities at Ben Madigan ensured the whole school community had a rewarding time.

Stranmillis University College • Emma McCall Religious Studies • Colin Irwin Business Studies Work Experience Placement • Mary Currie English • Stephen Martin Art and Design Sweden This was our fallow year for visits to Sweden and as we have lost the second school in Upplands Vasby we had no students to host. We made preparations for the forthcoming visit of the 6 students from Uppsala who will be with us in October 2013 and for our return visit to Sweden in February 2014. We did welcome 12 Swedish teachers from the Teacher training Institute in Uppsala who visited the school for a day, mainly to see the English Department, who were very warm and helpful in their welcome.

Read-On In October 2012, Forms I and II raised £3,373.26 in Read-On, the sponsored reading week in aid of the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children.

****

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BUILDINGS, ESTATES AND EQUIPMENT CLIFTONVILLE ROAD SITE Crombie Building • A major capital project was undertaken, following receipt of significant grant funding from the Department of Education, to replace and repair stonework to the rear elevation of this building.

This has been a very successful project of around eight months duration, with stonework repairs to the rear elevation now completed. Some remaining stonework replacement needs to be carried out to the front elevation and the roof needs to be replaced. It is hoped that further funding will be made available by the Department of Education for this work.

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• New specialist flooring was laid in two history classrooms and in the computer suite, completing an internal refurbishment project to this building.

Other buildings on this site • A new heating system was installed in the swimming pool changing and shower rooms, and a refurbishment carried out of these areas, including the application of a specialist antibacterial spray system to the changing room walls, the installation of new specialist flooring throughout these areas and UPVC panels were affixed to external walls. New benching and coat hooks were also fitted.

• The exterior of the Darbyshire building was painted and also exterior decoration work was carried out to the Jackson and Bruce Buildings.

• A programme of interior decoration works continued, covering the Bruce Building foyer, classrooms in the Sillery building, the corridors in the Louis Lord building and the Technology foyer.

• Portable appliance testing was completed.

• Fixed wire testing was carried out at the swimming pool.

• New high technology tills were acquired for the School cafeteria and for the Sixth Form Centre.

• 42 new desktop computers were acquired, to replace machines which did not have a sufficiently high specification to comply with the new ‘cloud’ based system being introduced in schools.

BEN MADIGAN SITE • Specialist renovation work was carried out to the pitches at the Ben Madigan site.

• A retaining wall in the playground area of the Kindergarten building, which had been structurally undermined by tree roots, was replaced with a specialist wall.

• Painting was carried out to the apartment at the Kindergarten.

• Interior decoration work was also carried out in classrooms in the Ben Madigan building.

• Portable appliance testing was completed.

• A programme of carpet and blind cleaning continued.

ROUGHFORT SITE • A new oil heating system was installed in the Pavilion, replacing an electric fan heating system.

• A new roadway was constructed to facilitate access to some of the rugby pitches.

• Roof repairs were carried out to the Pavilion.

• Concrete rendering repairs were carried out to the gymnasium and to the Bruce Building.

• The parquet floors in the top floor classrooms of the Jackson building were sanded and a specialist coating of sealant applied.

• A specialist anti-bacterial flake system was applied to toilet facilities throughout the school.

• A programme of carpet and blind cleaning continued.

• Specialist renovation work was carried out to all the pitches on the site.

• An application for grant funding for floodlighting to the synthetic hockey pitch was submitted to Belfast City Council. The school has been successful in the first stage of this application. If successful at the next stage, the addition of floodlighting to the pitch will be a significant asset for the School and will permit greater use by the School, as well as by external clubs.

Diary of the School Year SEPTEMBER 2012 Kathryn Fusco and Jazmin Campbell were successful in the Santander French/Spanish Essay Competition which was organised by the School of Modern Languages at Q.U.B. Kathryn Fusco received both First Prize in the Spanish Competition and Third Prize in the French Competition. Jazmin Campbell received Third Prize in the Spanish Competition. As prizes they received bursaries towards their studies at university.

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**** As part of fundraising efforts for the 2013 Belfast Royal Academy Cricket Tour to Sri Lanka, a cabaret night was held at the Academy Sports Club. **** BRA pupils hosted their 5th School Exchange with pupils from Asturias, Spain. **** The Royal Marines carried out a series of teambuilding and leadership tasks with some of our hockey and rugby teams. **** The Headmaster attended the Official Opening of the Belfast Metropolitan College’s e3 Building on the Springvale Road, in Belfast. **** Girls’ Hockey results against Glenlola were as follows: Seniors 1st XI 2A’s

won lost

3-0 3-0

2B’s 3rd XI

won lost

2-1 3-1

Juniors U14A’s U14B’s U13A’s U13B’s

won drew won won

3-0 0-0 1-0 2-0. ****

The Owl 2013

To commence the celebrations of European Day of Languages the School welcomed a group of Danish student language teachers into the Modern Languages Department. **** Daniel Dass and Stewart Martin were part of the Ulster Schools’ U18 team that defeated Munster Schools’ U18 team 17-15 at Ravenhill. **** An evening for LVI parents was held to discuss subject requirements and study skills. ****

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Michael Stewart, Jazmin Campbell and Sasha English took time out from busy university schedules to talk with Modern Language students about their experiences of studying languages at Advanced and Undergraduate Level. **** The following girls were selected for The Athletics Northern Ireland Talent Identification Programme: Lucy Stewart, Laura Fleck, Trinity Geddis, Ellen Dalzell and Alice Reid. **** The Senior Prefects went to Jungle NI, an awardwinning outdoor entertainment facility set in the heart of Northern Ireland. **** Kelly-Anne Rainey (MVI) attended the ‘French: Language and Identity’ course at Villiers Park Educational Trust, Cambridge. ****

Diary of the School Year

The School received confirmation from Guinness World Records that our attempt at the world’s largest rugby scrum on March 30th 2012 was successful. **** The Show-Jumping team participated in the first league event at the Meadows Equestrian Centre. **** OCTOBER 2012 The Senior Traditional Group played at a gala dinner for the Headmasters’ and Headmistresses’ Conference, held in the Titanic Building. The Traditional Group entertained the guests at a pre-dinner drinks reception with a lively selection of Irish and Scottish tunes. ****

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Girls’ Hockey results against Bloomfield were as follows: 1st XI U14A’s U14B’s

won 4-1 won 4-0 won 5-0

All other fixtures were against Strathearn: Seniors 1st XI 2A’s 2B’s 3rdXI

won lost won lost

Juniors U14A’s U13A’s

won 2-1 won 4-0

2-1 5-0 2-0 2-0

**** 108 pupils and 10 staff went to Castlewellan Castle for the annual Scripture Union Weekend. **** Members of staff, parents and pupils took part in a Cavehill Clean- up, organised by FOTA. **** Our BRA group of 12 pupils and 3 teachers, Mrs. Roberts, and Mr. and Mrs. McCamley, flew to Asturias in North West Spain as part of The Spanish Exchange. ****

Rugby results against Wallace High School were as follows: 1st XV 2nd XV 3rd XV Medallion A U14 A U14 B U13 A

won won won lost won won lost

20-17 17-5 17-12 38-0 33-12 27-12 31-12.

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142 pupils in Form III commenced Bronze expedition theory training. 62 pupils in Form IV commenced Silver expedition theory training. 31 pupils in Form Lower VI completed Gold expedition theory training. **** James Reid (IV) achieved his Black Belt in Judo and is ranked 6th in Britain in the Cadet Section (15-18 year olds). He also won Silver, in the Cadet Section in the Irish Open in Dublin.

A-level German pupils attended a film workshop at Q.F.T. to watch and discuss “Sophie Scholl: die letzten Tage”. **** 38

The School Library organised a Scholastic Book Fair.

**** Girls’ Hockey results against Antrim Grammar School were as follows: 1st 2A’s 2B’s

won 4-0 drew 0-0 won 4-0

**** And results against Ballyclare High School were: National Poetry Day was celebrated in the School Library. The theme for this year was ‘Stars’.

Seniors 2A’s 2B’s 3’s 4’s

lost drew drew lost

3-1 1-1 0-0 2-0

won won won lost drew

3-1 1-0 3-2 4-0 0-0.

Juniors U14A’s U14B’s U13/U14C’s U13A’s U13B’s

**** Naomh McGuigan and Lauren McCullough were selected for the Netball U19 Podium squad. **** Our Boys’ Hockey teams played against MCB: the 1st XI won 2-0 and the Junior team lost 3-1. ****

**** Courtney Duncan, Mimi Joffroy, Judithe Allen, Emer Gribbon and Abbie Brown were selected for the next round of the U15 RDA.

Georgie Johnston from Save The Children came to Assembly to collect a cheque for £5000 from last year’s committee and also to present the Headmaster with the Rita Rodden Cup, awarded to the school which raises the most money for the charity.

In Boys’ Hockey the 1st XI had a good victory against Bangor Grammar, winning 4-1 in the Prior Shield.

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Diary of the School Year

The Young Einstein Club had great fun learning about balancing and toppling as they attempted to balance their “Perching Parrots”.

The Senior Traditional Group played at the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Silver Award ceremony held at the University of Ulster.

****

****

A non-uniform day was held. The money raised was used for School Council projects and the School Council’s Nominated Charity for 2012-13: Lighthouse, North Belfast’s suicide prevention charity.

Form III pupil Holly McCoubrey recorded a threetrack album and is selling the CDs with all proceeds going to the N.I. Children’s Hospice.

**** Rugby results against the Royal School, Dungannon were as follows: Medallion A U14 A U13 A

won 30-0 won 26-12 won 19-0. ****

The Rugby 1st XV played in the prestigious St Joseph’s College, Ipswich National Schools’ Tournament. **** The Modern Languages Department welcomed Xiang Bing, Wu Lifeng, Wang Zhenxian and Gong Guolan from Pudong, Shanghai.

****

**** Four LVI pupils participated in the first round of the Rotary Youth Leadership Competition. They were interviewed by two members of the Fortwilliam Branch of the Rotary Club.

****

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The Owl 2013

The Netball team won 18-10 against Aquinas and 1917 against Rathmore. **** LVI Drama students attended a performance of Neil Simon’s The Odd Couple at Theatre at the Mill. **** Junior Book Club members were treated to a great morning in RBAI when they had the chance to hear the shortlist for the year’s Book Award and meet the author Joe Craig. **** Rugby results against The Royal School Dungannon were as follows:

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1st XV 2nd XV

won 40-7 won 36-0. ****

The Show-Jumping team took part in the second round of the Ulster Schools’ Show-Jumping Championships at Knockagh View Equestrian Centre. **** 19 MVI pupils attended a ‘Stem Cell Debate’ in W5 at the Odyssey. **** NOVEMBER 2012 Dr Jaimie Dick (Q.U.B.) gave a talk on ‘Invasive Species’ to the Senior Science Society on Wednesday 7th November. **** Form I pupils enjoyed a visit by children’s author Katherine Roberts. **** The Netball team beat St Genevieve’s 11-6 in the Minor Cup and in the Intermediate Cup they won 148 against Wellington College. **** The 1st XI drew 1-1 with Newry High School in the Prior Shield group stage. **** Form II pupils were treated to a drum workshop by Jeff Rich, the drummer from Status Quo. ****

Diary of the School Year

Girls’ Hockey results against Victoria College were as follows: Seniors 1st XI 2A’s 2B’s 3’s

won 4-0 Sarah Martin scored a hat-trick. drew 0-0 won 2-0 lost 2-1

Juniors U14A’s U14B’s U13A’s

lost 2-1 lost 2-1 lost 3-1.

The Headmaster attended the Royal Gun Salute at Hillsborough Castle. Nikita McCoubrey (LVI) represented the Sea Cadets at the event and spoke to an audience of school Principals and invited guests. **** As part of the Global Entrepreneurship Week 2012 Key Stage III pupils from across Northern Ireland took part in a Step ‘n’ Zone Challenge which was designed to introduce them to the concept of entrepreneurship and the development of business ideas.

**** The 16-12 score line may not have been memorable for Irish rugby fans, but the Ireland versus South Africa game on Saturday 10th November 2012 will live long the Academy’s memory for other reasons. Iain Henderson, former Academy pupil, Schools’ Cup finalist and current BRA rugby coach, came on against South Africa as a replacement in the 70th minute at the Aviva Stadium in Dublin to win his first international cap for Ireland.

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**** Rugby results against Foyle and Londonderry College were as follows: Medallion A U14A U13A

won 63-0 won 38-7 won 51-7. ****

The LVI Music class attended a composition workshop with the distinguished Scottish composer, James MacMillan.

Ten LVI pupils took part in the Habitat for Humanity Schools’ Programme 2012/13. Paired with De La Salle Boys’ School, the Belfast Royal Academy group completed Citizenship training and spent a day renovating a Simon shelter for the homeless in Downpatrick.

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The Owl 2013

Kieran McGahan in MVI attended a residential course Villiers Park, Cambridge on the topic of “Geography: Geographical Imaginations”.

Ms V. Wightman gave a talk on ‘Exercise and Spinal Injury’ to the Senior Science Society. ****

**** Three pupils in Form IV (David McLarnon, Micah Hipolito and Cameron Chism) competed in the Northern Ireland final of the World Wise Quiz at Queen’s University.

The School Play “Snared”, produced by Mr Jamison, was performed in the Assembly Hall.

**** Four pupils from the Academy (Brendan Crinion, Tara McBride, Simon Dalzell and Adam Keed) won places on the team to compete in the Northern Ireland Final of the Kids’ Lit Quiz. **** 42

31 pupils and 5 members of Dof E staff took part in the successful Gold Expedition Training Weekend. **** Girls’ Hockey results were as follows:

**** The Show-Jumping team took part in the third round of the Ulster Schools’ Show Jumping Championships at Knockagh View Equestrian Centre.

1st XI Cup match against Sullivan Upper - won 2-1 All other fixtures were against Methody: 2B’s 3’s U14A’s U14B’s U13A’s U13B’s

won lost lost lost drew lost

1-0 1-0 3-2 1-0 0-0 5-0.

**** James Reid (IV) made it to the final 23 of the Senior Northern Ireland Judo Commonwealth selection team. ****

****

The U14A’s Girls’ Hockey team travelled to Raphoe to play Royal and Prior in the Cup. They won 7-1, with 4 goals from Yasmin McClean and 3 from Laura Fleck.

Rugby results against Dalriada were as follows: 1st XV 2nd XV Medallion A U14 A U13 A

won lost won lost lost

24-12 10-0 17-7 12-10 32-26.

****

**** Rugby results against Regent House were as follows: 1st XV 2nd XV Medallion A

won won lost

27-0 27-5 36-16

Diary of the School Year

U14 A U13 A Form 1 A Form 1 B

lost won won won

17-5 41-0 7 tries to5 7 tries to 4.

**** The Old Boys’ Association Dinner was held in the Wellington Park Hotel. **** Purple Patch, a company specialising in Interview Skills Coaching, worked with a group of MVI pupils who are applying to study Medicine and Dentistry.

This was a joint initiative inviting Dominican College, St. Malachy’s and BRA.

Our Senior Maths Team represented the School at the U.K. Maths Trust Senior Team Challenge. The team finished in third place. ****

**** The Ulster Secondary Schools’ Swimming Championships were held in Ballymena. Our pupils won 35 medals (21 Gold, 9 Silver and 5 Bronze).

The Ulster Schools’ Pairs’ Bridge Tournament was held: 2nd in the Senior Section – Melissa Antonio and Rebecca Rowan and 1st in the Intermediate Section – Cameron McCaughey and Andrew Milligan.

**** The Elizabeth Long Trophy is awarded to “The most promising 11 year old boy or girl” at the Ulster AgeGroup Swimming Championships. Katie Baird (Form I) won the trophy.

**** Forty-seven Form IV pupils attended a ‘Chemistry at Work’ exhibition in the Whitla Hall, Queen’s University.

**** Three of our pupils were selected for the Ulster Schools’ Senior Water Polo team – Tom Donnelly, Ruairi Hurson and David Speers. ****

****

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The Owl 2013

MVI Economics pupils paid a visit to the IKEA Belfast where they were given a guided tour by sustainability leader, Mr Nigel McGarry.

**** The Malawi 2013 team raised over £1000 from making and selling cup cakes. ****

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The 1st XI Girls’ Hockey team played their 2nd round Schools’ Cup fixture against Omagh Academy at Roughfort. They won 1-0. **** Nina Bergmann and Carina Heller from the Erasmus scheme visited the School. **** Eleven members of staff grew their moustaches to raise awareness and money for the Prostate Cancer Charity and the Stroke Association.

**** Girls’ Hockey results against Larne Grammar were as follows: 1st XI 2A’s 2B’s U13A’s U13B’s

drew drew lost won drew

2-2 1-0 4-0 1-1. ****

Form I Boys’ Hockey squad took part in a Schools’ Hockey Mini-tournament at Campbell College. The boys performed creditably and recorded two wins, both against Campbell, with 6-1 and 2-0 scorelines.

**** Rugby results against Coleraine Inst were as follows: 1st XV 2nd XV 3RD XV Medallion A U14 A U14 B U13A U13B

won lost won lost lost lost won won

49-3 15-13 35-7 30-0 27-7 26-10 29-10 17-15

Form I A team lost and the Form I B drew. ****

Diary of the School Year

The Chamber Choir, Big Band and Traditional Group travelled to Gonzaga College, Dublin, to perform in a concert for Habitat for Humanity.

given by Martin McGinn and former pupil Mike McQueen from the University of Ulster. **** The final of the USSJ League took place at Knockagh View Equestrian Centre. The Novice team won the final round of the competition and finished in 4th place overall in the league.

**** Emma Sloan of Form I gained her Junior blue-white belt in Jujitsu. **** 45

Darren Nixon and Ted Jenson from Eye4Education ran a STEM Carousel with our Form III pupils. **** Girls’ Hockey results against Glenlola were as follows: Seniors 1st XI 2B’s

drew 3-3 won 2-0

Juniors U14A’s U13A’s U13B’s

won 3-0 won 3-0 won 3-0.

**** Our Senior Golf team, having defeated Methodist College and Aquinas Grammar School in previous rounds, faced Our Lady and St. Patrick’s College, Knock at Dunmurry Golf Club in the semi-final of the Schools’ Winter League Competition. BRA won the match overall putting the School through to its first ever golfing final.

**** Rugby results against Banbridge Academy were as follows: Medallion A U14A U13 A

won 36-17 lost 10-7 won 24-12.

**** Sixth Formers from the Art & Technology Departments combined for a careers presentation

**** DECEMBER 2012 Congratulations went to Courtney Duncan, Abbie Brown, Judithe Allen and Emer Gribbon on being selected for the Netball U15 Regional Development Academy. The Inter A Netball team also won against Rockport 34-0. ****

The Owl 2013

Ben Madigan pupil Tom McKibbin – tipped to be Northern Ireland’s next ‘golf sensation’ – jetted off to America to compete against some of the world’s best young, up-and-coming junior golfers. **** The PSNI Roadsafe Roadshow visited the School. **** Darren Nixon from Eye4Education was in school to run a programme called AIM Higher with some of our Form III pupils. **** The Headmaster attended the Ben Madigan P1 – P3 Nativity Play.

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**** The Senior (U19) Chess Team won their match against St. Malachy’s in the Ulster Chess League and the Junior (U16) Chess Team drew their match. **** Our pupils donated more than two hundred presents to the Salvation Army/SVP Christmas Appeal. **** The 23rd Annual Sponsored Mournes’ Clean-up and Environment Day was held. Taking part were 155 people, i.e. 119 pupils, all Duke of Edinburgh’s Award members from Forms III to Middle VI, as well as 36 adult helpers, including former pupils who are Gold Award holders, parents and teachers. Around five to six tonnes of rubbish were cleared from 13 sites in the Mournes’ area. **** Anna Leyden, Aoife Mc Atamney, Nicole Simpson, Carrie Whitcroft, Jordan Meighan and Alex McGovern were given the opportunity to display their translation skills from French into English for the European Commission’s Annual Translation Competition. **** Dr. Melissa McCullough visited the Biology Department to speak to our MVI pupils who were applying for Medicine, Veterinary Medicine and Dentistry. ****

Diary of the School Year

Rugby results against Armagh Royal School were as follows: 1st XV 2nd XV 3rd XV Medallion A

won won won won

10-8 16-15 17-7 12-0. ****

Darren Nixon from Eye 4 Education came into school to run an event called Labour Market Information.

Lucy Dugan (Class of 2012) came back to school to talk to Modern Language students about gap years and, in particular, about her current gap year experience in the U.S.A. **** Merit Scheme Winners: Form I iPod: Cinema vouchers:

Form II iPod: Cinema vouchers: **** Netball results were as follows: Minor A Inter B Inter Cup

against St Genevieve’s HS lost 13-5 against Girls’ Model won 29-5 against Sacred Heart Newry won 32-19.

Form III iPod: Cinema vouchers:

Rebecca Sayers (1CU2) Rachel Gamble (1SH2), Leah Potter (1PO2)

Jake Duncan (2CU1) Aaron Maguire (2CA1), Charles Roxas (2CU1)

Thomas Carey (3CU1) Cormac McCracken (3SH1), Rebecca Armstrong (3SH2)

**** The Senior Carol Service was held in St Peter’s Church. ****

Form IV iPod: Cinema vouchers:

The Headmaster attended Christmas events at Cavehill Primary School, Mossley Primary School and Seaview Primary School. **** Sixth Year students attended a presentation by Guy Flouch from Eunicas about the opportunities available for students wishing to study abroad through the medium of English.

From V iPod: Cinema vouchers:

Jack Gill (4SH1) Lauren Rolston (4CA2), John Miller (4SH1)

Molly Martin (5CA2) Keeva Drummond (5SH2), Hannah McCalmont (5SH2). ****

Lauren Bradley, Niamh Duffy, Leona Holmes, Paula Keenan and Alex Devine each received their Award of Excellence from Volunteer Now. They completed 200 hours of volunteering in the local community.

****

****

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The Owl 2013

A number of pupils hosted a Christmas party for the pupils of Drumross Special Needs School.

The Young Einstein Club enjoyed a varied programme of experiments between half-term and Christmas.

****

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In order to support Holly McCoubrey and her fundraising for the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice, the Sixth Form Centre Committee invited staff to join them in the Sixth Form Centre for a festive break.

**** JANUARY 2013 The Open Evenings were held in School. **** Sorcha Chipperfield, Fundraising Co-ordinator for the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children, received a cheque for £3,263.26, which was the impressive sum raised by the pupils of Forms I and II during ‘ReadOn’, a sponsored reading event held in the English Department during the autumn term. **** Rugby results were as follows:

**** 14 students represented the School in Dublin at the Irish Schools’ Pairs Championships. The following were placed in the top 10: 3rd 4th 5th 7th 8th

Luke Taylor and Ryan Lightowler Melissa Antonio and Beccy Rowan Chris Turnbull and Philip Rowan Eilis O’Loan and Angela Cao Pooja Sridhar and Victoria Frame.

****

The Rugby 3rd XV played Strabane Academy 1st XV in the 3rd XV Cup. We won 27-0.

****

Senior fixtures were against Portadown College 1st XV won 28-9 2nd XV won 29-10 Junior Fixtures were against Killicomaine Junior High School U14 A’s won 61-0 U13 A’s won 29-11. **** The final round of The Inter-School Show-Jumping Competition was held at the Meadows Equestrian Centre, Lurgan. The Open team won the competition by 16 seconds and were crowned M.E.C Champions 2013. **** A meeting of Friends of the Academy was held in the Library. ****

Diary of the School Year

During the School’s Open Nights, the History Department ran a competition for visitors to try and identify various First World War artefacts from the battlefield and trenches of the Somme.The competition was won by Eve Henderson, from Greenisland Primary School, who recorded the highest score of all the entrants over the two nights.

The Medallion XV played their Shield game against Limavady Grammar School and won.

**** The Girls’ Hockey 1st XI played Rainey Endowed in the Quarter-final of the Schools’ Cup and won.

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**** Former Academy pupil Basil McCrea MLA visited the School. He fielded questions from Sixth Form Politics and Economics students on a range of subjects including healthcare, education and the economy.

**** The 1st XV played their 3rd round match of the Danske Bank Schools’ Cup against Carrickfergus Grammar School winning 41-6.

**** The Intermediate Netball team won 29-7 against Sacred Heart, Omagh in the Quarter finals of the Cup.

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The Owl 2013

The Boys’ Hockey 1st XI lost 3-2 to Antrim Grammar in the first round of the Burney Cup.

Four Form V pupils took up the challenge of participating in a lunchtime debate on the motion: “This House would legalise cannabis”.

**** **** On Thursday 31st January the U14 and U13A’s Girls’ Hockey teams played league fixtures against Antrim Grammar. The U14A’s won 4-0 and the U13A’s won 5-0.

The 1st XI Girls’ Hockey team played Lurgan College in the semi-final of the Belfast Telegraph Schools’ Cup at Lisnagarvey Hockey Club. Unfortunately the girls lost 4-1.

**** The Intermediate B Netball team beat Hunterhouse 1812 in the Final to become Belfast Area League Champions.

**** Our Bridge teams finished in the top 3 places in the Ulster Schools’ Team event in Belfast.

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**** **** FEBRUARY 2013 A group from the INIS Hydro-Project (Scotland) visited the Academy. **** Eye4Education came into school to deliver their Interview and Assessment programme. All LVI pupils were involved.

Girls’ Hockey results against Grosvenor were as follows: Seniors 1st 2A’s 2B’s 3’s

won won

2-1 0-0 2-0 2-0

Juniors U14A’s U14B’s U13A’s U13B’s U12’s U12’s

won won lost drew won drew

6-0 4-0 2-1 1-1 3-1 0-0.

lost

****

****

The Academy sent two delegations to the Methodist College Belfast / Wallace High School Model United Nations event, held at Methodist College, Belfast. Lucy Kinnear (Form IV), representing North Korea, won Best Delegate in her committee (Human Rights) and got to take home the gavel and a certificate. Highly Commended Delegate in the

Diary of the School Year

Mr. Frank Workman, in recognition of his outstanding commitment and long years of service to our Centre, received a “Long Service Recognition” Certificate from The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. An Award Ceremony was held at Hillsborough Castle where Mr. Workman was presented with his certificate by HRH Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex.

Middle East Committee went to Alizeh Ali (Form IV), representing the United Kingdom. Best Junior Delegate in the Environment Committee went to Jessica Dowey and Commended Delegate in EcoSoc went to Kuda Kunaka, both of whom represented North Korea. The North Korean Delegation then picked up the Commended Delegation Award.

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**** In the Medallion Shield, the Medallion XV won 38-3 against Rainey Endowed and progressed to a quarterfinal match with Coleraine Academical Institution. In the matches against Wallace, U14 XV won 7-0 and U13 lost 17-7. **** The Schools’ District Cross Country Championships were held and eleven runners qualified to represent the School at the Ulster Schools’ Championships.

**** Form IV pupils Rebecca Marno and Cathryn Morrissey, both members of the Valley Taekwondo Club in Newtownabbey, recently represented Northern Ireland at the British National Poomsae Championships. Rebecca and Cathryn produced some outstanding performances to secure 4 Gold and 2 Bronze medals.

**** Our Boys’ Hockey 2nd XI played in the Dowdall Cup against Bangor at Roughfort and recorded a 1-0 victory. **** The Medallion XV lost their Shield quarter-final match to Coleraine Academical Institution 22-3. **** The Rugby 2nd XV defeated Portora Royal School 46 -13 in the 2nd XV Cup. They progressed to the quarter-finals. **** **** The Rugby 1st XV defeated Belfast High School in the quarter-final of the Schools’ Shield.

Dr Jack Lennon of Q.U.B. gave a talk to the Senior Science Society entitled ‘Trends in Global Biodiversity’.

****

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The Owl 2013

The Friends of the Academy (FOTA) ‘Spring Fling’ Supper Dance was held in the Stormont. **** The Academy team of Odhran Catney, Tiernan Coulter, Jack Green and Tom McKee, following their success in the Newington Credit Union Quiz, competed in the Belfast ‘Chapter’ round at the Balmoral Hotel.

Eight MVI pupils attended week-long courses at Villiers Park in their chosen subject areas. ****

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10 Form IV GCSE Economics pupils participated in the 2013 Inter-schools Stock Market Challenge. **** Belfast Royal Academy hosted its first teachers’ conference for A Level Teachers of French.

**** Dr Richard Holland (Q.U.B.) gave a talk on ‘Bird navigation: from quantum physics to global migration’ to the Senior Science Society. **** Jessica McVeigh (III) took part in the Belfast Speech and Drama Festival at the Lyric Theatre and was placed 4th overall. ****

**** Tom Hanna (MVI) participated in the second round of the British Mathematics Olympiad. ****

The 1st XI Cricket team became the first team from Northern Ireland to tour Sri Lanka. **** The Senior Boys’ team, captained by Matthew Francey, qualified for the Senior Irish Schools’ Water Polo Championships.

The Rugby U13 A team beat Belfast High School 3619 and the U14 A team drew with BHS 14-14.

****

****

The Swimming team produced another performance by winning 33 medals at the Ulster Grammar Schools’ Swimming Championships.

The Girls’ Hockey Club played their fixtures against Friends’ School, Lisburn. The results were as follows: 1st XI 2A XI 2B XI 3rd XI

won lost lost won

2-1 4-0 1-0 2-0.

****

**** Go-Karting teams were entered in British Schools’ GoKarting Championships. ****

Diary of the School Year

The Girls’ Hockey Team returned from a successful tour to Marbella. **** The School library celebrated World Book Day 2013 by screening ‘The Biggest Book Show on Earth’. The show was beamed live around the world from 11am to 12 noon. Academy pupils joined with over 500,000 school pupils around the world who had gathered to watch the live video streaming. Popular authors Francesca Simon, Anthony Horowitz, Lauren Child and Tony Robinson all made live appearances. **** Sixteen of our Form IV pupils attended the Teenage Wellbeing Fair which was organised by Grove Wellbeing Centre and Libraries N.I. **** The Spring Concert was held in the Ulster Hall.

Pat Jamison from Sentinus was in school to deliver a programme called Experiences of Work.

****

****

Fourteen Form III pupils visited W5 for International Women’s Day.

MARCH 2013 The School’s Bridge Club sent seven teams to Galway for the Irish Championships. The Club took 4 places in the top 8 teams finishing 1st, 2nd, 5th and 6th. **** The 1st XV Ruby team defeated CAI 27-0 in the semifinal of the Schools’ Shield. **** The U14 Rugby squad of 23 travelled to Ipswich and Cambridge over the weekend to play fixtures against leading independent schools. **** Representatives from Leeds University, St. Andrews, Liverpool John Moores, University of Ulster and the Scottish Modern Universities were in school to give pupils an insight into what their universities have to offer.

**** Twenty Form III pupils attended a Broadcasting workshop at the newly opened e3 campus at Belfast MET. The course was taken by UTV newsreader Aidan Browne and television presenter and journalist Lynda Bryans.

**** 104 LVI pupils attended the UCAS Convention at the King’s Hall, Belfast. ****

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The Owl 2013

‘The Poetry Games – Poems from Northern Ireland’ was published and included poems from 26 of our pupils.

The 1st XV Rugby team played Campbell College in the Subsidiary Shield Final at Ravenhill losing by one score.

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Merit Scheme Prize Draw winners: Form I £75 Victoria Square voucher: Peter Watt (1SH1) £10 Cinema Vouchers: Cormac Magowan (1SH1), Eirinn Fitzsimons (1CU2)

A group of pupils, teachers and Rotarians from Chicago, USA visited school.

Form II £75 Victoria Square voucher: Bobbi Linton (2PO2) £10 Cinema Vouchers: Victoria McCullough (2PO2), Matthew Gorman (2CA1) 54

**** Academy pupils David Campbell (Form V) and Jordan Hylton (Form LVI) played in the Ulster Schools’ U18 Rugby match against Ballymena Barbarians. The Ulster XV won the game 14-5. Both players were also selected to play in the Ulster Schools’ U18 match against Rainey Endowed School as part of Rainey’s Tercentenary celebrations.

Form III £75 Victoria Square voucher: Stephen Rea (3SH1) £10 Cinema Vouchers: James Walker (3SH1), Morgan Patton (3CU2) Form IV £75 Victoria Square voucher: Connor Boyd (4PO1) £10 Cinema Vouchers: Chloe Shaw (4SH2), Kathryn McCambridge (4CU2) Form V £75 Victoria Square voucher: David Speers (5CA1) £10 Cinema Vouchers: Ben Johnston (5CA1), Emma Mills (5PO2). ****

**** Twenty-five Form I and Form II pupils spent Easter in Paris.

Kelly-Anne Rainey (Form MVI) took part in NICMAC 2013 – Northern Ireland Creative Movement and Aerobic Championships.

Kelly-Anne, who has been on the Northern Ireland Youth Fitness team for the past 4 years, finished first in both the Intermediate Exercise Pairs and Intermediate Exercise Team events, as well as gaining a second place in Senior Dance Team. **** Claire McCollum led a seminar in the Library for Sixth Form pupils interested in a career in the media. ****

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Diary of the School Year

LVI Biologists visited Greenmount Agricultural Campus in Antrim to take part in a workshop aimed at addressing the Ecology and Farming sections of the AS Module 2 Biology specification.

The Malawi team travelled to the North Coast for their team residential at Ballintoy.

**** **** Representatives from Operation Mobilisation came in to Scripture Union to speak to pupils about their mission ship, the Logos Hope.

**** Members of the 1963 Schools’ Cup Final team visited the School. **** The Junior Maths team consisting of Richard Ware (FIII), Andrew Milligan (FIII), Lui Hurson (FII) and Daniel Quigley (FII) won the Northern Ireland regional final of the UKMT Team Challenge.

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A team of 50 pupils returned to the Waterfront Hall to compete in Rock Challenge 2013. The dancers put on a spectacular show and received three awards, for Choreography, Perform-ance Skill and Soundtrack. The team also received the Student Leadership Award for being entirely pupil-led. To finish a fantastic night, the team placed 2nd overall. **** Judithe Allen (Form IV) and Amy O’Donnell (Form IV) competed in the Irish Schools’ Championship (Ulster District Section) at Portstewart Golf Club. The girls’ combined scores saw them win the Ulster Junior Cup.

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The Owl 2013

APRIL 2013 Jamie Dwyer (MVI), Aaron Cairns (MVI), Kyle Higginson (LVI) and Pierce Clements (Form V) competed in the Ulster Schools’ Winter League Final at Royal Portrush. They finished in 3rd place behind Coleraine A.I. and St. Killian’s.

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**** The Culloden Ball was held.

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**** Two major expedition events took place: the Easter Gold canoe training on the Lower River Bann and the Bronze practice expedition in the Castlewellan Forest Park area. ****

Professor Stanley Black from the University of Ulster hosted an interesting talk on the literature text ‘Como Agua Para Chocolate’ in the School Library. **** James Reid (Form IV) represented BRA in the British Schools’ Judo Competition in Sheffield and won the Bronze medal. He also won the Gold medal at the Northern Ireland Open at Queen’s University. **** The 1st XI Cricket team defeated Bangor Grammar by 1 wicket at the Castle Grounds in the Schools’ Cup and the Junior Colts beat Sullivan by 6 wickets. **** Twenty Form III pupils joined groups from Hazelwood Integrated College, St Patrick’s College and Edmund Rice College at the Crescent Arts Centre, Belfast for Co-operation Ireland’s CATCH Project 2013. **** Congratulations went to Carly McCullough (Form IV) who performed as Maria, the lead role, in ‘Belfast Youth in the Arts’ production of ‘West Side Story’.

The Bridge teams finished 2nd in the end of year Under 20 Inter-provincial tournament in Belfast. **** A group of 20 Form III pupils were chosen to participate in Co-operation Ireland’s CATCH project. **** Congratulations went to Michael Bell (MVI) who was the winner of the Bank of Ireland’s Catherine Judge Memorial Award. ****

Diary of the School Year

Judithe Allen and Amy O’Donnell competed in the Irish Schools’ Golf Championships, held in Milltown Golf Club. The girls emerged victorious, winning the Irish Schools’ Junior Cup. To add to this achievement, Judithe also won the prize for best gross score at Junior level.

MAY 2013 The Athletics Club competed at the District Athletics Championships at the Antrim Forum. There were some excellent performances, including new District records for Stephen McCorry in the Junior Hammer and Matthew Dalton in the 80m Hurdles.

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Form V Drama students went to The Mac to watch Bruiser Theatre Company’s performance of ‘The 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee’.

The following boys were selected to represent Ulster Rugby at various age groups: Ulster U20 Squad Daniel Dass Ulster U19 Squad Angelo Marica Stewart Martin Ulster U18 Squad David Campbell Jordon Hylton

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Ulster U16 Elite Matthew Dalton **** **** The Drama Department show-cased a selection of AS and A2 Drama performances. The programme consisted of ‘The Beauty Queen of Leenane’ by Martin McDonagh, ‘Esme’, a creative adaptation of Saki’s short story of the same name and ‘Meurtre’, an A2 devised piece, scripted entirely by the pupils involved.

The following pupils attended Villiers Park for Residential Courses: Elizabeth Sinclair – Biology: Ecology and Evolution, Jenna Todd – Art and Design: Mapping the Visual, Christopher Turnbull – Mathematics: Chaos or Clear Cut?

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**** Kieran McKenna (Form IV) came second in the All Ireland Youth Climbing Series finals. He qualified to represent Ireland at the UK championships in Scotland. ****

Congratulations went to Faye Kidd (LVI), as captain, and Abbie Brown (IV) on being part of the Ulster U17 Hockey squad who travelled to Lilleshall Sports Centre and beat hosts England 00, 2-1, 2-0 in a three-match series. This was the first time at this level Ulster has ever beaten England. ****

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The Senior and Intermediate District Athletics Championships were held at the Antrim Forum and the boys became District Champions. The Boys’ team finished second overall when all age groups were added together. The Girls’ team also had success with the Senior and Intermediate teams taking first place and the Junior team finishing second overall. Jack Agnew competed in the inaugural T54 events with great success; winning both the 100 and 200m.

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**** Emily Taggart (Form MVI) secured a rowing and academic scholarship to Michigan State University, USA. **** Form IV pupils Rebecca Marno and Cathryn Morrissey competed in the UTA Taekwondo International Poomsae Championships in Milton Keynes. The girls excelled in their categories, with Rebecca bringing home 3 Gold medals (C class Under 17 Individual, C class Under 29 Pairs and B class Under 29 Team) and Cathryn 2 Golds and 1 Bronze (B class Under 29 Team, B class Under 29 Pairs and B class Under 17 Individual). **** The Junior Musical ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ took place. ****

The Ulster Schools’ Athletics Championships took place at the Antrim Forum. The Academy pupils had great success.

Almac (Pharmaceutical discovery and development) hosted a Teacher Careers Day to give insight to STEM subject staff on careers available within their company.

**** Dr Billy Hunter, an Old Boy of the School and a representative of the EU Science programme, visited the School to pupils in Form IV.

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Diary of the School Year

Sixteen Academy athletes competed at the Irish Schools’ Athletics Championships in Tullamore. All participants performed extremely well.

Sixteen pupils from Form IV took part in the annual Schools’ Orienteering Festival at Palace Stables. **** Form IV Biology students visited the Balmoral Show. ****

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The 1st XI Cricket team 130-4 beat Wallace High School 108-5 by 22 runs and recorded a pleasing win against RBAI by 4 wickets. The Under 15 XI won in the Schools’ Cup by 65 runs against Limavady 47 all out.

Miss Brady and around 20 Academy pupils contributed to the running of the Special Olympics Regional Aquatics Event, held at the Lisburn Leisureplex.

**** Seven major Duke of Edinburgh’s Award expeditions took place. **** JUNE 2013 In Show-Jumping Jessica Johnston represented Ireland at Fontainebleau. **** The U15 Cricket team defeated Dungannon in the 2nd round of the U15 Schools’ Cup. The Under 12s lost by 7 wickets to Wallace with one over to go in the Centenary Cup. **** The School hosted a group of STEM Ambassadors for their induction training led by Mary Carson and Arlene Todd from W5.

**** 1st XI Cricket players Jordan Carlisle (Captain), Ben Kane, Daniel McFadden, Andrew Forbes and Ross Bryans were selected for an Ulster Schools’ trial. All Academy Cricket teams (1st XI, U15, U14, U13, U12) won their respective matches against Bangor Grammar School. **** Congratulations went to Alex Steenson, Shane Martin, Matthew Dalton, Stephen McCorry, Victoria Beattie and Mellissa Moffett, who were all selected to represent Ulster at the AVIVA Tailteann Irish Schools’ Inter-provincial competition in Tullamore. **** Shane Martin, Jason Poots, Trinity Geddis, Beth Magill and Erin Moffett were selected to represent District B in the Year 9 U14 Inter-District competition.

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The ‘End of Term Staff Dinner’ was held in The Ivory. ****

The School continued its impressive success in the West Belfast Festival and Feilé an Phobail. 11 – 13 Category: 2nd Place – Jasmine Ross; 14 – 16 Category: 1st Place – Mary Cousins. **** Jack Agnew (Form II) was selected for the Great Britain U18 Wheelchair Basketball squad for the Paralympic Youth Festival in Utrecht, Netherlands. He is the youngest player in the squad and also the only representative from Northern Ireland.

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Congratulations went to former pupils Iain Henderson and Stuart Olding who both played in Ireland’s victory over the United Sates in Houston, Texas. **** In cricket the Junior Colts XI defeated Methodist College Belfast by 7 wickets to reach the semi-final of the Derriaghy Cup and the Junior Girls’ Cricket team defeated Bloomfield Collegiate to reach the semi-final of the 8-a-side cricket competition. **** 105 pupils from three primary schools attended our annual Big Day of Science. **** A group of Form III pupils had the opportunity to work alongside BBC Northern Ireland news correspondent Thomas Niblock. ****

**** Congratulations went to Jordan Carlisle and Andrew Forbes on their selection for the Ulster Schools’ Cricket team to face the M.C.C. XI at Campbell College. Siblings Jack and Max Burton were also selected for the Northern Cricket Union Under 15 and Under 13 squads, respectively. **** The Headmaster, Mr Harte and fourteen pupils attended US President Barack Obama’s address at the Waterfront Hall. Form V pupils Ellen Mooney, Morgan McKeown and Eden Altura got to meet the President and his wife, First Lady Michelle Obama. ****

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C. Callachand

Mr Briggs, a former pupil of Lurgan College and Queen’s University Belfast, was appointed as a member of staff to the Music Department in October 2012 to cover Mrs Prior’s maternity leave.

Dr. Christine Callachand joined the staff for less than one year as maternity cover for Mrs. McIntyre but that did not stop her from playing a full role in the life of the school. She taught her Mathematics classes with enthusiasm and contributed to the careers development of the department. Outside of class Christine was involved in the Duke of Edinburgh programme and was a member of staff on the trip to Malawi in the summer which was the highlight of her year.

During his time at the Academy Mr Briggs taught Music to Advanced Level and established himself as a competent classroom teacher. He was conscientious and thorough in his preparation and ready to help those who found difficulty with Music assignments. He also gave unstintingly of his time outside the classroom by taking the Brass Band and Junior Choir and accompanying the Junior Production ‘Little Shop of Horrors’.

Although Mr Briggs was only in the Academy for a short time we will remember him as a pleasant and helpful colleague.

M.M.M.

K. Comac Miss Comac, a former student of St. Patrick’s Academy, Dungannon and Queen’s University Belfast, was appointed as a member of staff to the ICT Department in September 2012 to cover for Mr Cupples.

During her time at the Academy Miss Comac taught ICT to Advanced Level and established herself as a competent classroom teacher. She was conscientious and thorough in her preparation and ready to help those who found difficulty with ICT. She also gave willingly of her time outside the classroom by taking part in the Thomas Niblock Young Journalist days.

Miss Comac was only in the Academy for a short time, but we will remember her as a very pleasant and helpful colleague.

W.S.

We thank Dr Callachand for her hard work and wish her well in her teaching career as she joins the permanent staff of Hunterhouse College in South Belfast.

S.G.

R. Carroll Mr Raymond Carroll was appointed to the Technology Department in September 1991. Prior to his appointment he had worked as an instrument technician at Queen’s University’s Chemistry Department operating gas liquid chromatography mass and continuous wave nuclear magnetic resonance spectrometers.

He subsequently followed the Technology and Design course at Stranmillis College where he graduated with a first class honours B.Ed. The Technology Department had been in existence for a few years, but had operated out of the basement in the Art Department. The subject had just been designated as a compulsory contributory subject as part of the Education Reform Programme. Mr Carroll’s appointment coincided with the opening of a new Technology and Design suite designed to deliver this new subject. This building included 2 multimaterial workshops equipped with a metal lathe, oxyacetylene and MIG welding facilities, a milling machine and many other power tools. Mr Carroll’s practical experience was an immensely important part of this new development since no-one else was qualified to use the new equipment!

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These practical abilities helped form our new programmes of study and the development of our own brand of the subject as it exists today. His abilities in the solution of real-life engineering problems have not only proved invaluable in the classroom but in running for many years the Sixth Form Sentinus Engineering Education Scheme. On a recent staff Well-Being Day, a number of members of staff attended his Car Maintenance Class. This was an area in which he had much expertise. He would often appear on a Monday morning re-counting the success of some complex car repair which anyone else would have left to the local dealer but which he had carried out in his driveway at home. The breadth of his practical abilities extended to his playing of classical, rock and jazz guitar.

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In his early years at The Academy, Mr Carroll, a talented musician, could have been heard playing jazz guitar in a local club or restaurant of a Saturday evening. In school, this experience was passed on to members of the Guitar Club which he founded and which met weekly in his room. Mr Carroll was also an excellent classroom teacher and contributed to the success of many pupils who over the years have been recognised by CCEA as having the top mark in GCSE Technology and Design. His abilities to analyse problems and to communicate ideas, particularly in graphical forms, were recognised by both his colleagues and his pupils who learnt much by seeing his genius at work.

Mr Carroll’s departure came as quite a surprise at the end of the summer term 2012 as the consequence of a transferred redundancy. I have no doubt that Mr Carroll’s practical skills will continue to be put to good use in his home recording studio and his workshop.

Do not be surprised if you see his name at the end of a music track or a patent, or at his appearance in an episode of Dragon’s Den. N.E.M.

A. Forrest Andrew joined the Academy in 2010 and during the past three years has made a significant contribution to subject teaching and learning at all levels. Andrew was always optimistic, positive in taking on new challenges, and was a supportive colleague within the Department.

As a classroom practitioner, what stood out was Andrew’s excellent rapport with the children which provided the basis for motivated learning and high quality teaching. Andrew’s concern for the progress and well-being of individuals was demonstrated in his work for pupils with special educational needs.

Andrew, an outstanding sportsman with representative Honours in Hockey, gave generously of his time and expertise to the wider life of the Academy. He made a valuable contribution in a range of extra-curricular areas, most notably as a gifted coach of the 1st XI Boys’ Hockey team.

We wish Andrew well as he takes another stepping stone in his career.

W.S.

B. Lomas Barbara Lomas, or Barbara Mason as she then was, joined the staff of Belfast Royal Academy in 1975, after a distinguished academic career at Bloomfield Collegiate and Trinity College, Dublin, where she read History and Political Science.

At Bloomfield she had been Head Girl, a member of the Hockey 1st XI, and was involved in drama and debating among many other things.

Dr Lomas applied for a post at Belfast Royal Academy as a teacher of English and History, but before she started, the Headmaster wrote to her to explain that, “circumstances have arisen” which would require her to teach Advanced Level Politics, rather than much English. Capable and adaptable, she set about the task of preparing to teach Politics with relish. Later, at even shorter notice, she was asked to introduce Advanced Level Sociology to the school. Undaunted, and without fuss, she gathered the resources and created the necessary schemes of work.

Directly responsible for the strength of Social Sciences in our school, she was a leading figure in the establishment of Politics as an academic discipline in schools throughout Northern Ireland through her work with the Politics Association.

She was an academic of the first rank, winning a Walter Hines Page Scholarship to the USA on her way to achieving her MEd and PhD, and being, on more than one occasion, a guest Lecturer at the University of Uppsala in Sweden.

Had her reshaping of the Advanced level curriculum been the extent of her contribution to the Academy, it would have been a significant contribution. However, while this endeavour was laudable, what made Dr Lomas exceptional was the extraordinary contribution which she made to the wider life of the school and to the education – in the broadest sense of that word – of generations of pupils.

As a Form Mistress (what now would be called a Head of Year) and Senior Mistress, she played a leading role

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in the pastoral care of girls in the school; she was wise and supportive, and firm when firmness was needed.

Her own good sense and ability to take things in her stride provided an example from which many benefitted.

Her commitment to the extra-curricular life of the school was indefatigable. She founded the School and Pupil Councils, devised our Citizenship education and established the CIVITAS and Model United Nation groups, giving pupils practical experience of the political processes which she explored in the classroom. (Her political insight helped to pilot the strategic thinking of AQE through the troubled waters of Burns, Costello and beyond.) She took Swimming, training girls early in the morning for the Commonwealth Games, Life-Saving, and Tennis. She coached the Girls’ Hockey 3rd XI “on top of a windswept Siberian hill” at Ballywonard. She started Badminton and Squash clubs in the 1970s, taking boys and girls to Woodvale, where they could only warm themselves up by playing – an opportunity not available to the coach. She was a member of the Senior Choir and sang with it in St Anne’s Cathedral as part of our bicentenary celebrations, and she assisted for many years with the Duke of Edinburgh Award.

For almost forty years, the productions of our Dramatic Society, the plays chosen and the design ideas of our Directors, played a significant part in Dr Lomas’s domestic routine: they consumed much of her time at home because throughout those years she made the costumes – thousands of costumes, so well made that people assumed that they were hired. Her support and enthusiasm were appreciated by Directors and actors alike. She enjoyed seeing people challenging themselves, working together and achieving memorable performances. Of all the plays, perhaps Lark Rise to Candleford, performed ‘in the round’, was her favourite.

Dr Lomas led our school Bridge Club to a position of pre-eminence in Ireland, having re-founded the Club in 1987. Her coaching expertise was formidable, but perhaps it was the camaraderie which she created in J6 which was the secret of success. At break and lunchtime, her room was full of pupils of all ages. The seniors taught the juniors how to play. Uncertain First Formers discovered an unsuspected talent for the game. It was a place apart, where pupils grew in confidence and before long were competing, and winning.

An intrepid Dr Lomas accompanied pupils on the early Paris trips led by Ken Perrins, including the first trip which took both boys and girls. Part of the folklore of the School, these trips, from an era before risk assessments, brought the city and French culture to life

– they will not soon be forgotten by those who travelled. She went on History department trips with Winston Breen to explore Georgian Dublin, and took pupils on Politics trips to London and Brussels. She led Form trips to Binnian, took pupils to the theatre in Stratford and sang on Senior Choir trips to Dublin and Edinburgh.

In the last ten years she established partnerships with schools in Sweden, which are considered exemplary.

She organised the hosting of our visitors and led our pupils on fascinating journeys through Uppsala and Stockholm. She still recalls the “magical” experience of being greeted by 8ft of snow on the first trip.

For Barbara Lomas, teaching was a vocation. It began in the classroom, but it did not end there. She had a gift for reassurance and for encouragement, which became motivation, and she created a great variety of opportunities for generations of pupils. As a parent, she was rightly proud to watch Katrina and Jenna move through school, and I believe that she wanted for all pupils what she wanted for her own daughters – that they would be happy and well taught and that they would be given all sorts of opportunities through which they could find their feet and flourish as individuals. Few people have done more to shape Belfast Royal Academy into the sort of school where those things happen.

M.D.

I. Lyttle The retirement of Mrs Isobel Lyttle has marked the end of an era. She has had a long association with the School both as teacher and parent. Her children were all educated at the Academy. Mark, the eldest is now a consultant paediatrician working in Bristol, Janine is a Primary school teacher at Whitehouse Primary, and Christine is in her final year of dentistry.

Isobel started her career in the Academy in September 1990 and has been teaching and developing the skills of Sixth Form pupils through the OCR examinations.

She furthered her education whilst working by gaining a master’s degree with particular emphasis on change management and underachievement in boys.

She was an invaluable member of the Business Studies Department, teaching Form III to Form V classes. Her dedication to pupils was second to none. Nothing was ever too much trouble and her desire to see pupils reaching their full potential was infectious. She helped organise and co-ordinate many school visits, visiting speakers and Business Studies trips, the trip to Barcelona being a huge success.

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Modest in her qualities, she was a most caring and gifted teacher who contributed much more than just classroom teaching. She was thoughtful and considerate of others and spent many lunch times in her room coaching pupils for OCR, running additional examinations, helping pupils with work, and typing up and helping to write many personal statements for UCAS entries. Isobel helped at the School plays and sponsored walks as well as developed mini company activities and set up the school bank.

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Isobel was a highly organised and dedicated individual who brightened everyone’s day with her cheery disposition and big smile. Her supportive and encouraging personality always led her to put others before herself. She will find plenty to do with her free time and we know she is helping with her grandchildren.

However, Isobel will be greatly missed by the pupils as a hard-working and thoughtful teacher and by her friends and colleagues on the staff. As a department we miss her fun for life and everyday encouragement, her support and good spirit and her delightful personality.

We wish her well for the future and hope there will be many years of contact with the school.

G.M.Q.

N. Moore Noel Moore was a Physics graduate of the University of Manchester and in 1976 it was to the Physics Department of the Academy that he was appointed. In his CV, in addition to his membership of the Irish Youth Orchestra and membership of the Salvation Army, he listed among his interests ‘construction of electronic equipment’. This proved to be an insight into what his contribution to the Academy was to behold.

When he joined the staff, he was soon involved with the community Service Group and the Orchestra. He organised the use of school facilities for the Ardoyne and Alliance Summer Play Scheme at the height of ‘The Troubles’, and he developed opportunities for our pupils to work in support schemes with young people with disabilities. He was also the Director of Project Love, an organisation which arranged summer holidays in the United States for children from deprived areas.

Noel not only supervised every aspect of the introduction of Technology and Design in the Academy – a new building, a new Department and a new subject – but he also provided training for other Heads of Department at a key time in the subject’s evolution in the Province in the late 1980s.

Noel has been an exemplary Head of Department; his strategic vision has ensured that the department has invested in equipment which has been made available

for our pupils and opportunities which are a match for any school in the province.

It was no surprise when he was selected for one of the prestigious Institute of Electrical Engineers Awards, for “good practice, enthusiasm and dedication” in 1997.

His contribution to the Academy has been vast and wide ranging; from establishing a Department, to creating extra-curricular opportunities for pupils in a range of activities, from the Community Service Group to the Amateur Radio Club. Latterly his meticulous attention to detail and his initiative as Chair of the Open Evening and A.Q.E Test Planning Group, have played a major role in the success of those events and in the resulting strength of our transfer applications.

It is fitting that the last few weeks of his teaching career were spent with a LVI group in Malawi, where he shared his vast experience, skills and energy with our own pupils and those in Mulanje.

Noel’s wisdom, advice and judgement have been much admired by pupils and staff alike. He is a goodhumoured problem-solver and an energy-bringer, and he has been an important figure throughout his time at the Academy. As a department and as a school we are in his debt, and we wish him well for the future.

K.L.

D. Nash Following his graduation from the University of Durham (Hatfield College) in 1976, David Nash obtained his Post-Graduate Certificate in Education from the Queen’s University of Belfast. A keen scholar, he continued his studies whilst pursuing his career as a schoolmaster. In 1991 he was awarded a Diploma in the Advanced Study of Education (Guidance and Counselling) and in 1995 a Master of Education (Education Management). Both demanding courses were completed at The Queen’s University of Belfast.

He began his teaching career at Larne Grammar School, where he spent seven years teaching Geography and Geology, the latter to Advanced Level.

While at Larne he coached rugby throughout the school, with special responsibility for the 1st XV. At this time he was also a member of the Ulster Schools’ Rugby Committee.

When David Nash joined the Geography Department of Belfast Royal Academy in 1984, he was not stepping into the dark. A former Head Boy of the School and Captain of the 1st XV, David is one of the finest rugby players the Academy has produced: the gentlest of colleagues, he was a fearsome, and feared, back-row forward, an “enforcer” who played for BRA in the 1972 Schools’ Cup

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final and who went on to play for Ulster Schools, English Universities, Durham County and Ulster.

While at the Academy he contributed to many areas of school life. He was a Form Master, and a pioneer in the field of European Studies, which played a key role in securing the International School Award for the Academy. He was a talented rugby and cricket coach, a particularly effective careers teachers, a leader, along with Barbara Lomas, of the Swedish exchange, and, with Diane Keenan, of the Habitat for Humanity team in Romania.

He has been on many Academy ski-trips, first as a pupil and, in recent years, as the trip organiser and group leader. He has been Secretary / Treasurer of Ulster Schools’ Skiing Association.

His expertise as a Geographer was recognised by his appointment as a BELB Field Officer in 1994. In requesting that his secondment be extended by a year, the Board wrote, “We are very happy with his work and we know his work is valued by teachers… Our gain is your loss.”

Since returning from these years of secondment, David sought to develop the ICT skills of pupils and staff alike and helped many of us individually. He incorporated an IT dimension into his teaching which will be considered essential in years to come.

He was deeply involved with the NICCEA Examination Board in developing proposals for new courses at all levels within schools, including the introduction of modular elements to Geography at Advanced Level.

He is a past committee member of the Belfast Branch of the Geographical Association. He has advised BBC programme makers on their content related to Geography in schools.

David Nash is a gentleman. He will be much missed within the Academy. I valued enormously his good humour and calm demeanour. The breadth of knowledge he possessed in the fields of Geography, Geology and ICT made him a point of reference, not just within this school but within the province. I wish him well and many years of good health and happiness to enjoy with Valerie.

A.S.

E. Thompson “exegi monumentum aere perennius” Horace Elisabeth Thompson joined the staff of Belfast Royal Academy in September, 2001. Educated at Londonderry High School, she went on to read Latin,

Greek and Ancient History at Queen’s University, Belfast. The young Classics graduate then made the move to teaching and proceeded to complete her Diploma in Education at Queen’s.

Elisabeth commenced her teaching career in Grosvenor High School, and her long tenure there (1975 to 1995) is testament to what an excellent fit the subject of Classics and the profession of teaching were for her. A young, impressionable student teacher by the name of John Reilly was lucky enough to happen upon Elisabeth during his teaching practice at Grosvenor, and I still recall with some awe observing Elisabeth’s particular skills with the pupils. Each child in the class was wrapped around Elisabeth’s proverbial “little finger” and would have done anything bid, but Elisabeth was skilled enough to show no obvious awareness of the undoubted authority she held, delivering each lesson with a quiet dignity.

A career break followed her time at Grosvenor. Not long after her return to the work place, Belfast Royal Academy was lucky enough to receive an application from Elisabeth, and we grabbed the opportunity to employ her with both hands.

The Classics Department at Belfast Royal Academy is a small close-knit community and getting the right person for a post within it is vital. I never had a moment’s doubt that Elisabeth was the right person and she has spent her twelve years at the Academy very fully justifying my faith in her.

I was relieved to find, upon her employment, that she still possessed that enviable ability subtly to command the respect of her classes, which I had observed during my teaching practice. However, during my time as her colleague I have found many more qualities to admire in Elisabeth’s work. Perhaps foremost of these is the extent to which Elisabeth prioritised her pupils and travelled “the extra mile” to make sure they achieved their goals while retaining their enthusiasm for our subject. From organising Classical Greek classes, to running the Classics Society, to assisting with the successful Classics trip to Hadrian’s Wall, Elisabeth’s contribution to the cultural health of our Department has been continuous and highly valued. The fact that Elisabeth was also an Academy parent has undoubtedly assisted her in understanding and maintaining both the ethos and values of this school.

It is a mark of Elisabeth’s exceptional abilities and personal qualities that the fact that she is the sister of Bill Young, our former Headmaster, is perhaps only the tenth thing any of her colleagues would mention when asked to describe her to an incoming member of staff!

On behalf of the Classics Department at the Academy, I wish Elisabeth a happy and fulfilling retirement. We

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say farewell to her not only as a colleague, but also as a friend. Indeed, we hope that rather than “farewell” this is “so long” and that we need part from her only until the next Departmental Christmas lunch. She is, and always will be, a highly valued member of our team.

J.R.

V. Wightman

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Miss Wightman joined the Academy in May 2012 for a maternity cover as well as general cover. She stayed with us as a teacher of Biology, Physics and Chemistry until June 2013 and during this time she proved herself to be an outstanding classroom practitioner with a passion for teaching Science across all ages. Even though she taught at our School for a relatively short period of time, she didn’t hold back in getting involved. She pioneered sign language classes which were an instant hit with many pupils, co-ordinated a workshop with Young Engineers, helped run the ATC and even played in the staff football matches amongst many other activities. In her classroom she endeavoured to be always polite, courteous and held herself to the highest standards whilst embracing innovation in her teaching strategies. She expected similarly high standards from her students and so helped them develop and mature in their learning of Science as well as in themselves as young people.

Thank you for giving so much to our school during your time at the Academy.

It is fair to say that because of her kindness, friendliness, her outgoing personality and infectious enthusiasm, Victoria became a member of our Biology

and Academy family. She is and will be missed by the Biology Department (we are certainly lacking a departmental social events organiser!) but we know that she will always be one of us.

Victoria moved on to join Campbell College to teach Biology and we wish her every success in this and in her future career.

A.B.

D. T. Wright Mr Denver Wright was appointed to the staff of the Academy in November 2012 as temporary teacher of History. A former pupil of Ballymena Academy, Denver studied Theology and History at Queen’s University, Belfast. Denver is a polymath; in his previous post at Portadown College, he taught Religious Studies and Government and Politics, as well as History, to Advanced Level. However, it was in the History Department that Denver was to apply his talents during his time at BRA and his knowledge, enthusiasm and pedagogical skills impressed all who came into contact with him. Denver is a man of faith and he served the Lord through the Senior Scripture Union. He also made a valuable contribution to the sporting life of the school. During his short time on the staff, Denver contributed to both the Rugby and Cricket clubs. His commitment to the History Department during the inspection of March 2013 was also appreciated greatly by his colleagues. All the members of the History Department wish Denver well as he returns to teach at Portadown College this academic year.

J.M.

Obituaries J. Cameron (Cornett) Former pupils and teachers of the Academy were saddened to learn of the sudden death in Switzerland of Jane Cameron (Cornett). As a pupil Jane Cornett was involved in a wide range of School activities and was held in very high regard by both the staff and fellow pupils. This great esteem was reflected in the large attendance at her funeral service in St Peter’s Church, Antrim Road on 25th September 2013.

The following tribute was paid by her sister Ruth at Jane’s funeral.

Jane was born in 1965 and was a pupil at Ben Madigan from 1970 - 77 and at BRA from 1977-84. She comes from a family with long connections to the Academy: her father, James Cornett, and his five siblings were also educated at BRA during the 1930s and 1940s.

Jane was a popular member of School and a member of the Bible Union, the Guides (becoming a Queen’s Guide), and helped to lead the Brownies at St. Peter’s in her last year at School. She was elected Head Girl in May 1983 and enjoyed her responsibilities enormously, representing the pupils at a number of functions.

On leaving School Jane went to Stranmillis College and qualified with a B.Ed in 1988. As soon as she graduated, Jane obtained a post teaching at Fullerton House Preparatory School and was also a Boarding Mistress at Methody. In early 1995 Jane moved to Scotland and taught at Hamilton College until September 2004, when she moved to Switzerland teaching first at Beau Soleil in Villars, and then from 2005 at the Ecole Internationale de Geneve (EIG). Jane specialised in teaching 10-11 year olds and was highly regarded by colleagues and pupils.

She travelled widely, visiting Alaska, China, cycling in Morocco, canoeing in North America, going on safari in South Africa and learnt how to drive an elephant in Thailand. As a teacher Jane believed the good example set by BRA inspired her to be thorough, to set homework every night and to be fair. Jane

always said that the trust of the class was the most important thing for any teacher to win and that a teacher has to be fair and explain their reasons to the class.

The Ecole Internationale de Geneve (EIG) held a special service in Jane’s memory at the Greek Theatre in the grounds at which her former colleagues, former pupils and members of her class this year all spoke.

The service coincided with International Peace Day, which was very appropriate as Jane taught children from 22 different nations in a class of 24 and had recently completed a diploma in plural lingual education.

Jane Cornett retained school friends from BRA throughout her life - proof that the bonds formed at BRA can survive the vicissitudes of time and distance.

Jane died in Geneva on 16th September 2013.

R.C.

John Cole John Cole, the distinguished journalist, broadcaster and author died on 7th November 2013. Mr Cole was a former pupil of the Academy and we are grateful to The Guardian for permission to publish the following obituary printed in the newspaper on Friday 8 November 2013 www.guardian.co.uk.

As a labour correspondent, as deputy editor of two national newspapers and as runner-up for the editorship of this one, John Cole, who has died aged 85, was one of the leading print journalists of his generation, respected above all for his honesty and integrity. However, it was as the BBC’s political editor that he came into his own. His nightly appearances on the television news, with his unmistakable brogue and trademark tweed overcoat, made him instantly recognisable wherever he went.

Long after his official retirement in 1992, people still approached him at parties, in pubs and on trains to

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shake his hand – a process accepted with exemplary grace. Both brogue and overcoat became at times a bit of a trial to him. He did not enjoy the relentless jokes about his Belfast vowels, the Private Eye parodies in which every other paragraph started “hondootedly”, or incomprehensible Spitting Image send-ups. He resented the public-school condescension from which they emanated, as if to speak in a Northern Irish accent was somehow quaint or invalid, a second-class way of talking compared with official English.

The son of an electrical engineer, George, who later ran his own business, and his wife, Alice, John was unmistakably a Protestant son of Belfast. After leaving Belfast Royal Academy, in 1945 he began in journalism, as reporter and industrial correspondent of the Belfast Telegraph, and for a time its political man at Stormont. His work caught the eye of the Manchester Guardian, which recruited him in 1956. His expertise was mainly industrial, and soon he was covering strikes, of which in the summer that year there were many. The following year he was posted to the London office as labour correspondent, then one of the three or four most crucial specialist jobs on the paper.

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The brogue and the overcoat of his TV days signalled something close to the core of John, inescapably evident to those who worked with him over the years: his scepticism of fashion. That was one of the things that marked out him when, in 1963, Alastair Hetherington, the Guardian’s editor, persuaded him to drop writing and reporting to reorganise a newsgathering operation regarded by most of the rest of Fleet Street as amateurish.

His speciality – which I came, as one of his tiny reporting staff, to see as his particular virtue – was to ask the awkward question that punctured glib assumptions and casual simplicities. This insistence was not always popular.

As news editor and later deputy editor of the Guardian, with a strong influence on what the paper had to say in its editorial commentary, John was frequently swimming against the tide. The most difficult issue was Ireland.

On a newspaper where too many assumed that the solutions to problems were simple – reunite the divided island, withdraw, and all would be well – John asserted a greater complexity, insisting that Protestants too had rights that a paper with the Guardian’s liberal traditions ought to respect. However, even those sympathetic to that view were dismayed when he committed the paper through its leader columns to supporting internment.

Ireland has sometimes been cited as one of the reasons why, when Hetherington left the editorship in 1975, Peter Preston was chosen in preference to John by a committee set up by the Scott Trust, which owns and

controls the paper, as his successor. It was not the conclusive factor. Some, especially those most concerned with commercial success, thought him too old-fashioned to run a late 20th-century newspaper.

John had joined the paper when it still carried the name of Manchester in its title (this was dropped in August 1959) and was edited from Manchester rather than London (as it was until 1964). He stood for a rooted adherence to old Guardian traditions of seriousness, even at the risk of solemnity, especially in politics, and a dogged distrust of metropolitan whim. He had been a crucial influence in mobilising staff resistance to, and shoring up the editor against, a bizarre attempt by the paper’s management in a time of financial crisis in 1965-66 to engineer a merger with the Times.

Preston, however, represented adventure and change.

John lacked the flair that Preston had in abundance.

There was also unease about John’s allegiance, never disguised, to the Labour party. But this, as others insisted – including Hetherington, who had sometimes been irked by his dogged party loyalties – did an injustice to John. While never concealing his political sympathies in the editorials he wrote, he had not been slow to assail the party when the Guardian’s view of life demanded it.

His failure to become editor was a blow from which John took some time to recover. Preston invited him to stay as deputy editor, but he went to the Observer, and was for six years deputy editor to Donald Trelford.

Here again, he was much admired and respected – though also at times resented by some who found him inflexible, and not only over Ireland.

But as time went on he became increasingly restive.

He had now turned 50, and had never had the role he had always craved – reporting politics directly. In 1981, the BBC offered him the post of political editor.

Though as a newspaper journalist he had often appeared on radio and TV, he had little direct experience of working with microphones and cameras.

Yet here was a man, experienced and judicious, respected and trusted by politicians of all parties. The BBC took a chance on him.

It is not too much to say that John revolutionised the routine broadcast reporting of politics. He reported with the directness, and the readiness to commit himself, which was common among newspaper journalists. That is not to say that he allowed his private opinions, strong as they invariably were, to barge into what he reported. Anyone who talked to him knew what he believed in. For him, a supreme political issue, from his earliest reporting days in Belfast, was unemployment and the way it laid waste to lives. He would listen, impatience boiling only just beneath his professional courtesy, to those who explained that keeping people out of work was an unpleasant but necessary aspect of counter-inflation policy.

Obituaries

Again refusing to succumb to the dictates of fashion, he remained convinced of the worth and the necessity of trade unions. He was affronted by those who viewed working men and women in free association as enemies of the people.

That put him temperamentally on the opposite side of the argument to Margaret Thatcher‘s governments of his BBC years. One might have expected that a man with his sympathies would have been a constant subject of reproach and complaint. Yet such was John’s scrupulousness and his readiness to give fair representation to causes with which he disagreed that few could be found to traduce the political editor of what some Tories delighted in calling the Bolshevik Broadcasting Corporation.

Perhaps his greatest exclusive was the late-night report in November 1990, at a time when few had suggested it, that Thatcher might stand down the next morning rather than risk defeat in the final stage of the Tory leadership contest. John trusted his sources to tell him the truth, and they did, being people whose trust he had earned.

In 1992, John “retired” as BBC political editor. In fact, there was no real retirement, merely the tuning-down of the demanding regime of the past 11 years. That endless round of activity was a source of apprehension to friends and family. Even Madge, his wife, whom he had married the year he joined the Guardian, whom he so often consulted and whose views, at times, he even deferred to, could not put a brake on his hyperactivity.

His health was never dependable. There was always a particular risk of the heart disease that had killed his father at 52 and his brother at 59. In February 1984, he was taken ill at the House of Commons and rushed to hospital. A long spell off work followed, and the continuing regular check-ups that did not always please his examiners. Someone in the hospital team always seemed to have heard him on Radio 4’s Today programme the previous morning, or seen him on Newsnight the previous evening.

Stepping down from the political editorship allowed him to ration his radio and TV work, while giving him time to get back to writing. This was a real relief, for the soundbite constraints of broadcast news often left him frustrated, bursting to develop a case in a less perfunctory way.

After leaving the Guardian, John had taken time off to produce a book on third world development, The Poor of the Earth. In 1987 he published The Thatcher Years, a serviceable if slightly drab account of the prime minister’s revolution in her first two terms. But now he started work on a book that became a bestseller, As It Seemed to Me (1995), a kind of cross between a political notebook and an autobiography. As ever, what he wrote was marked by his rugged refusal to be

swayed by fashion. He even wrote with affection of Reginald Maudling, a name scarcely mentioned since its owner’s plunge into political obloquy in the early 1970s.

In 2001, Weidenfeld & Nicolson published John’s novel based in Northern Ireland during the latest troubles, A Clouded Peace, on which he had worked through endless revisions for several years, advised and encouraged by his publisher Ion Trewin, to whom, along with Madge, he dedicated the book.

John was far from a puritanical man, lacking in fun, exclusively obsessed with his work. He loved entertaining, going to parties, gossiping, setting the world to rights over a late-night drink.

Much more than most of the wives of political journalists, Madge was often there with him. In his retirement he took up golf and travel, making TV programmes about them, sometimes in tandem with her. The phenomenal success of his working life was Madge’s achievement as well as his.

A committed Christian, latterly closely engaged with the United Reformed Church at Kingston upon Thames, near his home at Claygate in Surrey, he served on a churches commission on unemployment, a phenomenon that continued to haunt and outrage him. His last years were marred by ill-health – continuing heart trouble, two mildly disabling strokes and, in May 2009, the discovery that he had cancer, the treatment for which inevitably put an additional strain on his heart. He remained as ever devoted to his family and his friends, eager to philosophise and to argue, devoted to his church and his political causes, impervious to prevailing fashion. Sadly, he developed in his very last years progressive aphasia, which first quenched, and then silenced, the characteristic effervescent and irrepressible flow of his talk.

He is survived by Madge, their four sons, Donald, Patrick, David and Michael, and nine grandchildren.

• John Morrison Cole, journalist, born 23 November 1927; died 7 November 2013

N. E. Campbell Noel E. Campbell, FRIBA, was born in 1920. At Belfast Royal Academy, he formed the first jazz band in Northern Ireland called the Campbell-Andrews Dance Orchestra. He was an architect by profession and the youngest at the time to receive the fellowship of the RIBA. Dr. Paul Larmour of Queen’s University has written about Mr Campbell’s life and work and will be writing his obituary for the Royal Society of Ulster Architects.

L.C.

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Literary Contributions SILVER SPHERE

SPITEFUL SPASMS

Still up there, lonely, Shining silver, small and short, Ahead of its time.

Make communication, keep on stimulating conversation, Spring together, join the dots, human chain constellations, Bombs deflating, weapons decreasing in social norms, Hatred can be eradicated, followed by love being born, Sit down and chance a breather and reason with the other side, We could be brothers in another life, think about our mothers’ pride, I’m thinking of Mother Nature bro, have you even thought of it?

She wouldn’t wish her own kids to be killing and slaughtering!

The meticulous rate conspicuous hate is ridiculous, Aggression is your stimulant for life, it should be diligence, Feeling it, vibing and grooving, moving and striving, Can you visualise the peace?... It’s over the horizon, Destinies transcend through bioelectric accents, Positive instinct thoughts take physical body action, That’s why we’re rapping, spitting and co-living these rhymes, To keep up with these lives and stay true to our inner side!

Thea Reddington, Form I

LIFE OF A RUGBY PLAYER 70

The sweat pouring down your face, As you come in to make the tackle.

You make the hit.

He goes falling back.

The water and mud Splashing your face.

This is the life of a rugby player.

Harry Russell, Form III

LAIKA FLEW HIGH Laika flew high up.

Experimented for Man. But did not make it.

Ellie Moffett, Form I

SPACE BARKER The little barker.

Roasting through our universe.

Burning in the sky.

Luke Carlin, Form I

Spiteful spasms designing chasms, we don’t acknowledge, Shut my eyelids and paint the picture of my solace, Call this a serene vivid and heavenly dream, Waterfalls of harmony and trees ever so green, Think tranquillity into me tenaciously, Soft sand and weltering waves on a Seychelles beach, Safest glee in heart, soul, mind and chi, The door to freedom is locked, I know where to find the key!

Configure the bigger, the picture, the ironic figure, The soldier is not the leader, just a die hard winner, Look! The protest turned violently into the mob riots, But the peace treaties and diplomacy are the true defiance, Entail my conditions of comfortable life livings, But compassion is a global trait that through hand can be given, Like soldiers we line up, but like dominoes we may fall, But never give up and answer to your life’s call!

Suraj Tirupati, Form V

Literary Contributions

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Oriana Firgau Marcano, M6

BUBBLE BATH She holds the fragile bubble in her pruned palms, Turning it through a soft waltz, Across her soapy finger tips, Her brightly wide eyes bulging, Unblinking in curious wonder as she inspects her discovery.

She lets it glide down the sweet slope Of her ivory wrist, And it tickles the ridged crease of her dimpled elbows.

(Dimples are the kisses of angels, Mummy says).

As the iridescent blob reaches The porcelain valley between the two blue and bursting lakes On the silky side of her curved elbow.

She bows her kissed neck and brushes the bubble With the tip of her candy floss tongue, Letting the fizz and the crackle play their tune across her taste buds.

Her new discovery leaves her innocently refreshed, As she pulls her slippy limbs over the great looming iceberg to her left, (The bath’s arm mummy says), And bounds into the glowing embrace of a towel, satisfied with today’s adventure.

Rachel Blythe, Form LVI

The Owl 2013

STARLIGHT

FAME

Stars, they smile down at night, Lighting up the sky so bright.

Beaming down to say hello, Even if the wind does blow.

People stare at their beauty in awe, Paparazzi catching their every flaw, Caught every night on that famous show, Judged by strangers they don’t even know.

Big movie star, Hollywood treasure, Names the world will know forever.

Sometimes there and sometimes not, It’s rare that we see a lot.

Showing a sign of joy, Winking like they have a ploy.

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Jamie Murray, Form III

STAR

Little angels of the sky, Make me often wonder why, You stay all night, And shine so bright.

Shining, glistening, far away, Just lost for words to say, The scene up there, so bright, It really is an amazing sight.

Just for me, To make me see, There’s always love, Seek guidance from above.

There are so many, an endless amount, Every time I try, I lose count!

One, two, three, four...

Wait, I counted that one before!

Sarah Millar, Form III

Jessica McVeigh, Form III

DEFYING GRAVITY A star defying gravity that’s there for all to see, Its light so bright, it enlightens the night and hangs right over me.

Its warming presence fills the air as it burns up all the darkness, It’s standing out, without a doubt, due to its colours and sharpness.

Oh, bright star that looks down on me, Give me light for the people to see, Open their hearts to more than just sorrow, Shine down on the world for a better tomorrow.

And if the world does not notice your light, And it cancels you out in the dark, Then what you must do is shine so, so, bright, You’ll eventually make your mark.

So orbit the world and take your position for night time soon does come.

Do it all again and enlighten the night and you’ll be noticed by everyone.

Alexandra Beattie, Form III

Literary Contributions

Form 3

Form 3

Form 3

Form 3

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Eden Altura, F5

Rebecca Burns, F5

Ruairi Brogan, F5

Sorcha Burke, F5

Ben Stevenson, F5

Meabh King, M6

Cathrine Nelson, F5

Jessica Burns, F5

Kristin Elwood- Murtagh, F5

Hilary Ferris, M6

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Claire McGowan, F5

Melissa Moffett, F5

Megan Reily, M6

THE WEDDING

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The wedding would be fun, they said. “Come along” they said. My first reason to believe my parents were liars, was the lack of the word ‘fun’, everywhere I looked.

Everyone around me looked so old or bored that they would die any second. The looks on their faces were empty, bleak and soulless, which in comparison to the groom made everyone look jolly and joyful. I did not want to be here.

As the service began, the cranky old organ started with a cough and splutter before piping out notes that sounded like a death march. The groom looked at his wristwatch rudely and the minister shuffled uncomfortably. I did not want to be here.

By the time the service was over, I was looking forward to the three-tier cake rumoured to have both vanilla and chocolate frosting. That was also a disappointment. The beautiful bride sat in the centre of her assigned table, her make up crisp as New York snow and her new husband beside her. Well, he should have been there, only he slipped out back with a bridesmaid a few minutes ago. I did not want to be here.

As the speeches were about to begin, the chief bridesmaid slithered back into the room with a different shade of lipstick than she had before. A few moments after, the groom himself entered. He looked particularly pleased with himself. I couldn’t guess why.

A live band played folk instruments and the elderly lady beside me began to doze off.

The bride took her new husband’s image in, from his messy hair to his mismatched, unbuttoned shirt, to the lipstick stain on his collar.

The husband, noticing this, slowed his pace. The bride’s make up suddenly looked like it had rained in New York and it was about to thunder too.

The husband took an abrupt turn away from her and went straight into the wedding cake. With a crash and a cry for help he fell onto his back and the wedding cake went down with him. His face turned a bright shade of red that lit up under the mounds of cake and frosting.

Not wasting the opportunity, I swept my finger along the frosting coating on his arm, I took a lick and then considered for a second.

‘It’s not vanilla,’ I declared. ‘Doesn’t taste like chocolate either.’ The bride quietened her sobbing and turned to me, ‘Tastes a little like divorce.’

She cracked a smile. My sister did like it when I joked.

I ended up wanting to be there after all, to embarrass her soon-to-be divorced husband and to make my sister feel better about the whole ordeal.

Courtney Harper, Form IV

Literary Contributions

A PEACEFUL DAY

THE AFRICAN BUTTERFLY

Dirty, dusty road, Blue sky and children close by, A hot peaceful day.

Perfect symmetry, Red and white circles on brown, A small butterfly.

Kenzie Arbuthnot, Form I

Andrew Bassett, Form I

THE LANDS OF MALAWI

BURNING BRIGHT

Very high mountains, Riddled with large, green forests, This is Malawi.

Deep in Malawi, Lies a pale, sorrowful moth, Eyes as red as fire.

James Getty, Form I

Ellen Maddalena, Form I

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THE LUSCIOUS RIVER

THE PEACEFUL MOTH

Rain is pouring down In a very tranquil place.

This is Malawi.

A moth on the wood, With its beautiful symmetry, Resting peacefully.

Conor McKeown, Form I

Tom McKee, Form I

RIVER AT PEACE

MALAWI’S NATURE

In Malawi, at A peaceful river, relax And take in nature.

Lovely green mountains, Mucky roads with cars and trees, This is Malawi.

Chloe Sayers, Form I

Brandon Hassan, Form I

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Steven Bailie, M6

Kirsty McKerracher, M6

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Chloe Jeffrey, L6

Carla Heatley, F5

Matt Holland, L6

Stephanie Stronge, M6

Jenna Todd, L6

Rose Crossan, M6

Jordan Mullan, F5

Literary Contributions

MY STAR Up in the sky; a sparkle in my eye, You’re burning miles away.

I wonder if anything can match your beauty, As you carry out your dazzling duty.

You huddle with your friends, they never seem to end, I gaze up with curiosity.

You remain a companion, to me and to everyone, I will really miss you once your work is done.

Yasmine Tandon, Form III

Chloe Armstrong, F5

FRIENDS Friends are like family, Reminders of the memories we’ve shared, Interested in what you say and have always cared, Examine your thoughts and help you out, Never nervous when you’re about, Determined to stay close, So that they can know you the most!

Ben O’Donnell, M6

Rachel Gault, Form III

FIGHT TO THE FINISH Blood, sweat and pain, Always seem to be in the fame.

Nutritious health bars and energizing drinks, Competitive drive and the urge to win, Nail biting, sweaty palms and shaking hands, Used to hard work and proud dedication, Perseverance and the fight to the finish.

Now it’s time to see the hard work pay off, On top of the podium and ready to be awarded, With wide, sparkling eyes and a bright, big beam of a smile.

Jessica O’Donnell, F5

Lucy Stewart, Form III

Michael Burns, F5

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A TWINKLE IN HER EYES

THE STARS

Living in an ongoing warzone, Her eyes ebony black, She wanders back through the ashes, To the last upstanding shack.

Night time has fallen, The dark blue curtain has shut in the sky, The silent, silver stars are beginning to shine, The dew beginning to fall.

Striving to hold on to her childhood, The memories fading fast, Maturity arriving quickly, Thanks to the last blast.

The stars are floating vividly in the sky.

Hardly moving an inch, but swaying side to side.

Igniting the sky like nothing more, Brightly shining outside my door.

Her dreams infused with a wishing star, Imagination trickles through.

Although she lives in a warzone, There’s time for dreaming too.

The next thing I see, A star, fierily shooting across the sky, I open my eyes wide, It’s burning, burning far up above.

As she sits alone, Her eyes wander to the starless skies, Yet still an everlasting twinkle, Rests gently in her eyes.

Over to the left, Many different colours of tiny little dots, Yellow, blue, red and silver.

Oh, the colours are indescribable!

So many different stars in the sky, So many that they’re countless.

All congregating together, The stars are all so radiant, As a child I was always told, The brightest and first seen star was my granda, This always made me look up, The stars are flickering late at night, I’m snuggled up in my bed, Looking out my window, Wishing I was up there.

Oh how I wish I were up at the stars, Seeing everything up front and close, Rather than lying in my bed, Dreaming of what if…

The stars are such beautiful things, They always make me dream, Blazing so high in the sky, It’s unrealistic!

The stars begin to fade away, Just after 4am Drifting up to the heavens, To be with the Lord Our Father.

Katie McConnaughie, Form II

CONSTELLATION Silent Cancer, crabby and cool, Terrifying Leo, hungry with drool.

Aquabatic Pisces, with oceanic skill, Rampaging Taurus, with intimidating will, Sly Scorpio, lying in wait, Impartial Libra, determining fate, Gemini the twins, two that are one, Noble Aquarius, where rivers run, Pleasant Aries, munching on grass, Obstinate Capricorn, lost in the past, Enigmatic Virgo, holy and bright, Magic Sagittarius, strong with might.

Jack Green, Form I

Natasha Orr, Form II

Literary Contributions

David O’Donnell Anderson, F5

Hannah McCalmont, F5

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Ryan Hamill, M6

Megan Reilly, M6

STARS As I look up at the wondrous night sky I want to discover more about its character, Like what it would be like to be a shining star floating in a blanket of darkness.

An animated explosion flashing at the people below, I watch the expression on the faded, sad stars faces, then I see the Queen...our sun.

She sends out flares of light and heat as one mother of all stars, I look at the numerous clots of stars and think how golden and bright they all are.

Some with a hint of purple, some with a tinge of green and some with a silver tone that makes me shine inside.

They are so colourful wandering the night sky, high up in the zero gravity of space, blazing like little fireballs.

As I turn my head, I find more shadowing others, as if they were protecting one another from the outburst of newborn baby stars.

So vivid and yet so brilliant!

Sarah McComiskey, Form II

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Form I 80

FIRST DAY OF SCHOOL RAPS In P7 I had no worries, But today was a bit freaky and a bit scary.

I tried to act cool and not be a fool.

Good thing I knew somebody going to my school.

My first day was great, I’d rate it an eight.

My uniform looked a bit funny, But it’s actually really comfy.

B.R.A. is the best school ever!

No one can beat it! Not ever!

Sivannah Delos-Reyes, Form I Got to the gate, excited and happy, Looking around for a friendly chappy.

The teacher said, “Take your seats!”

But I’m still tired, I wish I was still in my bed sheets!

Eating my lunch, but it feels like brunch.

Walking home, my legs are sore, I don’t want to go to school any more.

Then I remember everyone is friendly, School is cool, I made new mates.

I want to do well…so all is swell!

Patrick Termini, Form I

I walk through the gate and what do I see?

Thousands of people looking at me.

The school bell rang; I thought it was an alarm, But everyone said it meant no harm.

Making my way round school wasn’t easy, When I finally got to class I was a bit weary.

In maths, our teacher gave us a test, I guess all the teachers want the best!

First day at school wasn’t so bad, When I was leaving school I was a little bit sad!

I couldn’t wait to go to school again…

But soon the second day of school will begin!

Wrianne Salvatierra, Form I

Literary Contributions

81

Angela Cao, F5

In P7 I felt like a king.

Now I’m a bike and they are limousines.

Getting on the train, my knees were knocking The sights on the train were totally shocking!

As I entered the castle called the Crombie, I dragged my feet just like a zombie.

I followed the crowds until I found my class, And as I looked around, my fears started to pass.

In the canteen I couldn’t believe my eyes, All the great food my money could buy!

The bell finally rang, and it was the end of the day, “Do I HAVE to come back tomorrow?” was all I could say.

Getting home was such a highlight, And I said to my mum, “I’m going to bed, so goodnight!”

Adam Loudon, Form I

The Painted Lady with a Purple Hairstreak, I’ll stand out, they’ll think I’m a freak!

The brimstone and the small tortoiseshell, I have entered the gates of hell!

The Red Admiral and the Dingy Skipper, I’ve been given a locker that smells of kipper!

Meadow brown and holly blue, I’m keeping myself together with Pritt Stick glue!

But the next day my confidence grew, And from my tummy the butterflies flew.

Callisto Stephenson, Form I

The Owl 2013

IS IT FAIR?

FLAG

We sit here with a three course meal, When other children Can only feel The pain in their stomachs And the weakness in their bones.

And we spend our money On fancy phones.

The only sound they hear, Is the drop of a tear, As another child dies.

It’s their mother’s worst fear.

What’s that fluttering in the breeze?

It’s a piece of cloth, That brings the nation to its knees.

What’s that unfurling from a pole?

It’s a piece of cloth, That makes the guts of men grow bold.

What’s that flying across a field?

It’s just a piece of cloth, That will outlive the blood you bleed.

What’s it like, To live like this?

To walk for a mile, To get dirty water, Still managing to smile.

We get up And complain about rain.

Rain is all a thirsty child wants, It would stop the pain.

Barra Patterson, Form II

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Do you know their story?

They have got fame, In the wrong way.

Would you really want To starve even more every day?

No food, no water.

No secure place to stay.

No happiness comes in any way.

Are you really so selfish?

So self-obsessed?

If you need the facts in a ratio, Put it like this: For every meal you have, They eat one grain of rice.

You throw away more, Than they eat in their lives!

So don’t say that life isn’t fair!

Instead, show you care.

Ellen Dalzell and Hannah Marshall, Form II

Ryan Moreland, L6

Literary Contributions

James Carey, F5

James Carey, F5

David Martin, F5

Mykila Donaldson, F5

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Samuel Nelson, F5

Ruairi Brogan, F5

Eden Altura, F5

Georgina Sloan, F5

Samantha Kidd, F5

Abigail Mateer, F5

Rachael Kirker, F5

Georgina Sloan, F5

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James Carey, LVI

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Jordan Mullan, LVI

Catherine Nelson, LVI

Angela Cao, LVI

Distribution of Prizes The Annual Distribution of Prizes took place this year on Friday 25th October at the University of Ulster. The Warden, Mr N.W. Beggs, welcomed the Guest of Honour, Basil McCrea MLA, a former pupil of the Academy.

In his speech Basil McCrea reminisced about his time at the Academy and recalled receiving an Honourable Mention for Geography in Form III noting selfdeprecatingly he wasn’t exceptional at school. Mr McCrea challenged the students with a quotation from Winston Churchill, “Success is not final and failure is not fatal”, explaining the idea if one doesn’t fail then one is not trying hard enough.

Mr McCrea used biographical details from his time at Birmingham University studying Chemical Engineering and being involved in student politics to ask the students to question if what they are good at is really what they would like to pursue as a career.

Students were encouraged to ask themselves where the future is going and are they equipped for that future, because it will require them to change careers and adapt.

Basil McCrea suggested education was not about learning, but “learning to learn”. In addition, he dared the prize winners to be different; to think about how progress relies upon the person who thinks differently and he encouraged them not to be afraid to change their minds. Mr McCrea stated that a great deal of business depends upon the first impression; a firm handshake, eye contact and the ability to communicate.

W.B. Yeats’s poem The Second Coming was quoted by Mr McCrea to make several points. He noted fanaticism was dangerous in both Ireland and Europe.

Locally, fanaticism is served by the apathy of those who leave Northern Ireland. The ‘passionate intensity’ comes from those who are not as fortunate as others.

He challenged students to make Northern Ireland a better place. Basil McCrea MLA closed his speech with the thought, ‘If you think you can, you can!’

The Senior Orchestra gave a rousing rendition of the ‘Dambusters March’ by Eric Coates while the Chamber Choir gave a powerful performance of Allen Koepke’s ‘Wade in the Water’.

We are grateful to the Rev. Prof. J.P. Taylor, M.B.E. for opening the prize-giving ceremony with prayers.

**** The Headmaster’s Address Warden, Ladies and Gentlemen, Pupils of the Academy, 85

I would like to join the Warden in welcoming our Guest of Honour, Basil McCrea, MLA for Lagan Valley, to our ceremony today.

He entered the Academy as a First Former in 1971. In his university reference, the Headmaster, Louis Lord, or, I suspect, his deputy and successor, Bill Sillery described him as “a most enthusiastic and courageous member of our 3rd XV”. Those who know me well will know that in my book there is no higher praise.

The thread of that courage and enthusiasm has run through Basil McCrea’s subsequent career. The wholeheartedness of the 3rd XV player, which, when Mr Creighton and I were coaching that team years later, sometimes verged on the incautious, has steered him through a political career characterised by conviction and a commitment to consider issues on their own merits, rather than political manoeuvring or calculation.

It was this sincerity and intellectual energy which our Sixth Formers found so engaging when he returned to school last year to lead one of our Shared Experience Seminars. The author of his university reference concluded that he would be “an interesting recruit to an undergraduate class”. I have no doubt that he was.

Basil McCrea, you are very welcome.

The Owl 2013

I thank The Warden for his support throughout the year.

His active interest in school life - attending school occasions, working with the School Council and participating in staff training - is only a token of a lifetime’s commitment to the school, which began when he joined the Academy as a First Former in 1958. His brother and sisters were also pupils here, both sisters captained the 1st XI Hockey, and his 3 children are all former pupils. I have valued his judgement and advice this year, and his care for the wellbeing of the school.

Indeed, I am grateful to all of the members of our Board of Governors, who give much of their time to make invaluable expertise available to the Academy.

I am pleased, also, to welcome Professor Patton Taylor, whose own ties to the school are longstanding, to our proceedings once again.

I attended a presentation recently given by the political economist, Lord Skidelsky, who said of Margret Thatcher, whom he knew, that “she didn’t bore you, she bored into you…”. We have been bored into not once but twice this year by the Inspectorate, and it is gratifying to report that they were pleased by what they found.

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I congratulate Mrs McCaig and the members of staff at Ben Madigan who, with only two weeks’ notice, were inspected last month. I was delighted but not surprised that the Inspectors judged the school to be ‘very good’. They were impressed by dedicated and talented members of staff, by very pleasing results and

by P6 and P7 pupils who, through involvement in the unusually wide range of activities available, exhibit a notable degree of confidence and maturity. It is a fine school and a stimulating environment in which to spend formative years. Those who teach there can feel justly proud of their achievements.

The group of teachers who left school in the summer, Dr Lomas, Mr Moore, Mr Nash, Mrs Thomson and Mr Forrest, exemplified the truth, that for the most influential teachers, teaching is a vocation rather than a career. Their influence was felt in all areas of school life. Dr Lomas and Mr Moore established new subject areas in school, in Social Sciences and Technology and Design, and Dr Lomas and Mr Nash took several Forms through school as popular and influential Heads of Year. A full appreciation of the contribution of our departing members of staff will appear in the Owl; I will only add that generations of pupils benefited from their expertise in the classroom, and from their dedication to creating opportunities beyond it – whether through Bridge, ski trips, trips to Sweden and Hadrian’s Wall, coaching in Rugby or Hockey, Model United Nations or the Amateur Radio or Electronic Clubs. They shared enthusiasms and fostered new interests. We wish them well.

Following the AQE transfer tests we were, once again, one of the most over-subscribed schools in the province, with almost 300 pupils applying for a place in our Form I. I congratulate Mr Young and his team at AQE on the high quality of the test arrangements and I thank our members of staff who make such an effort on the Saturday mornings in November and December to make the experience a positive one for those sitting the test in the Academy. I know, because parents tell me, that their commitment and care, so evident on those stressful mornings, persuade many that this is the school which they wish their son or daughter to attend.

As I stand in front of the new Form I in pristine uniforms on their first day at their new school, I have a strong sense of potential. I wonder what talents and enthusiasms they will bring to the Academy. In this Hall sit some of the most able and successful pupils in Northern Ireland, but with more than 200 pupils entering the school each year the level of academic ability will vary; our commitment is to help all of those pupils to fulfil their potential, whatever that may be, for they have many gifts, and much to gain from what we offer.

When they mined into our statistics, the inspectors noted with approval the “good quality of pupils’ achievements and standards” and commended the “year-on-year improvements” in the results achieved.

In August, the results attained by last year’s MVI improved upon those of the year before, which had been our best. Out of 585 subject entries, 88% were passed at grades A* to C. 34 pupils achieved at least 3 passes at A* or A, Connor Brogan, Stephen Doyle and Matthew Smith achieved 4 A* passes, Daniel Dass, Ellen Mooney and Mannix McAlister gained 5 passes at A* or A. Tom Hanna achieved 5 passes at A*, and, as a result of his success, he was awarded a prestigious All Ireland Scholarship. Connor Brogan was awarded a place at Merton College Oxford, to read Chemistry. Ben O’Donnell was placed joint 1st in Northern Ireland in Art and Design at Advanced level, Oriana Firgau-Marcano was joint 3rd in the same subject, while Matthew Smith was placed 3rd in the province in English Literature.

The GSCE results were also the cause of much satisfaction. Of 2067 subject entries, 47% were passed at A* or A. Indeed, 36 pupils achieved A* or A grades in 10 or 11 subjects. Special mention should be made of Ruari Brogan and Ruth McConnell, who gained 11 A* passes, and of Angela Cao, who achieved 11 passes at A* and 1 at grade A, while achieving a grade A in AS Mandarin Chinese in her spare time. 94% of the Form achieved grades A* - C in 5 or more subjects including English, Mathematics and at least 2 sciences.

Form V worked hard to achieve these results; they improved significantly on their “mock” GCSE

Distribution of Prizes

performance, and I commend them for their effort.

Ruth McConnell achieved 1st place in Northern Ireland in GCSE Spanish, and David Speers was joint 1st in German. Rachel Millar was joint 2nd in French and Florence Maguire was placed joint 3rd in Physics.

Ruairi Brogan and Angela Cao achieved full marks in GCSE Art and Design.

I congratulate those pupils who were among the top performers in the province, at A level and at GCSE, and I am pleased to note that their success has come in subjects across the curriculum: their teachers in Spanish, Art and Design, German, English Literature, Physics and French, will, I hope, feel justly proud of their performance.

The achievements of our pupils reflect their ability and application, but also the quality of the teaching which they receive, the guidance of Heads of Year and others, and, crucially, the support which they are given at home.

There is much debate about the structure and currency of our qualifications. This year’s MVI, for example, will be the last cohort to sit modules in a January series of examinations. We are returning to examinations being taken only in the summer – and the linear model favoured in Westminster will pose questions both about which examination Boards we will use, and about the currency of qualificatons achieved by pupils in Northern Ireland. We are about to exchange a broadly coherent system for one in which there will be different examination systems across England, Wales and Northern Ireland, and indeed Scotland and the Republic of Ireland, which have distinctive qualifications of their own. Universities are watching these developments with interest and no little uncertainty. We must ensure that the excellent results achieved by pupils in Northern Ireland are not undervalued when they seek university places elsewhere.

And they do seek places elsewhere: while Queen’s and the University of Ulster were the most popular destinations, our departing Sixth Formers this year began degree courses at 45 universities outside Northern Ireland, so the portability of our qualifications, how they are valued elsewhere, is of central importance.

We are an academic school, and academic attainment is at the heart of our endeavours, but we have set ourselves the challenge of providing a form of education which adds another dimension to the development of the young people in our care. Our visitors from the Inspectorate noted an “effective focus on nurturing all aspects of the pupils’ development”, and this is manifest in the richness of the opportunities which pupils enjoy in school. We identify and develop

the ‘competencies’ which leading employers are looking for, the qualities and skills which will equip our pupils for success in life beyond school.

Those who have been to Malawi, and more than 50 pupils went last June, speak of a life-changing experience; but lives are changed also by finding the confidence to act on stage, or perform on a concert platform, or by discovering within yourself resources of perseverance and determination on a windswept, soaking expedition in the mountains or on Lough Erne.

You will, I hope, gain some sense of this, and of the remarkable range of talents and activities which characterises our school life in Mr Jamison’s latest celebration of a year of endeavour and achievement. * I am very grateful, once again, to Mr Jamison for creating such a vivid record of the school year.

Inspectors don’t evaluate the breadth of education offered by schools such as ours, they don’t seek to quantify the skills and qualities developed within individuals through involvement in a striking range of activities, but nevertheless they were struck by such things when they visited us in the Spring.

In their Report, they wrote approvingly of the “sense of the pupils’ personal and social responsibility as well developed individuals with a concern for others and for the environment”, they noted that pupils are encouraged “to think globally…” and that they “communicate confidently”. It is no accident that they were struck by these things. The CBI published “First Steps – A new Approach for our Schools’” last November and concluded that the best education systems, citing Singapore as an example, produce “a confident person who …is resilient… communicates effectively…has a strong civic consciousness and takes an active role in bettering the lives of others around him”; it noted the importance of “non-curricular activities” in developing these essential qualities.

It was pleasing to see leaders in the world of Business and Industry endorse a vision of education which has underpinned the ethos of our school for generations.

This is the breadth of education which prompted the Inspectors to note how pupils “benefit from extensive enrichment activities.”

These themes, these competencies – resilience, confidence, effective communication, adaptability, an interest in others and a global perspective – run through much of school life.

Civic consciousness was evident in many activities last year, whether in Romania, with the Habitat for Humanity Global Village Build, or in Malawi, where

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our Sixth Formers gained work experience in a hospital and in schools, or in activities closer to home: Holly McCoubrey recorded three songs and sold the CDs in aid of the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice; more than £5,000 was raised for a variety of charities in the weekly Registration collections and pupils in Forms I and II raised more than £3,000 for the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children through Read-On; Laura Bannon, Cara O’Kane, Aine Flynn and Lauren Bradley volunteered with Lighthouse and Opportunity Youth; Lauren Bradley, Niamh Duffy, Leona Holmes, Paula Keenan and Alex Devine received the Award of Excellence from Volunteer Now in December, having completed 200 hours of volunteering in the local community. More than 40 Sixth Formers made weekly visits to local primary schools, and still more were involved in mentoring our own junior pupils. In this context too, it is important to recognise the value of the Service section of the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. The Rita Rodden Cup, awarded to the school which contributes most to Save The Children, was a fitting reflection of all we do.

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As the work in Romania and Malawi indicates, civic consciousness can be allied to the development of a global perspective; and during the year our pupils travelled to Sweden, France, Italy, South Africa, England, Sri Lanka, Romania, Malawi, Gibraltar and Spain, while we had visitors from Sweden, Denmark, the United States, Germany, Spain and China.

This wish to broaden the perspective of our pupils was evident also in the popular series of “Shared Experience” seminars, in which former pupils such as Claire McCollum, Judith Gillespie, Noel Lamb and Basil McCrea shared their experiences in careers ranging from the media and the PSNI to politics and finance, with Sixth Formers, allowing them to look into worlds beyond their own. Visiting speakers elsewhere enlightened pupils on everything from “3D design and the Built Environment” and medical research to ‘Trends in Global Bio-diversity’. We try to stimulate interest and curiosity, to awaken the individual’s sense of his or her own potential and of what they can contribute to the world beyond school.

What happens in the classroom is only the starting point.

Mr Jamison has done a fine job of depicting a very wide range of individual and team achievements and I will not highlight them all, however, Michael Bell’s achievement in winning the Bank of Ireland Catherine Judge Memorial Award for the Exceptional Solo Classical Musician of the Year was outstanding, as was the success of our Bridge teams, our swimmers and Life Savers, our Duke of Edinburgh battalions, our show-jumpers and athletes, cricketers and golfers: many of our sports men and women have represented

Ulster and Ireland, but special mention must be made of Judithe Allen and Amy O’Donnell who are Ulster Junior Girls’ golf champions and Irish Schools’ Junior Cup winners.

Conor Ferguson, in the pool, and James Reid, on the Judo mat, have been performing at a level which confirms that they have international success, far beyond school, in their sights already. And speaking of international success, I must record how pleased the Academy community was to add Iain Henderson and Stuart Olding to our list of rugby internationals this year. They are highly talented sportsmen and fine ambassadors for our school.

As I reflect upon the year I am struck again by the excellence of the memorable Concert in the Ulster Hall, and of school plays which were enjoyed equally by actors and audiences; it was good to have another afternoon at Ravenhill, where both our team and our supporters impressed onlookers, and I will not soon forget our Girls’ Hockey 1st XI Cup run – they were beaten in the semi-final by a team which went on to win both the Ulster and the All-Ireland Cups. Our girls impressed me with their skill and exceptional tenacity.

I am often humbled by the talents of our pupils, and I am often proud of their accomplishments – one such occasion this year was when our Traditional Group, soon to perform at the Royal Albert Hall, entertained guests from across the United Kingdom and Ireland before the Headmasters’ Conference Dinner in the Titanic building. My fellow Heads were greatly impressed, and not a little envious.

In every sphere of school success the contribution of members of staff is of critical importance: the inspirational classroom teacher, the coach for whom you raise your game, the people who dedicate countless hours throughout the year to create opportunities and nurture interest – without them we could not give substance to our vision of education.

The Inspectors wrote, “the very good quality of the provision for pastoral care is evident in the ways in which the staff exemplify the caring ethos of the school.” That caring ethos extends to the belief that, through encouragement, every pupil can achieve their personal, human potential, can develop the attitudes and qualities, the “character”, which will underpin their future happiness and be the foundation of success in our society.

This benign endeavour is recognised, I believe, by pupils, and it fosters mutual respect. This is what the Inspectors were impressed by when they noted that “excellent working relationships throughout the school reflect strongly its core values.”

Distribution of Prizes

Because of the reduction in staff numbers in recent years, our teachers’ workload has increased significantly. Yet they continue to provide the wealth of opportunities to pupils about which I have spoken this afternoon. I am pleased to take this opportunity to thank them; I know what they do, and I value them highly.

In closing, I wish to express my gratitude to those colleagues who work most closely to me. School leaders of the highest calibre, Dr Scully, Mr Creighton and Dr Brown, are at the heart of all that is best about the Academy. Their dedication, good judgement and sureness of touch are essential to the effective management of the school. They and the other Senior members of staff worked tirelessly gathering, drafting and organising the seemingly limitless documentation required for an inspection. They more than merited the Inspectors’ conclusion that, “The parents, staff and school community can have a high degree of confidence in the effectiveness of both senior leadership and governance.” I am truly in their debt.

I am grateful also for the financial expertise of our Bursar, Miss Hull. Her accounting excellence is invaluable in the current financial climate: these are not years of plenty.

It is a privilege to work with such a team, with the members of our staff and with our pupils whose achievements and potential please and motivate us all.

I will end with Seamus Heaney, who, speaking to students at Syracuse University, said, “Getting started, keeping going, getting started again – in art and in life, it seems to me, this is the essential rhythm…-never resting upon the oars of success or in the doldrums of disappointment, but getting renewed and revived by some further transformation.”

It has been a good year, and now, not resting on our oars, we look forward with renewed ambition and confidence. *At this point a DVD was shown to illustrate some of the highlights from the school year including the following:

Wessex. Mr. Dickson presented Mr. Sharp with his Certificate. l

Spanish Trip – exchange with Asturias.

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Modern Language Department events.

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Meet the Marines.

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Meet the Authors, Joe Craig and Katherine Roberts.

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The Traditional Group played at the Titanic, Belfast for HMC and performed at the NEC in Birmingham in July 2013. The Traditional Group was invited to perform in the Royal Albert Hall in November 2013.

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SU Weekend.

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Burghley Horse Trials Trip.

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The Open Show-Jumping team won the MEC League for the fourth year in a row and Jessica Johnston jumped for Ireland at Fontainebleau.

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Rome Trip for Senior pupils studying Religious Studies.

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Romania Trip for Habitat for Humanity.

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National Poetry Day.

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Senior School Play – Snared.

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Senior Maths Challenge: Gold 4, Silver 10, Bronze 11.

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STEM Day.

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Malawi fundraiser - cup cakes.

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Movember – Prostate Cancer.

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The 23rd Annual Mournes’ Clean-up and Environment Day.

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Carol Service.

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Chamber Choir.

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Community Service annual Christmas parties and Award of Excellence from Volunteer Now for Alex Devine, Paula Keenan, Niamh Duffy, Lauren Bradley and Leona Holmes.

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PSNI Road-Safe Road Show.

AQUATIC SPORT l

Water-polo: Tom Donnelly, Ruairi Hurson and David Speers - Ulster Schools’ team.

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Conor Ferguson, Silver and Bronze at British championships as well as Ulster Junior 100m backcrawl record.

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Charlie George, Katie Baird, Finn Purdy, Zoe Parks - Ulster Minor Gold.

MISCELLANEOUS l

Prefects’ Day at “The Jungle”.

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418 pupils enrolled for The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award: 37 Bronze Awards, 20 Silver Awards and 7 Gold Awards. Mr. Workman was presented with his Certificate by HRH Prince Edward, the Earl of

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l

Ulster Secondary Schools’ Swimming Championships: Gold 21, Silver 9, Bronze 5.

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Girls’ Swimming Team - Ulster champions fifth year in a row.

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Katie Blair - Elizabeth Long Trophy (Ulster most promising 11 year old).

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Lifesaving – Winner of the Smyth Cup, for the most lifesaving awards won and passed by any club/school in Northern Ireland.

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Eorann O’Neill, Ruairi Hurson and Lori Turkington - Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games Team.

MISCELLANEOUS l

Open Nights.

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Recycling - 6930 kg of cardboard and paper was recycled.

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Intermediate Maths Challenge: Gold 5, Silver 14, Bronze 19 and UKMT NI champions.

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Netball - Intermediate ‘B’ team Belfast League champions.

BRIDGE l

Ulster and Irish Schools’ Team champions, Luke Taylor, Ryan Lightowler, Melissa Antonio, Rebecca Rowan: they also represented Northern Ireland in the Home Internationals.

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Cameron McGaughey and Andrew Milligan Ulster Schools’ Pairs Intermediate champions.

MUSIC l

Spring Concert at the Ulster Hall.

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Michel Bell winner of Catherine Judge Memorial Prize.

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Ulster Youth Orchestra, Stephen Doyle and Michael Bell.

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Ulster Youth Choir, Faye Kidd and Sarah Minford.

MISCELLANEOUS l

Ski Trip Sestriere.

GOLF RUGBY

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Aaron Cairns, Jamie Dwyer, Pierce Clements and Kyle Higginson - Ulster Schools’ finalists.

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Judithe Allen and Amy O’Donnell, Ulster and Irish Schools’ Junior Champions.

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The 1st XV Subsidiary Cup finalists.

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Daniel Dass, Stewart Martin, Angelo Marica, Jordan Hylton, David Campbell and Matthew Dalton included in various Ulster Junior squads for next season’s Inter-provincial Championships.

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Scott Macauley - Ulster U16 panel.

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Iain Henderson and Stuart Olding International Honours.

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MISCELLANEOUS l

Two Form II Paris Trips.

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Model United Nations - Best Delegate, Lucy Kinnear.

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Junior Maths Challenge: Gold 6, Silver 12, Bronze 13. Daniel Quigley and Megan Carson qualified for Junior Maths Olympiad.

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Junior School Play - Little Shop of Horrors.

The U14 tour to Cambridge.

HOCKEY (GIRLS) l

1st XI semi-finalists of the Schools’ Cup.

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Cup squad tour to Marbella.

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Judithe Allen

Belfast U17.

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Faye Kidd

Belfast U17, Ulster U17 (Captain).

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Abbie Brown

Belfast U17, Ulster U17.

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Erin Getty

Ulster U15, Ireland U16.

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Lucy Stewart

Belfast U15 (Captain), Ulster U15 Development.

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Irish Alvarado Belfast U15.

CRICKET l

1st XI cricket team - first school team from Northern Ireland to tour Sri Lanka.

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Ross Bryans and Andrew Forbes Ireland U17 squad.

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Daniel McFadden and Jordan Carlisle Ulster Schools’ squad.

Distribution of Prizes

ATHLETICS l

Ulster Championships, Gold 13, Silver 4, Bronze 4.

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Irish Championships, Gold 3, Silver 2, Bronze 3.

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Inter-provincial athletes: Victoria Beattie, Matthew Dalton, Shane Martin, Stephen McCorry, Melissa Moffett and Alex Steenson.

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Inter-pro Double Gold, Alan Curtis.

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Tennis: the Senior team finalists - Anna Hutchinson, Elizabeth Sinclair, Amy Mellor and Faye Kidd.

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Retirements: David Nash, Noel Moore, Barbara Lomas and Elizabeth Thompson.

ACADEMIC GCSE

MISCELLANEOUS l

Basketball: Jack Agnew, GB Utrecht, Netherlands.

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Rock Challenge: awards for Choreography, Performance Skill and Soundtrack.

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Villiers Park - 12 pupils.

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Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet 2013, Nikita McCoubrey.

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Sponsored Walk.

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Charities: Read-On - £3,373.26, Registration Charity collection - £3,600, Habitat for Humanity - £1250, Save the Children Fund - over £3,500.

Winners of the Rita Rodden Cup (for the school giving the most money to Save The Children).

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11 passes at A* and 1 pass at A, Angela Cao.

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11 passes at A*, Ruairi Brogan and Ruth McConnell.

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11 passes or more at A* or A, Rebecca McKinstry, Rachael Millar, Sorcha Burke, Victoria Campbell, Ellis O’Loan, Helen Diamond, Oliver Vick, Shahrukh Muhammad, Ling Chung, Sarah McMahon, Adam Mullan, Eden Altura, Sarah McGuckin and Tom Donnelly.

AS l

4 grade A passes, Jack Armstrong, Kyle Auterson, Rachael Blythe, Holly Clements, Sophie Daniels, Jack Johnston, Alice Kavanagh, Faye Kidd, Patricia Martin, Holly Reid, Hannah Robinson and Christopher Turnbull.

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Sports Day.

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Aerobics - NI Creative Movement and Aerobic champion, Kelly-Anne Rainey.

A2 l

5 A* passes, Tom Hanna.

Big Day of Science - 105 pupils from three primary schools visited the labs.

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5 passes at A* or A, Daniel Dass, Ellen Mooney and Mannix McAlister.

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4 A* passes, Connor Brogan, Stephen Doyle and Matthew Smith.

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585 A level entries, 88% of pupils achieved A* to C.

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Pupils accepted to 47 universities including: Emily Taggart – rowing scholarship at Michigan State and Conor Brogan – Chemistry at Merton College, Oxford.

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Full marks in Art and Design – GCSE, Angela Cao and Ruairi Brogan. At AS Level, Jenna Todd.

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GCSE German joint 1st, David Speers.

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GCSE French joint 2nd, Rachel Millar.

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MARTIAL ARTS l

Taekwondo - British National Poomsae Championships - Rebecca Marno and Catherine Morrissey, 4 Gold, 2 Silver.

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Judo - Ulster and Irish Gold, James Reid. Irish champion, Kiah Reid. The Boys’ team of Matthew Elliott, Dylan Getty and James Reid - Silver medal.

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Jujitsu - NI Champion, Rebecca Rowan.

MISCELLANEOUS l

Hadrian’s Wall Trip. l

Creative Writing - Feilé an Phobail Short Story Competition. 2nd in the 11-13 category, Jasmine Ross. 1st in the 14-16 category, Mary Cousins.

GCSE Spanish joint 1st, Ruth McConnell.

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A level Art and Design 1st, Ben O’Donnell and joint 3rd, Oriana Firgau-Marcano.

Art Exhibition.

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A level English Literature 3rd, Matthew Smith.

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GCSE Physics 3rd, Florence Maguire.

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All Ireland Scholarship, Tom Hanna.

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Malawi Trip. l Go-karting, Ulster and Irish Junior Champion, Michael Woods. l

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PRIZE LIST Form I Baird, Katie J Bassett, Andrew C Benson, Rebecca Catney, Odhran J Corry, Oran P Dorman, Andrew K Dougan, Harriet A Fitzsimons, Eirinn R Green, Jack C Hamilton, Meghan A

Jain, Alen Johnston, Erin R Kane, Adam S Maddalena, Ellen Massey, Jill McCalmont, Amber E McConnell, Olivia C McFarland, Emily R McGowan, Cormac K McGrath, Samantha A

McGuckin, Naomi C McKillen, Mark T McMillan, Beth L Mullan, Rian J O’Kane, Orla C Peters, Katherine E A Purvis, Kathryn Spence, Tom H Warke, Harry S L Woloszyn, Jakub

HONOURABLE MENTION Agnew-Boyce, Molly Armstrong, Reece Carlin, Luke A Carson, Cara C Clingen, Anna R Collins, Darcey S Eaglen, Jaimie-Lee Gutermann, Niamh C

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Hopkins, Ben C Joyce, Caitlin Lethbridge, Cairo R Linden, Rory Magowan, Abbie R McComiskey, Christopher McCullagh, Elisa McKee, Tom N

McQueen, Rose C O’Donnell, Lauren E Peden, Ryan J Reddington, Thea L Smyth, Adam Watt, Eoghan E White, Cameron W J Whiteside, Anna M

Form II Baillie, Rachel E Brown, Molly E Carroll, Euan D Carson, Megan C Clements, Lucy A Donnelly, Patrick C Ferguson, Adam J Foster, Conor M Gaston, Lucy C Geddis, Trinity E

Giannetto, Mia A Gilleece, Grainne M Hughes, Meaghan A G Lawlor, Callum G A Loboda, Laura D Maguire, Aaron E Marshall, Katie R Martin, Shane M McConnaughie, Katie L McIlwaine, Rebecca L

McVeigh, Curtis J Quigley, Daniel G Reid, V Alice Ritchie, Katie L Ross, Jasmine L Schlogel, Lena M Vick, Amber L Wallace, Leah

HONOURABLE MENTION Adams, Douglas W Cavan, Tara Dalzell, Ellen K Golden, Jack G Hamilton, Lauren R Hendry, Catriona L C Hoey, Caitlin A Lavery, James S

McAlister, Thomas G McBride, Conor W L McClurg, Joanna Mills, Zak P H Moore, Peter T G O’Hara, Francesca M Orr, Natasha Parkes, Zoe S

Patterson, Barra Poh, Charlotte M W Scarborough, Jack E Shaw, Alison F Snoddy, Ethan M Spence, Olivia G Van Wel, Kevin P Watt, Chloe L

Distribution of Prizes

DEPARTMENTAL PRIZES Form III Bryan, Lucy A E Cochrane, Aimee C Cousins, Mary O Dawson, Chloe A Dougan, Courtney N Edgar, Hannah E M Farrington, Chloe H Firgau Marcano, Carlos L

Johnston, Ashley Kelly, Natasha

Loboda, Zuzanna A

McAllister, Shanagh M McMahon, Emily A

McVeigh, Jessica L McCarthy, Nathan J Millard, Jack E Miller, Kirsty A Mulholland, Roma E Murray, Jamie E J

Patton, Morgan L Reid, Kiah R T Stewart, Casey J Waite, Megan A Wallace, Abby M Wallace, Katherine G Ware, Richard J L

Drama Biology, Physics English, German English French, History Biology, German, Music Business Studies Geography, Mathematics, Religious Studies, Technology and Design History Chemistry, French, History, Latin, Music, Religious Studies, Technology and Design Biology, Geography, Latin, Mathematics, Music, Technology and Design Art and Design, Business Studies Latin, Physics, Technology and Design, Religious Studies Drama General Excellence Mathematics Geography, Religious Studies Spanish Art and Design, Biology, Business Studies Religious Studies, Spanish English Art and Design Chemistry German Chemistry, Home Economics Physics

HONOURABLE MENTION Broughton, Maria Burrows, Braeden K

Notable Progress German

Cochrane, Aimee C

Cousins, Mary O Davidson, Lewis Dawson, Chloe A Dickson, Rebecca V Dougan, Courtney N Edgar, Hannah E M Firgau Marcano, Carlos L

Fleck, Laura Hamill, Emily C Johnston, Kara L Loboda, Zuzanna A

Lyttle, Reece J McAuley, Conor R McCarthy, Nathan J McDowell, Katie J

McMahon-Beattie, James A McMahon, Emily A McVeigh, Jessica L Millard, Jack E Miller, Kirsty A Mulholland, Roma E Murray, Jamie E J

Newton, Naomi J Nicholl, Charlotte J Roe, Jason F Smith, Kirstyn F Stewart, Casey J Stewart, Victoria Tandon, J Yasmine Waite, Megan A Wallace, Abby M Ware, Richard J L

Chemistry, Geography, German, Latin Art and Design, French Geography, Physics History Notable Progress Latin, Spanish Mathematics Business Studies, Chemistry, French, Music, Physics Drama German Notable Progress Art and Design, Business Studies, Chemistry, French, Physics Notable Progress History Geography, Physics, Spanish Biology, Technology and Design Notable Progress Art and Design, Biology, Spanish English Music History History English, Mathematics, Technology and Design Drama Notable Progress Business Studies, Music German Latin Mathematics Religious Studies Home Economics Chemistry, History English

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Form IV Anderson, Chloe M Atkinson, Rachel E Auterson, Luke S Beattie, Victoria C Brewster, Harry J Brown, Abbie R Calderwood, Michael S Carroll, Niamh H R

Cavan, Henry J Chisim, Cameron E Corry, Ryan D Dalzell, Callum T Davison, Aidan M Desmond, Anastasia J

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Ferrin, Eva M Gergett, Cameron B Gray, Niall O H Gutermann, Cianan C Harbinson, Rebecca E Hipolito, Micah D Hoey, Samuel B Joffroy, Mimi A

Kinnear, Owen Loane, Tom C Lynn, Cathy-Ann M MacNeill, Rachel L Majury, Amy R Martin, Niamh K McCalmont, Hollie T McCombe, Taylor A McDonald, Kelly A McGovern, Erica R McKenna, Kieran P McKeown, Norman T D McLean, Kellie McLarnon, David M Millar, Samuel T O’Kane, Juanita C O’Donnell, Rachael M Rolston, Lauren E

Art and Design, ICT English Language, Spanish Physics Physical Education Geography, German, Religious Studies Physical Education Biology English Language, English Literature, Latin Business Studies Biology, Geography, Spanish Chemistry, Economics, Physics Mathematics Religious Studies English Language, Technology and Design ICT Music ICT German Geography, History Chemistry, Geography German Biology, Chemistry, English Language, English Literature, French, Mathematics, Physics, Spanish Business Communication Studies French English Literature, Religious Studies Music, Technology and Design Economics History, Home Economics Mathematics, Religious Studies Physical Education Drama Drama Music, Technology and Design Business Communication Studies French Business Studies History Art and Design Art and Design Business Studies

Rood, Sophie Torrens, Hannah L Venables, Jack Venus, Shannon T Wilson, Matthew G Xu, Nicole

Latin English Literature Religious Studies Latin English Literature Business Studies, English Literature

HONOURABLE MENTION Auterson, Luke S Boreland, Andrew J Bowman, Robert Calderwood, Michael S Corry, Ryan D Davison, Aidan M Desmond, Anastasia J Fleming, Jason S Geddis, Megan S Gergett, Cameron B Gray, Niall O H Gribbon, Emer C Gutermann, Cianan C Harbinson, Rebecca E Hipolito, Micah D

Hoey, Samuel B Joffrey, Mimi A Kelly, Hannah I Kinnear, Lucy M Kunaka, Kudakwashe Lightowler, Ryan J Loane, Tom C MacDougall, Emma J Magill, Abigail H Majury, Amy R Martin, Niamh K McCalmont, Hollie T McCartney, Kyle T G McCombe, Taylor A McFarlane, Lynda C McKenna, Kieran P McLarnon, David M McLean, Kellie Mitchell, Harry Millar, Samuel T O’Donnell, Rachael M Rolston, Lauren E Rowan, Phillip N K Turkington, Lauren H Venables, Jack Watt, Bethan R Xu, Nicole

Chemistry, Music ICT Physical Education German, Latin Biology Latin Business Studies Economics History Chemistry, German Biology Economics, Music French Religious Studies Art and Design, French, Mathematics, Physics French History Home Economics English Language Business Studies Mathematics Spanish Physical Education History Drama, English Language Physics Chemistry, History, Music, Physics Business Communication Studies Spanish Home Economics Art and Design Geography Drama, Physical Education Business Communication Studies Geography Biology Spanish Technology and Design German Business Studies Art and Design Mathematics

Distribution of Prizes

Form V Altura, Eden L R Benson, Lauren Brogan, Ruairi

Burke, Sorcha M Burns, M Rebecca V Campbell, Alan T Campbell, Victoria R Cao, Angela Y Carey, James J Chung, S W Ling Coates, Jenny E Crothers, Lauren N Diamond, Helen R Donnelly, Thomas J Dunwoody, Shannon L Elmore, Bronagh C Farrington, Laura S Gibson, Enna E Haddock, Victoria Henderson, Aaron D Hunter, Amy M Hurson, Ruairi J Macaulay, Alexander L Madden, Rowan E Maguire, Florence J McAllister, Emma B McAnallen, Ciara F M McComb, Jordan McConnell, Ruth E

McCourt, Tiernach C McGowan, Ruari B S McGuckin, Sarah G McKinney, Rachel G McKinstry, Rebecca J McMahon, Sarah A Millar, Rachel A Miller, Rachel N Muhammad, Shahrukh Mullan, Adam W Noble, Victoria C O’Loan, Eilis C Orr, Jamie W Porter, Sophie R Reid, Abby S Relph, Dana Speers, David C

Art and Design, English Literature General Excellence Art and Design, Biology, Chemistry, English Literature, History, Mathematics, Physics, Religious Studies Biology Religious Studies Latin Biology, Chemistry, German, Music, Physics Art and Design, Chemistry, Mathematics General Excellence General Excellence Drama Religious Studies Economics, Geography Religious Studies General Excellence Business Studies General Excellence General Excellence Music Religious Studies General Excellence General Excellence Latin English Literature, Latin Physics General Excellence General Excellence Religious Studies English Language, French, Geography, Religious Studies, Spanish History Biology, Music Economics Home Economics French, Geography, German, Mathematics, Physics History, Religious Studies Chemistry, French, Spanish Business Studies Religious Studies, Technology and Design General Excellence Double Award Science, English Language General Excellence General Excellence General Excellence General Excellence General Excellence Double Award Science, German

Spring, Olivia J Taggart, Kate Tirupati, Suraj Vick, Oliver R Watt, Kathleen S Whittley, Sarah A

Drama General Excellence Business Studies, Double Award Science English Language, Technology and Design Spanish Double Award Science

HONOURABLE MENTION Anderson, R Andrew Benson, Lauren Burke, Sorcha M Burns, M Rebecca V Campbell, Victoria R Cao, Angela Y Carey, James J Chung, S W Ling Colvin, Meghan D B Diamond, Helen R Dunwoody, Shannon L Elmore, Bronagh C Elwood-Murtagh Kristin J Farrington, Laura S Francey, Nathan Fullerton, Hannah Gorman, Aaron Henderson, Aaron D Hurson, Ruairi J Khosla, Aakarsha Kingston, Amy L Macaulay, Alexander L Madden, Rowan E Maguire, Florence J McComb, Jordan McConnell, Ruth E McGowan, Ruari B S McKinney, Rachel G Millar, Rachel A Miller, Rachel N Mills, Emma L Moorehead, James O Mullan, Adam W Mullan, Jordan M Nelson, Catherine D Noble, Victoria C O’Loan, Eilis C Orr, Jamie W Spring, Olivia J Vick, Oliver R White, Ellie A Whittley, Sarah A

English Language English Literature Geography, Physics Music French, Mathematics French Art and Design Physics, Spanish Latin Biology, Chemistry, Physics Mathematics Business Studies, Drama English Literature Chemistry Business Studies Drama Double Award Science History Technology and Design Business Studies Business Studies Double Award Science English Language Music History Mathematics French History Biology, Geography English Language, Geography Home Economics Latin English Literature Art and Design, Music Art and Design, Technology and Design German Spanish Technology and Design Double Award Science, Economics Chemistry, Business Studies German Spanish

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Form LVI Armstrong, Jack C

Auterson, Kyle D Blythe, Rachel A

Brice, Kathryn V Britten, Samuel K Clements, Holly D Cole, Natalie H Corry, Clodagh Daniels, Sophie Devine, Holly J Hughes, Claire M S Johnston, Jack C Jones, Chelsey A C Kavanagh, Alice M Keyes, Judith M Kidd, Faye G

96

Linden, Katy MacDougall, Elizabeth A Marsh, Elizabeth H R Martin, Patricia S McAtamney, Aoife L McCullough, Erin D J McGovern, Alexandra C McKenna, Daniel T H McMillan, Anna J H McMurray, Scott J Minford, Sarah A Moreland, Ryan R Noble, Charlotte L Ogilby, Alastair P Peters, Rachel Reid, Holly D Robinson, Hannah J Roe, Christopher W Rowan, Rebecca A Sinclair, Elizabeth D Turnbull, Christopher G Todd, Jenna Wallace, Ryan P Ware, Rosalind V Wasson, Benjamin R Whitcroft, Carrie Wilson, Amy C Young, Laura M

Government and Politics, History, Religious Studies Biology, Mathematics, Music, Physics English Language, English Literature, German Business Studies ICT General Excellence English Language, ICT Business Studies Art and Design, Biology Sociology ICT Chemistry English Literature Chemistry, Economics, Physics Geography Government and Politics, Music, Religious Studies General Excellence History, Sociology English Language Chemistry, Physics French, Sociology Music Spanish Music Sociology Religious Studies Business Studies Art and Design General Excellence Spanish Economics, English Language Geography Biology Business Studies Technology and Design General Excellence Mathematics Art and Design General Excellence French, Mathematics Geography English Literature History General Excellence

HONOURABLE MENTION Anderson-Flaherty, Jade A Armstrong, Jack C Baillie, Leah R Bingham, Megan J Boyle, Cliodhna A Browne, Calvin A Clements, Holly D

Cole, Natalie H Daniels, Sophie Frame, Victoria C C Gaffikin, Ryan S Griffiths, Nesta S O Hamilton, Ryan J Hegarty, Rachel A A Hylton, Jordan R Johnston, Jack C Jones, Chelsey A C Joyce, Lorna M Kavanagh, Alice M Kelso, Emma A E Kidd, Faye G Linden, Katy MacDougall, Elizabeth A Martin, Patricia S McBride, Hannah B K McGovern, Alexandra McLoughlin, Shannan McMillan, Anna J H Meighan, Jordan D M Minford, Sarah A Murphy, Charlotte K Noble, Charlotte L Ogilby, Alastair P Paul, Natalie Reid, Holly D Reynolds, Michael P Robinson, Hannah J Shaw, Robert D F Simms, Christopher R Sinclair, Elizabeth D Stewart, Maeve B Turnbull, Christopher G Wallace, Ryan P Whitcroft, Carrie Wilson, Amy C Worsell, Daniel-Scott

Art and Design English Literature English Literature Art and Design ICT Business Studies Government and Politics, Religious Studies Technology and Design Chemistry, Music Sociology Government and Politics Religious Studies Technology and Design English Language Physical Education Biology Sociology English Language Mathematics Spanish History Spanish Drama Mathematics Religious Studies French Business Studies History Economics Spanish History French, Geography French Drama Biology, Chemistry English Literature Mathematics, Physics Economics Sociology Physics Classical Civilisation Chemistry, Geography, Physics Biology, Geography Art and Design Business Studies Physical Education

Distribution of Prizes

Form MVI Allen, Hannah V Allen, Patrick J R Allen, Rachael B Anderson, George J Baird, Melissa L Beggs, Lauren Bell, Michael A Benson, Niamh Bradley, Lauren Brogan, Connor J Browne, Callum Carlisle, Jordan S Clements, Shannon J Coyle, Lauren Currie, Suzanne Curtis, Andrew D D Dadulla, Gillene Dass, Daniel R Dawson, Deborah A Devine, Alex E Donnelly, James R Donnelly, Matthew H Doyle, Stephen Duffy, Niamh Dwyer, Jamie R A Elmore, Rachael L English, Sophie C O Firgau Marcano, Oriana Hamill, Ryan P Hanna, Thomas J Harvey, Matthew J Ireland, Rachel L Irwin, Kristian S King, Maebh J Leyden, Anna J Manzoor, Sheerien McAlister, Mannix F McAteer, Pearse E McCambridge, Scott R B McConnell, Benjamin S McCrea, Rebecca C McGahan, Kieran C McKerracher, Kirsty R McKinstry, Hannah E McLarnon, Katy Mellor, Amy R Miller, Kate E Mooney, Ellen Murphy, Meadhbh O’Donnell, Ben J O’Reilly, Zoe C Queripel, Bethany A Rainey, Jonathan A Rainey, Kelly-Anne Rodgers, Paul W Shirazi, Parisa C Smith, Matthew S

Physical Education Business Studies Business Studies, Mathematics German English Literature General Excellence French, Music Biology Sociology Chemistry Government and Politics, History General Excellence Religious Studies ICT History Physics General Excellence Economics General Excellence Sociology General Excellence General Excellence Biology, Chemistry, French General Excellence General Excellence General Excellence General Excellence Art and Design, Spanish Art and Design Mathematics, Physics General Excellence English Language General Excellence English Language General Excellence ICT General Excellence Business Studies General Excellence French, Spanish ICT Economics General Excellence General Excellence Drama General Excellence General Excellence General Excellence Sociology Art and Design English Language Religious Studies General Excellence French, Spanish Mathematics, Physics English Literature, History, Latin Biology, Chemistry, English Literature

Sproule, Sarah V A Stewart, Kimberley E Taggart, Emily J Taylor, Luke K Tucker, Stefan K Wallace, Lawren R Wylie, J Mark

Geography Geography Geography French, German General Excellence Religious Studies, Sociology General Excellence

HONOURABLE MENTION Allen, Rachael B Anderson, George J Bartsch, Laurie-Anne M Beggs, Lauren Brice, Adam P Brogan, Connor J Browne, Callum Carlisle, Jordan S Carlisle, Yelannah C M Coyle, Lauren Crossan, Rose Q Dass, Daniel R Dawson, Deborah A Devine, Alex E Devlin, Aodhan Duffy, Niamh English, Sophie C O Faulkner, Sarah Flynn, Aine B Hanna, Thomas J Harvey, Matthew J Holmes, Nicole R Ireland, Rachel L King, Maebh J Leckey, Caitlyn D R Leyden, Anna J McAteer, Pearse E McCambridge, Scott R B McCrea, Rebecca C S McCreesh, Jonathan B McGrath, Sarah J McKerracher, Kirsty R Miller, Kate E Moody, Nicole Mooney, Ellen Nixon, Kathryn H O’Donnell, Ben J Queripel, Bethany A Rainey, Jonathan A Rainey, Kelly-Anne Rodgers, Paul W Rooney, Rebecca N L Tucker, Stefan K

Biology, Chemistry Classical Civilisation Sociology Business Studies, History Physics Mathematics English Literature History English Language Business Studies Art and Design Mathematics, Physics Classical Civilisation, English Literature Geography Business Studies English Language, Sociology Economics Religious Studies ICT Biology, Chemistry Physical Education, Sociology Religious Studies Classical Civilisation Art and Design Drama French Government and Politics Chemistry, Mathematics Religious Studies Spanish Physical Education Art and Design, English Language Physics Spanish Biology History Technology and Design English Literature, Government and Politics, History Geography, Economics Geography Economics Religious Studies French

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SPECIAL PRIZES ANNE BARRON PRIZE (Ben Madigan) SIR SAMUEL FERGUSON PRIZE (English Literature) FREDERICK WHITE MEMORIAL PRIZE (G.C.S.E.) HAROLD RAINEY MEMORIAL PRIZE (English) THE ANNE CAMPBELL HOME ECONOMICS CUP (Home Economics) J. J. KANE MEMORIAL PRIZE (For contributions to ‘The Owl’) T. R. COLLIER PRIZE (Mathematics) THE J. W. & EVELYN DARBYSHIRE AWARD (Geography) J. C. PICKEN MEMORIAL PRIZE (Art and Design) 98

Ella J Harvey

Matthew S Smith

Ruairi Brogan Ruth E McConnell Ruairi Brogan

Holly Grant

Juanita C O’Kane

Ellen Mooney

Emily J Taggart

Ryan P Hamill

ANTHONY TAYLOR MEMORIAL PRIZE (History)

Callum Browne

J. N. SHEARMAN MEMORIAL PRIZE (Classics)

Parisa C Shirazi

R.H. HARTE MEMORIAL PRIZE (Greek) G. B. TAYLOR MEMORIAL PRIZE (Mathematics) TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN AWARD (for the top marks in GCSE Technology and Design – Sponsored by Rainbow Communications) R. J. BRYCE MEMORIAL PRIZE (Irish Studies) THE W. L. CLEMENTS MEMORIAL PRIZE (Music) R. M. FANNIN MEMORIAL PRIZE (Music) McCORMICK PRIZE (English) ALLISON HERON PRIZE (Biology)

George J Anderson

Thomas J Hanna

Oliver R Vick

Lauren M Magee

Benjamin S McConnell

Connor J Brogan and Stefan K Tucker Mary O Cousins

Stephen Doyle

Distribution of Prizes

AMY DICKSON TROPHY & PRIZE (Art and Design) S. S. N. PIERCE MEMORIAL TROPHY

TROPHY FOR EXCELLENCE IN THE PERFORMING ARTS (Presented by the Old Girls’ Association) McCAUGHEY PRIZE (Science) MERVYN SEMPLE PRIZE (Chemistry) R. S. J. H. MAGOWAN PRIZE (GCSE Geography) WALTER TATE PRIZES Economics Government and Politics Physics Chemistry Religious Studies Sociology MARY A. HYNDMAN PRIZE (GCSE Home Economics)

Oriana Firgau Marcano

S W Ling Chung Marion J Gill Stephen Doyle

Thomas J Hanna

Stephen Doyle

Helen R Diamond

Daniel R Dass Callum Browne Thomas J Hanna Matthew S Smith Bethany A Queripel Lauren Bradley Rachel V McKinney

MIDDLETON PRIZE (Music)

Michael A Bell

LEO FORTE PRIZE (Music)

Stephen Doyle

CLYDE PRIZE (GCSE Religious Studies) McCLAY PRIZE (Business Studies) JACKSON PRIZE (GCSE Science) KNOX PRIZE (Advanced Level Physical Education) HAROLD HUTCHINSON PRIZE (Religious Studies) OWL TROPHY (Presented by W. H. & J. Gray) THE CHRISTOPHER BOWES AWARD

M Rebecca V Burns

Rachael B Allen

Victoria R Campbell

Hannah V Allen

Faye G Kidd

Rooney, Rebecca N L

Luke D J Frame

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SIR DONALD CURRIE SCHOLARSHIPS Form I Form II Form III Form IV Form V

Jill Massey V Alice Reid Zuzanna A Loboda Mimi A Joffroy Ruairi Brogan LEAVING SCHOLARSHIPS

SIR PAUL GIRVAN J. M. CLEMENTS SIR FRANCIS EVANS WHITEHEAD MAURICE JACKSON HUGH GIRVAN WALTER TATE KNOX ANTHONY TAYLOR C.B. and A.M. MURRAY Dr L. H. CAMPBELL McCLEERY G.B. TAYLOR PICKEN ARCHIBALD BRUCE PIM W. A. RAW BURSARY

Callum Browne Parisa C Shirazi Daniel R Dass Tom J Hanna Ellen Mooney Mannix F McAlister Stephen Doyle Matthew S Smith Rachael B Allen Andrew D D Curtis Scott R B McCambridge Connor J Brogan Niamh Benson Tom J Hanna Paul W Rodgers Anna J Leyden Hannah E McKinstry Stefan K Tucker Luke K Taylor

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MacDERMOTT TRAVELLING BURSARY SHEARMAN TRAVELLING BURSARY GLORIA SIDWELL (née KINKEAD) MEMORIAL BURSARY J. S. LOUGHRIDGE BURSARY TENNANT SALVER

Benjamin S McConnell Kelly-Anne Rainey Ben J O’Donnell Judith M Keyes Jayne M Dunlop

WALTER TATE ROSE BOWL

Laurie-Anne M Bartsch

MARTIN PRIZE

Seana M Harley-Moyes Parisa C Shirazi

WHITEHEAD TROPHY ANNUAL PRIZE FOR BOYS

J. C. PICKEN BAT N. M. SAVAGE AWARD THE EVANS TROPHY

James R Donnelly Steven RJ Bailie Stephen Doyle Daniel M McFadden Jordan S Carlisle Cairns House

School Societies AIR TRAINING CORPS Recruiting in 2012-2013 was quite good and we ended the year with 30 cadets on strength. We only lost two due to them leaving school at the end of the year.

Recruiting for 2013–14 has started. We had a successful flying slot at RAF Woodvale, near Liverpool, in December, when, even though it was late in the year, all the cadets who attended got the opportunity to experience powered flight. In January, all AEF flying was suspended due to a maintenance problem with the aircraft and so far it has not been resumed.

Cadets also attended our gliding slots at 664 VGS at Newtownards and two have applied for Gliding Scholarships. Unfortunately, gliding is so popular that the Gliding School has over-spent its budget and the number of slots available to us has been reduced.

Several cadets attended the Wing Annual Parade at Aldergrove and Senior Cadets did the Methods of Instruction Course and Basic Course, which are necessary for the over-18 Cadets to become Instructor Cadets. Cadets also took part in Swimming and Soccer. Daniel Hay, Nathan McDonald, Kyle McClelland and James Johnston went to Scotland as part of the Wing Soccer Team.

The School Act of Remembrance in November was again led by the ATC and very ably organised by Mr Billy Thompson. A piper played during the Inspection and the bugler sounded ‘Last Post’ and ‘Reveille’.

Cadets read out the list of those past pupils who fell in both Wars.

A number of cadets also took part in the Open nights and the information session for P6 pupils.

Northern Ireland Cadets supply one of the work parties each year at the Royal International Air Tattoo at Fairford in July. They get a close view of the displays

and the aircraft and associated technology of the future. Daniel Hay joined them this year.

Five cadets attended camp at RAF Lossiemouth in August – Daniel Hay, Daniel Harold, Daniel Quigley, Harry Jamison and Matthew Blair. Harry Jamison won the trophy for the most improved cadet and Daniel Quigley for the best cadet. They got a flight in a Sea King helicopter and a close look at a Tornado, as well as work experience and swimming certificates.

The World Police and Fire Games were centred in Belfast this year, their first time in Europe. Most of the Shooting sports were done in Ballykinler and the ‘Volunteer’ element, marking targets and guiding competitors, was drawn from the Cadet Forces. Luke Frame, Eric Macauley, Rachael Kirker and Kirsten Elwood were part of the ATC group. The WPFG Shooting organiser said it was the first time in 20 years he had no complaints from competitors.

H.R.M.

SHOOTING Three junior cadets went to a Sector shooting training weekend in Aldergrove, where they qualified on and fired the No 8 rifle. They were joined on Sunday for the shooting element, by one senior cadet who was already trained.

Teams and Individuals were entered for Smallbore Competitions at local, Regional and National level.

Sgt James Duffy was selected as part of the ATC team in the Inter Service small-bore match against the ACF and the SCC. James Duffy fired for the Northern Ireland Junior Small-bore Team in the National League. The full-bore shooters attended practice days, a coaching course and a short shooting camp, alongside the ACF, at

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Ballykinler. In the main District Competition in Magilligan (with unusually good weather for Magilligan), Daniel Cummings coached the team of Jake Magill, Eric Macauley, Peter Gilleece and Max Magill. The team came third in Match 5, fourth overall and qualified to go to the Inter-Service Cadet Rifle Meeting at Bisley. Max Magill was replaced on the Bisley team by Luke Frame. Major Mackintosh and Jonathan Cummings shared the coaching. The weather was good, as was the shooting. Jake Magill came second in the Individual 300 yd Competition, first in the Individual 600, second overall in the Cadet Hundred and third in the Bossom Cup for the overall aggregate.

Jake Magill, Peter Gilleece and Eric Macauley stayed on at Bisley for the National Rifle Association Annual Meeting, the ‘Imperial Meeting’. All shot well and learned a lot. Jake and Peter were selected to attend the Athelings Pre-Selection Coaching Course at Bisley in September, Peter going for a place on the 2014 Athelings Team to Canada, Jake for 2015. The team is eighteen cadets from the UK and this course selects three from the Army Cadet Force, the Air Training Corps and the Sea Cadet Corps. Peter was successful in getting one of those places. The other 15 places will be filled in December at a selection which includes the Combined Cadet Force Cadets from Public Schools.

Jake will return next year for the 2015 selection.

H.R.M. 102

BRIDGE The Bridge Club meets at lunchtimes and requires dedication from its members to learn a challenging card game and master the skills of ‘bidding’ an auction and playing tricks. It is a game that challenges the mind, but also that allows friendships to develop in school and across Ireland with other pupils. New members are welcome and should speak about joining to Mr. Graham in M10, or anyone wearing a red blazer for Bridge. The highlight of the year is the trip to Galway to compete in the Irish Schools’ Teams competition. We took seven teams in 2013 including those in Form I and those in Form LVI. The Bridge Club had tremendous success this year in Ulster Schools’ and Irish Schools’ events. Luke Taylor, Ryan Lightowler, Rebecca Rowan and Melissa Antonio were Ulster champions and were also selected for the Northern Ireland U20 Team to play against the other home nations in the Peggy Bayer Competition.

Philip Rowan, Chris Turnbull, Angela Cao and Eilis O’Loan were Irish Champions. Other successes are listed below.

Ulster Schools’ Pairs (Belfast) 2nd Melissa Antonio and Rebecca Rowan 4th Angela Cao and Philip Rowan 4th Jason Roe and Lucy Kinnear 6th Luke Taylor and Ryan Lightowler.

School Societies

Irish Schools’ Pairs (Dublin) 3rd Melissa Antonio and Rebecca Rowan 4th Ryan Lightowler and Luke Taylor 5th Chris Turnbull and Philip Rowan 7th Angela Cao and Eilis O’Loan 8th Pooja Sridhar and Victoria Frame.

Ulster Schools’ Teams (Belfast) 1st Ryan Lightowler, Luke Taylor, Melissa Antonio, Rebecca Rowan 2nd Chris Turnbull, Philip Rowan, Angela Cao, Eilis O’Loan 3rd Pooja Sridhar, Victoria Frame, Jason Roe, Lucy Kinnear.

Irish Schools’ Teams (Galway) 1st Chris Turnbull, Philip Rowan, Angela Cao, Eilis O’Loan 2nd Ryan Lightowler, Luke Taylor, Melissa Antonio, Rebecca Rowan.

Irish Under 20 Inter-Provincial Teams (Belfast) 2nd Ryan Lightowler, Luke Taylor, Angela Cao, Eilis O’Loan.

There were successes too at Intermediate and Novice level most notably by Andrew Milligan, Cameron McGaughey, Erin Getty and Roma Mulholland.

This year has seen the end of the Bridge Club in J6, but not the end of Dr. Lomas and her association with the Club. She has spent twenty years establishing the Club and has spent endless hours coaching and encouraging generations of students. Many former pupils have represented Northern Ireland at U20, and U25 level and it will not be long before a full International Cap is achieved. Her dedication to pupils and concern for their welfare will be impossible to replace full-time, but we hope that she will continue to join us on the trips to Dublin and Galway and to coach our Junior pupils.

S.G.

CHESS Chess continues to be a very popular activity in school with M4 overflowing every Thursday and Friday lunch-time with students developing their chess or playing their first game. Teams from BRA competed in the Ulster Chess League at Junior and Senior level and recorded some impressive victories. Cameron McGaughey and Samuel McCord came first in the BB National Chess tournament in Blackpool.

S.C.S.

JUNIOR SCRIPTURE UNION 103

The Junior SU meets on Wednesday lunchtimes at 12:25 pm in LL11, headed by Mr D. Morrison. This past year we have had an amazing turn out from the Junior school, with really encouraging numbers that have shown God’s work here in school. This has been a huge inspiration and encouragement to us on the Junior SU committee.

This year we focused on different points of study, for example, we looked at apologetic questions such as: “Does God really exist?”, “Why does God let bad things happen to good people?” and “Did God really create the world in 7 days?”. We also looked at characters in the Old Testament such as Joseph, who kept having total faith in God through thick and thin.

The past year has really been about encouraging those who are already Christians in their faith to become the men and women of God they’re meant to be. We have also incorporated opportunities to share the good news of Jesus Christ, who came into the world to save everybody and give eternal life.

We as a committee have sought to build strong relationships with all the first to third years who have come to Junior SU. Every meeting has a good mixture

The Owl 2013

of fun, laughs and banter, yet this is always anchored with good Bible teaching and the desire for all of us to get to know our awesome God more and to walk closer to Him. Our programme ranges from PowerPoint presentations, discussion groups on topics or themes of the day, to quizzes.

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The Christmas and Easter parties are always really opportune moments to get into the reasons for the celebrations; the birth, death and resurrection of Christ.

As the committee, it is always refreshing to examine with the Juniors, more closely the reasons to celebrate these important holidays.

From the beginning of the year both the Junior and Senior committees do joint activities and trips such as the weekend away to Castlewellan Castle, Co. Down.

The SU weekend is most importantly a chance for all of us to come together and have fellowship. The other joint activities include the Pizza Evening, where we all come together to eat, play a few games and hear a talk from the MVI committee members along with praise.

At the end of the year we had to say goodbye to five Middle Sixth committee members: Tessa Shiels, Rachel Ireland, Lawren Wallace, Matthew Francey and Rebecca Moore. They will be sorely missed as they have become like family to us all. We pray that they will all continue to walk with God as they embark on this next stage of their lives and we will continue to remember them in our prayers. We hope and pray God will continue to use Junior SU as we work with the Junior pupils. We wait with anticipation for what God has in store to teach us next year.

Nesta Griffiths (LVI)

SENIOR SCRIPTURE UNION This was an extremely busy, yet exciting year for Senior Scripture Union, with the number of pupils attending regularly continuing to rise.

Senior S.U. meets every Friday lunch time in BG4 led by the Senior S.U. Committee under the brilliant guidance of Mr Wilson, Dr McCombe and Mrs Graydon. This year’s main themes were ‘Christian Hurdles’ (tying in perfectly with the London Olympics) and the ‘Armour of God’ which involved various members each week talking about the different aspects of the main theme. The Praise Band also played a key part in praising God through playing and singing worship songs at the lunch time sessions and indeed at most events this year.

Another important part of Senior S.U. is the Wednesday morning Bible Study (8.00-8.40am) which is taken by Mr Morrison and is for all Form V-VI year pupils. This year’s theme was based on the book of 1 Corinthians, where pupils discussed and looked at the meaning of Paul’s letters in more depth while maintaining a relaxed, enjoyable atmosphere.

The Annual S.U weekend was, as previously, held in the beautiful Castlewellan Castle in County Down.

Over one hundred pupils attended the weekend which included worship down at the lake, barn dancing led by our former Headmaster Mr Young and lots of prayer time and fun and games. Every year a guest speaker is invited to lead the sessions, and this year we had the privilege of having David Clawson from Westkirk Presbyterian Church as our speaker. David focused on the all important question “Who is Jesus?” getting us to think about our personal relationship with Christ and the part He plays in our lives.

School Societies

Other events this year include the S.U. Pizza Evening where the Middle Sixth Committee did a brilliant presentation on ‘Faith’ and the ‘Grub Crawl’ which took place in March with Methody, Bloomfield College and ourselves.

I would like to thank all of the teachers and committee members who put so much time and effort into S.U. in school, and to wish the MVI good luck as they head off to university and other areas of life. We will miss you next year!

Faye Kidd (LVI)

CIVITAS

HADRIAN’S WALL TRIP Another very enjoyable trip to The Wall with twentynine pupils from Forms 1, five from Form 2 and five from Form 3, accompanied by Mr McGonigle, Dr Springer, Mrs Thompson and Mrs McGowan.

We began our trip at the Roman Army Museum to get an overview of the purpose of The Wall and then briefly visited Chesters Fort on the way to Newcastle.

In our opinion, Chesters Fort was the best fort out of the 6 forts we visited. In Chesters Fort, some of us got stuck under a hypocaust whilst others stood on it and laughed. Meanwhile, Dr Springer was showing off his Roman sandal-shaped socks. We also had fun pretending we lived in the remains of the houses that were still there.

Civitas is an organisation which is student led and invites speakers to come and talk to the students on a variety of subjects varying from ‘Racism’ to ‘Motivation’. It also allows members from our school to take part in conferences run by outside organisations.

It promotes citizenship throughout the School and encourages discussions about topical and controversial issues. As Civitas is run by students, last year saw many changes for the Club as Dr Lomas, who has guided the Club throughout her time in BRA, retired. However this year, we are determined to start Civitas again.

Lorna Joyce, Finnoula McDaid (MVI)

THE CLASSICS SOCIETY During the year, the Classics Society met at lunchtime, every Thursday, in J 13. The meetings were attended by a very lively group of First-Formers led by an even livelier Middle Sixth group. There, they acted out Roman Comedies, usually written by themselves, often dragging in the staff to make up numbers.

We also watched the television series: ‘The Roman Mysteries’, and ‘The Last Day of Pompeii’.

This year, sadly missing Mrs Thompson, we will alternate between Junior Greek Club one week and the Classics Society the next, in the expectation of producing a new generation of fine Classicists in a couple of years.

The Senior Greek Club meets every Friday in J 13 and this year has eight Lower Sixth and three Fourth Formers attending. A very promising start!

New members are very welcome, both to the Classics Society and to the Senior and Junior Greek clubs.

J.M.G./E.M.T.

The next morning was spent at Segedunum – a Roman fort at the end of the wall, discovered under the site of the Tyne and Wear Shipyard. In Segedunum there is a reconstructed bath-house and cavalry barracks. We climbed up a small section of the wall and got a feel for the size of the actual thing. We went to the indoor waterpark: Wet’n’Wild. We all had fun on the slides, while the teachers relaxed and had a slushee. We returned and had dinner in the hotel and lastly we pursued Roman culture for a couple of hours in the Metro Centre. We searched the huge shopping centre for the one shop we were interested in: the Crispy

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draw by the way! However, there was still room for the fun element and debates ranged from ‘This House believes we should tell our children Santa does not exist from birth’ to ‘This House believes ghosts are real’.

We have some very enthusiastic debaters in the Society whom we look forward to seeing again this year.

However, many have moved on to the Senior Debating Society so there is plenty of room for new speakers to make their mark in the coming year.

J.S. Kreme Donut shop. We shared some with the teachers and even gave one to the bus driver- Sam. While we savoured our delicious donuts, other children, cough … James Bryan … cough, found more joy in spending their money on a Nerf gun.

On the third day, we went to Arbeia, the store-house for the wall. We pretended to be different Roman soldiers in the barracks. We then spent the afternoon in a re-enacted mining community – Beamish. Some of us went down into the mine and others went back to the town for a look in the old fashioned shops to buy some presents for our families. In the evening, the entertainment was a trip to the cinema to see either Superman – Man of Steel or AfterEarth.

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On our way back West, we visited two of the most beautiful sites on the Wall – Housesteads and Vindolanda. We were meant to walk along the wall but it rained and so we couldn’t.

Ashley Johnston, Casey Stewart, Lucy Bryan, Naomi Newton and James Walker (IV)

JUNIOR DEBATING SOCIETY This was a very successful year for the Society with increasing levels of participation. As well as the stalwarts from last year, many Form I and Form III attended and took part in the many lively debates.

Once again the debates focused on areas of particular interest to young people, such as ‘This House believes that men still see women as second class citizens’, a

SENIOR DEBATING SOCIETY This was another positive year for the society with good levels of participation, especially from Form V and MVI pupils.

Lunch time debates began with a lively discussion of the right of the French press to publish photographs of Kate Middleton topless and was followed by a debate on the legalisation of cannabis.

In November the focus of the Society’s activities moved towards preparation for the Northern Ireland Schools’ Debating Competition. Our team consisted initially of MVI pupils Holly Hamill and Matthew Smith and in our first debate we opposed the motion: “This House believes that it is time for unemployed people to work for their benefits,” against a team from Coleraine Academical Institution. As the teams were very evenly matched, the competition organisers decided to allow our team through to the second round.

After Christmas, Mathew Smith decided not to continue with the competiton and was replaced by Ryan Gaffikin for the second round debate against Abbey Christian Brothers’ Grammar School in Newry.

Unfortunately, our team was defeated when we opposed the motion: “This House believes that the current ‘A’ level examination system is too narrow, too academic and no longer fit for purpose.”

Our exit from the competition did not dampen enthusiasm for debating in school and there were other well attended lunch time debates which tackled weighty issues including same-sex marriage and abortion.

M.P./H.T.

YOUNG EINSTEIN CLUB The Young Einstein Junior Science Club was set up to instil Form I and II pupils with a passion for science,

School Societies

MODEL UNITED NATIONS The Model United Nations is largely a student-led organisation, supervised by Dr Adair at Junior level and formerly Dr Lomas at Senior level. The Secretary General for 2012/2013 was Antonia Campbell.

Model United Nations conferences are a mixture of debating and role play; ‘teams’ are really countries and ‘debaters’ are delegates from that country. The ‘debates’ are resolutions written by delegates in the style of UN resolutions, from the point of view of their designated country and all debate is carried out in the same spirit. Delegates must NOT express personal opinions, but should always argue from their country’s perspective. The ‘issues’ are all politically, economically or socially related just as in the UN. In order to understand their country’s stance on the issue, these would need to have been researched by the honourable delegates prior to the conference. Passion, perseverance and the patience of a saint, are all requirements needed during the cut and thrust of debate at any MUN Conference, but there is great fun and friendship to be had as well.

or to encourage those who already expressed an interest in the subject. Throughout the year the Club met fortnightly to carry out a new and exciting experiment. We had everything from Perching Parrots to the riveting Raft Experiment which were thoroughly entertaining for all involved. Each activity was overseen by our dedicated team of science teachers and the Lower Sixth committee.

Whilst attendance varied from meeting to meeting, there were a number of dedicated members that came every fortnight. I believe that we succeeded in providing the pupils with an engaging insight into the world of science and wish the incoming committee all the best in ensuring that The Young Einstein Club goes from strength to strength within the school community.

Natalie Cole (MVI)

YOUNG ENGINEERS The Young Engineers club continued to meet in the Technology Department every Tuesday at lunch time.

Projects undertaken this year included ‘paper planes’ and ‘elastic band cars’. Regular members were rewarded with an exciting trip to W5 in the Odyssey Arena where pupils were able to interact with the many experiments on display, and participate in a buggy building workshop.

P.T.S.

Throughout the year, the Senior MUN met in the Social Science room and worked on resolution writing along with planning for conferences. During these sessions, Dr Lomas was ably assisted by a group of experienced MVI ‘MUNers’ – Adam Barnes, Antonia Campbell, Callum Browne, and former Head Girl Laurie-Ann Bartsch.

We participated in three conferences during the school year; the first was Edinburgh, run by George Watson’s College, and by far our favourite. We checked in a whole team of 12 delegates representing North Korea, and scooped two fine awards (thanks to Lucy Kinnear and Adam Barnes). The delegates did themselves proud as everyone spoke at the podium, in some cases addressing an audience of over 700 delegates. The disco on the Saturday nights remain a firm favourite of mine, as is the ice-cream at Luca’s en route home!

At the Wesley College Dublin MUN, we had two delegations – Mali and UK. We busted a gut for that conference, but then stood in glory as Kuda Kunaka reaped the Best Junior Delegate award in the Eco-Soc. Committee. It’s also fair to say the hospitality at WCD was second to none and, unquestionably, the food was heavenly.

A joint conference, which was hosted by Wallace High School and Methodist College Belfast, was a memorable day for the Junior MUNers as the Seniors were on study leave. While the cats were away, the mice surely played! It didn’t take long before Matthew Borne’s and Thomas Carey’s flirting ambitions became apparent! Fourth formers and their

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SENIOR SCIENCE SOCIETY The Senior Science Society continued to spread the net wide and invited a diverse range of speakers to talk about their research interests. All the guest speakers willingly accepted our invitation and enthusiastically delivered their talks.

intentions… However it was all worth it in the end.

One of our teams received Commended Award, Kuda Kunaka won Highly Commended and we stood in awe as Lucy Kinnear made history – the first person from our school to win the Official Best Delegate Award, and so took home the glorious gratifying gavel and a flight of praise.

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It’s a tradition to end our school year with our very own internal Junior Conference, and this year was no different. Over 48 newbies took part in the fun-filled day, representing countries from USA to Burkina Faso and Australia to Israel. Matthew Wilson, Jessica Dowey, Alizeh Ali, Lewis Davidson, Matthew Borne, Kuda Kunaka and Thomas Carey – otherwise known as the “old hands” of MUN – were all introduced into “chairing” the conference for the first time, along with the veteran chair that is Lucy Kinnear. The quality of debate from the participants was pleasingly tasteful and a number of new MUNers have shown interest in the 2013/2014 season already.

It remains to thank Dr Adair for her continuing interest and support each year. We must, of course, give much deserved appreciation as well to Dr B Lomas, our recently retired adviser. Without Dr Lomas, Model UN would not be the close-knit, politically savvy society we are proud to be today. Over the many years Dr Lomas has been kind enough to accompany MUN on countless occasions, as well as provide much needed assistance with any and all fashion faux-pas. Model UN truly misses her.

K. Kanaka (V)

Dr C. McCaig, a past pupil, gave a talk on her research entitled ‘The glue that holds us together – how external factors influence cancer cell behaviour’. Dr J. Dick (QUB) outlined the ecological problems associated with non-native species in his talk entitled ‘Invasive Species’. Ms V. Wightman, who joined the Biology Department as a member of staff for one year, outlined the latest developments based on her research in the treatment of spinal injury in her talk on ‘Exercise and Spinal Injury’. Dr J. Lennon (QUB) gave a global perspective on biodiversity in his talk entitled ‘Biodiversity’. The final speaker of the year was Dr R. Holland (QUB) who gave a fascinating talk on ‘Bird Navigation: from quantum physics to global migration’. His talk gave an insight into the effect of natural and artificial magnetic fields on the migratory success of bird species of different generations.

The Society would like to thank all the speakers who visited School, and through sharing their experience were able to expand the knowledge of Senior pupils beyond the curriculum as well as at the same time broaden their understanding of scientific research.

T.B.

WARHAMMER CLUB The Warhammer Club continues to meet every Tuesday lunchtime with a very enthusiastic group of pupils attending. The title Warhammer, however, has become more of a “catch-all” title for those interested in gaming generally. This has included video gaming, modeling and even LEGO building. Whilst the Club could not be seen to be very competitive, it is a place where imaginative young people meet to socialise and have fun.

R.J.

Music in School BIG BAND The School’s Big Band, also known as the Swing Band, had another very successful year. Its repertoire ranged from Lady Gaga’s, “Born This Way” to Taio Cruz’s “Dynamite”, a firm favourite of the band. New pieces were also introduced such as an adaptation of “Mercy, Mercy, Mercy” and “Virtual Insanity”. The Big Band is led by Mrs Burch who does an excellent job every year. She puts up with jokes such as the deliberate playing of the wrong pieces and also Ben McConnell’s brilliant trumpet solos, which were sadly often being played in the wrong place! We would like to thank her very much for her commitment, patience and good humour with the Band and hope that she will continue this for many years to come.

Our first performance was at the School Open Nights before the Headmaster’s speech and, let us just say, it

left us with plenty of room for improvement. However, after some practices that were truly testing for both Mrs Burch and for anyone else listening, we finally got ourselves up to a good standard and enjoyed the music much more as a result.

Following on from this, highlights included a day trip to Dublin to perform at Mrs Burch’s former school Gonzaga College, an evening performance in The Black Box with the Ulster Youth Jazz Orchestra, and of course, the annual Spring Concert which took place in the Ulster Hall. We sadly bid farewell to many talented musicians, but we hope that this will allow a wide array of younger jazz players to join who will become the Big Band of the future.

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BRASS BAND Brass Band meets up every Friday lunchtime, and this year we were under the excellent leadership of Mr Briggs whose enthusiasm and sense of humour were infectious. The Band consists of brass players ranging from Form I right through to MVI. I myself have been a member of the Brass Band for four years and I have always enjoyed taking part in rehearsals as there is always something new happening and new people to meet each year.

We have had a great year this year, culminating in our Spring Concert performance in the Ulster Hall. We performed the pieces “Days of Elijah” by Dean Jones, a light and bouncy piece, and the favourite rugby anthem “Ireland’s Call” by Phil Coulter which received a great response. We also performed a range of Christmas Carols in the School Dining Hall for the Community Service Party at Christmas time, and a smaller group of brass players, including Mr Briggs, performed at the Open Mornings and Evenings for prospective pupils.

The Band worked hard all year, but we still had time for fun in rehearsals. On behalf of the Brass Band I would like to thank Mr Briggs for all his hard work and enthusiasm. Unfortunately, we have to say goodbye to Ben McConnell, Michael Bell and Jamie Dwyer who will be missed both for their talent and their unending jokes that kept everyone entertained.

We thank them for all their hard work and contribution to the Brass Band over the years. Everyone is looking forward to the year ahead and we cannot wait for the next group of fresh new talent to join the band.

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David McClements (IV)

BOYS’ CHOIR Boys’ Choir is run by Miss Carson in J9 on a Monday lunchtime. I have been a member of the Boys’ Choir for three years and each year it keeps getting better and better. It consists of many boys of different ages, ranging from Form III to Form MVI and even includes some members of staff. It is a great way to make new friends from various year groups.

The first performance of the year was at the Community Service Christmas party in the Dining Hall for members of Drumross Special School. The Choir was then invited to participate in a special Christmas assembly held in the Assembly Hall and received a very warm reception. The boys also sang at the Belfast Royal Academy Spring Concert in the Ulster Hall, where the audience was treated to renditions of Bill Withers’ Lean On Me and Labi Siffre’s Something Inside So Strong. The audience was particularly impressed by the excellent debut solo performances of two Form V pupils, Ruairi Linden and Louis Gibson.

On behalf of everyone in the Boys’ Choir, I would like to thank Miss Carson for all the hard work and effort she put in throughout the year and I would recommend Boys’ Choir to every boy who is interested in singing and making new friends.

Michael Browne (V)

CHAMBER CHOIR Chamber Choir this year was a fantastic experience for everyone taking part. Our first performance was at Prize Day in October with “Locus Iste”, which we began rehearsing in September. Next was the tour to Gonzaga College, Dublin on 30th November. The concert was a fund-raising event for Habitat for Humanity and we helped Gonzaga College raise a considerable sum of money. We performed “Locus Iste” as we all enjoyed it and Mrs Burch also arranged “Price Tag” for us, which soon became one of our favourite pieces because of the fun we had performing

Music in School

the work. We also sang “Double Double, Toil and Trouble” by Mantyjarvi. This piece was quite challenging at the beginning when we were just learning the music, but it soon became a favourite. Our fourth piece was “Gaudete”, which was a fun experience for the Tenors when we were first learning the music, and finally we sang “Drop Drop Slow Tears”. This piece consisted of a solo from LaurieAnne Bartsch (MVI), which she performed beautifully.

Larie-Anne will be sorely missed by the Chamber Choir next year.

In December we performed in St. Peter’s Church, Antrim Road for our annual Carol Service, which is always a beautiful experience. We sang “Drop Drop Slow Tears” as the acoustics of the church suited the song and this time the solo came from Megan Gordon (V).

Practice for the Spring Concert began in earnest after the January exams. This year we performed “Lady Madonna” by Lennon and McCartney and “Seek Him That Maketh The Seven Stars” by Jonathan Dove.

Chamber Choir had an amazing experience at the concert this year, as the pieces picked by Mrs Burch were, although challenging, absolutely brilliant and a joy to perform. “Seek Him” was a very challenging song for us, as the speed altered throughout the piece.

However, this just made the piece more fun to rehearse as we were all fully awake at half eight in the morning during registration! “Lady Madonna” consisted of solos from Erin McCullough (LVI), Sarah Minford (LVI), Megan Gordon (V), Faye Kidd (LVI) and Rebecca Rowan (LVI).

All the solos were beautiful and showed off the talents of individuals within Chamber Choir.

In the summer of 2013, Chamber Choir met up to start rehearsals for the All Island School Choir Competition, in order to perfect the pieces that were to be sent off.

Thanks to Mrs Burch we all had a hilariously fantastic time in Chamber Choir this year, and the memories will never be forgotten.

Rebecca Rowan (LVI)

JUNIOR CHOIR Junior Choir is open to anyone in Forms I and II who loves to sing. Whether you sing like an angel or croak like a frog, Junior Choir welcomes all talents. We meet up every Wednesday after school in the large music room. This year we had two amazing teachers leading us. Mrs Prior began the year and Mr Briggs (also known in the Music Department as Briggsy) took over when Mrs Prior went on maternity leave.

We took part in various events during the year. Our first performance was at the Junior Carol Service with Lucy Clements (II) singing the solo in “Hallelujah, Salvation and Glory” and Alice Reid (II) and Orla O’Kane (I) in “Silent Night”. We rounded off the Carol Service with an uplifting rendition of “Christmas Crackers” with Adam Jarman (II) dressed as Santa!

The biggest musical event of the year, the Spring Concert, was our next performance of the year. We worked very hard on our version of “Sing” by Gary Barlow which the audience seemed to enjoy along with a “Spiritual Medley”. Finally, we finished the School Year by performing as backing choir in the School Musical “Little Shop of Horrors”. This was great fun and a brilliant way to end another amazing year for Junior Choir.

Anyone thinking about joining Junior Choir should definitely give it a go. I didn’t join at first because I thought my singing was not good enough. However, my music teacher suggested I go and I am so glad I did. I have made new friends, improved my musical skills, gained more confidence and had the opportunity to perform in front of my friends, teachers and family – such a good feeling!

I would like to say thank you again to Mr Briggs and also to Mrs Prior, Ms McMullan and Mrs Burch, as without their hard work and dedication, there would be no choir.

Ellen Quinn (II)

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SENIOR CHOIR

SENIOR ORCHESTRA

Last year proved to be a successful year for the Senior Choir. Rehearsals took place three times a week under the guidance of Ms McMullan. In September we started learning the Music for the main item at the Spring Concert, Karl Jenkins’ “Requiem” and in November started rehearsing for the Senior Carol Service. We sang a variety of Christmas Carols including old favourites such as “Torches”, “Away in a Manger” and “Once in Royal David’s City” with Patrick Donnelly (II) singing the first verse as a solo; along with an SATB arrangement of “O Holy Night” with Michael Bell (MVI) singing the solo. Faye Kidd (LVI), Cameron McCartney (III) and Cameron Gergett (IV) performed the solos in Harold Darke’s arrangement of “In the Bleak Mid-Winter” and the whole choir enjoyed singing “Tomorrow Shall be my Dancing Day” arranged by John Gardner.

Last year was yet another very successful year of Friday after-school rehearsals (complete with the obligatory passing round of chocolate digestives) and concerts for the school orchestra. Prize Day was our first major performance of the year, playing Tchaikovsky’s “Marché Slave” in the University of Ulster at Jordanstown which was thoroughly enjoyed by audience, pupils and staff.

In the New Year we immediately resumed rehearsals for the Spring Concert. The Choir was accompanied by the Senior Orchestra on the night of the concert and the combination of the two groups together sounded fantastic. It was a relief to know that all the hard work had paid off. Special mention must go to the MVI semi-chorus consisting of Shannon Clements, Anna Leyden, Sarah McGrath, Lauren Magee and Rachel Elmore. They performed two movements of the Requiem in Japanese – no mean feat!

Our next appearance was in St. Peter’s Church for the Christmas Carol Service where the faithful Christmas folders were brought out once more and “Hark the Herald Angels Sing”, “O Come All Ye Faithful” and “O Little Town of Bethlehem” rang through the church in true festive tone, with a rousing organ accompaniment from Stephen Hamill.

Next was the Spring Concert in the Ulster Hall. We performed “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and the very challenging but equally rewarding “Requiem” by Karl Jenkins and we were greeted with a standing ovation!

The success of the choir relies on the pupils but even more so on the teachers. We would like to take this opportunity to thank Mrs Burch for her extremely helpful assistance in the alto section and especially to Ms McMullan for her endless dedication and enthusiasm.

It has been an exceptional year in “dorkestra” with much enthusiasm, dedication and ‘craic’ from Ms McMullan and the pupils, so we look forward to what the incoming year will bring. However, we have unfortunately lost a few key members of the orchestra – superb leader Stephen Doyle, top trumpeter Ben McConnell and the very obedient…Jamie Dwyer.

A sad loss, (and big boots to fill) but we wish them the best of luck for the future as the orchestra continues to go from strength to strength.

We plan to relive last year’s success with an even more exciting programme this year!

Molly Martin (V)

Jenny Coates (V)

Music in School

JUNIOR STRINGS Can you recall the dread of starting first year in a new school? Added to that, can you imagine the fear of going into a roomful of musicians you don’t know and having to play in front of them? Well fear not, because this was me last year and from the moment I joined Junior Strings any fears I that had quickly went away and I felt right at home.

The whole year was spent in preparation for the annual Spring Concert. Leading up to it, many Monday lunchtimes were spent practising but, although it is hard work, it went in all too quickly, as time flies when you are having fun! Before we knew it the time for the concert had arrived.

The 2013 Spring Concert included one of my favourite songs “Clocks” by Coldplay and the other piece that we played was “Fields of Gold” by Eva Cassidy. To play in front of such a large crowd, and to have my family watching, was such an amazing experience and I am really looking forward to doing it all again this year.

We would like to thank Hannah Edgar for doing such a great job as leader of Junior Strings. We would also like to thank everyone who comes to the group because it really is the people who make it enjoyable.

Last, but not least, many thanks must go Miss McGinley and Mrs Burch who do a fabulous job as mentors and conductors throughout the year. I hope that every string player in Form I can be as inspired as I was to join the amazing journey of Junior Strings.

Lauren O’Donnell (I)

SENIOR STRINGS Senior Strings recommenced in September, rehearsing every Friday at lunchtime under the leadership of Ms McMullan. After welcoming our new members, we

quickly got to work, practising a variety of challenging pieces for the upcoming events.

Our key performance of the year was the Spring Concert, held in the prestigious Ulster Hall. Senior Strings delivered a distinguished performance that night, playing the well known and loved, “Adagio in G Minor” by T. Albinoni. The technically demanding violin solo was played with great expertise by the leader of Senior Strings, Stephen Doyle (MVI) and the organ solo, played very well on the Mulholland Grand Organ by Ruairi McGowan (Form V) complemented the overall performance greatly.

As the new academic year begins, we are sad to bid farewell to the MVI members who have contributed so much to the ensemble. We would like to wish Stephen Doyle, Hannah McKinstry and Niamh Benson every success in the future. Our present members look forward to another highly successful and enjoyable year in Senior Strings.

Abigail Magill (IV)

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SENIOR TRADITIONAL GROUP The Senior Irish Traditional Music Group, otherwise known as ‘Tred’, has certainly had an eventful year with great successes and multiple performances not only around Belfast but in the UK as well.

JUNIOR TRADITIONAL GROUP The Junior Traditional Group had a very good year.

For many people who join this group it is their first experience of playing traditional music and it provides a great chance to improve your skills on your instrument and to learn to play at a very fast pace, which I must admit is quite challenging at times! The group consists of fiddles, tin whistles, flutes, guitars and a bodhrán.

We took part in a number of important events throughout the year, the most important of which was the annual Spring Concert in the Ulster Hall. We played “The Spotted Dog”, “My Former Wife” and the “Orkney Air”, and everyone seemed to really enjoy it.

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In March we were kindly invited to visit St. Patrick’s College on the Antrim Road. They had prepared a big fry and had an excellent traditional group for us to listen to. Everybody was very welcoming and we enjoyed the trip very much. We also performed a variety of jigs and reels at the Open Morning in May to entertain the parents and future pupils of our school.

We would really like to thank Damien McIlroy, a former pupil of Belfast Royal Academy, for all his patience during rehearsals. We really hope that this year will be just as much fun!

Ciara Patterson (II)

It was the start of a new year and, before we knew it, the group had been invited to play at The Duke of Edinburgh’s Silver Award Presentation held at the University Of Ulster, Jordanstown. The evening went superbly well and the free food was truly appreciated!

The response from those at the Northern Ireland DofE was so great that they later invited four members of the group to play at the Gold Award ceremony in September 2013. This also was extremely successful and resulted in us meeting His Royal Highness Prince Edward.

After a couple of months of Tuesday lunchtime rehearsals and practices at each other’s houses, the Spring Concert finally came along and was held in the Ulster Hall where Mr Jamison kindly recorded our performance. It was a great success and was certainly one of the best we have ever done.

This came in handy later on in the year because, after hearing about the Music 4 Youth School Proms, we jokingly handed in our performance tape.

This consisted of a low camera angled shot with feet tapping and the occasional bow or head sticking out of a few gaps! Months went by and finally we got a reply from Music 4 Youth inviting us to play at the National Finals in the Adrian Boult Hall, Birmingham!

In late June Dr Scully and Mr Carolan accompanied us to the event and, although not all the group could go as some had other school commitments, for those of us that did go it was an unforgettable experience.

The weekend was great and we managed to take home one of the two certificates for Musicianship of which we never could have dreamed.

The summer holidays came and that was that until we got a call towards the end of August 2013. We had got through the National finals and were invited to play at the Royal Albert Hall, London!

The recent year has been truly spectacular and I cannot wait to see what the next one brings.

We are looking forward to The Albert Hall!

Kieran McKenna (IV)

Music in School

WIND BAND From the first week of rehearsals it was back into the fray as Ms McMullan’s favourite musical extravaganza was back! As per usual the flutes had multiplied tenfold and the trumpets were playing their own tune, but it was a full rehearsal so there were no complaints from the conductor!

Fast progress was made on our first piece, a medley of the “James Bond Theme” and “Live and Let Die” which took major themes from the Bond movies. The Wind Band attempted it and, after many rehearsals, we finally got it up to speed and it was very well received at the annual Spring Concert in the Ulster Hall. For our second piece Ms McMullan entered the dangerous

realms of “off-beat clapping” in the medley piece “Hootenanny” and amazingly enough we occasionally got it right!

When it came to the night of the performance there was a bit of a seating fiasco in the saxophone section but after some ‘encouragement’ from Ms McMullan it was quickly resolved and we launched into our set. Of course this is to be expected, it wouldn’t be Spring Concert if there was not some minor drama! So overall it was another successful year for the Senior Wind Band, but who knows how we will fare this year with the loss of the most integral member of the trombone section – Jamie Dwyer!

Ruari McGowan (V)

Forthcoming Events: Annual Spring Concert Ulster Hall Thursday 13th March 2014 @ 7.30pm.

Tickets: Adults £10; Students/OAP £8.

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SENIOR ORCHESTRA 'Raiders March'

Spring Concert Programme J. Williams

JUNIOR STRINGS 'Fields of Gold'

G. M. Sumner arr. L. Moore

'Clocks'

C. Martin arr. R. Longfield

SENIOR CLARINET GROUP ‘The Pink Panther’

Henry Mancini

BRASS BAND 'Days of Elijah'

Dean Jones

' Ireland's Call'

P. Coulter arr. P Briggs

JUNIOR TRADITIONAL GROUP 'Orkney Air', 'My Former Wife' & 'The Spotted Dog' SENIOR STRINGS 'Adagio in G Minor' (soloists: Ruari McGowan (organ) and Stephen Doyle (violin) T. Albinoni JUNIOR CHOIR (soloist: Orla O'Kane) 'Spiritual Medley '

Traditional

'Sing '

A. L. Webber and G. Barlow

SENIOR TRADITIONAL GROUP 'The Lark in the Morning' & 'The Jig of Slurs' (Jigs) 'Bó Mhín na Toitean', 'Con McGinley's Highland ' & 'Seanamhach Tube Station' (Strathspeys and Jig) 'Popcorn Behaviour' & ' The Roaring Water' (Reels)

Spring Concert Programme

WIND BAND 'James Bond Theme' & ' Live and Let Die'

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M. Norman & P. McCartney arr. F. Erickson

'Hootenanny'

H.L. Walters McCartney arr.

C. Canning

CHAMBER CHOIR (organist: Stephen Hamill) 'Double Double, Toil and Trouble'

Mantyjarvi

'Seek Him That Maketh The Seven Stars'

J. Dove

'Lady Madonna'

J. Lennon & P. McCartney arr. C. Canning

BIG BAND 'Knock on Wood' (soloists: Lauren Magee, Sarah McGrath & Rachel Elmore) E. Floyd & S. Cropper arr. R Holmes 'Mercy, Mercy, Mercy'

J. Zawinul arr. M. Collins

Interval - 20 minutes M6 SOLO Stefan Tucker (flute) 'Carmen Fantasy' SENIOR CHOIR 'Requiem' 'Introit'

'Dies Irae'

G. Bizet arr. R. Stallman

K. Jenkins

'The Snow of Yesterday' (semi-chorus: Shannon Clements, Anna Leyden, Sarah McGrath, Lauren Magee & Rachel Elmore) 'Rex Tremendae' 'Confutatis'

'From Deep in my Heart' (semi chorus)

'Pie Jesu' (soloists: Sarah Minford & Shannon Clements) 'Lux Aeterna'

'In Paradisum'

BOYS' CHOIR (soloists: Ruairi Linden & Louis Gibson) 'Lean On Me'

B. Withers

'Something Inside So Strong'

L. Siffre

Senior Orchestra

1st VIOLINS

Leader: Stephen Doyle* Hannah McKinstry* Erin McCullough* Niamh Benson* Philip Simon Emer Gribbon* Abigail Magill* Tessa Shiels Laurie Anne Bartsch Anna Leyden Jessica Burns* James Duffy Victoria Campbell* 2nd VIOLINS Florence Maguire* Hannah Robinson Rachel McNeill* Sarah McGuckin Fiona McIlroy* Cameron Gergett Victoria Haddock Mollie Haddock Tara Cavan Victoria Stewart* Hannah Edgar* Laura Neill Aine Cooper Antoneitte Leonard Mary Cousins* Richard Ware Orlaith Duffy VIOLAS

Molly Martin* Rosalind Ware* Sinead Gourley Matthew Duffy CELLOS

Dan McKenna* Nesta Griffiths* Rebecca Burns* Richard Simon Hollie McCalmont* Cameron McCartney* Naomi Martin Jason Poots Ellen Quinn

FLUTES Stefan Tucker Kieran McKenna Ruth McConnell Rebecca McKinstry CLARINETS

Rachel O'Donnell Martha Gordon Holly Reid Luke Auterson OBOE Hannah McBride HORNS Michael Bell Hannah Lau TRUMPETS Ben McConnell Louise Davison David McClements Clare Johnston TROMBONES Jamie Dwyer Kyle Auterson Peter Boyd Timmy Robinson TUBA

Jack Milliard PERCUSSIN Anna Rose McCambridge Georgia Sloan Ruari McGowan *Denotes Senior Strings

Senior Choir

SOPRANOS

Laurie-Anne Bartsch Ciara Beattie

Molly Berry Sarah Bingham Lucy Bryan Sorcha Burke Emily Cairns Hannah Caldwell Rachel Campbell Shannon Clements Aine Cooper Clodagh Corry Mary Cousins Suzanne Currie Gillene Dadulla Keeva Drummond Daire Drysdale Hannah Edgar Oriana Figaru Megan Gordon Mollie Haddock Lorna Joyce Faye Kidd Hannah Lau Catherine Law Niamh Martin Beth MacDougall Rachel MacNeill Kayleigh Martin Niamh Martin Amber Maxwell Aoife McAtamney Rachel McAtamney Taylor McCombe Ruth McConnell Amy McCotter Anna McCrory Carly McCullough Kelly McDonald Alex McGovern Clare McGowan Sarah McGrath Sarah McGuckin Fiona McIlroy Rebecca McKinstry Hannah McKinstry Jessica McVeigh Rachel Millar Sarah Minford Lauren Montgomery Gabrielle Moore Naomi Newton Charlotte Nicholl Charlotte Noble Ciara Patterson Clodagh Poots

Music in School

Sophie Porter Georgia Ramm Hannah Robinson Rebecca Rowan Georgia Sloan Victoria Stewart Abby Wallace Katie Wallace Natalie Watson Rosalind Ware Ellie White ALTOS

Alizeh Ali Rachael Allen Rose Beavis Niamh Benson Angela Cao Riognach Catney Ling Chung Jenny Coates Bronagh Conlon Hannah Convery Bethany Crooks Sophie Daniels Louise Davison Jessica Dowey Orlaith Duffy Rachel Elmore Victoria Haddock Emily Hamill Mimi Joffroy Clare Johnston Anna Leyden Lauren Magee Katy Mann Rebecca Marno Patricia Martin Hannah McBride Hannah McCalmont Emily McMahon Rachel Miller Rachael O'Donnell Eilish O'Loan Zoe O'Reilly Sophie Orr Morgan Patton Sophie Rood Lydia Rooney Emma Shannon Parisa Shirazi Rebekah Spratt Olivia Spring Jenna Todd

Senior Traditional Group

FLUTE

Stefan Tucker Kieran McKenna TIN WHISTLE Georgia Ramm Molly Martin FIDDLE

Philip Simon Erin McCullough Ruairi Brogan Jessica Burns GUITAR

James Donnelly Connor Brogan Christopher Turnbull BODHRAN

Lauren Magee Aoife McAtamney MANDOLIN

Dan McKenna Faye Kidd

Junior Traditional Group

FIDDLE

Lucy Bryan Lauren O'Donnell Fiona McIlroy Rachel MacNeill Lucy Clements Tara Cavan Abigail Magill Hannah Edgar Ciara Patterson TIN WHISTLE Abby Wallace GUITAR Naomi Newton Tom McAlister Owen Donnelly

Hollie Tracey Lori Turkington Shannon Venus Clara Watson Carrie Whitcroft Amy Wilson TENORS David Bannon Ruari Brogan Michael Browne Jamie Davison Ben Devlin Cameron Gergett Louis Gibson Kuda Kunaka Ruari Linden Cameron McCartney Kieran McKenna Jack Milliard Christian O'Connor David O'Donnell-Anderson Richard Ware Daniel Wonnacott BASS Kyle Auterson Luke Auterson Peter Boyd Connor Brogan Callum Browne James Carey Daniel Davison James Donnelly Jamie Dwyer Jason Fleming Matt Holland Jack Johnston Mannix McAlister David McClements Ben McConnell Oliver McGowan Ruari McGowan Ben O'Donnell Marcus Porte Harry Russell Philip Simon Stefan Tucker

Turnbull Christopher Wind Band FLUTES

Stefan Tucker Ruth McConnell Rebecca McKinstry Victoria Haddock Beth MacDougall Ellie White Daniel Quigley Hannah Caldwell Lui Hurson Conor Foster Elizabeth McAuley Sarah Bingham Jessica Allen Clodagh Poots CLARINETS

Rachael O'Donnell Holly Reid Katie Nixon Martha Gordon Emma Gray Jennifer McCorry Lorcan Gourley OBOE Hannah McBride SAXOPHONES Jack Johnston Katie McCambridge Sorcha Burke Connor McBride Clare McGowan Ruari McGowan Luke Auterson HORN

Michael Bell Hannah Lau EUPHONIUM Oliver McGowan TRUMPET

Ben McConnell Louise Davison

Aoife McBride Conor Foster VIOLIN

Junior Strings

Tara Cavan Lucy Clements Mary Cousins Hannah Edgar Meaghan Hughes Samantha McGrath Lauren O'Donnell Victoria Stewart Clara Walker VIOLA Sinead Gourley CELLO Cameron McCartney Amber McCalmont Jason Poots Zoe Parkes Ellen Quinn

Senior Clarinet Group

Rachael O’Donnell Martha Gordon Holly Reid Emma Gray Katie McCambridge Luke Auterson

Chamber Choir

SOPRANOS

Laurie- Anne Bartsch Jessica Burns Shannon Clements Clodagh Corry Megan Gordon Faye Kidd Sarah McGrath Sarah Minford Charlotte Noble Rebecca Rowan Amy Wilson

GUITAR

2nd Trombone

James Donnelly Connor Brogan Marcus Porte

Jamie Dwyer Timmy Robinson

TROMBONES

PERCUSSION

Jamie Dwyer Kyle Auterson Peter Boyd Timmy Robinson

Louis Gibson Georgia Sloan

TUBAS Jack Milliard

DRUMS / PERCUSSION Louis Gibson Jamie Davison Kieran McKenna

Big Band

SAXOPHONE

Jack Johnston Rachael O'Donnell Sorcha Burke Katie McCambridge Luke Auterson Ruari McGowan TRUMPET Ben McConnell David McClements Louise Davison Clare Johnston Patrick Donnelly TROMBONE Kyle Auterson Peter Boyd Jamie Dwyer Timmy Robinson PIANO

Anna Leyden

Junior Choir

ALTOS

FLUTE

David McClements Jason Fleming Clare Johnston Patrick Donnelly Kuda Kunaka Daniel Wonnacott Harry Russell Matthew Borne Peter Watt Thomas Carey

Victoria Campbell Jenny Coates Rachael Elmore Anna Leyden Lauren Magee Florence Maguire Erin McCullough Stephen Doyle

Laurel Kennedy Thomasa Kennedy Jill Massey Tara McBride Courtney McCammon Sarah McComisky Elizabeth McCauley Samantha McGrath

BASS GUITAR Katy Mann Dan McKenna

Brass Band

1st CORNET

Ben McConnell David McClements Jason Fleming Louise Davison Clare Johnston 2nd CORNET

Peter Watt Harry Russell Matthew Bourne Daniel Wonnacott Kuda Kunaka Erin Getty Patrick Donnelly Thomas Carey 1st HORN

Michael Bell 2nd HORN

Hannah Lau EUPHONIUM Oliver McGowan BARITONE

Bass Trombone Peter Boyd Tuba Daniel Loudon Jack Millard Percussion Louis Gibson Kieran McKenna

Boys' Choir

Andrew Anderson David Bannon Michael Bell Ruairi Brogan Callum Browne Michael Browne Oliver Browne David Campbell James Carey Aidan Davison Daniel Davison Ben Devlin James Donnelly Matthew Donnelly Jamie Dwyer Louis Gibson Ruairi Linden Kieran McKenna Scott McMurtry Adam McQuoid Robert Moffett Christian O'Connor Ben O'Donnell David O'Donnell-Anderson Harry Russell Samuel Uche

Kyle Auterson

Mr P Briggs Mr A Creighton Mr D Creighton Mr P Dorman Mr M Harte Dr J McCombe

Orla O'Kane Natasha Orr Alexis Payot Eve Proctor Katie Purvis Ellen Quinn Thea Reddington Jasmine Ross Charles Roxas Chloe Sayers

Rebecca Sayers Ally Shaw Ethan Snoddy Courtney Todd-Roper Dakota Thompson Clara Walker Jonathan Walker Jordan Walker Aimee Wigham Nikita Young

James Bryan 1st TROMBONE

TENORS

Michael Bell Ruairi Brogan Ben Devlin Cameron Gergett David O'Donnell-Anderson BASS

Kyle Auterson Connor Brogan James Donnelly Jamie Dwyer Ben McConnell Ruari McGowan Dan McKenna Ben O'Donnell Marcus Porte Philip Simon

Junior Choir

Sarah Adams Molly Agnew-Boyce Kenzie Arbuthnot Joanna Abernethy Eoin Bradley Rebecca Carse Cara Carson Odhran Catney Lucy Clements Anna Clingen Tara Cavan Rachel Crawford Patrick Donnelly Harriet Dougan Eva Gaston Lucy Gaston Melissa Hawthorne Meaghan Hughes Lucy Jamison Adam Jarman Chloe Joyce

Sincere thanks to: Bernard O’Donnell...................................................Programme Design

Bus Drivers...............................................................Tickets & Front Cover Design Dr. G Mc Atasney......................................................Clarinet Group Miss V. Carson.........................................................Boys’ Choir

Dr. C. Scully.............................................................Traditional Group Mr P. Comfort..........................................................Percussion Mrs Hamill...............................................................Organ

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ARTS HONOURS AWARDS 2013

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Major Re-Date

Major New

Minor Re-Date

Minor New

Michael Bell (MVI)

Niamh Benson (MVI)

Ben Devlin (MVI)

Laurie Anne Bartsch (MVI)

Shannon Clements (MVI)

Connor Brogan (MVI)

Patricia Martin (MVI)

Matthew Donnelly (MVI)

Stephen Doyle (MVI)

Rachel Elmore (MVI)

Mannix McAlister (MVI)

Callum Browne (MVI)

James Donnelly (MVI)

Lauren Magee (MVI)

Parisa Shirazi (MVI)

Oliver Browne (MVI)

James Duffy (MVI)

Anna-Rose McCambridge (MVI)

Sarah Bingham (LVI)

Samuel Uche (MVI)

Jamie Dwyer (MVI)

Sarah McGrath (MVI)

Oliver McGowan (LVI)

Clodagh Corry (LVI)

Anna Leyden (MVI)

Aine Cooper (LVI)

Holly Reid (LVI)

Lorna Joyce (LVI)

Ben McConnell (MVI)

Jack Johnston (LVI)

Rebecca Rowan (LVI)

Katie Nixon (LVI)

Hannah McKinstry (MVI) Beth MacDougall (LVI)

Chris Turnbull (LVI)

Charlotte Noble (LVI)

Ben O’Donnell (MVI)

Rosalind Ware (LVI)

Peter Boyd (V)

Georgia Ramm (LVI)

Stefan Tucker (MVI)

Sorcha Burke (V)

Ellie White (V)

Ruairi Brogan (V)

Kyle Auterson (LVI)

Jessica Burns (V)

Michael Browne (V)

Angela Cao (V)

Hannah Caldwell (LVI)

Rebecca Burns (V)

Luke Auterson (IV)

Jenny Coates (V)

Nesta Griffiths (LVI)

Victoria Campbell (V)

Jason Fleming (IV)

Ling Chung (V)

Faye Kidd (LVI)

Florence Maguire (V)

Martha Gordon (IV)

Louise Davison (V)

Hannah McBride (LVI)

Molly Martin (V)

David McClements (IV)

Megan Gordon (V)

Erin McCullough (LVI)

Ruth McConnell (V)

Kieran McKenna (IV)

Katy Mann (V)

Dan McKenna (LVI)

Ruari McGowan (V)

Ruairi Linden (V)

Hannah McCalmont (V)

Sarah Minford (LVI)

Sarah McGuickan (V)

Rachel O’Donnell (IV)

Clare McGowan (V)

Hannah Robinson (LVI)

Rebecca McKinstry (V)

Timmy Robinson (IV)

Laura Neill (V)

Philip Simon (LVI)

David O’Donnell-Anderson (V) Georgia Sloan (V) Lori Turkington (V) Cameron Gergett (IV) Emer Gribbon (IV) Mollie Haddock (IV) Clare Johnston (IV) Kuda Kunaka (IV) Antoinette Leonard (IV) Abigail Magill (IV) Rachel MacNeill (IV) Hollie McCalmont (IV) Fiona McIlroy (IV) Thomas Carey (III) Harry Russell (III) Daniel Wonnacott (III)

Drama in School SNARED “Sir, do Grease, go on do Grease”. I understand fully the reason why I am encouraged to make this choice every year: the youthful energy, the American high school context, the timeless boy meets girl storyline, the fashion and, of course, the evocative music. So why have I not done it? Well, for very selfish reasons really.

I am attracted to stories that have a moral. Whether it is the Faustian soul-selling tale behind ‘Little Shop of Horrors’, the convent-saving antics of the ‘Blues Brothers’, the class-based value systems of ‘Much Ado’, or the mutual sacrifice of father and son in ‘Bleachers’, I like to have something to hang the fun on to.

Superficially, the story set amid the Mods/Rockers riots in Brighton 1963, is about a boy who dreams of stardom in a rock band. He is unsuccessful in auditioning for a drummer until a girl from the local private school fits the bill. Of course, in 1963 a girl drummer would not have been taken seriously and so she dresses as a boy for the auditions. Predictably, she gets the job. Then she falls in love with the lead singer, and has the dilemma of how to tell him that she is in fact his drummer. Meanwhile, he is offered a recording deal as a solo artist and he has the dilemma of how he deals with the other band members. The moral of the story is about priorities in life and what ultimately satisfies.

I love being involved in drama and this project was one of the happiest I can remember. No need for hairrending or gnashing of teeth. With such a wonderful group of young people and adult friends around me it was a blast from start to finish. Usually as soon as I have completed one play, I have already started to plan the next. In this case, I can honestly say that I miss working with the cast and crew of ‘Snared’ and while I know there are so many young stars on their way, I will live off the memories for some time yet.

That was the starting point for ‘Snared’. I wanted a show that was entertaining to watch and to be in. I wanted a context that would be engaging, that would stretch the actors and would have many speaking, non-speaking and singing roles to satisfy the diverse and impressive talents of Academy pupils and, in particular the girls, who traditionally audition in greater numbers than the boys.

Thank you to all those involved in ‘Snared’, in whatever capacity, and to parents, pupils, staff and friends of the School who attended the performances.

R.J.

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LITTLE SHOP OF HORRORS During the summer term the Drama and Music departments decided to team up and give pupils from Forms I-IV the chance to showcase their singing and acting talents in BRA’s Junior Musical, Howard Ashman’s ‘Little Shop of Horrors’. After a rigorous audition process, our diverse and talented cast of forty one started rehearsals in mid-January. Staying after school four days a week for three and half months as well as coming in on two exceptional closure days may sound like a drag, but there was never a dull moment and the long hours were worth it when opening night came on the 8th May. ‘Little Shop of Horrors’ tells the story of Seymour Krelborn, a hapless florist shop worker who raises a plant that feeds on human blood and flesh. Jordan Walker (Form II) took on the lead role of Seymour while Jessica McVeigh (Form III) played Audrey, Seymour’s ditzy co-worker and love interest. Able support was provided by Cameron McCartney (Form III) as Mr Mushnik, Seymour and Audrey’s boss at Mushnik’s Flower Shop; Cameron Gergett (Form IV) as Orin Scrivello, D.D.S., Audrey’s psychotic dentist boyfriend; and Kuda Kunaka (Form IV) as the voice of Audrey II, the carnivorous plant. The principal cast was completed by our super group of singing sensations, the Sassy girls, who together took on the role of a Greek chorus, an ever present force on stage commenting on the action. Mimi Joffroy, Amy Majury, Carly McCullough (Form IV), and Molly Bond, Hannah Edgar and Morgan Patton (Form III) brought some glamour to proceedings as well as demonstrating vocal harmonies well beyond their years. Whether a major character or a member of the chorus, all cast 122

members worked tirelessly during rehearsals, with the fantastic lunchtime flash-mob in the canteen being a particular highlight in generating publicity for the event, and showing pupils and staff a sneak peak of what was to come.

While our cast entertained the audience from the stage, our crew was made up of a number of equally talented individuals who deserve a great deal of credit. Louis Gibson and Ruairi Linden (Form V) were our technical geniuses working the lights and sound booth. Both boys, under the guidance of Mr Jamison, gave up a considerable amount of time to attend rehearsals and design a lighting plan, making the show each night look visually spectacular.

Dr Lomas once again created stunning costumes to mirror the fashion of Skid Row in the 1960s. The green sparkly maxi dresses worn by the sassy girls in the second act were a highlight. The make-up team also did a great job each night; a particular mention must go to Chloe Anderson (Form IV) for devising the terrifying zombie make-up for the dénouement.

Drama in School

Our fantastic set of Mr Mushnik’s run-down shop was designed by Form IV pupil Juanita O’Kane. Juanita demonstrated her exceptional talent for design in bringing her vision of Skid Row to life, and alongside her group of set painters, worked tirelessly, even coming in on a Saturday morning, to ensure the set was ready on time. Our Stage Crew, made up of Form IV pupils, helped with the construction of the set on stage and ensured smooth scene changes during each performance.

wanted as many junior pupils as possible to have the opportunity to be part of the production, the Junior Choir provided backing vocals during the chorus numbers. Under the tutelage of Mr Briggs, they sounded great each night.

A musical is nothing without its music and for that we acknowledge Ms McMullan and the band, including sixth formers Connor Brogan and Marcus Porte. As we

Finally, special thanks must go to Dr Springer for heading up the props team as well as providing general support for the, at times, stressed directors! Whether it be a fully operational dentist’s chair or severed body parts covered in blood, Dr Springer was able to acquire each and every prop we asked for (although perhaps it’s best not to ask where the body parts came from). We would also like to thank Music Theatre 4 Youth for lending us the spectacular Audrey II plant providing some stage magic and terrifying the audience!

As you can see the production was a real team effort.

Mrs Burch and I were overwhelmed by the talent and commitment exhibited by each and every member of the cast and crew, and we know the show would not have been the success it was without them. It is safe to say the future of both the Music and Drama Departments is bright; here’s to the next production!

S.L.T./E.M.B.

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Belfast Royal Academy Junior Dramatic Society presents...

Thanks to everyone who helped make this production possible:

Dr S Springer: Ms M McMullan: Mr P Briggs: Dr B Lomas: Mr R Jamison: Ms W Graham & Mr M Shields: Mrs S Graydon & Miss A McMillan: Mr F Workman: Miss J Herron:

Wednesday 8th MayÂł Friday 10th May 2013 7:30pm Book and Lyrics by Howard Ashman Music by Alan Menken Based on the film by Roger Corman

Set Construction Matinee

The Band Piano: Ms M McMullan Keyboard: Mr P Briggs Bass: Connor Brogan Lead Guitar: Marcus Porte Percussion: Mr D Wright Audrey II Thank you to Music Theatre 4 Youth for lending us the plant. Here are the details of their next production:

Directed by Mrs Burch & Miss Tinman This School Production is presented by arrangement with Josef Weinberger Ltd on behalf of Music Theatre International, New York

Props & Promotion Band Director & Programme Junior Choir Director Costumes Lights & Sound Front of House Backstage

August 2013 Tel: 028 9033 1096 for details

FAME: The classic New York Performing Arts College musical from WKH ¡V IROORZLQJ D JURXS RI young performers developing their talent and discovering fame in the world of music and drama.

Jordan Walker: Seymour Krelborn Chorus

+L 0\ QDPH¡V -RUGDQ DQG WKLV LV WKH ILUVW 6FKRRO 0XVLFDO WKDW ,¡YH EHHQ LQYROYHG LQ 2XWVLGH VFKRRO , study Musical Theatre and have just passed my Grade VI. I also have my Grade V in ballet and play the acoustic guitar.

124

Jessica McVeigh: Audrey +L ,¡P -HVVLFD ,¡YH DOZD\V ORYHG GUDPD DQG have been involved with different productions RXWVLGH RI VFKRRO EXW œ/LWWOH 6KRS¡ LV GHILQLWHO\ P\ favourite. I love being on stage and singing and hope to pursue a career in the Performing Arts.

Junior Choir Cameron McCartney: Mr Mushnik Molly Agnew-Boyce Joanna Abernethy Rebecca Carse Odhran Catney Anna Clingen Tara Cavan Rachel Crawford Patrick Donnelly Harriet Dougan Eva Gaston Lucy Gaston Meaghan Hughes Chloe Joyce Laurel Kennedy Thomasa Kennedy Jill Massey Courtney McCammon Elizabeth McCauley

Samantha McGrath Alexis Payot Eve Proctor Katie Purvis Ellen Quinn Thea Reddington Alice Reid Jasmine Ross Charles Roxas Chloe Sayers Rebecca Sayers Ally Shaw Ethan Snoddy Courtney Todd-Roper Olivia Spence Clara Walker Caitlin Warke

+L ,¡P &DPHURQ 0F&DUWQH\ DQG ,¡P LQ )RUP ,,, , VWXG\ œFHOOR DW %HOIDVW 6FKRRO RI 0XVLF DQG KDYH passed my Grade V. I play in the Senior Orchestra and Senior Strings and sing tenor in the Senior Choir. This is my first drama production.

Cameron Gergett: Orin Scrivello DDS +L 0\ QDPH LV &DPHURQ *HUJHWW GRQ¡W WU\ WR pronounce it), and I play the violin in Senior Orchestra and sing tenor in the Senior Choir & Chamber Choir. This is my first experience of performing in a drama production.

Kuda Kunaka: Audrey II +HOOR ,¡P .XGDNZDVKD .XQDND ELW RI D PRXWKIXO HK" 7KH\ FDOO PH .XGD IRU VKRUW DQG ,¡P RULJLQDOO\ from Zimbabwe. I moved to NI three years ago and this is my first main role in a musical. I also play the trumpet in Brass Band and Wind Band and sing tenor in the Senior Choir.

Drama in School

The Sassy Girls

The human race suddenly encounters a deadly threat to its very existence. This terrifying enemy surfaces in the most innoFHQW DQG XQOLNHO\ RI SODFHV« 0XVKQLN·V 6NLG 5RZ )ORULVWV 7KLV play tells the story of Seymour, the wimpish shop assistant, who befriends a mysterious plant which grows and grows ³thanks to a secret diet!!!

7LPH (DUO\ ·V Place: Skid Row

Dental Nurses

Little Shop of Horrors

Ensemble

Act One

Patty

Customers

Skip Snip

Patrick Martin

Bernstein

Interviewers

Mrs Luce

Voice of God

Downtown (Skid Row) Da Doo Grow For Me Ya Never Know 6RPHZKHUH 7KDW·V *UHHQ Closed For Renovation Dentist Mushnik and Son Git It 1RZ ,W·V -XVW 7KH *DV

Ensemble Seymours & Pals Seymour Mushnik, Seymour & Sassy Girls Audrey Seymour, Audrey & Mushnik Orin & Dental Nurses Mushnik & Seymour Seymour, Audrey II & Sassy Girls Seymour & Orin

Act Two Suddenly Seymour Plant Vendor

Winos

'HQWLVW·V 3DWLHQWV

Seymour, Audrey & Sassy Girls Audrey II, Seymour, Mushnik & Sassy Girls Ensemble, Bernstein, Mrs Luce, Skip Snip & Seymour Audrey II & Audrey Ensemble

Suppertime The Meek Shall Inherit Sominex/Suppertime Finale

The Cast Seymour Krelborn: Audrey: Mr Mushnik: Orin Scrivello, DDS: Sassy Girls:

Audrey II: Patty: Dental Nurses: Customer 1: Customer 2: Bernstein: Mrs Luce: Skip Snip: Patrick Martin: Interviewer 1: Interviwer 2: Voice of God: Plant Vendor: Wino 1: Wino 2: 'HQWLVW·V 3DWLHQW Mother & Child:

Jordan Walker Jessica McVeigh Cameron McCartney Cameron Gergett Molly Bond, Hannah Edgar, Mimi Joffroy, Amy Majury, Carly McCullough & Morgan Patton Kuda Kunaka Kelly McDonald Fiona McIlroy, Lydia Rooney, Lucy Stewart& Charlotte Nicholl Erica McGovern Amber Cole Morgan Dempsey Orlaith Duffy Matthew Wilson Adam Jarman Natasha Kelly Daniel Davison Ryan Davison Daniel Quigley Eoin Bradley Naomi Newton Lucy Bryan Tara McBride & Orla 2·.DQH

Chorus Rebecca Atkinson Cara Carson Lucy Clements Lucy Jamison Eimear Jones Natasha Kelly Amber Maxwell Conor McBride Amy McCotter Chloe Sayers

Make-up

Stage Crew

Chloe Anderson Rachel Atkinson Amy Boyd Kelsey Cooke Sarah Cowdon Katy Dawson Becky Dickson Jordan Ferguson Laura Fleck Megan Geddis Rebecca Harbinson Cara Heatley Rachel Hughes Lucy Kinnear Chloe Lynas Rebecca Marno Katie McCambridge Glenne McClenaghan Ciera McCotter Molly MeEwan Cathryn Morrisey Natalie Paul Georgia Ramm

James Donnelly Ryan Hamill Anna Hogg Mannix McAlister Cailean McCann Kellie McClean Jay McCrum Luke McFeeters Johnny Mooney Lucy Miller Sean Rice Parisa Shirazi Matthew Smith Samuel Uche Puppeteer Adam Sayers Props Daniel Bingham Jack Green Cameron McGaughey

Lights & Sound

Poster Art

Louis Gibson Ruari Linden

Kieran McKenna Set Painters

Chloe Anderson Cameron Chism Jordan Ferguson Courtney Harper Matthew Harrison Ben Hoey Micah Hipolito

Cailean McCann Zoe McDonnell Cathryn Morrisey Glenne McClenaghan -XDQLWD 2·.DQH Natasha Rawe Matthew Wilson

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Miscellany ACADEMY SPORTS CAMP

ART AND DESIGN

The P.E. Department ran the BRA Sports Camp in August, for Primary aged children for the eighth successful year. Ex-pupil Lucy Dugan was a leader for the eighth year as she has helped every year since she started BRA. Numbers dropped this year, but this didn’t affect the range of activities on offer and the enjoyment had by all.

Ruairi Brogan and Angela Cao, Form V, both achieved full marks in the CCEA GCSE level examination 2013. Jenna Todd, Form LVI, gained full marks in the CCEA AS level examination 2013 and received a CCEA certificate of Excellence for gaining full marks at GCSE level. Ben O’Donnell and Oriana Firgau Marcano, Form MVI, gained full marks in the CCEA A2 level coursework and examination. Ryan Hamill and Kirsty McKerracher Form MVI gained full marks in the CCEA A2 level coursework.

A new activity added to the usual range was a trip to the new ‘Clip and Climb’ centre based at Dundonald Ice bowl. The last day treat was a trip to the cinema followed by a picnic and sports at Ben Madigan.

N.N.

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The following work was requested by CCEA for possible inclusion in the 2013–2014 True Colours

Miscellany

exhibition. At GCSE level Angela Cao’s Core Portfolio unit, based on the theme ‘Protraits’, has a self-portrait painting outcome. Also requested is her examination unit that consists of a water colour diptych based on the theme ‘What makes me who I am’. Ruairi Brogan’s Core Portfolio unit of work, based on the theme ‘Industrial Dilapidation’, with a painting outcome was also requested. At A2 level Oriana Firgau Marcano’s Personal Investigation unit, on the theme ‘Nativity’, with a ceramic and drawing outcome; Ben O’Donnell’s Personal Investigation unit, based on the theme ‘The Natural World and Ceramics’, with a ceramic outcome and Ryan Hamill’s Personal Investigation unit, based on the theme ‘Escapism’, with a painting outcome were also requested.

Mr Roy Donaldson from Donaldson and Weir Graphics Ltd. presented two Art and Design MVI A2 level pupils with a Student Art Pack Award: to Ben O’Donnell, who has gained a place at the Glasgow School of Art to study product design, and Oriana Figau Marcano, who has gained a place at Ulster University Belfast to study Art and Design.

All Art and Design GCSE, AS and A2 level pupils attended the 2013 True Colours exhibition at Ulster Museum to view the best examples of N. Ireland’s CCEA Art and Design coursework and externally set assignments. They also toured the Ulster Museum exhibitions and collections.

The June 2013 Annual Art Exhibition included an excellent variety of work from all Forms. The Art Exhibition’s coffee morning raised £100 for the Save the Children Fund. A further £90 was raised by teaching and non-teaching staff at a break time preview of the exhibition.

The Department continues to develop staff training in the use of ICT, by attending courses in Photoshop, animation and ipad training. The Department has recently purchased two apple boxes to support the piloting of teaching and learning with the ipad. We look forward to the instalment of Wi Fi in the Department in the near future.

The Department continues to provide pupils with an insight into Art and Design career routes. This was supported by guest speakers including: Alannah Mawhinney, past pupil of BRA, who gave LVI pupils a talk on Film and Media Studies; Steven Martin, a ceramic artist from Kilkenny Studio who has been on work experience in the Department, resurrected the use of our Potter’s Wheel and Martin McGinn and Mike McQueen, from Ulster University, gave presentations on Product Design and Architecture to Sixth form pupils.

Form IV Art and Design pupils attended the ‘World Skills – have a go day’ at Belfast Metropolitan College where they had the opportunity to develop textile skills.

Rose Crossan and Ben O’Donnell Form MVI took part in the Belfast Print Workshop Culture project.

They each created a metre square lino print for a large fabric panel that was produced using a steam roller.

The panel was put on public display at the Merchant Hotel square to celebrate the Belfast Culture Event 2013.

The MVI and LVI Art and Design pupils visited the 2013 Royal Ulster Academy Annual Art Exhibition at the Ulster Museum.

Mrs J. Prenter (mother of Grace Prenter, past pupil of BRA) from Charities Aid Foundation kindly donated £400 to the Art Department, to buy a much needed new camera. We would like to take this opportunity to thank the Charity for their generous donation.

P.K.

The Department is used every week for Duke of Edinburgh Art and Design projects and CCEA GCSE and A level units of work.

A dedicated team of pupils enjoyed constructing, painting and decorating the set for the Senior School Production, ‘Snared’.

BBC JOURNALISM WORKSHOP The ICT and English Departments collaborated, once again, to provide pupils from Form III with the opportunity to script, film and edit a television news

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broadcast. Pupils were invited to write a news article about a recent school event and the top ten were selected as participants in the workshop.

The BBC’s Sports Journalist Thomas Niblock spoke to the group about his career path into television journalism and the group were given their assignment. Little Shop of Horrors, Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme and GCSE subject choices were chosen as topical news items. Miss Comac co-ordinated the day’s events with great skill.

Some of the group were happy to appear on screen and proved to be confident in their roles as presenters and interviewers. Cameron McCartney, Conor McAuley, Anna Wilson and Lucy Stewart were obvious choices for such roles. Laura Fleck was outstanding in her grilling of Dr Brown on the issue of subject choices in school. Whilst Lauryn Smith, Kiah Reid and Richard Ware were reluctant volunteers for on-screen appearances, all three were calm, clear and committed in their delivery. The pupils displayed maturity and fantastic collaborative skills throughout the day.

Thomas Niblock returned to school in June to finish the editing process with the group. He commended the participants for their ability to work under pressure and produce work which rivals that produced

by Sixth Form students of Media Studies in other schools. The final BRA Newsbeat programme was shown in Junior Assembly in June.

30 pupils attended the ‘Meet the Marines’ event at Palace Barracks, Holywood.

MVI pupils attended many Open Days including QUB, UUJ, UUC, Stranmillis, St Mary’s, Belfast Metropolitan and Northern Regional College. A number of pupils also attended the Methodist College Careers Convention.

A representative from LJMU spoke to pupils about how to write a winning personal statement.

A number of presentations were given to MVI and LVI pupils from representatives of QUB, UU, LJMU, St. Andrews, Leeds and many of the Scottish Universities.

A representative from University of Oxford spoke to a group of LVI pupils. They were joined by pupils from Dominican College, Belfast.

Senior Prefects participated in a ‘Leadership and Team Building’ event at JungleNI. Aspiring medical, dentistry and veterinary students participated in a ‘Multi Mini Interview’ event organised by Purple Patch. They were joined by pupils from Dominican College and St Malachy’s College.

Eye4Education ran a programme called Aim Higher with 20 of our Form IV pupils.

T.M.B. Form V pupils attended an introductory session about the role of the Careers Service NI and each pupil was interviewed by the DEL Careers Adviser.

BMT BROADCASTING TRIP 128

On Thursday 14th March twenty Form III pupils attended a Broadcasting workshop at the newly opened e3 campus at Belfast MET. The course was taken by UTV newsreader Aidan Browne and television presenter and journalist Lynda Bryans, both lecturers at the College. Pupils had the opportunity to record a radio interview and read the news in state-of-the-art radio and television studios.

The experience was both beneficial and enjoyable.

We would like to thank both Lynda and Aidan for their hospitality and tips on how to succeed in broadcasting.

S.L.T.

CAREERS MVI pupils received help, advice and guidance with UCAS and CAO applications.

Five Form V girls participated in a ‘Gender Diversity’ event at Schlumberger Engineering Plant in Monkstown.

Jenna Todd was selected to participate in the Institute of Directors work-shadowing programme following an application and interview process.

198 LVI pupils secured a week of work experience in February. Pupils experienced a range of work opportunities including Engineering, IT, Occupational Therapy, Banking, Medicine, Law, Dentistry, Journalism and Marine Biology. A group of pupils and staff went to Malawi.

Five LVI pupils also took advantage of the Army work experience training at Ballykinler Training

Miscellany

Centre and five pupils took part in the PSNI work experience programme.

Jenna Todd of LVI represented the School in the Rotary Youth Leadership competition.

Representatives from Student Finance NI explained the process of university funding to MVI pupils.

A representative from QUB spoke to all Form III pupils about the benefits of going to University and distributed an information booklet called ‘Find Your Future’.

A number of pupils and their parents attended an Engineering Parents’ Evening and a Humanities Parents’ Evening at the Whitla Hall in QUB. Numerous MVI pupils availed of the mock interview scheme. Interviews were held for pupils applying to Medicine, Accountancy, Oceanography, Veterinary Medicine, Nursing, Dentistry, Teaching, Social Work and Languages.

All Form V pupils attended an Eye4Education event called ‘Labour Market Information’. This was an interactive event designed to up-date pupils’ knowledge of the labour market and where jobs will be in the future.

54 Form IV pupils attended the NBEP Careers Convention at Ballysillan Leisure Centre.

All Form III pupils participated in a STEM carousel organised by Eye4Education and funded by the ALC. Pupils participated in three Work Inspiration Programmes organised by Charter. These were held in Tughans, and Pinsent Masons for Law, and AV Browne for Marketing.

18 pupils attended a STEM and Woman’s Day event at W5.

All Form III pupils took part in a ‘Learn to Earn’ workshop linking Modern Languages and Business Studies to various careers.

Belfast Metropolitan College held an information session on alternative courses of study. Some Form V and MVI pupils attended.

LVI pupils took part in a four-stage Interview Skills programme. Stage 1 was completion of an application form. Stage 2 was undertaking a psychometric test. Stage 3 involved participating in group assessments and Stage 4 was a panel interview.

Sixth Form students attended a presentation by Guy Flouch from Eunicas on the opportunities available those who wish to study abroad through the medium of English.

A number of Professionals held talks for our LVI pupils. These included, Dr K. Adams (Medicine), Mr M. Corkey (Barrister), Mr Allen (Business Management), Mr R. Creighton (Studying Law as a base degree), Miss R. Hassan (Careers using Science), Mr K. McDevitt and Miss S. Grant (Pharmacy), Miss L. Kerr (ICT) and Mrs Bell (Social Work).

A number of pupils attended an event called ‘A Flavour of Psychology’ at the Whitla Hall. This was organised by the British Psychological Society.

A number of pupils attended an information session on ‘Speech and Language Therapy’ at Carrickfergus Health Centre.

A number of pupils attended the QUB School of Dentistry Insight Day. A number of pupils attended ‘A day in the life of a Physiotherapist and Radiographer’ at the Royal Victoria Hospital.

10 LVI pupils attended the RCN event on ‘Future of Health in NI’.

75 pupils attended the UCAS Higher Education Event at the King’s Hall.

20 Form IV pupils attended an Android App and Mobile Web Taster Day at BMC. A number of teachers made work-place visits to enhance their knowledge of careers in each field; Ms Nicholl visited Almac, Ms Adams visited AV Browne and Bombardier and Mr Lunn, Mr Murphy, Mr Morrison and Ms Adams attended a STEM event at BMC which featured over 30 NI companies.

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All Form IV pupils attended an event called ‘Experiences of Work’ organised by Sentinus. This had a STEM focus.

20 Form III pupils attended a broadcasting workshop at the newly opened e3 Campus at BMC. The course was delivered by UTV newsreader Aidan Browne and television presenter and journalist Lynda Bryans, both lecturers at the College. Pupils had the opportunity to record a radio interview and read the news in state of the art radio and television studios.

20 Form IV pupils attended a Fashion Taster Day event at the e3 Campus at BMC. 20 Form III pupils attended a ‘Health and Well Being’ Day at the Grove Leisure Centre.

Mr Shane Brogan from Volunteer Now spoke to a group of LVI pupils about the Millennium Volunteer Scheme.

Crumlin Road Gaol was a highlight for most of the pupils who enjoyed the time spent with new friends from the other schools and the informative tour of the facility.

T.M.B.

COMMUNITY SERVICE Twelve pupils attended the Woodlands Day Centre.

While there, they helped with a number of activities, including baking, art work and craft work. This experience was very beneficial for all those wishing to enter the caring professions. The Community Service team also held their annual Christmas parties for the pensioners and Drumross Special Needs School. Both pupils and guests had a great deal of fun. The entertainment was provided by a very talented Music Department. Santa also made a quick visit.

G.C.M.

Mr Darren Nixon from Eye4Education gave a Labour Market Information presentation to all staff.

J.A.

TEENAGE KICKS I have been participating in Teenage Kicks for five years now. It is a dance mentoring programme bringing schools and community groups together from all over Belfast.

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CATCH PROJECT This year for the first time, Belfast Royal Academy joined other North Belfast schools to participate in Co-operation Ireland’s CATCH project. Twenty Form III Citizenship pupils took part in four days of workshops and a final field trip. The objective of the various team-work exercises and presentations was to challenge attitudes and change horizons for young people in North Belfast. Pupils were given the opportunity to consider issues such as sectarianism, anti-social behaviour and community provision for young people in their local area. The group also interviewed a panel of politicians, PSNI representatives and community leaders, some of whom were Academy past pupils. The field trip to

It is an energetic dance show involving high impact dance routines led by Energy Fitness guru, Freddy Kinnersley aka “Fitness Freddy,” which allows pupils of all ages and children with disabilities to come together and create new fitness dances for the show in the Ulster Hall. It is a great experience which allows us to make new friends from schools such as, De La Salle Boys’, Victoria College, Greenmount and Ashfield Girls’ School.

I benefited from Teenage Kicks in many ways, such as building upon working within a team and working together to create our own unique dance moves. My confidence has been built upon by performing these dance moves on stage in front of hundreds of people and has inspired me to challenge myself more often.

It has further developed my skills such as communication, by interacting with new people from different schools and creating new friends, co ordination within the dance moves and continuing to

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practise until they are perfected. It has also made me aware of the importance of regular fitness and has brought new, fun ways of including fitness into my daily routines.

During 2012-13, our large membership remained steady at 418 pupils from Forms III to Middle VI: this means that the Academy has the largest school-based Award Centre in Northern Ireland, and possibly the United Kingdom.

Orla McBriarity (LVI)

THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD It’s 3.44p.m. on Sunday, 4th August, 2013. Scene 1: the outskirts of Fortwilliam, on the old finish to the West Highland Way: Leah Baillie’s Gold girls’ team are walking the last few metres of their very successful four-day, three-night qualifying expedition in the Lochaber area in Scotland.

Scene 2: Lough Erne, County Fermanagh: Timmy Robinson’s Silver team are paddling from Trory Jetty opposite Devenish Island to their campsite on Knock Island on the last leg of Day 1 of their three-day, twonight canoe qualifying expedition, meanwhile, Cameron Gergett’s Silver team are paddling from Trory Jetty to their campsite on Cleenish Island on the last leg of Day 1 of their canoe qualifying expedition.

These snapshots, of one moment in time in the life of the D.of E. in the Academy, give a very powerful overview of the sheer magnitude and variety of our activities over many such moments throughout the expedition period from the end of March, through the summer and into the autumn.

In fact, at any given moment, in the evenings, weekends and holidays there could be a truly vast multiplicity of purposeful activity taking place e.g.

Academy D.of E. pupils learning First Aid in the Sixth Form Centre or sorting their stamp collections or practising a musical instrument or building a computer, for the Skills section; Academy D.of E. pupils taking part in any number of sports from rugby and hockey to Gaelic football and Irish dancing, for the Physical section; Academy D.of.E. pupils helping elderly and infirm people in their homes or assisting in Charity shops like Cancer Lifeline on the Antrim Road or working in hospital wards, for the Volunteering section; and, Academy D.of E. pupils working at the Share Centre, Lisnaskea, assisting the handicapped or helping out at Corrymeela, or assisting with a summer camp at Gortatole Outdoor Education Centre near Florencecourt, for the Residential section.

Thus, in an instant, it is possible to sense the great strength of what the D.of E. has to offer our young people in their development as well-rounded individuals.

Continued effort on the part of our members produced a very creditable number of Awards gained during the course of the year: 37 Bronze Awards, 20 Silver Awards and 7 Gold Awards.

The total number of awards gained from 1984 to date are: Bronze – 1,164; Silver – 631; Gold – 420.

Congratulations must go to the seven pupils and past pupils who gained the Gold Award: Niall Bradley (MVI), Connor Brogan (MVI), Sarah Daniels, Mannix McAlister (MVI), Claire McGonigle, Kate Miller (MVI) and Emily Taggart (MVI).

A very full and successful programme of expedition work in the Mourne Mountains, North Antrim Hills and Upper and Lower Lough Erne was carried out during the year, directly involving 235 pupils in expedition theory classes, training weekends and practice and qualifying expeditions. The exceptionally poor weather at the end of March and the beginning of April caused the postponement of some expeditions until the arrival of better conditions.

We are indebted to the many people who were willing to give of their free time to make possible the huge undertaking of the Expedition section. Thanks must go to Mr. Carolan and Mr. Maurice Miller for assisting with training. We sincerely thank the following teachers, past pupils and adult helpers who generously gave their time and assistance:Mr. R. Armstrong Mr. J. Buchan Mr. K. Cheung Mr. R. Colhoun Mr. J. Cummings Mr. J. Davison Dr. M. Donnelly Mr. C. Hall Mr. K. Laverty Mr. J. Letson Mr. K. Loder Mr. N. Lyons Mr. D. McArthur Mr. P. McArthur Miss K. McClelland Mr. M. Miller Miss C. Murphy Miss R. Petticrew Mr. M. Scott

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Mr. D. Sharp Dr. L. Sharp Mr. D. Smith Dr. S. Springer Mrs. M. Wilson Mr. A. Workman Mr. F. Workman Very special thanks must also go to the following people: Mr. Maurice Miller for his outstanding contribution in overseeing all aspects of the Expedition section; Mr. Billy Dunn for driving the school bus on many weekends and for his valued assistance; Mr. Alan Hermon for assisting with transport; Mrs. Michelle Wilson for outstanding assistance with Award administration; Mr. Frank Workman, Mr. Alan Workman, Mr. Jonathan Cummings, Miss Lorraine Cummings, Ms. Helen Douglas and Miss Joanna Clarke for very valuable assistance with administration work; and the Gold Award Leaders of 2012-2013 for excellent assistance with the running of the D. of E. in the School.

The Academy’s Award Centre is indebted to the various Bed and Breakfast houses, which are the supervision bases for our many expeditions. Grateful thanks indeed to: Mrs. M. Trainor of Silent Valley, Kilkeel; Mr. and Mrs. J. McHenry of Glenariff, Ballymena and Miss M. Scally of Torr Road, Cushendun.

Not a single Duke of Edinburgh Expedition could have set out from the Academy during the year if it had not been for the tireless efforts of those ten or so pupils who form the “Tent Team” and who gave much of their time in maintaining our large stock of camping equipment. Many thanks, T-Team, for all your work!

Expedition first-aid training was kindly provided by Dr. Norman Walker and by Dr. Keith Thompson and his team of volunteer first-aiders.

The work of the Volunteering section continued successfully through the year. We are very grateful to Miss S. Ardis for administering the work of those pupils involved in individual Volunteering section activities. Thanks are owed to Mrs. G. Morris and Ms. T. McBeth for assisting those pupils working in the Community Service option.

The detailed administration of the Skills section was very ably undertaken by Dr. Lomas to whom we are very much indebted. Bible reading, car maintenance, photography and chess are just a few of the many interests pursued by our pupils within this section.

Many thanks are due to the numerous members of staff who gave up their time to act as Skills section assessors including: Mr. Briggs Mrs. E. Burch Mrs. T. Corcoran Mrs. Currie Ms. Graham Mr. Jamison Mrs. Kerr Dr. Lomas Ms. McMullan Mrs. Morrison Mrs. O’Donnell Mr. Spence Within the Skills section, 21 pupils took part in the Bronze Award Fire Service Courses held at Whitla Street Fire Station. We warmly thank the Northern Ireland Fire and Rescue Service for the provision of the courses and Mr. Frank Workman for supervising the classes. 28 pupils took part in two Bronze Award First-Aid Courses based in the Sixth Form Centre on Tuesday evenings in the autumn of 2012 and the spring of 2013. We are very grateful to Dr. Keith Thompson and his team of volunteer First Aiders for providing the courses. 19 pupils were involved in the Silver Award Police Service Course organised during the year by the P.S.N.I. to whom we are most grateful.

Thanks to Dr. C. Callachand for supervising the classes.

We thank Dr. Lomas very much for her outstanding commitment and long years of service to our Centre as Co-ordinator of the Skills section and wish her a long and happy retirement. We are very grateful to Mrs. L. Nicholl for agreeing to become the new Skills section Co-ordinator.

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We thank Mr. Carolan for organising the administration of the Physical section. Many sports are pursued by our pupils within this section and we are grateful to the staff of the P.E. Department: Mr. Creighton, Mrs. Nicholl, Mrs. Shaw, Mr. McGonigle, Mr. McCarey and all of the Games staff for all their much appreciated help throughout the past year. We thank Mr. Brian McLaughlin and Mr. Robert Armstrong for all their work in training the kayak canoeists on Friday afternoons.

Much helpful advice in connection with the Gold Residential section is given to our Sixth Form pupils

by Mr. Buchan to whom we are very grateful.

Thanks must go to Mr. Maurice Miller for his help in looking after our finances.

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The 23rd Annual Sponsored “Mournes’ Clean-up and Environment Day” was held on Saturday, 8th December, 2012. Taking part were 119 pupils, all Duke of Edinburgh’s Award members from Forms III to Middle VI as well as 36 adult helpers, including former pupils who are Gold Award holders, parents and teachers. Rubbish was collected from 13 sites in the Mournes area and in excess of five tonnes of rubbish were cleared. The pleasing sum of £2,301.87 was raised for our funds. We had much appreciated assistance from Down District Council, Newry and Mourne District Council, The Mourne Heritage Trust, The National Trust and Mark’s Skip Hire (Kilkeel).

Councillor Micky Coogan, Chairman, Down District Council, Mrs. Margaret Ritchie MP, Mr. Chris Hazard M.L.A., Ms. Kate Thompson, Director of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in Northern Ireland, Ms. Janet McIlvenna, Education Officer, Down District Council, Mr. Matthew Bushby, Countryside Services Manager, Mourne Heritage Trust, Mr. Phil Savage, Ranger, Mourne Heritage Trust and Mr. Liam Dinsmore, Management Services Officer, Newry and Mourne District Council, were present in Donard Park, Newcastle, early on the Saturday morning to lend their support to the event and to wish the BRA Team every success.

The Academy’s Open Nights in January, 2013 and the Open Morning in May, 2013 were a great success and all aspects of school life were on show to prospective pupils and their parents. Many thanks to all of those who helped to make the impressive D. of E. display in the Sixth Form Study Area so effective.

The sixteenth highly successful Canadian Canoe Week was held from 3rd to 10th August, 2013 in Lough Erne. This was a highly packed programme of Silver and Gold Canoe Qualifying Expeditions. 19 pupil members and 4 adult leaders took part.

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Staff training for our former pupils progressed well during the year. Congratulations to Kevin Cheung for gaining the Mountain Leadership Certificate (summer) and to Shelley Wilson, Peter McArthur and Carolyn Murphy for gaining the Hillwalking Levels 1 and 2 Certificate. Martin Scott is currently completing work for the Mountain Leadership Certificate (summer). Keith Laverty has nearly completed work for the U.K.C.C. / B.C.U. Levels 1 and 2 Paddlesport Coach qualification.

In recognition of their outstanding commitment and long years of service to our Centre, Mr. David Sharp and Mr. Frank Workman each received the “Long Service Recognition” Certificate from The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award. An Award Ceremony was held on Tuesday, 12th February at Hillsborough Castle

where Mr. Workman was presented with his Certificate by HRH Prince Edward, the Earl of Wessex. On Tuesday, 5th March in the Headmaster’s Study Mr. Dickson presented Mr. Sharp with his Certificate.

I should like to take this opportunity of expressing my deep gratitude to my mother and father for all their support and assistance during the last thirty-one years: they are the ultimate back-up team!

In conclusion, The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in the Academy would simply not be a possibility without the army of volunteer helpers, from both within and outside the Academy, who give up so much of their free time to assist with the supervision of all areas of the D. of E. I am deeply indebted to them for their enthusiasm and dedication over so many years, and would like to take this opportunity to encourage anyone interested in giving of their time and skills to the D. of E. to come forward.

Finally, pride of place and congratulations must go to the following pupils and past pupils who gained awards during the past year:Bronze Award Chloe Anderson (V) Luke Auterson (V) Amy Boyd (IV) Henry Cavan (V) Niamh Carroll (V) Aidan Davison (V) Ana Desmond (V) Orlaith Duffy (V) Hannah Edgar (IV) Katie Ewart (V) Cameron Gergett (V) Rebecca Harbinson (V) Micah Hipolito (V) Ben Irvine (V) Keith Johnston Hannah Lau (V) Antoinette Leonard (V) Rachel MacNeill (V) Abigail Magill (V) Niamh Martin (V) Rachel McAtamney (V) Hollie McCalmont (V) Cailean McCann (V) Dean McDowell (V) Kieran McKenna (V) Scott McMurtry (LVI) John Miller (V) Gabrielle Moore (LVI) Ciara Patterson (IV)

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team and made my way over to them. We listened to some inspirational talks, were warned about the difficulty of this expedition and before we knew it, we were getting our tents and making final preparations.

Sophie Rood (V) Adam Sayers (LVI) Robbie Shaw (MVI) Adam Stronge (V) Jack Venables (V) Natalie Watson (V) Sarah Whittley (LVI) Carly Wilkinson (IV)

Next, was the long drive down to Newcastle and into the Mournes on Billy’s bus. We were dropped off at a beautiful spot overlooking Foffanny Dam. We sat here for a while waiting for our turn to leave. We were prepped by a member of Mr Reilly’s faithful team and at 11.30a.m. we set off, filled with anticipation of what was to come in the weekend ahead. The start of our walk was uphill toward Spelga Dam. We tired very quickly on this part as we weren’t used to the weight of the rucksacks on our backs. We reached the top of the road and took a break, when James realised that he had lost his jumper. We had a quick debate and decided that James should run back and look for it while we minded his rucksack. He came back a minute later with his jumper and a triumphant look on his face.

Silver Award Kyle Auterson (MVI) Jessica Burns (LVI) Rebecca Burns (LVI) Angel Cao (LVI) Ling Chung (LVI) Laura Farrington (LVI) Emma Gray (MVI) Holly Grant Rebecca Harbinson (V) Amy Hunter (LVI) Aaron Henderson (LVI) Keith Johnston Amy Kingston (LVI) Aaron Lyons (LVI) Hannah McCalmont (LVI) Claire McGowan (LVI) Emma Mills (LVI) Rachel O’Neill (LVI) Abby Reid (LVI) Lori Turkington (LVI)

We continued walking and eventually reached snow!

What do you expect? We jumped about in it, threw snow balls and pushed each other; it was great fun.

Suddenly, we heard a scream from Lewis who had slipped in the snow and fallen on his arm. He said he thought his wrist was broken, so I went over and began to make him a cast using my jumper (we learnt how to do this on our first-aid course earlier in the year), when Lewis starting laughing and told us he was only joking. I felt humiliated, but I didn’t mind.

We continued along the snowy path, laughing and messing about. Eventually, we reached a river; the snow had fallen on the river and melted below, creating a bridge of snow. So, being teenage boys, we stopped and spent some time throwing rocks at the snow, trying to break it; this was brilliant fun.

Gold Award Niall Bradley Connor Brogan Sarah Daniels Mannix McAllister Claire McGonigle Kate Miller Emily Taggart

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J.R.

BRONZE AWARD BOYS’ FOOT QUALIFYING EXPEDITION 27th-28th APRIL, 2013 MOURNE MOUNTAINS It was up early that Saturday morning, shower, double check rucksack and a quick drive down to the school from my sleepy mum. I arrived at school a bit late, took off my boots and made my way into the Dining Hall, while being given pages and getting check-lists from all directions. I was feeling excited; this was the weekend when I would pass or fail my Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Qualifying Expedition. I saw my

We continued round the dam, stopping to have our lunch in a car park. We then headed for Cock Mountain, stopping to meet some other teams, where we discussed how we were finding it so far. The rest of that day was pretty uneventful. Lewis hurt his ankle going down the other side of Cock Mountain, which slowed us down a bit and as we approached the campsite some of our team members began to speed up as they just wanted to get there. However, with his injury, Lewis couldn’t keep up so we had to make sure that the team arrived together.

When we actually arrived at the campsite we had a team dispute as half the team wanted to camp on the lower level of the campsite where everyone was, but the rest of us wanted to camp on the high level where there was more ground and it was flat. Eventually, we

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decided to pitch our tent on the higher level. The rest of the night was spent having great craic and eating great- eh, decent food (at least it was warm).

The next morning we woke up feeling refreshed. We had our breakfast, put down the tents and did a quick campsite sweep to make sure we left it cleaner than we found it. Then we left. This day was a shorter walk, and we were all looking forward to getting home. But in the mean time, it was raining and we had some hard ground to cover. Our team set off on the wrong foot by heading in the wrong direction but we soon found out and got back on track.

The weather got better as the morning went on and by midday we had some pleasant sun. We were on a smooth track which would take us most of the rest of the way. By the time we got on the bus I was tired but satisfied. The weekend had been brilliant fun and I was looking forward to Silver Award.

Thomas Carey (IV), Daniel Allen (IV), Cormac McCracken (IV), Lewis Davidson (IV), James McMahon-Beattie (IV) and Jason Stubbs (IV)

BRONZE AWARD GIRLS’ FOOT QUALIFYING EXPEDITION 13th-14th APRIL, 2013 MOURNE MOUNTAINS

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Day 1 On the morning of Saturday, 13th April, 2013, we woke up very early and were feeling slightly nervous.

Today was the day of our Bronze Award Expedition; all of our training and preparation had led up to this weekend. We got ready, and bade our comfortable beds and electronic devices farewell.

Then we headed off to school. Mr. Reilly had asked us all to be in the Dining Hall for 7.30a.m., in our socks with hiking boots in hand. There was a roll call and we were all checked for mobile phones, and then sent to get our equipment. In the basement underneath the Crombie Building, each team received two compasses, a vacuum-packed mobile phone (only to be used in emergencies), a sigg bottle, two trangia stoves, poles and two tents. Two buses left school at about 10.00a.m.

When we arrived in the Mourne Mountains, half of the teams had to get off at Fofanny Dam, while the rest would continue on to somewhere else. Our team – Team D – got off at the first stop. After a quick

briefing from a few leaders, we set off. At first, the route was easy, walking single-file along a quiet road.

Then we reached a stile, where we climbed into a very marshy field. A few of us had forgotten to bring our gaiters, so ended up with mud-splattered trousers.

We stopped for lunch, perching on one of the only dry rocks in the whole area. After lunch, we continued on, feeling re-energised and ready to tackle whatever horrors might wait. The weather was cool and grey; perfect for walking. Our team was happy, and enjoying each other’s company. After another long stretch of walking, we turned right towards Ott Mountain – where the ground got less marshy again – climbed a wall and found ourselves meeting up with all of the other girls’ teams. After a few minutes’ break, we pulled on our heavy packs and started walking again. We found ourselves in Spelga Dam, infamous for its boggy, marshy ground. It was very hard to walk there as our feet kept sinking into the mud and water. We contoured round Slievenamiskan, above Spelga Pass. Then we went around Hen Mountain, until we reached Hen Track, where we found the campsite. We were the second team to arrive, and quickly split to get the tents up and dinner on.

As soon as the tents were up, we found a large rock to sit on and enjoyed our dinner, watching in amusement as other teams struggled with their various tasks. It was a really nice evening. Everyone was in good spirits after eating and catching up with each other. The weather was crisp but warm, and we all enjoyed sitting together, sharing sweets and stories. We were all in bed for 10.00p.m., exhausted after the first day. The ground was hard and bumpy, the tent was too warm, and there wasn’t enough room to sleep. Altogether, it wasn’t the best night’s sleep we’d ever had.

Day 2 The next day, we awoke at 7.00a.m., finding everything covered in a soft, early-morning dew.

Everyone was much more subdued, and wrapped up in their coats and jumpers. We ate breakfast quietly, before packing up our tents and splashing water on our face from the nearby river. After that, we had to do a litter-round; picking up all of the litter that was on the ground, even if we hadn’t dropped it. We set off early, following the same route as most of the other teams. This involved climbing across Rocky River, and then up the face of a steep, grass embankment. After that it was relatively straightforward; climbing up to the col between Rocky Mountain and Tornamrock, and then going down the other side. Once at the bottom, we stopped for lunch, and came to a forest.

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We walked for what seemed like days. Everyone was tired and looking forward to getting home, but still trying to keep each other upbeat. We had to stop and refill our water bottles from a river, which was very refreshing. We followed the route along the Ulster Way to Batt’s Wall, and then headed through Rostrevor Forest to Kilbroney Park car park. Seeing the first signs of civilisation after what felt like years in the forest made us all ecstatic. We were grinning broadly, walking as quickly as our aching feet could carry us towards Billy’s bus. We were one of the first to arrive, quickly dropping our packs in the trailer, and collapsing on the wall outside, where we could rest and cool down.

Once all the other teams were there, we ventured into the nearest town and got some good old fast food after a long, gruelling weekend. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award was one of the best things we’ve done. Our friendships have grown, and we now have many fond memories to look back on and laugh at. We have also developed many skills that will be useful for later life, such as navigating, cooking and helping others through tough patches. We enjoyed every second, even in the rain, and early morning, there was never a dull moment. We would encourage anyone to sign up to Duke of Ed: it will give you invaluable life experience, you will strike up new friendships and you will enjoy all of it!

Mary Cousins (IV), Hannah Edgar (IV), Monique Hipolito (IV), Natasha Kelly (IV), Cherie McDermott (IV), Lori McDermott (IV) and Victoria Stewart (IV)

SILVER AWARD FOOT QUALIFYING EXPEDITION 21st – 23rd JUNE, 2013 MOURNE MOUNTAINS The Duke of Edinburgh qualifying expedition began at 7.00a.m. on Friday, 21st June. Every team arrived at school for a general briefing and to collect all of our team equipment including the tents and trangias.

Our team consisted of Aidan Davison, Niall Gray, Philip Rowan, Adam Stronge, Sam Millar, Owen Kinnear and Matthew Gihon. Luckily, we couldn’t find any holes or faults with our tents, so this made the morning much easier.

Later, we all boarded the minibus at around 8.45a.m.

When we arrived in the Mournes, there were only a few clouds so the weather was on our side. The first day went rather smoothly. We knew from the outset it would be the hardest day walking, out of the three,

because of the heights that we had to climb.

Nevertheless, we got on with it, and took several breaks along the way to ‘break us into’ the long and steep walks. The only real negative was the number of midges. It was difficult to sit and eat without being swarmed, and the head-net and repellent weren’t much use, unfortunately. As the day went on, spirits were still high as we knew we were getting closer to our campsite. While we were climbing Slieve Donard, Matthew made the decision to leave because of knee pain. As we waited for assistance from the leaders, a thick mist descended, which made it almost impossible to see anything. We decided to eat our evening meal on the side of the mountain, so that we wouldn’t have to do it late in the night when we finally reached the campsite.

Despite the occasional showers, it worked out well in the long run. Our assessors were worried about the amount of mist, so one leader, Kevin, walked us to our campsite. Before we got to it, there was a steep descent that we had to face. This took quite a long time, and the rain didn’t make the slippery mud any easier. A few slips and falls later and we were finally at the campsite. Annoyingly, torrential rain came just as we were putting the tents up, so we all worked as fast as we could and went straight to bed. Having six in the team was quite convenient as it meant we could have three people in each tent.

Saturday morning came and I was pleased to have got a good night’s sleep. It appeared the feeling was mutual in the team, as certain members had a little trouble getting up on time. Most of us got up at 6.30a.m., but others had a lie-in to 7.00a.m. Everyone tried to have as big a breakfast as they could, to set them up for the day. We set off at 8.20a.m., twenty minutes behind schedule. Luckily, we made up time walking around Spelga Dam thanks to Philip trying to make the day go as much according to schedule as it could. After this, a steep climb brought us to a road, where we met up with Maurice and some other leaders. We talked for a little while, topped up our water and then set off again. Whilst walking along the road, we met up with our assessor. She suggested it would be safer to walk on the marshy grass beside the road. Although the terrain was much more difficult to walk on, we could see it was a safer choice. At around 12.00 noon we stopped for lunch. Everyone was dreading the next part of the walk. Deer’s meadow was renowned for marshy ground, and soaked boots were almost certain. Because of the heavy rainfall, the ground was even worse and we left the meadow with soaking boots.

This made the outlook and the rest of the expedition a little more depressing. The rest of the day went

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without any problems. We were walking at a great height for a long time, before joining a path that took us directly to the next campsite. The total day’s walk was longer, but we all agreed that it seemed a lot easier. This was probably mainly due to the good weather all day. It wasn’t a warm day, but there wasn’t much rain, so there was no complaining.

Before we knew it, we were at the campsite. After we put up both tents successfully, we began making dinner. Boil in the bags were popular, but definitely made everyone appreciate homemade food a lot more! Some leaders came to check up on us and shortly after our assessors arrived. They told us our third day would be the easiest, so we were all reassured. After a long chat, everyone was extremely tired, so we went to sleep at around 8.00p.m.

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Sunday morning came and morale was high. We followed the same routine as the previous day and set off. The weather didn’t look too bad, so we decided to stick to the original route. The whole day’s walk seemed to be uphill and on ground which was hard to walk on. However, the fact that we were getting takeaway food later that day motivated everyone to keep going. While walking on some marshy ground, Adam fell into an extremely deep puddle. It was basically an outdoor swimming pool. Everyone felt sorry for him because he was freezing. I think he was just glad he was going home at the end of the day. After allowing him time to get changed, we continued.

Before we knew it, we were at an evergreen forest.

We knew this meant we were near the end. The path led directly to the car park where the minibus was and honestly felt ten times longer than it probably was, but in the end, we got there. It was the only day we arrived on time, which I think shows well how our pace had improved. We were pleased to be told by our assessors we had passed the expedition. Everyone was so pleased, not just to have the achievement of passing, but to be getting hot food! We all stopped at Warrenpoint to get our take-aways. Back at school, we returned all of our team equipment. Luckily, my feet weren’t as painful the next day as I expected them to be.

I really enjoyed my time on the Silver Qualifying Expedition. The whole team got on really well and managed to make the experience much better for each other. The leaders were brilliant; they made the weekend go extremely smoothly. Overall, it was a truly worthwhile and memorable expedition. A weekend well spent!

Aidan Davison (V), Niall Gray (V), Philip Rowan (V), Adam Stronge (V), Sam Millar (V) and Owen Kinnear (V)

SILVER AWARD FOOT QUALIFYING EXPEDITION 23rd-25th AUGUST, 2013 MOURNE MOUNTAINS Day 1 We started the first day of our expedition at a car park on Trassey Road, all of us feeling excited and nervous. We got our rucksacks on, a team photograph taken and headed on our way along the track. It started off great; nice weather, flat land and a few examples of flowers for our project. We were pretty much on time when we arrived at the wall at Tollymore Forest Park.

The forest was fun at first and easy to walk through, but as the path got a little steeper we fell behind time.

Also in the forest the flies and midges were in their thousands, which wasn’t a pleasant experience. We had to have lunch at an earlier place than expected, but we carried on afterwards just as the sun began to peak through the trees, making it even hotter. We crossed the field and headed into Donard Wood. This was where the hardest part of the whole day started, but none of us were expecting it to happen. Walking beneath the trees was fine until it gradually started to get steeper. Walking through the forest didn’t seem to take all that much time and soon enough we were at the bottom of a rocky path following a river leading through to the col between Slieve Donard and Slieve Commedagh.

This was the worst part of the whole weekend for most of us. It had started to get cold and we could see that there was fog coming in. We started the climb, to find that we tired easily and had to take frequent short breaks the whole way up. What we thought was the hardest bit, however, was to be made even worse by the fog. We could only see within a 20ft. radius around us and, considering that we were on the side of the biggest mountain in the Mournes, this didn’t help matters.

The feeling when we reached the top of the col cannot be described with words; it was truly one of the best feelings we had all weekend (besides the end of the course). Bethan and Shannon were the main navigators, so they looked at their maps to find that on the next leg of our route there was a cliff, but we weren’t sure where and when we tried to follow the path, it disappeared into the grass. Scared, cold and tired, we decided to use the emergency phone to call for advice as to what to do. Kathleen, Bethan and Sophie went to find a place where there was service on the phone. When our supervisor, Mr Maurice Miller, answered he explained that if we followed the path very carefully we would be fine and that he

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would be with us in forty minutes. We trusted him and followed his advice carefully and as the fog began to lift, we could see the cliff and our surroundings and were able to make a guess about where we were. Not too much longer after that, Maurice found us and walked with us to our campsite, where we met our assessor, Joanna Clarke, who assured us that we had done the right thing and made us feel a whole lot better. That night we set up our tents fast and fell asleep almost instantly.

Day 2 Waking up on the Saturday morning was one of the most difficult things ever. When we finally got out of the tent, we tried to pack away the tent quickly while waiting for breakfast to cook. After a litter sweep, we left the campsite at nine o’clock, right on time. We walked down a rocky track and then followed a wall.

Stopping at a stile, we decided to take a team photo but before we got the chance Joanna appeared. Seeing her made our morning ten times better. We met Paul, a trainee assessor, for the first time then and both of them went over our route with us.

After Joanna and Paul left us, we kept walking until we got to Fofanny Dam, where we met Maurice, Shelley, Johnny, Paul and Joanna. They gave us a quick pep talk and told us they were going to cut a short bit of our route out because we were behind time. We went straight to the car park at Spelga Dam and stopped for lunch. Since there were public toilets there, everyone was happy to be reunited with a toilet.

We passed around Hello Kitty plasters which seemed to make everyone happy. Lunch went too quickly, though, and we had to leave again. Putting our rucksacks on after sitting down for so long was almost impossible.

slowly and stay with Joanna and Paul. After what seemed like forever, we got to our new campsite and started setting up the tents. None of us could wait to eat something warm. We were just sitting down to eat when another group showed up, so we all started talking. Our team was relieved to find out that we weren’t the only ones who had used the emergency phone.

After dinner, we all went into the tents and happily went to sleep again.

Day 3 The next morning came too quickly. Our tents were covered in flies and midges, and we had to put our head-nets on. Erin, Shannon and Sophie got their tent down and went down to the river to sit for a while before we had to leave. Bethan, Hollie and Kathleen refused to leave their tent because of all the flies that were outside! When they finally did get out, they packed their tent, and we left the campsite.

Our first part of the route was to walk through the middle of two mountains. We went surprisingly fast, and when we were walking down the other side, we saw a small person running down the hill opposite ours. Paul! We started laughing and shouting at him to pose for a picture, so he threw his arms out and we all took pictures. He reached us and told us he was going to get water from his car for us, so we’d walk together for a while. We reached the track at the bottom of the hill and he left to get the water. When he came back, he offered us chocolate and shortbread, and we all sat together and ate. It was really nice just to be able to relax. Joanna showed up as well and we went over our new route. It had been shortened again because of Hollie’s difficulties walking, and now we just had to follow a track down to Rostrevor.

We walked for a while and eventually came to a hill that we had to go down. Hollie’s feet were sore so Sophie joked saying they should just roll down the hill. Kathleen, Hollie, Bethan and Erin took this seriously. Bethan tried to roll down but she didn’t get very far and instead decided to drag her rucksack down. Hollie and Erin tried to slide down with their rucksacks on their backs and, surprisingly, it was faster than when they were just walking. Kathleen put her rucksack down and sat on it, sliding down the hill.

Even though we were all being silly, it brightened our day and made us much happier.

We walked slowly, but then Hollie tried really hard to be brave and ignore the pain, so we could walk faster. Joanna and Paul met us again and we said goodbye to Paul, since it would be the last time we’d see him. It was sad to say goodbye because he’d helped us so much. We left them and kept walking, excited to be near the end. Joanna met us when we were about half an hour away from finishing. This was when she’d tell us whether we’d passed or failed, so we were all pretty nervous to see her. She let us stop, and we all sat down together off the track.

We met Maurice, Paul and Joanna again and they took us to our campsite. Since there were other people there, Maurice decided to take us further away to a different campsite. Sophie and Shannon were told to follow him, while the others could go a little more

Thankfully, she told us that we had done very well and that we passed. Then, she pulled out a box of Celebrations. She let each of us take two, and she told us that we could only eat one. We had to give the other one to someone to whom we wanted to say

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thank you to for helping us throughout the weekend, but we had to do it secretly.

Coming to the end of our expedition, we were all really tired but also very proud of ourselves. Sitting in the minibus, being able to say that we had finished and passed our Silver Qualifying Expedition was one of the best feelings ever.

Shannon Venus (V), Sophie Rood (V), Erin Campbell (V), Hollie Tracey (V), Bethan Watt (V) and Kathleen Reilly (V)

SILVER AWARD CANOE QUALIFYING EXPEDITION 4th-6th AUGUST, 2013 LOUGH ERNE I’ll never forget waking up at six o’clock to haul myself into a canoe. Our expedition was during the summer and none of us was used to the early mornings. Having taken down our tents, we ventured down Lough Erne, stopping at various points along the way, such as Lakeland Forum in Enniskillen, to investigate tourism on the Lough.

When morale was low and nobody wanted to paddle, someone would often start singing a song and, before you knew it, the whole group was chanting. I feel that this brought us closer together as friends and helped to unite us as a team.

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Unfortunately, a member of the other team had to drop out due to injury and this meant that Martha, a valuable member of our team, volunteered to join the other team. Having lost Martha, three of us were now bundled into the one canoe, not giving a lot of room for the barrels which had to be tied in. This meant our team of six dwindled to a mere five.

Throughout the three-day period, we travelled approximately 52.5km., averaging at about 17.5km. a day. It was a tough period of time and towards the end, the whole team was exhausted. However, the whole experience allowed us to see some beautiful, captivating views as well as helping us to develop our people and teamwork skills.

As time progressed, the team got more and more tired and complaining became regular. However, we fought through and eventually crossed that finish line and, of course, I’d never forget that glorious postDuke of Ed. shower.

Michael Calderwood (V), Timmy Robinson (V), Rhys McKendry (V), Luke Auterson (V), John Miller (V) and Martha Gordon (V)

GOLD AWARD FOOT QUALIFYING EXPEDITION 1st-4th AUGUST, 2013 FORT WILLIAM/GLENCOE AREA, SCOTLAND On Wednesday, 31st July, our team turned up at BRA for the last of our Duke of Edinburgh expeditions. By now we knew the drill of getting equipment from under the Crombie Building and packing it up. After a brief pep talk from Mr Reilly, the minibus containing our team of six, with our five instructors set off down the Cliftonville Road. First stop was the Belfast dock; we drove onto the ferry and parked up.

As we sailed out of Belfast Lough, we were excited to be going on an adventure, if a little nervous at the prospect of hiking through the Scottish Highlands. On disembarking the ferry, we faced a four-hour drive.

We stopped off in Fortwilliam to get fish and chips for tea and we also met our assessor, Doug. After our meal we headed to Glencoe to set up camp.

We were up bright and early the next morning to pack our tents and give us enough time to drive to Fortwilliam. On arrival, we went to Morrison’s to get some hot food for breakfast and we were lucky enough to see the steam train used in the Harry Potter films. Our expedition began at 10.00a.m. For most of the day we walked through Leanachan Forest.

Walking in the forest had its pros and cons. The trees sheltered us from the persistent rain; however, we were eaten alive by insects! Our first difficulty was The Cour River. The route brought us to a fork in the river which offered no way of crossing this wide and fast flowing section of water. Instead, we had to cross one of the forks via a footbridge and walk along the second fork until we reached another footbridge allowing us to cross the river. It didn’t take us long to find our original route. We walked through the forest until approximately 6.30p.m.

We met our leaders near “the wee minister” and they followed us up to the bothy. Although this was not a very long leg, looking back I found this the hardest part of our expedition for a number of reasons. Our total distance was 20km. so we were physically exhausted. I think we were shell-shocked at the prospect of having to carry our painfully heavy rucksacks for another three days. We trudged on, team morale hit rock bottom and it was pouring. We continued along the path for what seemed like a lifetime, just waiting to stumble across the bothy that marked our campsite. Throughout the whole expedition this was the closest I felt to dropping out.

Eventually, we arrived at the bothy. Never in my life have I been so pleased to see a rundown cottage. Our

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instructors had lit a small fire for us and we raced to set our tents up beside the bothy. Our assessor, Doug, arrived while we were setting up camp to check that we had all made it - exhausted and a little emotional we were all alive! Although we had to camp outside, we were allowed to spend the evening in the bothy.

After our awful evening it felt like we had won the jackpot: small fire and a dry shelter! As we sat in the bothy and reflected on the day, I think it hit us for the first time that we were in for a rough couple of days.

Previous expeditions had never caused us that much bother. Getting through Gold was going to take some serious work.

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We woke up the next day feeling slightly better and it had stopped raining. The first part of our route involved following a river called Allt na Lairigre. I really enjoyed our walk on Friday, as the scenery was beautiful and the river made it very easy to navigate in the morning. At approximately 10 o’clock we came to a lake. At this lake we had to turn right and we left our well-defined path to follow another deep into the Highlands. We passed a sign warning us about how remote the area that we were entering was. We stopped for a quick lunch break and soon after our instructors caught up with us. We had a quick chat before they overtook us and told us they’d see us at another bothy. The weather was relatively pleasant and this was an enjoyable part of the route. It was decided to have an extended break in the bothy, to allow us to investigate it and to get photos for our projects. We only had another 5-6km. before we reached our campsite, so spirits were high as we set off from the bothy. We caught sight of Blackwater Reservoir and knew that our campsite was approaching. Finally, after hiking a total of 16.7 km., we reached our campsite. Due to the rain, it was very marshy which made it difficult to peg our tents down.

Trangias were put on the boil and soon we were all fed and tucked up in our sleeping bags.

The next morning was horrendous! It had started raining again and the marsh had proved too slippery for our pegs. We gloomily packed up our wet tents and put on our waterproofs. The wind was howling and the skies were grey. There wasn’t a break in the clouds. We guessed it would rain all day and it did.

Saturday should have been our easiest day: we had a pipeline to follow and it was only 15km., but the rain made us miserable. The pipeline brought us around and we passed the town of Kinlochleven. The pipe led us to a dam at the end of Loch Eilde Mòr. After the dam we crossed a small stream, Allt Seileach, before finding a path that would lead us along the side of this loch. It was on the banks of this loch that we huddled together in the ceaseless rain to eat lunch. We didn’t sit for long as it was freezing. The path led us past Locheilt Lodge and along the edge of Loch Eilde

Beag. We reached our campsite at 3.15p.m. We were camping at an old derelict house beside the Abhainn Rath River. We spotted another bothy on the other side of the river. Our assessor arrived while we were putting up the tents; he brought us some much appreciated sweets and soon after our instructors also arrived. Dinner was a quick affair due to the rain and wind. We were all in our tents by 8.00p.m and asleep by 8.30p.m (the early night did us a world of good).

Waking up the next morning, the end was in sight.

Our route followed the Water of Nevis and involved crossing many fords and then the actual river itself.

This proved rather difficult due to the previous day’s heavy rain. We gave up looking for fords and ended up stepping through the small rivers. The main river also gave us some trouble; our route crossed the river.

However, we couldn’t find a safe way to get across.

Instead, we stayed and continued to follow the river until we found a footbridge. Happy to be back on our original route, we followed the river and clambered through the over-flowing fords. We met Maurice and Doug. They brought us energy drinks to help us blast through our final legs. We stopped for lunch in a car park. From here on our route was relatively simple.

We followed a small road until we reached the corner of Nevis forest. We trekked the 6km. through the forest and in no time we reached Fortwilliam, which marked the end of our Gold Qualifying Expedition.

We took photographs and had a talk with our assessor who told us that we had passed! Shoulders were throbbing and legs were aching, but the relief of having survived the expedition was overwhelming.

On Mr Reilly’s wall is a D.of E. sign, it says “Take the challenge”. Challenge taken!

Leah Baillie (MVI), Alice Kavanagh (MVI), Emma Gray (MVI), Elizabeth Sinclair (MVI), Alex McGovern (MVI), Amy Wilson (MVI)

GOLD AWARD CANOE QUALIFYING EXPEDITION 7th-10th AUGUST, 2013 LOUGH ERNE The Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Canoe Qualifying team in 2013 was great to be a part of; it was very challenging, but was also a great deal of fun. There were some great weather conditions and then there were some awful conditions, especially on Day 2 of the expedition where we had to raft up the two boats with a paddle and a log we found on the bank of the Lough. The water was crashing in the boats faster than we could bail it out: we had great trouble that

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day, but in the end we still succeeded. Overall, the whole experience was something you could never forget and we would hope to do it again in the future.

Oliver McGowan (MVI), Calvin Lawrence (MVI), Ben Nixon (MVI), Rebecca Rowan (MVI) and Philip Simon (MVI)

BRONZE AWARD VOLUNTEERING THE DONKEY SANCTUARY, BELFAST I volunteered at The Donkey Sanctuary, Belfast for six months for my Duke of Edinburgh’s Bronze Award. I attended the sanctuary every Saturday morning for three hours. I really enjoyed my time at The Donkey Sanctuary as I got to work with donkeys and other animals. I had to clean up the yard when I got there, with the help of another volunteer and a leader. After that was done I got the donkeys’ straw and hay from the barn and then mucked out the sand paddock with another volunteer. We then had a break at about half-eleven in the staff room and we would show the visitors around the centre. The centre is a place where children with learning disabilities go to get rides in the cart from one of the donkeys. The sanctuary also hosts regular fairs, so it was always good to help at them and meet some new people. I would definitely recommend volunteering at The Donkey Sanctuary, as it was fun and the members of staff were really nice.

Daniel Allen (IV)

SKILLS SECTION PLAYING THE VIOLIN The Skills section is a very important part of The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, as it helps you develop new skills, build new interests and improve old skills.

For my Skills section I take weekly violin lessons with a teacher outside of school. These lessons are helping me improve my own musical skills and are also giving me new opportunities within school and outside of school. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Skills section will hold me in good stead for the future.

Cameron Gergett (V) PHYSICAL SECTION WOMEN’S RUGBY For my Gold Physical section, I play girls’ rugby (full contact) for Malone Ladies at Malone RFC. I’ve been

playing there for about a year and a half now and since I was doing it anyway, I thought I should just use it for my Physical section. We train every Wednesday evening and Sunday afternoon. We used to play frequent friendly matches against Bangor Girls’ team and Belfast Harlequins Girls’ team, but recently Ulster got in contact and we’ve had the opportunity to take part in training with their coaches in the RDS (Regional Development Squad). The sessions led to a match against the West of Ulster, and then Ulster select people to play for their Girls’ youth team which has been the case on two occasions, but the selection has not happened, as of yet. We also had the chance to play at Ravenhill at half-time last summer which was amazing! It helped in taking nerves away because since then we haven’t been scared to play. The atmosphere is always fabulous and now our team has many more opportunities than ever.

We wouldn’t be anywhere without our coaches who do so much to support Girls’ rugby!

Alex McGovern (MVI)

GOLD AWARD RESIDENTIAL SECTION 23rd-28th AUGUST, 2013 WORKING AT THE SHARE DISCOVERY VILLAGE To achieve The Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award, you have to complete five different sections: the Physical, Skills and Volunteering sections, the fourday Expedition and the Residential section. The Residential section is exclusive to Gold Award.

In the Residential section, you spend five days away from home taking part in an activity, whether it is helping others or the environment, getting active or learning something new with people you don’t know.

However, you are allowed to participate in the Residential section with a maximum of two friends.

Therefore, for my Gold Residential I went to the Share Discovery Village, near Lisnaskea in County Fermanagh with my friends, Leah Baillie and Sophie Daniels.

We stayed in the Village from 23rd to 28th August, 2013. During our stay our main role was to help out with the running of a summer camp for Autistic Children. After an Autism Awareness course, I joined a team of about twenty volunteers and was ready for the five days ahead.

On the first day of my Gold Residential, I was paired with a very shy six year-old girl who had a serious degree of autism, which meant that she could not

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speak yet. At first, this made communication quite difficult, but as time went on I formed a bond with her and we began to understand each other.

Throughout the week my role was to ensure the safety of the little girl, to encourage her to experience as many new activities as possible, such as in music therapy and swimming lessons, and to make sure she was enjoying herself. I found this to be an extremely rewarding experience. A moment I will never forget is when a six year old boy who had never spoken before said his first word during one of the swimming classes. This gave all of us a great sense of achievement and made me feel very proud of the boy.

very sunny afternoon was rounded off with a welcome picnic in the park.

Additionally, I thought that the Gold Residential provided me with a great opportunity to meet many new and interesting people and, by the end of the five days, all the volunteers and I became friends and we are still keeping in touch. My time at the Share Discovery Village has developed my communication, leadership and interpersonal skills and, most importantly, allowed me to help a child build up her confidence, make new friends and just have a lot of fun!

FOTA and the School greatly appreciate the support for their fund-raising initiatives which have allowed these projects to be funded.

FOTA supported various school events through the year, providing refreshments at musical events, plays, carol services and on a number of open days.

Money raised this year has gone to: Prizes for Merit Awards Buses for Form Trips Sports Equipment for Ben Madigan Support for the Hockey Club Hire of a Marquee for the Sponsored Walk.

Looking forward to another busy year in 20132014!

Liz Gregg Secretary, Friends of the Academy lizgregg2@googlemail.com

Emma Gray (MVI)

Friends Of The Academy (FOTA)

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GEOGRAPHY FIELDWORK

Friends of the Academy have had another busy year both in terms of fund-raising and supporting school events. The annual Supper Dance in March, held in the Stormont Hotel, was a really enjoyable night which began with relaxing music from the School’s String Quartet and continued with fine food and dancing into the wee hours. It was well supported and raised a considerable amount which will go towards various school activities. The success of previous quiz nights led to a move to Fortwilliam Golf Club for a table quiz in April. The larger venue allowed for more teams and a very good night was had, ably compered by Dr Brown and Mr Shields who produced some fiendish questions!

A number of uniform sales held through the year proved popular with parents especially those whose sons or daughters had “misplaced” items of uniform or games kit.

In September, a group of staff, parents and pupils once again cleaned up Cavehill Country Park along with volunteers from the Cavehill Conservation group. This has now become an annual get-together which combines some very worthwhile work with an opportunity to enjoy the beautiful surroundings. A

FORM I GEOGRAPHY AND WEATHER On the 18th September 2013 my Geography class went to different parts of the school grounds to measure the temperature and the wind speed in the playground. My group, including Charlotte and Una, measured between the Sports Hall and the Wingfield Drama Studio.

We used a special type of recording instrument that could measure wind speed, as well as temperature.

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We each took turns measuring the temperature and wind speed – it was quite exciting because we kept getting different figures. Eventually, we decided to take the average of all of the readings. We went back to class and recorded our findings.

Caleb Tennyson (I)

insight into the attitudes of people in the city towards migration and migrants in particular.

We questioned 15 – 16 people each and therefore had over 300 results, per class, to analyse and from which to draw conclusions.

FORM II GEOGRAPHY FIELD TRIP TO HOLYWOOD

Geographers (IV)

We took a bus to the Holywood Coast to view the erosion in the coastal area, and drew sketches of the five main coastal defence units that we studied in class. The main defence units were: the Rip-Rap, which are large basalt boulders; the gabions, which are wire mesh cages of small basalt rocks; the sloping seawall; the curved-lip seawall and the beach.

In each group, we needed equipment consisting of an empty milk carton and aluminium tin. When we arrived at the beach, we took readings of how much time the water took to infiltrate into the sand. We did this at the upper, middle and lower areas of the beach.

It was a fascinating trip but sadly Mother Nature’s rain let us down.

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Tia Parker and Molly Brown (II)

FORM IV GEOGRAPHY TRIP TO BELFAST CITY CENTRE On Thursday 20th June 2013, Form IV geography pupils collected data for their Controlled Assessment task in the centre of Belfast. The subject was migration in Belfast and we asked members of the public some questions about this topic to gain an

LOWER VI GEOGRAPHY FIELDWORK – URBAN HEAT ISLAND We planned our fieldwork in the classroom a week or so before the trip. We set out on the morning of Friday 1st March 2013. The weather was cold but pleasant.

Our goal was to take various readings from 12 locations all over Belfast, ranging from Carryduff (9000m from the City Hall), all the way to Roughfort

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(13000m from the City Hall in the opposite direction from Carryduff).

At each location we had to get out of the bus and record temperature, humidity, average wind-speed and the highest gust. The Digital Weather Recorder Instrument noted all of these features. This data will be used to answer the Skills section of the AS examination.

Geographers (LVI)

curriculum we offer. Some of the Danish teachers spoke with the classes they observed and fed back how our education system differed greatly from that of Denmark’s.

In February a delegation of Headmasters from Shanghai came for a three-day visit. During their visit they sampled our food and experienced the full range of activities BRA has to offer, from Games at Roughfort to a PE class. The majority of their visit was used to examine how our school is so successful at what it does. The Headmasters met with Mr Dickson and Mr Creighton, and they visited Ben Madigan to sample how the Preparatory Department differs from primary schools in China.

In June and July the school hosted visits from the ‘People to People’ project. This project was set up post World War II to break down barriers between the UK and US. Young Americans have to earn a place on the project by writing essays and attending interviews. The delegates visit school during which they see a short presentation on NI and the School.

We would like to thank Dr Lomas for her continued support and co-ordination of many of the international visits to the School.

MIDDLE VI TRIP TO DUNDRUM BAY P.D.

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On 9th September 2013, the MVI Geography students set off for a field trip to Murlough Bay and Newcastle, Co. Down. We studied the different coastal defence systems along the beach stopping to draw sketches and take pictures along the way. We observed sea walls, gabions and railway sleepers which protect ‘Royal Co. Down Golf Course’ from sea erosion. In Newcastle itself, we asked local people and tourists to take part in a survey about tourism in Newcastle. We found that the majority of the people came on day trips to the town and were very willing to answer our questions.

Overall, the field trip day was a success as we collected valuable first-hand information and got to see the coastal defences we had previously studied in class.

Rebecca Cooper and Sarah Bingham (MVI)

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY SCHOOLS’ PROGRAMME NI Once again, ten LVI pupils collaborated with boys from De La Salle College to take part in the Habitat for Humanity N.I. Schools’ Programme. The group of girls thoroughly enjoyed the project which consists of two days of workshops fostering cross-community co-operation and examining the global issue of poverty and a further day spent carrying out volunteer work. This year, the pupils were involved in the renovation of a Simon Community shelter in Downpatrick. Accompanied by Mr Buchan, they completed a hard day’s work and learned about the significance of the Charity’s work in Ireland.

Throughout the year, the girls also met their fundraising target of £1,250 for a Habitat for Humanity Building Project abroad.

T.M.B.

INTERNATIONAL VISITS TO SCHOOL INIS CEIAG EVENT The school hosted a number of ‘one day’ visits in 2012/13, beginning with Swedish Teachers visiting in early October 2012. In November we hosted some Danish teachers who experienced a broad range of the

A group from the INIS Hydro-Project (Scotland) visited the Academy on the 30th January 2013. A workshop, which highlighted the findings of recent

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hydrographical sea bed mapping surveys, was attended by over 60 Lower Sixth Geography and Biology students. Through discussion and problemsolving, the pupils gained a fantastic insight into the different careers brought together by such a project and were given an opportunity to discuss real career options with professionals currently in the field.

Careers explored included areas such as funding procurement, Marine Science, Hydrography as well as the inclusion of core skills like I.T. The project also highlighted how this pioneering work is producing some of the most detailed sea bed maps ever seen.

Thank you to Claire Smalley from the Scottish Marine Institute and her colleagues for visiting the Academy.

The Geography and Biology Departments

JUNIOR BOOK CLUB The Junior Book Club met every Thursday at lunch time in the library. Pupils from Forms I to III came along and took part in various book related activities.

Members of the Book Club developed their love of reading by taking part in the 2012/13 Northern Ireland Book Award. Wednesday 25th October saw the 2013 book awards off to a flying start at RBAI. The Junior Book Club joined with 32 other schools to discover the eight titles that had made the shortlist.

The pupils also had the opportunity to meet Joe Craig, author of the Jimmy Coates series and have their books signed by him. Budding actors were encouraged by drama facilitator Stephen Beggs and had the opportunity to be contestants in a quiz show where pupils took on Librarians. With no cheating at all, and an absolutely unbiased Question master, it was no surprise when the pupils won and it was chocolate eyeballs all round for the brave contestants.

The Junior Book Club also enjoyed taking part in a creative writing competition as part of the Northern Ireland Book Award. This competition was organised

by David Torrans, owner of No Alibis, the last surviving independent bookshop in Northern Ireland.

The Junior Book Club also took part in many other events throughout the year including quizzes and writing book reviews for the School Library.

E.M.A.

MALAWI Extracts from the diaries and memories…

A day at the rural health clinic…

Today I was lucky enough to go and see one of the Mulanje Mission outreach clinics. We travelled in the ambulance with two nurses to a very remote village and as we arrived we could see the women with their young children gathering. One nurse began with a prayer and then everyone sang a short song together; this was a way to teach these women about basic healthcare. The clinic was divided into four rooms: family planning, baby weighing, vaccinations and HIV screening. It was pleasing to see how these clinics could help women and children who could not make it to a hospital.

Olivia Poh (LVI)

A day in the hospital…

Being in the hospital has been tough these last two days, today in particular. We met a junior doctor from England named Chris and he told us since the hospital lacked resources, it was sometimes difficult to fully diagnose and treat the illnesses presented by patients.

The hardest part of today was seeing an 860g baby in the anti-natal ward being cared for in a make-shift incubator. It didn’t look good for the baby, but if it were born in N.I. it would have had a much better chance and I don’t think I’ll ever forget that.

Ryan Wallace (LVI)

Throughout the year pupils read from the short-listed titles and nominated their favourite book. Their nomination, alongside the nominations of the other 32 participating schools, helped ensure Wonder by R. J. Palacio won the 2013 award. Book Club pupils had found this book to be a truly original, amusing, and touching story which appealed to all. Pupils attended the Grand Finale on the 20th March at Bangor Grammar School, braving the absolute worst of last year’s weather. However, grey skies and freezing cold temperatures with the centre of the province snowed-in, did not prevent the Junior Book Club making their way to the Grand Finale.

Overall Experience…

I loved my time in Malawi. I made many new friends and lots of memories. One of my favourite memories was in the primary school. I had finished teaching my lesson early so I started blowing the bubbles that I had brought with me and the children’s faces lit up with excitement. I came across a child in a wheelchair; he was all slouched over and he looked so sad. So I let him blow the bubble wand, which made him so happy.

Chloe Jeffery (LVI)

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Malawi 2013 was an unbelievable, yet challenging experience, which I will never forget. After a year of fundraising and preparation it was incredible to finally get out there and see first-hand the way of life in Africa. I definitely could not have done it without the amazing group of people who made up the Malawi team of 2013. One of my highlights has to be going to Nancy’s Dream Restaurant, it was inspiring meeting Nancy and her husband David who spoke to us about their lives and encouraged us to follow our dreams. That will stay with me forever.

Katy Linden (LVI)

Concert…

Today was our big concert in the church. We put on lots of different performances including group singing, traditional music, hip hop dancing, Irish dancing, dramas, gymnastics and many more. In between the acts, the Malawian kids also performed. The kids loved all the acts, but talked through the singing which felt weird to us, but was obviously just part of their culture. Overall, it was a huge success. I love that music is such a huge part of team Malawi this year.

P.E lesson…

Today we had the opportunity to teach P.E. in the primary school. At times the language barrier made communication difficult; however, the children’s enthusiasm and willingness to participate made the unique experience so enjoyable. On reflection of today we found that activities that allowed everyone to participate were such simple classics as the hokey cokey and the conga line – these worked the best.

Beth Moss and Holly Reid (LVI)

Apatsa…

Today I was teaching music in Apatsa Private Primary School. I decided to teach them Babethandeza, a favourite of mine from Junior Choir. As I entered the room, I noticed a girl who I recognised from the concert. We sang with various actions and clapping rhythms. The girl had brought me a carved wooden plaque of Africa; I was so touched and felt it hard to keep the tears at bay. As I left I could hear a chorus of Babethandeza. I felt overwhelmed as I knew we had shared something special that really impacted the lives of others.

Erin McCullough (LVI)

Sarah Minford (LVI)

Football match…

Home Visit…

It hasn’t sunk in that I’m in Malawi, such a surreal experience. All the team were excited for the football and netball match. We played on a large pitch littered with potholes and the grass was scarce. Without a doubt it was the most physically draining match I have played! None of the opposition wore shoes, which was sad to see. We lost 4-3, pretty devastated, as no BRA team has ever beaten the Malawians. After, we gave our donated tops to our opposition and they were so grateful for a top which meant so little to us.

Today was a day I’ll never forget; the day when we went on our home visits. Koudwaui (Happy) and I set off on a 30 minute walk. On arrival I was greeted by a relative of Happy who welcomed me into their home. I was speechless. Their home consisted of four bricked walls, no windows, no sink or toilet, just a bed and some clothes on the floor; but they were both so content. For an hour we chatted, laughed and got to learn a lot about each other until it was time to say our goodbyes. As I was leaving I gave him a wind up torch and he insisted I took a bag of oranges, I felt so grateful. I’ll always remember the day I met Koudwaui!

Conor Magee (LVI)

Secondary School…

Today was my first day in the secondary school.

Having never experienced any form of teaching before, my nerves were through the roof, right up until I walked through the classroom doors. The lesson was Chemistry, not my strong point, but with the interest to learn, shown by the Malawian children, the lesson was a joy to teach. My little knowledge of Chemistry ran out a few minutes before the lesson was due to end, so we decided to play a singing and dancing game which the Malawian pupils turned into the most beautiful rhythmic tune I have ever heard. I left the classroom in amazement and ready to take on all the teaching I could!

Anna McMillan (LVI)

Clodagh Corry (LVI) Likuni Phala…

This morning we arrived at Likuni Phala and started straight into work at the factory which was extremely clean, well-kept, but very compact. Firstly, we began sieving soya beans and maize into buckets resulting in a stone of bug-free beans! Then we all entered the dreaded roasting room where we roasted the beans and picked out the burnt ones. The ground soya beans and maize were packed into 50kg bags and we sealed them using a candle – their sealing machine was broken! Overall, the experience was extremely challenging, yet rewarding, and I have gained a great

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insight into the nature of micro-economics and the challenges of business development at Mulanje Mission and in developing countries in general.

4.

The Football Match – BRA vs. Mulanje Mission football team. I was told before we started the match that BRA had never beaten the Mulanje team since the partnership began and we had to take the match “very seriously”. With this in mind, stakes were running high which resulted in a lot of bruises and cuts from tackles on both sides (they didn’t seem to care that I was a girl!).

In the end we sadly lost 4-3 but it was such great fun and I made a really good friend from the other team, Reuben who still messages me everyday with reasons why I should support Man United over Fulham (no chance).

5.

Ken’s Hotel – we visited a new and up-coming hotel on day six and were told if we entertained the guests with Irish traditional music there was a chance that our dinner would be provided in exchange. Easy! We managed to get the guests to join us in a ceili dance as Erin, Aoife, Dan, Chris and I played some ‘tred’ before dinner. This proceeded into a big conga line dance of about 80 people, sing-song to ‘Ireland’s call’ (with special solos

by Mr Creighton and Mr Baldwin) a huge group hug at the end. Brilliant night all round!

6.

Nancy’s Dream Restaurant – Nancy is a former manager of the Likubula House (the place we were staying). She had a dream to set up her own restaurant with her husband. This dream came true two years ago when her husband built a restaurant and she employed two widows to help her in the kitchen. Nancy made us the most delicious home-cooked pizzas which we ate as we watched the sun set over Mulanje Mountain - it was perfect. After dinner she gave us a speech I will never forget; she told us of the amazing work she does for the community in Mulanje and inspired us with statements like “dreams are an invitation into the future”, urging us to make the most of life and show love to our neighbour.

Anna Hutchinson (LVI) Safari…

Yesterday morning we set off on a five-hour journey to Mvuu and as we arrived we were immediately shocked with how poor this area was; the kids were coming up to the bus asking for bottles, as they had literally nothing. Once we arrived at the park, we got our tents up and then got ready for the day safari. We saw antelope, warthog, mongoose and birds, but best of all we saw wild elephant and hippos. We slept under the stars and that was an incredible experience.

This morning we were up at 4.30am to see the sunrise at the start of the boat safari; such a contrast to see such beautiful scenes right alongside such poverty. I was sad when we had to leave and move on with our journey.

Gavin Gilfillan (LVI)

My top 10 favourite Malawi memories: 1.

Teaching in the Nursery – the kids were aged 3-5 years and so enthusiastic to learn! We taught them the alphabet, numbers 1-10 and finger-painted with them. We also taught them a new song (Twinkle Twinkle) and had lots of fun dancing, playing with bubbles and playing Duck, Duck, Goose!

2.

Shooting stars – on the second night the whole team got together to do some star gazing after lesson planning, as the night sky was seriously beautiful in Mulanje. To our delight we saw two shooting stars! I will never forget it.

3.

Singing in School Assembly – every morning pupils from both the primary and secondary school gather for assembly in this huge open space behind the classrooms to sing the national anthem together and read a prayer before school. But as we were joining them for the first time, Dr. Currie asked me if I would sing a song to thank them for having us. It was very nerve-racking as there were over 300 students present but they gave me the warmest welcome and clapped and danced along with me, which was really lovely. This was the first time I had met the pupils. I remember feeling so overwhelmed by their friendliness and couldn’t wait to start work experience in the primary school!

7.

Feeding Programme – we went early to the school one morning to help serve porridge to over a thousand pupils in just one hour. For most, this is the only meal they will get for the day and some don’t even get fed as there isn’t enough time before school. The eight mothers, who voluntarily get up at 6am every morning to serve the porridge, were delighted we were helping as it can be very difficult for them.

This was one of my favourite memories because I felt like we were making a real difference. We got the pupils into orderly queues, had a washing and serving rota, and this meant every child got fed that day.

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8.

9.

10.

Home Visit – I was paired with a girl named Lucy who was 14 years old. She was so easy to get on with and told me all about how she wants to be a nurse and go to university. I met her family and she showed me her house and where she plays. I have never seen someone so happy as when I presented her with a gift.

She threw her arms round me and couldn’t stop smiling. The whole family taught me a game played with a small ball made out of plastic and Lucy showed me how to use her skipping rope made of reeds. It was a really lovely experience.

Apatsa Orphanage – I brought my mandolin and a bongo drum and got to teach the children some songs with actions. They have a great passion for singing and dancing and it was a privilege to work with such talented people.

This was one of my happiest memories of the trip!

and won a Bronze medal for the quality of his answers.

This year’s team competitions built on last year’s strong showing. The Senior team consisting of Stephen Bailie, Tom Hanna, Chris Turnbull and Rosalind Ware came fourth in the NI regional finals and also competed in The Queen’s University Maths competition. The Junior team, consisting of Andrew Milligan, Richard Ware, Lui Hurson and Daniel Quigley, produced a brilliant performance to win the regional final and went on to represent Northern Ireland at the national final in London. These competitions require a considerable standard of mathematics, effective team-work and a large number of training sessions. The commitment and successes of these teams is of great credit to them.

S.C.S.

Safari – we got to see elephants, hippos, crocodiles and buffaloes – it was so cool! The elephants were 200 yards from our camp site that night (not so cool!). There were stunning views and scenery on the boat trip the next morning which was a great way to finish the trip.

Faye Kidd (LVI)

MATHEMATICS COMPETITIONS

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Participation in extra-curricular maths in BRA continues to grow. Hundreds of pupils once again took part in the UK Maths Trust’s individual and team challenges. In individual competitions the School continued to gain an impressive number of awards with five students qualifying for the prestigious further rounds.

At Senior level, pupils achieved four Gold, ten Silver and Eleven bronze awards. Chris Turnbull and Tom Hanna went on to compete in the first and also second round of the British Maths Olympiad.

At Intermediate level, pupils achieved five Gold, fourteen Silver and nineteen Bronze awards.

Ruairi Hurson qualified for the next round of the competition.

At Junior level, pupils achieved six Gold, twelve Silver and thirteen Bronze awards. Megan Carson and Daniel Quigley qualified for the Junior Maths Olympiad in which Daniel received a distinction (placing him in the top three hundred in the UK)

PARIS EASTER 2013 27th March 2013: Day One We arrived at the airport at 6:45 and got into our groups. There were three groups, Team Carolan, Team McCoy and Team Springer. We were in Team Carolan. We boarded our Easy Jet plane, left on time and arrived in Southend airport. After collecting our bags, we got on our luxurious coach and met our bus driver, Dave. He was from London. We drove to Folkestone and boarded the Euro tunnel. We thought it was very cool and exciting that we were on the sea bed under water. Our ears started to pop because we were so deep and under high pressure. It only took half an hour to get to our destination – Calais. It was a long six-hour coach drive to the Flunch in the centre of Paris. This is where we ate dinner every night.

After a long packed day, and another 45 minute drive, we arrived at our lovely Disneyland hotel called the Kyriad. We were all so excited. Our rooms were lovely. We were all exhausted, but excited for the next day.

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28th March 2013: Day Two After a great breakfast we headed to Versailles. It was really packed. Mr McCoy told us some interesting facts about Versailles and the Gardens of Versailles.

We went for a walk around the gardens and saw some amazingly shaped bushes. We ordered crepes (in French!). Mr McCoy showed us different houses in the Gardens. Next, we had some free time in the huge shopping mall. We loved looking in the shops especially the Apple Store and Sephora. From there we drove to Notre Dame. Dr Springer had a bad experience when he got locked in the toilet by a mad French cleaner lady. He was locked in for 45 minutes with an American and Spanish lady, neither of whom could speak French. When Dr Springer finally escaped from the toilet we went into the Cathedral. We went to the Flunch for dinner. We were back in our hotel for 8:45pm. After a long day, we went to sleep early.

29th March 2013: Day Three We set off to The Eiffel Tower. Luckily, we didn’t have to wait in the long queue because we booked group tickets weeks in advance. Most of us went to the top. It was really high. The views were spectacular. We all got a bit scared when we got to the very top and looked over the edge. It was a lovely clear day. A few of us walked down the steps; it took a long time but we felt happy that we had walked the whole way down The Eiffel Tower.

We went to The Latin Quarter where we were given free time to eat lunch and shop. Some people tried traditional French food, for example frogs’ legs and snails. Most people went to McDonald’s. The coach arrived to take us to Montmartre. We walked up the steep steps being very cautious of pick pockets. We watched a man in a wheel chair make very cute key rings. He used fluffy pipe cleaners and plastic shapes to form colourful dogs. We walked around the corner to the Artists’ Square. We all got funny caricatures.

We loved comparing each other’s. After walking down the Montmartre steps, we got the coach to the Flunch. After a good feed we went back to the hotel.

We got ready to go out again. We spent our evening in The Disney Village. It was lovely. The shops were huge. We all bought presents, played in our rooms and then went to bed.

30th March 2013: Day Four We got up early, got ready, got breakfast and headed out to the Louvre, home of some excellent art including the Mona Lisa. Mr McCoy showed us around and told us about some other older paintings.

We loved the design of The Louvre. It was very big and clean.

We walked to the Champs-Elysées, where we ate lunch and went shopping. Afterwards we went to the

Arc de Triomphe. We climbed half way up. We were looking around when we were approached by a Japanese football team. They asked if some of the girls would get their picture taken with them. We agreed.

After saying goodbye to our new friends we walked to the top. We took a great number of photos. Safely on ground, Mr McCoy told us a secret only BRA pupils know. We thought this was very cool and interesting. After, we went to the Flunch and had a big dinner. We arrived back at the hotel very late. We all went to bed early because we had had a long day and were very tired.

31st March: Day Five We got up. We were all so excited because we were going to Disneyland, we couldn’t wait. We arrived quite early at the park. After going through security, we were told instructions and times. Then we were free to run about the park all day. We went on every ride. We had a fantastic time and finished off the evening with a lovely fancy dinner at Planet Hollywood in the Disney Village. That day was a great finish for a fabulous, exciting and amazing holiday.

1st April: Day Six Up early, packed and on the bus for eight o’clock. We were all sad to leave, but happy that we had had a great time. We drove to Calais, boarded the Eurotunnel and arrived at Folkestone. We stopped off to get lunch at a garage. We drove for another while until we arrived at Southend Airport. We said goodbye to our fantastic bus driver, Dave. After we got checked in, it was a little wait until we boarded.

We arrived in Belfast at 8:30 in the evening. It was very cold. After collecting our bags we said our goodbyes and went home.

Thank you to all the pupils and to the staff who organised and went on the trip. We had a fantastic time and wish we could go again.

Rachel Baillie and Ellen Dalzell (II)

SUMMER PARIS TRIP Prior to the trip everyone involved was getting more and more excited, as the date of departure was approaching. Once Mr Porter finally arrived at the airport we were, at last, ready to go through check-in and security and then on with the rest of our journey.

The trip had a great atmosphere on the plane to London and ferry to Calais, and loud music was played on the coach. By 5:30pm we had been in three different countries! After the long and tiring journey, and once everyone was in their hotel rooms and lights

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were out, we all slept very well. The following morning we managed to waken up, but only with great difficulty. However, the lovely French breakfast made it well worth the effort.

That day, the coach wasn’t full of music or loud talking, but instead of loudly snoring pupils (and teachers!). By the time we arrived at the beautiful palace and gardens of Versailles, we had wakened fully and our energy levels were restored in time for a long walk around the historic palace and grounds.

In the afternoon we travelled to Notre Dame Cathedral, where we were told about its history before getting the chance to walk around while there was a service taking place.

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On the third day of our visit, we went to view the memorable Eiffel Tower where we had great photograph opportunities. We were amazed at how large the Tower was; it almost didn’t look real.

Following a boat ride on the River Seine, we travelled to the historic Latin Quarter for lunch. Here, some of the more adventurous pupils tried new things like onion soup, French pate, snails and frogs’ legs. The more boring pupils stuck to pizza or McDonald’s.

That afternoon Montmartre and the Sacre Coeur were visited. It is a lovely area of old buildings in the middle of which is the Place du Terte – the Artists’ Square to you and me – where there was a chance to have a caricature drawn, or a portrait for the more serious pupils. Beside the Sacre Coeur was a disabled man skilfully making and then selling souvenir keyrings.

The following day we went to the Louvre to visit one of the most famous paintings in the world – the Mona Lisa. Most of us were surprised that it was so small.

Mr Carolan, who organised the trip, told us on the coach journey to try to decide whether or not the lady was smiling. In some of the galleries Mr McCoy, who accompanied us on the trip, told us the stories behind some of the paintings. After the Louvre, we walked

the full length of the Champs-Elysees for the most important part of the trip – shopping! After we had spent lots of money we walked a little further to the Arc de Triomphe, where we had a great view of central Paris. When we descended Mr McCoy told us a secret about the Arc, only known to pupils of BRA. If you want to learn the secret, you’ll have to go on the Paris trip to discover it!

We spent our penultimate day in Disneyland. We travelled by the shuttle bus, as it was our coach driver Andy’s well-earned day off. We think he missed us!

Most of the girls were reminiscing, while the boys were just looking forward to the roller coasters. We had all been looking forward with great anticipation to Disneyland, where we bought most of our presents for friends and family, but mostly for ourselves! That evening Maria was able to celebrate her birthday in Planet Hollywood, while the rest of the girls simply admired the male waiters!

On our final day we were all very reluctant to leave as we had all greatly enjoyed our stay in Paris. On the other hand, we were all happy to see our families and return to our own beds. During the week we had got to know our coach driver, Andy, who was very friendly and very pleased with our behaviour.

We would highly recommend the Paris trip, as you make new friends and see, learn and experience new things.

Rebecca Carse and Mia Giannetto (III)

PRIMARY SCHOOL EXPERIENCE The popularity of the Primary School Experience programme continued last year with 45 Lower Sixth pupils attending 16 local primary schools, on a weekly basis, for classroom experience. About half

Miscellany

of the primary schools were in the Shankill area and the school minibus was used to transport our pupils to and from these schools. The majority of other primary schools were in the Antrim Road/Cliftonville areas and our pupils made their own way there either on foot or using public transport.

The pupils enjoyed the programme very much and they benefited in a range of ways from developing their communication skills to learning about working in a professional environment. Due to the new twoweek timetable, Wednesday afternoons were used in order to avoid too much disruption to the participants’ timetables, so for those not doing Games, this was a very constructive option. Pupils were encouraged to show initiative and to put their particular talents at the disposal of their host school. Reports were completed on all pupils by primary school staff and, as ever, they were overwhelmingly positive, with phrases such as ‘a pleasure to have around’ being common.

C.N.S.

Many thanks to Ms Graham, who never failed to provided us with tea and biscuits each week, and the opportunity to discover new books and authors.

LL9 has been the home to literature this year and long may it continue!

“One glance at a book and you hear the voice of another person, perhaps someone dead for 1,000 years. To read is to voyage through time.”

- Carl Sagan.

Rachel Blythe and Carrie Whitcroft (LVI)

RECYCLING A total of 6930kg of cardboard and paper was recycled during the academic year 2012 – 2013.

Mark Johnston, Ali Sha’ath and Samuel Baxter of form LVI continued to supervise the recycling programme. During their study leave, the task was undertaken by David Anderson, Callum Dalzell and Harry Brewster of Form IV.

THE READING GROUP LL9 was the warm and cosy retreat every other Tuesday afternoon this year for a small group of sixth years and the room’s own inhabitant, Ms Graham.

After a few minutes of boiling kettles and warming hands, the tables would be lined with a diverse range of books and seats with avid readers ready to share.

We brought something different and individual to the table most weeks and even the most devoted of bookworms saw some titles for the first time!

The tables of LL9 were graced by teenage fantasy (don’t get us started on Stephanie Meyer), classics of all genres, mystery, crime, horror, romance, more authors than could be named and titles including ‘The Book Thief’, ‘The Host’, ‘The Catcher in the Rye‘, ‘Dracula’ and ‘Railsea’ to name but a few.

We delved deeper into some novels and even read some critics take on the ‘saga’ that is Twilight (and nobody judged those who shall not be named who actually enjoy it) and learned about themes throughout literature past and present.

Themes brought our individual styles together some weeks, with readings of poetry on National Poetry Day, long discussions of Enid Blyton with ginger beer, thoughtfully provided by Ms Graham, and swapping of books within genres especially classics and fantasy.

Each meeting was filled with laughter, admiration and occasionally heated words over certain novels, however no tea was thrown so “all’s well that ends” well to quote a certain playwright.

N.E.M.

ROCK CHALLENGE On Monday 15th April, a team of 50 pupils returned once again to the Waterfront Hall to compete in Rock Challenge 2013. The competition was originally due to take place on Friday 22nd March, but was cancelled due to bad weather at the time.

Standards were very high in all aspects of the competition this year and the team competed against Ballee Community High School, Hazelwood Integrated College and Little Flower. Ashfield Girls’ School and the Girls’ Model also show-cased at the event.

The dancers put on a spectacular show and received three awards: Choreography, Performance Skill and Soundtrack. The team also received the Student Leadership Award for being entirely pupil-led. To

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finish a fantastic night, the team placed second overall.

HABITAT FOR HUMANITY ROMANIA

After placing second in the regional heats, there was a chance that the team could progress through to the Northern Open Final in Grimsby. On 3rd May we received the disappointing news that we had not gone through. Preparations for next year have already begun and taking on board all of the judges’ comments, we are hoping to put on an even better show and finish the night in 1st place!

On the 20th June, seven pupils and two staff set off for Romania. We first had to fly to Luton, stay overnight, and then take the connecting flight to ClujNapoca the next morning.

L.E.C.

ROMA The trip to Rome this year lasted for four days, and even in those four days it would be impossible to see and experience all the city offers.

We began our trip with a walking tour of the main tourist attractions in the city, seeing sights such as the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain, Colonna di Marco Aurelio, the Pantheon, the Fontanna dei Quattro and the Basilica di San Giovanni (Rome’s first Christian church). Our sore feet were only eased by the ice cream we enjoyed at the end.

The trip to the Colosseum and Roman Forum was stunning as ever. There, we soaked up the atmosphere of these ancient sites and finished our visit with the now customary open air debate at the Arch of Constantine; results of the debate can be seen on Mr Jamison’s DVD.

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Our final two days were spent at the ancient Catacombs di San Sebastiano and in the Vatican City.

In the catacombs we saw the site where Peter and Paul’s remains were allegedly hidden and in the Vatican we had the opportunity visit the Sistine Chapel. The trip to the Vatican was rounded off with a visit to the stunning St Peter’s Basilica.

Roma 2012 was not just about visiting ancient monuments: the group had the opportunity to shop and enjoy the al fresco cafe culture that Rome offers.

We had dinner outside the Pantheon, Pizza in the Piazza Navona and we rounded off our trip with a meal at the Hard Rock café.

Thanks to Mrs Heaslip for her ‘Tour Guiding’, Mrs Morris for her invaluable help with the organisation, and Mrs Magowan and Mr Jamison for giving up their time and agreeing to come on the trip.

P.D.

It was certainly an enlightening trip that gave an insight into the work that goes into the construction of building and the harsh living conditions of some of Romania’s less fortunate citizens. The trip was organised in conjunction with Habitat for Humanity.

The Romania experience was not a 12 day holiday in Cluj; it was a culmination of a year of preparation.

Each member of the team had to raise £1500 to fund the trip. They put together various fund-raising activities as a part of group bonding, for example carol singing, a bun sale and even an abseil! However, there were also many individual efforts such as a ballot and designing flyers for a business. There were also team social events, for instance, we had a trip to the cinema and an evening out to dinner, all of which really helped us come together as a team and get to know each other better.

Whilst on site in Romania, there were various manual tasks that we carried out. Concrete needed to be made; wire framework was required to be constructed; the water pipe had to be dug out, laid, then covered over; and the scaffolding had to be erected. Fortunately, on the fifth day of the venture, a group of students and their professors from Oregon State University joined us and continued on with the work after the BRA team had left.

The team was given the opportunity to meet two of the families they would be helping to build homes for.

The Biro family had seven people living in one room, leaving them without much space for privacy, whereas the Moldovan family has been living in the laundry room of a block of flats - a room of a mere 17 square metres. It aided the team in gaining a perspective of how difficult it must be to live in those conditions and how important their work and the work of Habitat was in giving these families the life they deserve.

On the last Sunday of the trip, the team had the wellearned chance to visit the Turda Gorge and Salt Mines, with the group of students from Victor Ungureanu, whom they had met earlier in the week.

They also got to experience some of the Romanian culture through traditional restaurants, the music festival- that featured some fantastic folk music- and the opera.

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Trip highlights…

“I think one of the highlights of the trip was when we went to a karaoke bar during the middle of a thunderstorm, or our trip to Iulius mall which was massive! There were even two swimming pools across from the food court, where we grabbed lunch after watching a film in the cinema that was there.”

Yasmin Rawe (LVI) “I really enjoyed the walk through Turda Gorge, as I was the first person to reach the end. The scenery was absolutely amazing and we got to play Frisbee with the kids from the school, until we lost it in the river that is…”

Nadia Rawe (LVI) “I really enjoyed going into the salt mines at Turda;it was especially interesting trying to row a boat down there, and at least I only crashed a few times. I don’t think Nadia or Yasmin were too impressed with my steering skills though, sadly.”

Natalie Cole (LVI) “I have to say that my favourite part of going to Romania would have to be the visit to the school.

Everyone was just so lovely and we got to watch them put on a hilarious production about the Olympic Games, which was just fantastic!”

Judith Keyes (LVI) “In my opinion, the best part of Romania was the building. It was hard, (digging the trenches and whatnot), but it was really enjoyable – especially with our American friends. We could see that we were making a difference to people’s lives and I am confident in saying that I will be part of another Habitat team in the future.”

Dara Dunlop (LVI) “Before we went to Romania, I was quite apprehensive about the building part, but once we were out there I realised it was rather fun and rewarding. It was probably my favourite part of the trip, and it was really satisfying being able to meet the families we were helping.”

Fionnuala McDaid (LVI) “We were able to attend a performance of Cinderella at the local theatre. It was enjoyable, despite the fact that it was being sung in Italian with Romanian subtitles projected onto a screen. There were also various creative spins on the children’s classic and a significant part of it seemed to consist of a food fight… However, I found it to be an excellent

example of Romanian culture and it is an experience I shall never forget.”

Jack Armstrong (LVI) All in all, the team found the experience challenging and difficult, but wholly worthwhile. We felt as though we have thoroughly benefited from the experience and we found Romania to be a wonderful blend of culture and history, and a fantastic place to have visited. Hopefully, future pupils will continue to have the opportunity to have this amazing experience.

Natalie Cole (LVI)

ROYAL SOCIETY OF CHEMISTRY SCHOOLS’ ANALYST COMPETITION On the 9th March, a team of three MVI pupils competed in the Northern Ireland Regional Heat of the Royal Society of Chemistry Schools’ Analyst Competition at Stranmillis University College, Belfast. The team consisted of Niamh Benson, Connor Brogan and Matthew Smith, who were up against twelve other schools from across the province.

The aim of the competition is to raise standards of practical analytical chemistry amongst Sixth Form students and is based on problems relevant to industrial and social needs. The students are assessed in their practical skills, as well as their understanding and ability to work safely as a team and on their time management. The format of the competition is the same each year. Each team carried out three experiments which all carry twenty marks. This year, the procedures involved the preparation of a standard solution of sodium hydroxide, the potentiometric titration of a sample of vinegar and the visual titration of a sample of vinegar.

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After three hours of practical work the BRA team just missed out on one of the top places, however, the experience gained was invaluable to the members of the team and I congratulate them on their performance.

B.M.M.

SAVE THE CHILDREN FUND Save The Children at Belfast Royal Academy continues to go from strength to strength with a variety of fund-raising events running throughout the year.

The events began with “BRA’s Got Talent”. Kicking it all off, a number of hopefuls auditioned and, after

The Owl 2013

a difficult selection process, we had two-days’ worth of show-stopping performances in the Assembly Hall.

All shows were enjoyed by those who attended and credit is due to all who helped with organisation before and during the event.

The annual non-uniform day, in aid of Save The Children gave pupils a chance to express their individuality by donating £2 in order to come to school in their ‘normal’ clothes. The welcome break from uniforms was a great success and a fun way to involve the whole school in contributing to a worthwhile cause.

Next came the Save The Children barbecue at the School’s annual Sponsored Walk. This year, the walk had to take place after study leave due to some typical poor weather conditions and, as many Lower VI members of the committee were busy with their heads in books, pupils from Fourth Form took their place.

Manning the three grills were Dr Bell, Dr Springer, Miss McMillen and a few ‘willing’ volunteers, with others on hand to check temperature and serve the burgers to extremely long queues. After two hours of constant smoke-in-the-eyes, a few fallen/burnt casualties and lots of ‘Are they ready yet?’ we sold over 300 burgers.

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After another successful year, the committee has raised over £3500 for the charity through events thoroughly enjoyed by all. We would like to thank Miss McMillen, Mrs McIntyre, Dr Bell and Dr Springer for their continued support and contribution, as well as making the committee a very worthwhile and enjoyable experience for all involved.

Save The Children Committee

SCHOOL COUNCIL The School Council is a representative group of the student body of the School. It meets four times a year to discuss all areas of school life that are of concern to the pupils. It is formed from the Pupil Council, wherein a boy and girl representative from every

House in each form is voted to serve as Pupil Councillor. The Pupil Council is chaired by Ms McBeth and the Secretary is a Senior pupil. This body elects a boy and girl representative from each year group to serve on the School Council and meets regularly to compile the agenda for the School Council meetings and to respond to the School Council’s action points. The School Council is chaired by Ms Graham who works closely with the Head Boy (Secretary) and Head Girl (Vice-chair).

From the outset of the academic year, the School Council was determined to take vital steps to improve school for pupils. Many discussions occurred on a range of topics including: extracurricular activities, toilets, lockers, organisation of busses, uniform, charity, facilities within the school, canteen prices, litter in the new LVI lunch area and the homework diary.

One particular initiative of the School Council was to provide an opportunity for Form I pupils to find out more about the range of different extra-curricular activities available to them within school. The School Council, with the help of Ms Graham, organised an extra-curricular fair whereby 18 clubs and societies informed the First Form pupils not only about what they do in their particular club and society, but most importantly how to get involved. It is expected that next year’s School Council will follow our lead on this and perhaps expand our work by designing a new-look information sheet on the extra-curricular activities available in school.

The Pupil and School Council also organised a nonuniform day which took place on Friday 19th October. A sum of £2488.20 was raised from the nonuniform day and it was decided by the Pupil Council that £623.20 would remain in the School Council account for school projects and £1865.00 would be given to Lighthouse, the local charity that was nominated by the Pupil Council at the start of term.

Lighthouse is an organisation established in North Belfast in 2003 which aims to save lives and support those affected by suicide and self-harm.

Miscellany

Transport to and from school affects every pupil in school and is therefore unsurprisingly a large topic of discussion for the School Council. We resolved two issues this year: l

l

In September 2013 the School introduced a new arrangement for school buses. The former “J” buses became “M” buses and pupils were directed to use the Maths rooms as waiting rooms rather the Jackson rooms. This improves the efficiency of the system as the Mathematics rooms are located in a better geographical location, in relation to where the buses are situated. However, many pupils were confused by the new system. The Pupil Council raised this matter and the School Council negotiated with Mr Baldwin to put up signs to give pupils information about the appropriate room in which to wait and the route which the bus assigned to that particular room takes.

An increasing number of the student body have started cycling to school and many pupils believed there are inadequate facilities for these individuals.

Following many discussions within the School Council about sourcing and placement of bike racks to accommodate the needs of these individuals and through the help of Mr Thompson (the Estates Manager) bike racks will be installed for the start of the academic year 2013.

I believe the School Council has made progress in enabling the school to operate in a more efficient manner.

The School Council would like to thank Chloe McDermott for serving as Secretary to the Pupil Council – Chloe produced the Pupil Council minutes which formed the Agenda for the School Council meetings.

On behalf of the School and Pupil Councils, I would like to thank both Ms McBeth and Ms Graham for their continued and active support of both the Pupil and School Councils.

I would also like to thank others who gave up their time to attend both Pupil Council and School Council meetings such as Dr Brown, Dr Scully, Mr Shields and Mr Orr (Warden to the Board of Governors).

Thank you to members of staff such as Mr Creighton, Dr Scully, Mr Thompson, Mr Baldwin and Mr Hastings who have taken the time to listen to our views and help us address the issues that we have raised on behalf on the pupils of BRA. Finally, I would like to encourage those with ideas on how to improve school life to not hesitate to speak to their Pupil Councillor.

James Donnelly (MVI)

SCHOOL LIBRARY Pupils attended in large numbers to read, borrow, research, use computers and to socialise. Most days there were around 90 pupils using the library at break and lunch. Each week a minimum of 15 periods were timetabled for Form I and II English classes. Many pupils offered their time to help out in the library.

Several of these pupils were appointed as Library Assistants and became proficient in using the Library Cataloguing System and in their understanding of the Dewey Decimal System. An impressive number of pupils were awarded Librarian badges.

Throughout the year the Librarian attended training in a video-conferencing programme known as Elluminate, alongside Librarians from other Northern Ireland schools. This training was aimed at training Librarians to develop innovative methods to conduct library lessons.

Fantasy author Katherine Roberts visited the School on Tuesday 6th November and gave talks to Form I pupils about her books. Each pupil received a signed copy of one of her books.

On Thursday 15th November a team from BRA took part in the Regional Lit. Quiz hosted by Wellington College. The Lit. Quiz is a major celebration of books and reading imported to the UK from New Zealand and is now an International event, also involving teams from South Africa and China. The four pupils who won a place to represent BRA were Brendan Crinion, Tara McBride, Simon Dalzell and Adam Keed. Four pupils also came to cheer on and support the BRA team with Miss McAtamney.

Two Scholastic Book Fairs were held throughout the year. The book fairs raised over £700 in free books for KS3 pupils.

On Thursday 7th March the School Library celebrated World Book Day 2013 by screening The Biggest Show on Earth. This was a fantastic free online festival streamed live into the School Library and a once in a lifetime event with nine bestselling authors and illustrators including Anthony Horowitz, one of the most prolific and successful writers working in the UK who is well known as being a born polymath juggling writing books, TV series, films, plays and journalism. BRA pupils joined over 500,000 school pupils around the world, who had gathered to watch the live video streaming.

A Short Story Competition was also hosted by the School Library to help celebrate World Book Day 2013. The top three entrants were awarded gift vouchers to spend at the Book Fair. Roma Mulholland

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earned first place and won a £10 voucher to spend at the School Book Fair. The three runners up were James Walker, Yasmine Tandon and Aodhan McAlorum. All three received a £5 voucher to spend at the book fair.

Popular children’s authors Anthony Horowitz and Cathy Cassidy released special books to help celebrate World Book Day 2013. Liz Pichon also invited readers to have the best book day ever with her book entitled Tom Gates Best Book Day Ever So Far, a clever blend of fiction and illustration.

Meanwhile, pupils with a nose for adventure were able to follow the code-cracking exploits of schoolgirl Ruby Redford in an original mystery by Lauren Child.

A highly popular reading scheme known as Accelerated Reader was also introduced into the School Library in September 2012. Accelerated Reader encourages substantial differentiated reading practice to create strong readers. Based on each pupils’ independent reading level, Accelerated Reader helps English teachers and the School Librarians to set personalised goals for each pupil, and guide pupils to books difficult enough to keep them challenged but not difficult as to cause frustration. In addition, Accelerated Reader helps teachers to monitor pupils’ vocabulary growth, literacy development and other reading skills.

T.C.

SENIOR PREFECTS’ TEAM-BUILDING DAY

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On Tuesday 25th September, the Senior Prefects took to the Jungle NI, an award-winning outdoor entertainment facility set in the heart of Northern Ireland. Pupils participated in Paintball, a variety of other team-building activities and enjoyed a BBQ lunch.

M.T.W.

SENTINUS STEM ROBOTICS ROADSHOW During the last week of the Summer Term, 60 Form II pupils, assisted by 10 Form IV mentors, engaged in the Sentinus STEM Robotics Challenge – to navigate a model of the ‘Curiosity Mars Rover’ across the dangerous terrain of the Assembly Hall.

They were given a crash course in computer programming and, led by Sentinus presenter James Connor, enjoyed an educational and enjoyable end to the term.

K.L.

SPANISH SCHOOL EXCHANGE This is the sixth student exchange between the Academy and Escultor Juan de Villanueva in La Pola de Siero in the Principality of Asturias. The highly successful programme has enabled the Spanish students to improve their English and their understanding of Northern Ireland. In return it offers Academy pupils the opportunity to develop their Spanish language skills with the families of their friends in Asturias.

The exchange has been enormously beneficial in cultural and educational terms. Bonds of friendship have been established between students and teachers of both institutions, and the language proficiency attained has contributed significantly to examination successes.

None of this would have happened of course without the inspired hard work of teachers from Belfast and La Pola de Siero. Particular thanks are due to Mrs Sonia Roberts of the Academy´s Department of Modern Languages, and Señor Dioni Rodriguez, Señorita Isabel Redondo and Señorita Elena Elorriaga.

The accompanying photographs illustrate the various activities and experiences of the pupils during the exchange. This is a selection of photos from the first leg of the trip to BRA.

Miscellany

Here is an overview of the return leg of the trip by BRA students to Spain.

Leisure Scott having breakfast with Jaime – his host in Spain.

Scott lived as part of the family for six days, sharing meals, going to school and, of course, speaking lots of Spanish!

Down the mines! The group visited The MUMI Museum in the old coal mining area of Asturias. The pupils wore safety helmets and learned about the conditions in the former coal mines. This photo shows the group leaving a disused mine in Covadonga.

No school on Saturday, as a highly enjoyable coach trip took the School party to Los Lagos a beauty spot in the Picos de Europa. They also visited the famous monastery at Covadonga, and later the prehistoric cave paintings near the seaside resort of Ribadesella.

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Dinner The Academy group was treated to an evening meal of traditional Asturian dishes.

Spanish Lessons BRA pupils along with their Spanish counterparts enjoyed a day of lessons at Escultor Juan de Villanueva. Classes are in Spanish and all pupils take part.

Abigail takes part in classes in the Spanish school.

Top GCSE, AS and A Level grades were achieved by BRA pupils who went on the exchange in 2012.

This is Charlotte’s fourth and Alex’s third exchange visit. Both girls speak virtually fluent Spanish and in their own words, “We’ve cracked it,” as they make conversation with the canteen lady at school. They sit ‘A’ Level Spanish next June and plan to read it at University.

Ling enjoying teaching an English class with Elena – one of the Spanish teachers.

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Three BRA girls relaxing in the museum after the visit to the Tito Bustillo caves.

A picture of the newly painted school in Pola showing the lovely sunshine we enjoyed during the whole trip!

¡Viva el Intercambio!

S.R.

Miscellany

SPONSORED WALK The 40th sponsored walk took place in the June this year; the unusual Easter snow meant that we had to cancel our initial April date.

SIXTH FORM CENTRE COMMITTEE The Sixth Form Centre Committee invited staff to join them in the Sixth Form Centre on Wednesday 19th December for a festive break time. In order to support Holly McCoubrey FIII and her fund-raising for the Northern Ireland Children’s Hospice, teaching staff were asked for a minimum donation.

Congratulations to MVI, particularly those pupils who baked and set-up the magnificent feast, for going to a huge amount of trouble for a very worthy cause.

I thank staff for all their support and their donations as a total of £419.60 was raised.

In addition to the festive break time, the Committee worked extremely hard throughout the year to ensure the efficient use and the smooth running of both the Recreational Area and the Study Area.

Over 900 participants walked, ran or sprinted around the course. ‘Save The Children’ provided a BBQ, the Boys’ Rugby Club a tuck shop, and the Hockey Club had a cupcake stand. This was the Walk’s 40th year and some former organisers of the trip were invited back to see how their efforts had evolved. Ken Hawtin was honoured for his service to the walk with ‘Hawtin’s Heights’ being added to the map. A marquee has now been purchased by the School and similar to last year it was placed on the pitch at Ben Madigan. Mr Jamison acted as an MC / DJ. The good weather and atmosphere at the Castle grounds created a wonderful environment for the ‘whole school’ to congregate, play and enjoy the atmosphere of the day.

The event passed smoothly without any major mishaps, and all staff members operated their stations dutifully on the course and around the Castle grounds.

Next year we will be piloting a ‘Smart Sign-out’; each pupil will receive an individual barcode which will enable us to monitor and track their progress at anytime during the walk.

Thanks should be extended to all staff who gave of their time and to Ben Madigan for permission to use their grounds.

M.T.W.

P.D.

SKI TRIP TO SESTRIERE

SPEECH AND DRAMA This year pupils from Belfast Royal Academy participated in a number of Speech and Drama competitions.

Jessica McVeigh and Laura Fleck (Form III) took part in the first phase of the Poetry Aloud Competition, held at the Linen Hall Library in October. The girls recited a poem by W.B. Yeats followed by a poem of their own choosing. This year saw the highest recorded number of entries of schools from all over Northern Ireland.

Jessica went on to compete in the Belfast Speech and Drama Festival in the Lyric Theatre in March, where she was commended for her Sight Reading and Junior Verse. In May, she participated in the Carrickfergus Speech and Drama Festival with the same success.

The pupils were a credit to Belfast Royal Academy and are already looking forward to representing the School in next year’s competitions.

L.E.C.

From the off on that Saturday in March there was trouble. Of course Belfast had to have a MASSIVE snow storm just before we were leaving for our long awaited ski trip. However, that wasn’t going to stop us. We made our way through security and into the departure area only to find that our flight had been delayed. Our spirits were not dampened because we were a bunch of teenagers free from the restraints of our parents for a WHOLE week!

After the long journey to Italia, we all hopped off the plane full of excitement for the week ahead. Going into arrivals we grabbed our bags and headed to the coach. After the long journey on the coach, with quite a few toilet breaks, we finally arrived at our hotel just shortly after 2am. Immediately we were given a late supper and then were shown to our rooms.

We headed to bed to try and get a few hours of sleep as we knew it was a very early start the next morning and that we had a long day ahead. Waking up at 6am to get ready, we wrapped up warm and headed to breakfast, excited for our first day of ski lessons.

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Breakfast finished and raring to go we started our morning with a brisk, up-hill walk to the little village of Sestriere, our new home for the next week.

After going into the ski shop, getting our boots fitted on and skis sorted, we headed down to the slopes to meet our amazing ski instructors who we all grew to know and love. Our first day was pretty basic: getting put into small groups according to ability, learning how to stop, turn and slow ourselves down on the slopes. Everyday our instructors would push us towards improvement, working on our skills and bringing us on to bigger and steeper slopes. Of course a trip wouldn’t be complete without a few medical mishaps. Surprise, surprise, wouldn’t one incident have to be a teacher!

Each evening the teachers would keep us entertained, whether it was karaoke, Mrs Gilmore’s amazing quiz or the BRA ski trip 2013’s Harlem Shake.

And finally, we would like to thank all the teachers for giving up their free time to take us and look after us all in Italy.

Bethany Linton (V)

SWEDEN

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In 2012/2013 we had no exchange programme, as the second school of our programme, Vilunda Gymnasium in Upplands Vasby had closed down and a new Gymnasium opened. Unfortunately, the teachers who were part of our Exchange Programme all retired and no-one at the new school was interested in continuing the connection. We have been working hard to secure a second school for the ongoing exchange, and Dr Lomas travelled to Sweden to meet up with two teachers working in schools in the Stockholm area who are very interested in joining the Exchange. It was not possible to organise a small trip in February to see them, so we hope to establish the first connections in February 2014 when we visit Sweden again with the BRA pupils.

We did, however, have a visit from Maria Allstrom who led the first few student trips from Sweden and is now in Uppsala University as a teacher-trainer in the post-graduate degree courses offered in the university.

Maria brought 12 teachers of English and Social Science subjects from all over Sweden to visit Belfast Royal Academy. They spent a full day in the School visiting classes and talking to teachers. The visitors also enjoyed two days sightseeing and visiting interesting places such as the Seamus Heaney Centre and the Titanic Centre. They thoroughly enjoyed their stay and were most grateful to all the BRA staff and pupils who made them feel so welcome.

In 2013/14 Dr Mort organised the homestay of six Swedish students from Fyrisskolan, Uppsala in October. We are due to return to Sweden in February 2014 and a report on this exchange will be in next year’s Owl. B.L.

TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN 3D Printer The Technology and Design Department acquired a new 3D printer in March after much research into this new area of ‘rapid prototyping’ technology. Several other technology departments in the province have invested in this product recently and in order for our pupils, especially those studying the subject at ALevel, to compete at the highest level, it was important that we acquired one.

The Denford 3D printer enables a pupil to draw a 3D computer graphics model of a product or part, connect it to the 3D printer’s own software and it will produce a scale model in plastic, by building the model up layer by layer on a small platform.

Complete 3D models can be manufactured, including those with hollow parts that could not possibly be made by hand in one piece, even by the most skilled engineer or craftsperson.

K.L.

School Games THE RUGBY CLUB It has been satisfying this year to watch the careers of two former pupils develop in the professional game.

Both Stuart Olding and Iain Henderson have become regular starters for Ulster, with either also regularly being the best player on the pitch. It was great to see them both recognised at International level. Iain won his first cap against South Africa at the Aviva Stadium in the Autumn Internationals, and Stuart won his first cap against the United States in Houston, Texas. I hope that their success might inspire current pupils of what is possible for them. It was interesting to note in a recent conversation with Iain, that despite all the glamour and rewards of international rugby, he would class his school days as the most enjoyable rugby experience that he has had.

Extra-curricular rugby would not be possible without staff giving of their time and expertise. Staff continue to set the highest of standards for pupils and their enthusiasm and effort are second to none. I would like to thank them all for their efforts: Mr McGonigle, Mr Hughes, Mr Stretton, Mr Shields, Mr Patterson, Mr Irwin, Mr Moffett, Mr Martin, Mr A Creighton, Mr D. J. Creighton. They are ably supported by a group of knowledgeable former pupils including Callum Leckey, Conor Spence and Richard Bell.

The 1st XV played well this season winning the Former Pupils’ Cup as the most successful team in the School. Daniel Dass and Stewart Martin played for the Ulster Schools’ U18 team in the Interprovincial Championships. The 1st XV defeated Carrickfergus Grammar handsomely in the 3rd round of The Danske Bank Schools’ Cup, but suffered defeat in the 4th Round match against a talented and spirited Sullivan Upper School side. The side reached the final of the subsidiary competition defeating Belfast High School and Coleraine Inst. on the way.

The final, at Ravenhill, was against Campbell College in a hard-fought and entertaining match. However, it was the Campbell College side which came out on top. Congratulations to Daniel Dass, Stewart Martin, Angelo Marica, Jordan Hylton, David Campbell and Matthew Dalton who have been included in various Ulster Under age squads for next season’s Interprovincial Championships.

The 2nd XV had a very enjoyable year, if not a most successful one. Losing as many games as we won made it less successful than we had hoped, but some very good and memorable performances saw them beat convincingly a strong Wallace High School team, Regent House and Portora Royal (in the Cup). Unfortunately, they were defeated by a very talented Campbell College team in the quarter-final of the Cup, which called the end of the season.

The 3rd XV, under the expert guidance of Mr Moffett, developed as the season progressed. They struggled to get many fixtures as other schools were unable to field a 3rd XV. However, numbers at practices were good and many of these players should come through to form the backbone of Senior rugby next season. In the 3rd XV Cup they defeated Strabane Grammar on a very wet day at Roughfort before losing to a very strong Methody side at Pirrie Park.

The Medallion XV had a very promising season.

They made good progress on the pitch, winning more matches than they lost. They progressed to the quarter final of the Medallion Shield, where they lost to a strong Coleraine team. The highlight of the season was a win at Roughfort, when BRA was well below strength, against a much-fancied Ballymena Academy team.

The U14 squad had a very pleasing season, despite the promotion of four boys to the Medallion Squad.

They have continued their progress from last year and

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were within a couple of scores of all opposition, which bodes well for next year. Fittingly, the last game of the season was on tour in Cambridge, where the boys beat an undefeated Perse School side, 27 points to 5.

The U13 squad have continued to develop this season and won many games. Numbers at practice continue to be high with boys keen to learn and develop their game. They enjoyed a trip to Dublin to play Catholic University School and then went on to watch the Six Nations at the Aviva Stadium.

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The Form I Rugby team had a very promising debut season. They got to the final of the Plate Competition in the annual Coleraine Tournament. They have huge potential and some exceptionally gifted rugby players, particularly Tom Stewart and Charlie George.

C.M.C.

1st XV There was much expectation at the start of the 2012/ 2013 season as the majority of the squad had at least one season’s experience on the 1st XV and the side had just completed a successful tour of South Africa.

Early season form lived up to expectation as the side ground out an excellent victory over a very useful Ballyclare High side and played with great flair to

totally outclass Catholic University School in an emphatic victory. This allowed the side to approach the fixture with Dublin heavyweights Belvedere College with great confidence. However, this confidence was dashed as Belvedere out-classed us in every aspect of play and romped to a big victory. The defeat appeared to really affect the side and their poor form continued into the following fixture against an excellent Sullivan Upper side. A lack of physicality and bravery allowed Sullivan to canter home.

The side once again showed their potential in the Wallace fixture again displaying great character to grind out a victory. The following Wednesday the side defeated Portadown College. This good form carried on into the Ballymena fixture with the side dominating all areas of the game. However, poor game management allowed the Ballymena side to score an unlikely try with the last play of the match to steal victory.

The side then travelled to Ipswich to play in the St Joseph’s Rugby Festival. The side held their own against the top sides from England, Scotland and Wales, highlights being victories over Stowe and Portsmouth Grammar School.

Between October half-term and Christmas the side went on to record victories over Dalriada, Regent House, Coleraine Inst., and Royal School Armagh. The only fly in the ointment was the

Games

lacklustre performance against a spirited Bangor Grammar side.

he was aggressive and committed. He was a greatly valued member of the squad.

Following Christmas, victory was recorded once again over Portadown College. The side did lose narrowly to both RBAI and Campbell College. Although defeated in both matches much confidence was gained by the fact that the team was able to compete with two of Ulster’s top sides.

The back row was one of the strongest units in the team. Stewart Martin was the number 8. He is an excellent player and thoroughly deserved his selection for Ulster U18 Schools. His ball carrying is probably his biggest strength and I look forward to seeing him develop further next season. Daniel Dass, who played his second season with Ulster U18 Schools, is probably as powerful a school boy as you will find in world rugby. He was outstanding at times during the season, and if he can perform at this level for sustained periods during matches he too has the ability to play professionally.

Adam Brice was playing his third season on the 1st XV. He is an excellent line-out option. He is also very athletic and has great pace. His work-rate was outstanding.

As a result the side gathered momentum and approached the Schools’ Cup draw with confidence.

The draw was kind – a home fixture with Carrickfergus Grammar School. Carrickfergus gave a spirited performance, but the Academy side was too strong and posted a big win. The next round draw was not so favourable as the side were to face Cup favourites Sullivan Upper School. In poor conditions both sides equalled each other out for long periods of play; however, Sullivan made the best of their chances and squeezed to victory. A huge disappointment for all involved.

The side then moved into the subsidiary competition and still had the incentive of a Ravenhill final. The side defeated Belfast High School at Roughfort before facing Coleraine Inst. in the semi-final of the competition. Once again the Academy side completely out-powered the Coleraine side and romped to victory setting up a meeting with Campbell College in the final at Ravenhill.

The final at Ravenhill was an excellent school occasion with many pupils choosing to travel and support the team. Unfortunately, in a very close game, the result did not go Academy’s way but the boys can be proud of their performance and what they had achieved during the season.

In the front row were Ryan Montgomery, Daniel McFadden, Angelo Marica, Dillion Tinsley, Johnny McCreesh and Drew Willis. Ryan, Daniel and Angelo were the regular starters. All three are skilful players and formed a stable base in the scrum. Ryan was renowned for hard-hitting tackles whilst Daniel was very dangerous with the ball in hand scoring some excellent tries. His line-out throwing was also of a very high standard. Angelo was a convert from the wing. He brought his athleticism, speed and mobility to the front row, and if he can stay focused, Angelo could go on to play at a very high level.

In the second row were the Torrens brothers, Chris and Johnny. Both are tall, athletic boys who were excellent in the line-out. Johnny was one of the revelations of the season; his aggression and commitment made him a cornerstone of the team. John Walsh also featured in the second row during the season. When called upon

Ryan Hogg’s versatility meant he featured in both the back row and second row. He too is a powerful individual. He was unlucky to sustain a serious wrist injury which ruled him out for much of the season, but when he did play, he was central to the team’s success.

The half backs for the season were Max Oates, Ross Bryans, Jordan Carlisle and Stuart McCombe. Max was a regular starter at scrum half. Throughout the season he showed great skill and game management required to play in this position. His passing and kicking were both technically excellent. Max however, was unlucky to fall ill prior to our Schools’ Cup campaign missing out on several Cup and Shield games. Ross Bryans also played a significant number of games at scrum half. Ross is a very talented player who showed great character when called upon in Schools’ Cup games. Jordan Carlisle became our regular starter at out half for the season.

This was Jordan’s third season being involved with the 1st XV. His work ethic and commitment to rugby was excellent. Jordan is an extremely talented player who brought continual variation in attack scoring some excellent tries in many games. Stuart McCombe also played at out half at different points of the season showing the ability to do so when called upon.

In the centres we had two extremely formidable players in Sam Lyndsey and Mark Wylie. These two Senior players brought great experience, strength and control to these key positions. Sam was a regular starter at inside centre, showing all the natural traits to play here. He was strong and abrasive in attack while enjoying the defensive side of the game. His tackling was technically excellent, very often forcing errors and turning over possession to our

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favour. Mark played the majority of the season at outside centre. Mark is an extremely gifted rugby player and leader. As captain he showed composure, passion and dedication throughout the season, inspiring the team to many victories. Mark’s vision in attack and defence is excellent. He had the ability on many occasions to communicate scoring opportunities and had the composure to finish such chances with a try. He continually led by example in defence showing aggression and commitment to tackles.

highlighted our squad limitations as we had a number of injuries. We began the game with a relatively inexperienced pack and with an ‘injury hit’ backline so I was optimistic that when the injury list cleared up we would be very competitive. It was obvious from early in this game that we needed to increase our intensity and levels of aggression, and develop a more ruthless instinct as we missed a number of opportunities throughout the match to score.

However, there were enough positives to be confident for a successful season.

The back three for the season consisted of David Campbell, Jordan Hylton and Stephen Craig. David and Jordan are two very fast-paced wingers. Both players showed great agility at different stages of the season scoring some great tries. As wingers they both worked very well off the ball seeking opportunities to score and their defensive qualities improved as the season progressed. Stephen was a regular starter at full back throughout the season. His passing and kicking game were very good, while he also showed the ability to counter attack well on several occasions.

His organisation of our defence was excellent, showing control and composure at key times during matches.

The month of September saw our usual fixture against Catholic Universities cancelled which aided us, in that our injury hit squad had more time to recover before our next match. The next match, however, still came too soon. We played and lost heavily to a very strong Belvedere College.

C.M.C/D.J.C

2nd XV The season began with much belief that we could achieve something special. Our target – to win the 2nd XV Cup. This was an aim which I still believe was realistic despite the disappointment of being knocked out at the second round stage by Campbell College.

We began the season with a disappointing performance against an average Ballyclare High School. It was a comfortable victory for them, which

October and November offered a packed fixture list.

Eight games in total were played where our record was somewhat inconsistent. We played a muchfancied Sullivan Upper side in Holywood. The attitude of the boys, despite a narrow 5-17 defeat, must be praised. They never gave up despite challenging circumstances. Afterwards, having felt very hard done by, but yet realising they had reached a much higher level of performance compared to previous matches, they were determined to improve further. This required long hours on the training ground to address some defensive frailties, and further practice of offensive moves, in preparation for the games that lay ahead.

This was followed by a comprehensive, 15-7 victory over a good Wallace High School team. Despite the close score-line, we were the much better team.

There were many pleasing signs; it was a disciplined and clinical performance that gave much confidence for the games that lay ahead. Our extra focus in training seemed to be paying off! This, for me, was the performance of the season. The boys were hungry.

It was obvious they had a point to prove. Their rucking, their defence, their offensive attacking lines, their determination, their will to win were all at the top level. Wallace left that pitch with their heads in their hands. BRA left the pitch with pride, with confidence and genuine belief that this was our season.

However, the following match saw us slide to a hardfought but disappointing defeat to Ballymena Academy. Despite taking the lead early in the second half, a number of injuries, in particular, a serious one to Ruari Brogan, took their toll. We lost 5-17. I wish Ruari the very best in his recovery from a nasty knee injury. He was a key member of our team. I was pleased that we very quickly bounced back the

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following week with a convincing 38-0 victory against Dungannon Royal.

Our next four matches saw further inconsistencies as we lost to Bangor Grammar 0-14 and then Dalriada 0-15, before bouncing back with a very good performance against Regent House, winning 27-5.

Unfortunately, however, we were not always rewarded for our improved level of performances, losing narrowly to Coleraine Inst. 13-17. Then in our next game, one which we dominated against Armagh, they had a last minute kick to win.

Fortunately, their out-half pulled his kick left of the posts, and on this occasion we got the 16-15 victory we deserved.

We had two further games, a loss to Inst. 0-20 and a win against Portadown 29-10, before our Cup match in January. In these games there were a few concerns defensively, but also more pleasing signs (against Portadown). We had learnt to be patient and control the game. Our ball retention, our improved body angles when rucking and our direct lines of running had developed, thus making us a formidable side in attack. The boys left for their Christmas holidays knowing their first game back in the New Year would be their opening Cup fixture against Portora.

Christmas came and went and the Cup fixture was upon us. We comfortably beat Portora 42-7 after a slow and nervous start. It was a very pleasing performance where we showed many encouraging signs that we might be about to peak at the right time of year. The second round draw was tough, but I thought winnable for us; a home fixture against a much-fancied Campbell College at Foxes Field.

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Our earlier fixture against Campbell in October had been cancelled. This match was played in fair weather conditions at Foxes Field. The boys were very focused, yet excited at the prospect of playing here.

We started fairly well, but it was clear that we were going to have to play near our best if we were to progress to the next round. They had a very aggressive, robust pack which we more than matched in the opening encounters. However, as the game developed we were losing many of the key battles at the breakdown. Campbell was playing at a very high level, with ferocious intensity and unfortunately we weren’t competing at that level. The game was interrupted by an injury to Ben Campbell, which fortunately was not serious. Play was halted for approximately 20 minutes and as the emergency services were providing lengthy assistance to Ben, it was decided to complete the match on another pitch. This had little effect on the outcome to the

result of the match as Campbell scored a few more tries running out 36-0 winners, a scoreline which probably reflected their dominance in the second half.

The boys to their credit never gave up, fighting to the end through injury. However, victory was not to be.

The final whistle saw a season of so much promise end at the second hurdle. I was extremely disappointed for the boys who had given their all and had deserved so much more.

Trials, hardships, disappointments and defeats can make you a ‘better person’ and it is my belief that this successful season will turn out to be a brilliant strengthening and learning experience for bigger days to come. Many of these boys will form next year’s 1st XV and it is my belief that with further expert coaching, they will again compete for the Schools’ Cup if not next year, then the following year.

I thank them for their efforts throughout the season and wish them every success in their future rugby careers.

Special mention and my thanks go to my captain throughout the year Matthew Simpson, whose enthusiasm and desire to succeed should have been rewarded with more success than we had, and to the parents who supported us throughout the year (notable thanks to Mrs McCullough for her incredible-tasting ‘goodies’).

2nd XV Squad: M. Simpson (c), J. Rainey, C. Torrens, J. Walsh, N. Rooney, G. Gilfillan, B. Cave, J. McCreesh, C. Lawrence, R. Shaw, S McCombe, M. Kane, L. Ireland, S. McMurtry, G. Nelson, A. Steenson, D. O’Donnel-Anderson, D. Reid, D. McCullough, D. Willis, W. Montgomery.

P.M. / C.L.

3rd XV In writing my final rugby report for The Owl some 43 years after writing my first, I reflect on how the Game has changed, or has it? The professional era in rugby, although less than 20 years old, has brought many changes. However, the game in our schools has not had such dramatic changes.

This is not saying that there has not really been any change in schools’ rugby, nor is it suggesting that schools’ rugby has remained stagnant. It is more a statement of how professional the game has been in schools for many decades. Most schools continue to

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have a similar general pattern in their weekly programme to that which they had for at least 40 or 50 years. Most schools still have their weekly two intensive practices on the pitches with a regular game on the Saturday, with extra work on fitness, strength and skills being done on the other school days, usually inside.

There is, however, one major change in both adult and schools’ rugby, brought about by the need for bulk and force to counter bulk and force. The use of weights to develop bulk is commonplace, but unfortunately many of the programmes in schools are too often a general approach with little consideration for the specific needs of the individual.

There is no doubt that with time more thought and attention will be given to the needs of the individual, and the true benefits of this development will be seen.

The great thing about schools’ rugby is that for the large majority of the players they continue to play with the same enthusiasm and sense of fun now as they did those many years ago when William Webb Ellis picked up a football and ran with it.

In my first year in the School a very impressionable and large group of 12/13 year olds were just like those of the Under 13s today. They were an excellent group and in their midst was one player whose son was in the last team which I took before retiring, the Under 14s. That son from those Under 14s, now eight years ago is already an Ulster and Irish star. Gordon Henderson of the 1970-71 Under 13s and the School can be justly proud of the achievements of ‘big Hendy’.

One of the team groups which have certainly not changed in all of those years is the 3rd XV. In my second year in the School I was in charge of the 2nd XV and I believe the master in charge of the 3rd XV then, Mr. Bill Sillery, gave me some insight as to how to look after a 3rd XV. I never saw his 3rd XV practice and Mr. Sillery, since then one of our School’s Headmasters, never gave me any indication that there were players on the 3rds who were good enough to get a run out for the 2nds. He did a good job of keeping them for himself. Unfortunately, I frequently failed to learn from his example, because the present 3rd XV practices are at the same venue as the 1st XV and 2nd XV groups, and the 1st and 2nd XV together seem to think they need about 35 or 36 players.

The result was that on many occasions the 3rd XV practiced with relatively small numbers. Despite this those who were there gave of their all and many became very accomplished players. If what the players

have said is true, and they were not just being kind to me, then I believe they enjoyed themselves on the 3rds and that is most important. Hopefully, they have also learned something. The forwards certainly did because they had the excellent drive and forceful approach of Mr Irwin in rucking and ball retention.

Fortunately, he did not teach them all of the aspects of the Portadown Rugby Club teams for which he played.

The 3rds of last season, when at or near full-strength, were an excellent group and a good team. It was difficult to get a full-strength pack because of injuries, but when we got parity up front we had backs who enjoyed and displayed excellence in running rugby.

They responded excellently to the idea of playing the game ‘as seen in front of them’ and not with an obsession of ‘barging it up the middle’. They had the skills and vision to create opportunities for each other with the result that many fine tries were scored.

These backs and the forwards with them were also both brave and decisive in defence. Even when the team was overpowered physically, they were resolute in their determination to prevent their line being broken. Their last game of the season, in the second round of the 3rd XV Cup was one of their best performances, even though it was in defeat. Playing against a very powerful Methody 3rd XV our team was very much the under-dogs, but the resolve and quality in defence was magnificent and the attack with the little ball which the team got was skilful, creative and exciting. A lesser team than our 3rds would have been ‘destroyed’ and a defeat of only 22 – 3 was a marvellous effort.

Virtually all of the team were in LVI or Form V and I have no doubt many will play for the 2nd XV this year, and a good number will get playing for the 1st XV, at least on a few occasions. It would be unfair to mention any of these players because I could not do justice to all of them. However, there are two players who do deserve mention. They were both in their final year in school and both played for the 3rd XV for three years. Connor Brogan and Ben Devlin were stars of the 3rds, perhaps not as much as th ey w er e o u ts tan d in g ly b r ig h t s tudents academically, but they had commitment, reliability, ability, resolve and at different times, were both excellent captains. It is players like Connor and Ben who are the true thirds and they will have gained an experience on the 3rds on which they can look back with satisfaction.

The younger players who are back at school served the team equally well and hopefully they will also have enjoyed the 3rds experience, and will have

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developed their personal skills enough to play on the more senior school teams in the future.

R.G.M.

match was probably a low point for all those involved. We travelled to Lurgan who ran out winners by a score line of 31-22. Feelings were discussed after the final whistle and it was agreed by those in attendance that a change in attitude was needed across the board if we wanted to go on and improve and play at a competitive level, competing with our biggest rivals out there.

What followed can only be described as a run of three incredibly difficult matches, MCB, Sullivan Upper School and Wallace High School. All three matches ended in defeat, but enough was seen by the coaches to realise at this early stage that we were more than good enough to compete, develop and contend for the remainder of the season.

MEDALLION XV Played 18

Won 10

Lost 8

After a successful Medallion season last year, the group of 2012-13 was determined to continue this year in the same manner. The team started the campaign relatively slowly, but as the season progressed they went from strength to strength, playing an excellent style of rugby and were scoring tries from all areas of the pitch. The main objective was to win the Medallion Shield and to do that we had to be in top physical condition by February, but as has been the case for the last number of years, the Christmas break and the snow disrupted the team greatly. However, through hard work and determination we were in good shape come the start of the competition.

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As coaches, we needed to build a strong squad, developing as many players early on in the season.

We also needed to create healthy competition between first team players and the B team for positions. We feel we achieved that this year and are more than happy with how the vast majority of players ‘stepped up’ to the mark and were ‘counted’ over the course of the season.

The first game of the season saw us win comfortably away to Ballyclare High School. It was evident at this early stage, however, that a lot of time and effort needed to be spent on the training paddock working on tactics, patterns, fitness and skills. Some of the work done over the summer during pre-season was evident, but much more work was needed. The next

The next five matches all ended in victory against Ballymena, Dungannon, Bangor, Foyle and Dalriada.

The one which gave us all the most amount of pleasure was the win over Ballymena. This was for two reasons. Firstly, they were one of our main rivals and, secondly, we were massively depleted and understrength that day. The players dug deep however, controlled the match from the outset, and recorded a famous victory by a margin of 16 points to 12.

The next run of matches had a mixed set of results.

There were good wins over Banbridge and a strong Armagh team, but defeats to Regent House and Coleraine. The final match of 2012 was a really competitive fixture against RBAI, which was lost by a score line of 37-22. The Academy Medallion had the stronger share of possession and territory, but some substandard defending let RBAI edge it overall.

The first game of 2013 was a Shield match against Limavady. After a nervy start, Academy settled into their game plan and followed tactics from the start, controlling the game and running out winners 23-3.

Next up was Rainey in the next round of the Shield.

Again, the players played in a controlled manner, dominating breakdowns, territory and possession to ease their way through comfortably by a score line of 39-3. The most pleasing thing about the two Shield performances was the fact that neither opponent had been able to cross our whitewash. Both teams had been restricted to a penalty kick apiece.

Next up was Coleraine, again in the Shield, but this time we had lost home advantage. The squad travelled in a confident, but certainly not complacent mood. Academy completely dominated their muchfancied opposition from the start, defending and attacking in wave after wave and went into the halftime break leading by 3 points. The downside, however, was that we had lost a man to a red card

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after a fracas involving a number of players. The referee’s decision was seen as an unfair one in the eyes of the Academy coaches, but all agreed during the half-time team talk that it could not and would not be reversed and that we would try to use it to our advantage. It was, in all honesty, an uphill battle in the second period of the match. Coleraine to their credit made excellent use of the extra man and were able to go on and win the match by a flattering score of 22-3. The match based on the first half had the potential to be a classic, and at no stage in the first half did we think that we were the inferior team. The result was determined by factors beyond our control, but the character, heart and passion shown by all was immense.

The front row over the course of the season was made up of Connor Benson, Sean Rice, James Reid, with Rakeem Marica coming into the team for the Shield matches later on in the season. These young men laid a more than solid platform in the scrum. Due to his Judo ability James, in particular, was a strong scrummager. All brought individual qualities to the team and were never found wanting.

Ben Sayers and Luke Auterson formed a strong and physical second row partnership. Ben reminded his coaches of a human wrecking ball at rucks, always putting his body on the line in his attempts to secure clean ball. Luke got on with his job quietly, but most efficiently all season. A good line-out option, he has the athleticism to go on and play for the School at the highest level.

Our back row had a fantastic balance. Gareth McAdams, Lewis Donaldson and Jonny Mooney were the players who settled into the three positions and played ‘out of their skins’ in most matches. Gareth is a massive talent. What struck us was his willingness to learn the game. He never seemed happy with his performance and always wanted to be better again next match. Ferocious in defence, tenacious at the breakdown and a superb ball carrier, Gareth has the undoubted talent and ability to go on and play Senior rugby next season. Lewis is a natural openside flanker, always keen to be first to breakdown competing for the ball. He also was a superb lineout option and should go on to Senior rugby in years to come. Jonny was undoubtedly the most improved player of the season. He has really good hands and feet, relishes the physical side of the game and developed an advanced thinking of the game.

At scrum half and outside half we had the best halfback pairing in the division. Scott Macaulay is a most gifted scrum half. A quick and accurate passer of the ball off both hands, he possesses great speed,

is capable of a break and is an astute decision-maker.

At out half was captain Michael Wilson. Michael was an excellent captain over the course of the season.

Always willing to lead by example, he also possesses good hands and more importantly good feet. Michael has the invaluable attribute of being able to control a match by kicking opposition teams deep into their own half and setting up a platform from which to attack. There is no doubt whatsoever that these two players will go on to represent the School and themselves at a much higher level.

The centre partnership was made up of Christian O’Connor and Jay McCrum. Both are very different players and both brought great qualities to the team.

Christian was absolutely ferocious in defence, rarely missing a tackle and knocking opponent after opponent backwards. He is also most capable in attack, hitting hard lines and making excellent line breaks. Jay is also a powerful runner and his skill set improved immeasurably. He missed a chunk of the early season due to appendicitis, but made an excellent return from Halloween onwards.

The back three consisted of Roy Chia, Connor Boyd and Francis Rafferty, with Lewis Davidson of Form III coming into the team for the Shield matches. Roy is lightning quick, he scored many good tries during the season, after good play from the team as a whole.

His most memorable try, however, was undoubtedly scored against Ballymena, a fine individual effort which will remain long in the memory of those fortunate enough to witness it. Francis is a hugely talented rugby player. He broke his collar bone in November, but fortunately made his comeback just in time for the Shield matches. He possesses a high level of skill and ability, a great left foot and he also has a bright future in the game. Connor made great progress over the course of the season and matured into a more than competent and able player, capable of playing any position in the back three. Connor has wonderful hands and as the season progressed, his appetite for contact increased also. We feel he will go on and represent the School at the highest level in seasons to come. Lewis is a hard-running centre who hits strong lines and makes big tackles. When it came to the Shield matches, he was used as a winger and we look forward to working with him again next year, as we do all of the Form.

Other players who were not able to hold down a regular starting place, but represented the team were: Cameron Black, Robert Bowman, Callum Dalzell, Chris McLoughlin, Michael Bradley, Connor O’Neill and both Matthew Borne and Harry Russell from Form III. Thank you for your regular attendance at practices and we wish you well for the future.

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Thanks to Mr Patterson for his considerable efforts with the backline this season and also to Mr McCarey and Mr Creighton for their continued and unwavering support.

Many thanks and a special mention must go to the parents, who gave their support over the course of the season. Rain, hail or shine they were in attendance, wherever the venue, and their support was much appreciated at all times; it certainly helped get the coaches through some dark mornings, both home and away.

A final word for the boys: thank you very much for your efforts over the course of the 2012-13 Season.

We wish you all the best of luck in Senior rugby for the next three years.

N.I.

MEDALLION B XV The Medallion B XV competed in an extensive fixture list last season. The squad contained a core group of young men whose commitment and determination epitomised the ethos of the team and squad in general. Results were mixed over the course of the season, with strong wins registered against Ballyclare, The Boys’ Model and Bangor.

The performance of the season has to be the win against local rivals Ballyclare in the first game.

Played at Ballyclare in glorious conditions, the players put close to fifty points on their opposition with strong performances from a number of players.

The team was fortunate to have two very talented scrum halves McAuley, whose strength lay in an excellent kicking game and Osborne, whose natural poise, pass and running game made him equally effective at full-back. Burton, the fly-half, has added significantly to his defensive game, giving him a more balanced skill set in that position. In various combinations, the three quarters were Davidson and Dickson, the top two try scorers, along with McMahon-Beattie, Purcell, Cameron Godfrey, Stubbs and Doyle.

A parent from a school in Cambridge described the boys as ‘a set of boys who were as friendly, polite and well-mannered off the pitch as they were ferocious on it’. I trust that, as they read this report, they will realise how significant a compliment that is and attempt to continue in that vein throughout their school career.

M.R.S.

N.I.

UNDER 14 A XV

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The Under 14 Rugby team built on a successful Under 13 season. They are as talented as any team in the province and obtained victories in over half their games including Sullivan, Wallace and Bangor.

None of their losses were by more than 20 points despite a number of injuries to key personnel and promotions to the Medallion squad.

The season aptly finished with a successful tour of Ipswich and Cambridge, where we lost in the last minute to Daily Mail National Competition contenders St. Joseph’s, Ipswich and beat comfortably the Perse School, Cambridge.

The front-row consisted of Rakeem Marica, Matthew Borne and Stephen McCorry (Matthew Cairns missed the majority of the season with a serious knee injury).

They were joined by Cameron McGaughey and Rorie Godfrey in the ‘engine room’ and by Harry Russell, the captain, on the blind-side and ‘Team Cormac’, McCracken at 7 and Saunders at 8.

UNDER 14 B XV The U14 B Rugby team had a successful season, winning more games than they lost. They will view the comfortable win over Wallace and the last minute try-line defence, for a one-point victory, against Grosvenor, as some of many highlights. A number of the boys progressed to play for the ‘A’ team throughout the season, with Daniel Bingham, Karl

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Buick and Jason Stubbs starring on the tour of Ipswich and Cambridge.

M.R.S.

provided optimism going into the winter period. The hard work and dedication of players such as Daniel McDonald, Conor McBride and Callum Lawlor was rewarded when a convincing win against a strong Coleraine side provided the highlight of the season.

This would prove to be a catalyst for the team, and players such as Christopher Ewart and Daniel Loudon were now making regular appearances for the ‘A’ side. A final win against Grosvenor provided the perfect ending to a season of development and progression. I am looking forward to seeing the potential of this side fulfilled in the near future, and would finally like to thank all of the boys for their effort and enthusiasm this year.

P.T.S.

UNDER 13 A XV This year proved to be a great success. We won a total of ten games and our play improved dramatically from the previous season. This was highlighted when we lost narrowly to Wallace High School at the end of the season having been beaten by over 40 points at the beginning of the season. There were fine performances including wins over Dungannon, Foyle, Coleraine, and Kilocomaine. All boys in the squad should be congratulated on their dedication and commitment to practice. The team was captained by Shane Martin but all members of the squad led by example. My thanks would like to go to Mr Stretton for his help throughout the season.

I.M.G.

UNDER 13 B XV The U13 ‘B’ team experienced a difficult beginning to the season with successive losses against Ballyclare, Methodist College and Sullivan Upper.

However despite these results, a continually high attendance during training sessions was encouraging.

The first win of the season against an improving Boys’ Model side in which Jason Poots starred,

FORM I This year’s Form I rugby group is one of the strongest and talented that the School has had in a number of years. There are a number of exceptional players as well as competition for places demonstrated by around 25 players representing the ‘A’ team at some stage throughout the season.

Most pleasing to the coaches on Friday afternoons and Saturday mornings was the enthusiasm and willingness to learn new skills regardless of experience, or if they were new to the sport.

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The team played a number of games throughout the season against Wallace High School, Regent House, Campbell College, Grosvenor College and Ballyclare High School. All games were very competitive with the boys giving a good account of themselves. The team also got to the final of the Plate Competition in the annual Coleraine Tournament.

The ‘A’ forwards throughout the season consisted of Charlie George, Oliver Allen, Daniel Logan, William Irons, Dominick Rhodes, Aaron Martin, Kirk Mullally, Adam Keed, Joshua Richie, Michael McCormick, Rhys Goodall, Luke Carlin and Michael Mahood; while the ‘A’ backs included Tom Stewart, Luca Johnston, Rory Linden, Harry Warke, Mitchell

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McKay, Mark McKillen, Myles Ingram, Tom Spence, Will McCrum, Harry Robinson, Cameron White, Isaac Jarman, Adam Kane and Aaron Heatly.

Other players who represented school teams during the year included Ben Hopkins, James Bryan, Jack Megahey, Jacob O’Neill, Adam Gordon, Jordan McKee and Sam McCluskey.

There were a number of outstanding performances throughout the season. Tom Stewart captained the side extremely well. He was the team’s talisman and led by example with high expectations, organisation, strong running and ferocious tackling.

provide one, such were the high numbers attending our Senior club. In addition to our eight regular teams, the Form I club practised every Saturday with numbers rarely falling below 30.

After Christmas the Form I team played some friendly fixtures against Ballymena Academy, Grosvenor, Methody, Friends’ and Ballyclare High.

They concluded their season by playing in the long established annual tournament hosted by Grosvenor Grammar. The Owls’ Cup is awarded every year to the team in school that wins the most matches and this year the 1st XI won the Cup.

1st XI

The vice-captain Charlie George is an exceptional overall athlete. He was always a threat to the opposition with his elusive running and he scored a number of important tries.

In closing, apart from the boys, I am also indebted to the hard work and professionalism of my fellow coaches during the year: Mr Creighton, Mr Bell, Mr Ingram, Robbie Creighton and Stuart Olding. Their support, expertise, dedication and friendship made it a joy to be involved with coaching such a pleasant and enthusiastic group of boys.

T.H.

GIRLS’ HOCKEY For the 2012/13 season we fielded four Senior and four Junior teams every week for our Saturday morning fixtures. Some weeks we played a fifth senior team if the opposing school were able to

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Captain: Amy Mellor Vice Captain: Faye Kidd Played 22

Won 15

Drawn 3

Lost 4

The story of the Girls’ Hockey club was the success of the 1st XI who for the first time in some 20 years reached the semi-final of the Senior Schools’ Cup, an exceptional achievement given that the team lost 7 players from the previous season.

1st round v Sullivan Upper (Home) (Scorers Sarah Martin & Faye Kidd)

Won 2-1

2nd round v Omagh Academy (Home) (Own goal)

Won 1-0

3rd round v Cookstown High (Away) Won 2-1 (Scorers Sarah Martin & Megan Reilly) Quarter-final v Rainey Endowed (Home) Won 2-1 (Scorers Anna Hutchinson & Erin Getty)

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Semi-final v Lurgan College (Played at Lisnagarvey Hockey Club) (Scorer Judithe Allen).

Lost 4-1

The Cup run had been a fantastic experience and there was no shame in losing to Lurgan College who went on to win the Cup and also the All-Ireland trophy.

Other notable wins in the season for the 1st XI were beating Methody and Strathearn. Sarah Martin finished top goal scorer with a fantastic 15 goals; it will be a long time before this total is beaten by a 1st XI player. The reward for the success of this season was a trip to Marbella just four days after the semifinal defeat. Here we played against two Spanish clubs, losing and winning one match. It is exciting to think that we will only lose three players from this year’s team; we will have to aim to match the success of this season but no longer as underdogs!

The players from the squad who gained representative honours were Judithe Allen who represented the Belfast Area U17 team along with Faye Kidd and Abbie Brown who both went on to play for Ulster.

Faye Kidd and Abbie Brown represented Ulster U17 with Faye having the honour of captaining the team.

They played a three-match series against England U17 at Lillishal and upset the odds with a draw and two memorable victories! This same team also hosted matches against Scotland and a regional team from the States over the summer.

Grammar in the first round of the McDowell Cup; centre forward Clara Montgomery was one of the goal scorers that day. Unfortunately, the team lost 2-0 to Strathearn in the second round in what was a very entertaining match. Exiting the Cup at this stage meant they went into the Plate competition. After a win over Strabane High, the team progressed to the second round of the Plate. They went on to play Ballyclare High and after giving a good account of themselves were unlucky to go out 1-0.

N.N.

Erin Getty was selected for the second year for Ulster U15 and travelled in June to Holland with the team to play in a European tournament. Erin also played for Ireland U16 for the second year and won the Celtic Cup with the team in Wrexham over the summer.

Other representative players from our Junior teams were Lucy Stewart and Irish Alvarado who both represented Belfast Area U15s. Lucy had the honour of captaining the team and progressed on to be selected for an Ulster B squad at this level.

N.N.

2B XI Played 18

Won 11

Player of the Year: Top Goal Scorer: Most Improved Player: Captain: Vice-Captain:

Drew 4

Lost 3

Hannah Allen Alex Devine Emma Gray Hannah Allen Hilary Ferris

2A XI Captain: Megan Reilly Vice Captain: Sarah McGrath Played 15

Won 5

Drawn 4

Lost 6

Captained by Megan Reilly the 2A had a mixed season and played fewer matches than the 1st XI. Their first win of the season was a 3-0 win away to Limavady

The 2B XI enjoyed a successful season. This was down to a group of girls from Form IV – MVI who bonded very quickly as a team.

They were a very dedicated and hard-working team; their commitment in trying to improve individual skills and team work were second to none. This was due to their captain Hannah Allen, an enthusiastic player who led by example both at training and during matches.

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Team morale and spirit remained high throughout the season, and was reflected in matches as well as attendance at extra training sessions. It was a great pleasure to work with such a dedicated, energetic group of girls.

This season the 2B XI came second to Ballyclare High School in the South Antrim Schools’ League.

The League consisted of Antrim Grammar, Ballyclare High School, Belfast High School, Carrick Grammar and Larne Grammar. The girls won against Antrim, Carrick and Belfast High. The team drew against Ballyclare and very narrowly lost in the last minute against Larne Grammar.

Every season the girls compete in the 3rd XI Cup which begins in October. Unfortunately, we were unable to progress from the group stage, losing to Sullivan in our final match. To finish our season, the team enjoyed a trip to Portrush where they had fun surfing and doing team-building activities. It was a very successful way to end the 2012/13 season.

The MVI girls leaving this year will be missed. I hope that Hannah, Hilary, Alex, Katie, Charis, and Sarah will carry on playing hockey at University or Club level. Special thanks must go to Hannah Allen who made an excellent Captain, motivating and encouraging her team. Her organisational and leadership skills have been instrumental in the success of this season.

Squad: (GK) Lucy Browne, (SW) Kate Taggart, (RB) Emma Gray,(CB) Hannah Allen, (LB) Melissa Moffett, (RL) Charis Hannah, (CL) Orlagh McBriarty /Sarah Smith, (LL) Hannah Booth/Emer Gribbon, (RW) Katie Nixon, (CF) Hilary Ferris, (LW) Alex Devine/ Sarah McGuckin.

K.E.B.

3rd XI

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Played 11

Won 4

Drew 1

Lost 6

Player of the Year: Top Goal Scorer:

Rebecca Burns Megan Bingham/ Elizabeth Sinclair Most Improved Player: Lauren Turner Captain: Kelly-Anne Rainey Vice Captain: Alex Kyle The 2012/2013 season proved to be a most enjoyable experience for the team with a range of players from Form IV to MVI. Attendance at training was excellent and a great deal of work was devoted to improving both skills and fitness.

I would like to make special mention of our captain Kelly-Anne Rainey, who led by example with her helpful, organised and pleasant manner in which she performed her duties throughout the season. I would like to wish Kelly-Anne good luck with her future studies and I hope she continues to play hockey at University or club level.

Many thanks go to the girls for their commitment and effort this season. The team members worked very hard to produce their best in games. With continued effort and determination many of the 3rd XI will be representing higher teams next year. I therefore wish them every success at these levels.

Squad: (GK) Chloe McAllister, (SW) Rebecca Burns (RB) Rachel O’Donnell, (CB) Amy O’Donnell, (LB) Kelly-Anne Rainey/Amy Hunter, (RL) Emer Gribbon/Rachel Atkinson, (CL)Alex Kyle, (LL) Helen Diamond, (RW) Hannah Lau/ Emma McAllister, (CF) Elizabeth Sinclair/Megan Bingham, (LW) Lauren Turner/ Rebecca Rowan.

K.E.B.

U14 A XI The 2012/2013 season was an exceptional year for the U14 team in terms of results, with a commendable record of played 14, won 10, lost 4. Despite playing only fourteen matches due to our typical winter weather, attendance at after-school coaching sessions and the girls’ overall commitment levels and motivation were always high.

Our captain this year was Savannah Thompson and our top goal scorer was Anna Wilson. Our first Cup match was against Royal and Prior on 22nd November and despite the long, tiresome journey the girls played exceptional hockey to obtain a 7 – 1 win. This standard of hockey continued throughout the season.

In the second round of the Junior Cup we met Methody in January. The girls played through

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horrendous weather conditions and after normal time the score was 1-1. Our goal was scored by Anna Wilson. This match went to extra time, then penalty strokes and sadly BRA lost 3-2. The girls were disheartened while Methody continued this level of hockey to go through to the final and win.

Due to the level of hockey being played, Lucy Stewart represented the Belfast area U15 team and Savannah Thompson and Anna Wilson were selected for trials. We ended the year with the return of Erin Getty, who had been selected for the 1st XI this year.

It was great to have her back to play in our last match against Larne. BRA won 6-0, a great result to end the year.

The U14 B captain this year was Charlotte Nicholl and top goal-scorer was Jamie Murray. With a total of eight matches played, they won 4, drew 1 and lost 3. They were a dedicated and hard-working group of girls who showed enthusiasm throughout the season.

Thanks to Mrs Shaw for all her hard work and dedication in preparing these girls for senior hockey.

Savannah Thompson (Captain)/N.N.

Won 7

Draw 2

Medals were awarded to the following girls – Player of the Year: Alice Reid (voted by players).

Irish Alvarado (represented Belfast Schools U15 squad).

Top Goal Scorer: Maria Del Castillo – 9 goals scored.

B.M.C.

U13 B XI Played Won 8 2

Draw 4

Lost 2

Captain: Erin Moffett Vice Captain: Danni Wilson

U13 A XI Played 13

The weather again hindered our progress, with matches cancelled and others having to be played at the end of the season! Despite this the girls maintained a high level of enthusiasm and were a pleasure to work with. The squad: Irish Alvarado, Katlyn Bruce, Ellen Dalzell, Eileen Donaldson, Molly Brown, Rachel Baillie, Trinity Geddis, Charlotte Anderson, Katie Ritchie, Katie McConaghy, Alice Reid, Charlotte Poh, Maria Del Castillo and Megan McCalmont.

Lost 4

Captain: Trinity Geddis Vice Captain: Charlotte Anderson The U13A team had a successful season. The girls were very dedicated and hard-working. The commitment in trying to improve individual skills and team-work during matches was second to none.

Attendance at practices was excellent. The girls were very competitive for places on the team and many played several positions when needed. A total of 24 goals were scored among 6 girls.

The U13B team had a mixed season, as the weather caused a great number of cancellations. Much work was devoted to improving basic skills, particularly spacing, passing and tackling. Competition for places in the team was good and most players were able to gain match experience. Despite the weather, attendance at practice was excellent, and the girls enjoyed their hockey with enthusiasm. Their commitment to the game remained high throughout the season.

The Squad: Jasmine Ross, Erin Moffett, Dannie Wilson, Beth Magill, Lauren Hamilton, Lauren Kane, Aoibh Moorhead, Hannah Marshall, Anna McClurg,

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the team, but they made quick progress, with Jason Roe and James Bingham looking particularly comfortable at Senior level. The balance of talent and experience from the LVI and MVI boys meant that captain Niall Bradley and his team were quietly hopeful of a successful season.

Megan McCalmont, Brooklyn Jamison, Katie Thompson, Ella Johnston, Amber Vick.

Player of the Year: Top Goal Scorer:

Megan McCalmont (voted by players).

Katie Thompson – 3 goals scored.

B.M.C.

The difficulty of the task ahead was soon realised, however, after a difficult start to the campaign; a narrow 2-1 defeat to Grosvenor was followed by a heavy 5-2 defeat to Methody. The team was defending ably, marshalled by Neil McAllister and James Carey at the back, but poor ball retention was costing the team dearly. The boys worked particularly hard on this area of their game and responded with a hard-fought 3-3 draw with a talented Wallace side, before beating a Methody select team 3-1 and narrowly losing to RBAI 3-2, conceding with virtually the last hit of the game. The attacking prowess of Niall Bradley and Chris Roe was proving difficult for opposition defences to contend with, and the steadying presence of Alan Curtis in the BRA midfield meant the side was keeping the ball much more effectively.

BOYS’ HOCKEY 1st XI The loss of a number of experienced MVI pupils meant that the 1st XI Boys’ Hockey team underwent a period of development as several fourth and fifth form boys were introduced into the squad. It was expected that these boys would take time to bed into

A 1-1 draw against Newry High school and a 7-1 win against Bangor Grammar meant that if BRA were to progress to the semi-finals of the Prior Shield and build on their success from last season, they would have to win against Campbell and Friends’. The loss of Alan Curtis to a hand injury for several months was a difficult blow for the side, but the positive results of late were an encouraging sign. Both games were

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closely contested affairs, but in the end experience came out on top and, despite fight and determination, both sides were too strong for the young BRA team.

This ended any chance of progression in the Prior Shield and the team finished a creditable third in the group, leaving the Burney Cup as the last competitive hockey of the season. The first round provided a great tie, with BRA drawing Antrim Grammar for the second successive season. Antrim had come out deserving winners the previous year so the boys knew this would be a difficult match. For the departing MVI boys, the Burney Cup was the last competitive action for the school, so there was a determination to prolong their BRA hockey experience for as long as possible. Antrim started the game at a quick pace and slack marking at the back saw them take an early two goal lead. BRA responded with a goal from Niall Bradley and the scoreline remained poised at 2-1 for a large portion of the game. Chances were created by both teams and the match could have gone either way, but BRA hopes were dashed by an Antrim goal five minutes from the end and the game finished 3-1.

Credit must go to the boys for their efforts to get back into the game. In truth, the poor start gave them too much to do to rescue the situation.

Mr Lunn and I would like to thank the team for their commitment and hard work over the season. We wish the departing MVI boys success in the future, both on and off the hockey field. Personally, I also wish to thank those who have been involved with Boys’ Hockey over the last three years, staff and pupils alike; it has been a thoroughly enjoyable experience.

A.G.F.

COLTS HOCKEY

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The ‘Colts’ XI had a season of limited success; our playing record would not make particularly impressive reading.

However, they were an enthusiastic group, for the most part, and showed tangible improvement throughout the season. The majority of the group will form the nucleus of next year’s 1st XI. I hope they will have greater success as a group in that capacity.

Our goalkeeper for the most part was Daryn McMeekin. Never short on enthusiasm he was always capable of producing fine saves. However, sometimes he was over-eager to perform acrobatics, when staying on his feet to make simple saves might have been a better option.

Alan Jones was oft employed at right back. He is a disciplined marker and a solid tackler. However, he

needs to improve his distribution when he gets possession of the ball. He must learn to hit the ball with more power and consistency if he is to command a position in the 1st XI next year.

In the middle of the back Ben Irvine and Richard Ware were utilised along with the odd member of the 1st XI as required. Richard is a good low tackler and he shows intelligence in his positional awareness. He has a good slap hit, but needs to improve his stick skills under pressure if he is to become a better allround player. Ben has got solid stick skills and reads the game well. He must learn not to panic under pressure and to back his abilities more.

Ryan McAlister was employed in a variety of positions to good effect. He has a good turn of pace and a very competitive instinct. He must endeavour to bend his knees more to assume a lower body position. So doing will give him greater strength on the ball and therefore make him a more effective player. John Miller was another who filled many positions. He has very tidy stick skills and can hit the ball with impressive power and accuracy. He must improve his footwork and his stamina if he is to make an effective 1st XI player next year.

The Fifth Form contingent consisted of a triumvirate of James’s. James Bingham is another whose mobility could be improved. With greater mobility he could be an excellent asset. He has very good stick skills and the ability to get himself out of narrow corners on the pitch. He also has a powerful hit, which yielded its fair share of goals, both in open play and at penalty corners. James Carey was a powerful presence in defence. He is a very strong and persistent tackler. His speed, particularly on the turn was an asset. His ability on the ball improved significantly during the course of the season, but he needs to have more composure on the ball. James Johnston is a tenacious midfielder. He has a composed head on his shoulders and could be relied on to make good decisions. He needs to do everything on the pitch at a greater pace and with more conviction to increase his effectiveness.

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Thomas Carey and Jason Roe were key elements of our midfield and attack. They both showed a lot of potential. Jason could control the tempo of the game.

His stick skills are excellent and he is very committed to improving his game. His mobility improved during the course of the season and will continue to do so as he gets older. Sometimes he was prone to over-carry the ball; he was more effective when he linked up with other players with short passes.

Thomas has great pace and was an effective rightsided attacker. Occasionally his head sometimes fails to keep up with his feet; he needs to develop a little bit more composure if he is to make more use of his abilities.

Oliver McGowan, Chris Jones and Mark Johnston were regularly utilised ‘up front’. They were willing runners and worked hard for the team. Mark has some unconventional stick skills that caused problems for the opposition defences. He also has the ability, though not consistently, to produce a powerful reverse stick shot. Oliver and Chris worked very well to put opposition defences under pressure and took up excellent positions in attack. All three boys need to work on their link-up play; retaining possession and bringing the midfielders into the attacks. Too often the ball would not be retained by our forwards to give us a platform going forward.

Owen Kinnear was not always available, but when he did play he provided a cutting edge to our play. If he could be persuaded to practice more regularly he could be an asset to the 1st XI next year.

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Finally, a word about Mark Kerr. Mark played primarily for the 1st XI but was always a willing volunteer to help out the ‘Colts’ when we were short.

He showed good leadership, although his abrasive style was not always to everybody’s liking. His effort could never be called in to question and his subtlety has improved considerably over the course of the years. I hope the boys enjoyed their season and that they continue to play next year, hopefully on what can be a successful 1st XI. M.G.H.

JUNIOR HOCKEY The Junior team is made up of boys from Forms I, II and III, with a range of ability and experience of playing hockey. The team, although deserved to, went without a win during the season. However, upon reflection, their performances improved steadily throughout the year and to their credit, several individuals developed their skills substantially.

The season started with narrow defeats against RBAI and Methody. Heavier defeats against Campbell College and Friends’ followed. Playing against stronger opposition did have some benefits however.

The team’s defensive play gradually improved, simply because for the majority of matches it was necessary to defend, make tackles, organise a defence and make goalkeeper saves. As a result, matches became more competitive and the need to work on offensive play was required.

The second half of the season included defeats against Grosvenor and RBAI. However, in both matches it was only the inability to convert the chances created that resulted in a loss rather than a draw or win.

The Bannister Bowl competition brought a tough draw against Banbridge Academy and despite a respectable performance the Cup run was brought to an end.

The defence was led ably by Andrew Milligan, who proved to be a good ‘man-marker’ and developed better distribution skills as the season progressed. In midfield Conor Foster was a constant source of energy and made many good penetrating runs. The forward line was led by Ethan Thompson, who quickly developed into a natural goal scorer.

There are many promising young players in the Junior school and, with commitment and effort, they will develop into good players and can contribute well to the Boys’ Hockey club in the future.

K.L.

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CRICKET 1st XI Northern Ireland Season: Played 10 Won 9 Lost 1 Sri Lanka Tour: Played 5 Won 1 Tied 1 Drew 1 Lost 2 Batting: Ross Bryans Jordan Carlisle Daniel McFadden Jordi Fettis David Reid

262 runs at 37.43 206 runs at 20.6 227 runs at 16.42 193 runs at 16.08 173 runs at 13.15

Bowling: Andrew Forbes Ben Kane Ross Bryans Jordan Carlisle Jordi Fettis

14 wickets at 14.29 24 wickets at 12.46 11 wickets at 25.64 10 wickets at 25 11 wickets at 15.27

In nearly 20 years of being associated with Belfast Royal Academy cricket, this was the best 1st XI season that I can remember. After becoming the first ever school from Ireland to tour Sri Lanka, we won 9 out of 10 games in a rain-affected season including victories over traditional powerhouses RBAI, Campbell College, Bangor Grammar School. For the second year running, we lost in the Schools’ Cup to the winners, this year Limavady Grammar School.

There were a number of individual performances to highlight: a superb 51 not out from Ross Bryans to beat Bangor Grammar School in the Schools’ Cup, a

rapid 54 from Suraj Tirupati against the same opposition in the Eadie Shield, Andrew Forbes bowling 6 overs for 9 against Irish Schools’ batsmen in the game against Limavady, Andrew Palmer’s one handed catch at mid-wicket, captain Jordan Carlisle’s two not out innings against RBAI, amongst others.

Five boys: Bryans, Kane, Forbes, Carlisle and McFadden, were selected for the Ulster Schools’ Trial. Carlisle, as captain, and Forbes played for the side in the Inter-provincial and on tour, with Forbes selected for Irish Schools’.

We say goodbye and thank you to Daniel McFadden, Jordan Carlisle, Jonathan Rainey and Ben Kane.

These four have been a significant part of the playing success and camaraderie of the 1st XI over the past number of years and I wish them continued good fortune in their cricketing careers. I know that we will continue to see them at the Castle Grounds in the future.

M.R.S.

2nd XI The 2nd XI only played a small number of games throughout the year. Many schools could not field a 2nd XI so opportunities were limited. Matthew Simpson captained the side with distinction. We played RBAI twice and despite scoring over 100 runs didn’t quite manage the victory. Our Cup game was a very exciting one, but Foyle proved just too strong.

Congratulations to the whole squad for a very enjoyable season.

I.M.G.

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on a massive 212-1 after our 20 overs. We restricted the visiting side to just 37, Michael Wilson being impeccable with the ball as well, taking 4 wickets.

Bangor was the next side to venture to Roughfort.

This was a side we had beaten every year previously so we were very confident, especially after the outstanding win against Dungannon. However, the boys had seriously underestimated this talented Bangor side and they scored an impressive 135.

Going out to bat the team weren’t as comfortable as they would have liked to have been. With Michael Wilson going early for 22, the team were nervous, but with Francis Collins scoring a marvellous 40 and Johnny Mooney and Connor Boyd backing him up well with 31 each, this gave the team a 7 wicket win.

COLTS XI This was a season that began with high hopes and expectations. The team as a whole had tremendous ability with some very talented cricketers. The season began with a comfortable win against Ballyclare High School. Ballyclare scored a very impressive 120 in difficult batting conditions. BRA chased it down with ease. Michael Wilson scoring an entertaining 60 and Scott Macaulay getting a birthday present of a golden duck!

The Northern Irish weather then kicked in, restricting cricket for two straight weeks which depressed the boys greatly. The team’s next fixture was against Inst. at Osbourne and the team’s lack of cricket showed, as Inst set a huge target of 165 in 20 overs. This was always going to be a tough task and the team were quickly skittled for a very mediocre 85. The team had a chance to redeem themselves the following Saturday, dispatching Inst. for a very average 120 at the Castle Grounds. After a good start, BRA was in the driving seat, being 60-2 off 12 overs, but a major batting collapse meant they were all out for a very depressing 91.

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The next fixture was in the Cup against Limavady.

This fixture was delayed for two long weeks again due to the unpredictable weather. After the long journey up north, we batted first, scoring a slightly above average 135, with Michael Wilson scoring a wellcrafted 70. A few early wickets had the boys in high spirits and, with some very inventive fielding positions, we restricted Limavady to what was a generous 56.

The second round fixture was against Dungannon.

This was another team we knew little about. We again decided to bat first, which was an inspired decision, as we saw some of the finest batting you are ever likely to see at school-boy level, with Michael Wilson scoring a magnificent 105 not out, Francis Collins with a very solid 40 and Jack Burton (FIII) scoring a quick fire 49 not out off just 22 balls leaving the team

The quarter final was against Holy Cross, Strabane and unfortunately this was our last game of the season. Holy Cross batted first and scored an impressive above par 144. The loss of Michael Wilson and Francis Collins very early in the BRA innings left the team feeling very nervous. However, Johnny Mooney, with an outstanding 44, gave BRA a chance. The loss of his wicket proved to be crucial, as the boys fell an agonisingly 9 runs short, with captain Connor Boyd left stranded on 33 not out.

During the course of the season the Colts showed tremendous potential and team spirit. Many of these boys will go on to play for the 1st XI in the future.

Apart from the boys mentioned previously, the team could not have succeeded without the support from the other players, including David McLarnon, Sam Millar, Niall Gray (wk), Ben Stevenson, Jason Fleming, Ryan Corry, Jack Burton (FIII), Samuel Osborne (FIII) and Christian O’Connor.

Special mention must go to skipper, Connor Boyd, for his outstanding leadership both on and off the pitch. He also has considerable ability with both bat and ball and this should ensure a successful future with cricket at BRA. B.M.M./A.G.F.

JUNIOR COLTS XI The Junior Colts proved to be a real challenge for us as coaches. We knew their previous year’s wins/losses record was good; they were described to us as a team of much talent and enthusiasm. We were therefore excited at the prospects that lay ahead.

The season began with wins against Sullivan Upper and Ballymena Academy. Of particular note was Jack Burton’s knock of 66 runs from 44 balls, including 4 sixes against Ballymena.

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next ball and with some decent bowling by Campbell no more runs were scored from the final over. BRA had fallen 3 runs short of getting to a Final appearance against RBAI. It was a game BRA should have won quite convincingly after getting themselves into a number of match winning positions. I hope the boys will learn from the experience and come back hungrier and more determined next year to make up for the disappointment.

We became unstuck in our next match against a very strong and powerful RBAI side with only Jason Roe hitting double figures in a disappointing batting performance of 53 for 9. Despite this defeat the boys never lost heart. This was evident in a very successful Cup run where we were narrowly defeated in the semi-final of the Derriaghy Cup against a very average Campbell College team.

This Cup run began with a convincing away victory against Sullivan Upper. Morgan Lapworth was our highest scorer with 23 in our total of 82 from 20 overs. Wickets were shared between Jason Roe (1), Samuel Osbourne (2) and Morgan Lapworth (5). It was an excellent team performance although mention must go to Morgan for his Man-of-the-Match performance.

In the next round of the Cup there was a 7 wicket win against one of our closest rivals, MCB. After some excellent bowling, particularly from Jack Burton and Michael Brady, MCB were bowled out for 71 from 15 overs. Some explosive hitting from Jack Burton (22) in the first couple of overs and a steady innings from his younger brother Max (14) got BRA to the required runs in just over 10 overs. It was a remarkable and very encouraging team performance, and it gave the boys much confidence going into the semi-final against Campbell College.

In the semi-final some excellent bowling, again from Jack Burton and Samuel Osborne, restricted Campbell College to 83-9 in their 20 overs. Many of their ‘bighitters’ were out early in their innings from unplayable deliveries. The BRA run chase started brightly with Jack Burton hitting 3 fours from 5 balls in the first over. Unfortunately for Jack and the BRA team, he was clean bowled with the sixth delivery! The run rate slowed dramatically after this and there was a steady fall of BRA wickets. Only Max Burton with a resolute 34 made much of an impact in the scoring book. It eventually came down to the last over with BRA needing 7 to win. The first ball was dispatched to the boundary by Max Burton. This raised our hopes of an unlikely victory. Unfortunately, he was out the very

The Junior Colts during the course of the season showed tremendous potential and have the makings of a very good team which will be hard to beat.

Overall the team should be very happy with their performance this season. Apart from the boys mentioned previously the team could not have succeeded without the support from other players, who turned up to practice every week and were enthusiastic in their approach. Names that spring to mind are Brandon Doyle, Michael Brady, James McMahon-Beattie, Cormac McCracken, Rorie Godfrey, Daniel Allen, Karl Buick, Scott Lewis, Adam Kennedy and Jay Hanna; not too forget Max Burton, Harry Warke and Robbie Moffett, all Form I boys, who strengthened our Cup team on the way to the semi-final.

The season was one of highs and lows but the commitment, enthusiasm and dedication of the players was never in question. It was an absolute pleasure and privilege to be part of this squad and if they continue to work hard they have the potential to win many more matches.

P.M./ T.H.

JUNIOR XI The Junior XI comprised a team of enthusiastic and dedicated players. Ben Greenlees captured the team and proved to be an excellent leader throughout the season.

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The season started with fixtures against Ballyclare High School, Sullivan Upper School, Wallace High School and Bangor. The team struggled to gain momentum at this early stage, but showed great progression as the weeks progressed, with a very gutsy win against Bangor. In these early games Ben Greenlees, Oliver Lapworth and Tom Kendall showed some excellent bowling, with Ben also showing some great promise in his battling.

The team lost to a strong Campbell College team in the Cup, but played extremely well, the highlight of this game being a superb catch from Aaron Lyons.

The season finished with a disappointing loss against Strabane in the Plate competition, however the team played well and on another day could have won.

Valuable contributions were made throughout the season from Daniel McDonald, Ben Greenlees, Daniel Simpson, Oliver Lapworth, Tom Kendall, Zak Mills, Aaron Lyons, Euan Carrol, Ryan Dodds, Andrew Meeke, Connor Foster and Tom McCallister.

These players should continue to play cricket with the dedication and commitment they have shown this season. Their commitment and enthusiasm to improve was invaluable. I would like to thank Mr McGonigle for his continued help and support throughout the season.

D.J.C.

FORM I

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The Form I cricket team performed admirably throughout the season. The batting partnership of Harry Warke and Max Burton proved to be very lucrative and Robbie Moffet’s bowling was particularly impressive.

It is rare that any Form I team scores 100 runs, but to score them against RBAI was very satisfying. The team scored a crushing win against Bangor Grammar and Ballyclare High, but suffered a narrow defeat to Wallace High School in the Centenary Cup. A number of games had to be postponed due to the weather, but it is hoped that this team will go on to produce great

victories. Congratulations to Max Burton who played for the NCU U13 team.

I.M.G.

TOUR TO SRI LANKA On Wednesday 27th March, the 1st XI Cricket team travelled to Sri Lanka for a pre-season tour, becoming the first school from Northern Ireland to do so. The tour was productive, both in a cricketing and educational sense, as well as being immensely enjoyable. Highlights included playing at the Galle International Stadium, snorkelling in the Indian Ocean, bathing elephants, singing in a tree hut and working closely with two Sri Lankan charities, Child Action Lanka, and the Foundation of Goodness.

Students found the hot and humid conditions challenging at first, but they soon acclimatised, ready for their first match against Kandy Academy at Dharmaraja College Grounds. B.R.A. student, Suraj Tirupati, outlined the dramatic events of the match: “They batted first and scored 132 in 20 overs on a very fast outfield (Ben Kane 4 overs for 9 runs). We backed ourselves from the start to put up a good fight - and that’s exactly what we did! Jordi Fettis scored 60 off 43 balls and was supported by David Reid (28).

After a see-saw battle we needed 26 off the last two.

A massive six by Cameron McClurkin provided some impetus. Ross Bryans took 16 off the final over (3 off the final ball) to finish the game in an incredible tie.”

The students’ next match was against Ananda College at Shugathadasa Stadium. MVI pupil, Jordan Carlisle, outlined the highlights of a well-fought battle: “We won the toss and opted to bat first. The heat in Colombo was even more intense than Kandy and the opening batsmen, Francis Collins and Jack Burton, were relieved when the sky clouded over just prior to the start! After a decent first 10 overs, we struggled to get momentum, losing wickets quite regularly but posted a reasonable score of 161. Eventually, Ananda College’s batting was too much to handle and we lost by 6 wickets.”

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The team’s third match was played against the formidable Foundation of Goodness Academy, who beat the BRA students in an exciting showdown.

Form III pupil, Jack Burton, shared his thoughts on the successes of his opponents: “They beat us by 8 wickets, chasing down our modest total. The highlight for us was Ross Bryans’ fiery opening spell, in which he took two wickets. Francis Collins’ juggled catch was also impressive. At the end we were told by their coach, Mr Anura, that because they have little rain, they train 7 days a week, 365 days a year. This definitely showed in their performance.”

Another exciting match was played at the famous International Galle Stadium against Nottingham High School. B.R.A.’s Francis Collins reviewed the match in this way: “Nottingham had a good start – an opening stand of 115 runs. We finally broke the partnership when Michael Wilson bowled a ‘jaffa’ down the leg side and David Reid took a sharp catch. We fought hard after that and with good spells from Ben Kane, Jordan Carlisle (who bowled the England U17 captain), Andrew Forbes, Jordi Fettis and Andrew Palmer, we broke through to their tail. However, their number six counter-hit well and scored a quick-fire 51* off 30 balls. They ended their innings on 254-6.

“With a defeat on the cards, David Reid batted 29.4 overs in the intense heat, scoring a well-fought 22 off 84 balls, ably supported by Jack Burton. Jordan Carlisle came in and picked up the run rate by scoring 36no off 34 balls, but at this stage we realised we couldn’t get bowled out if we were to get a draw. We succeeded in not being bowled out and ended up settling for a ‘fair draw’.”

The last match of the tour was played against Colombo International School, where B.R.A. secured an impressive first win. Form V pupil, David Reid, commented on the winning formula: “We started off with CIS bowling a lot of extras and were going well until 2 quick wickets fell, leaving us 22-2. However, Fettis and McFadden (36) batted superbly to take the match away from CIS with a partnership of 62. Jordi Fettis ended with a brilliant 50*, his 2nd fifty of the tour. It was great to get our first win, so after the game we celebrated by having an ice-cream with the opposition and then had a quiet relaxing last night in Sri Lanka.”

As well as sporting endeavours, the students also worked closely with two Sri Lankan charities, Child Action Lanka, and the Foundation of Goodness.

David McLarnon explained the work undertaken to help others:

“We travelled to the Foundation of Goodness Centre, where on arrival we were met by Mr Anura. He gave us a tour around the centre and explained to us what the centre offers to the local people of the Seenigama village: courses in Business Studies, English and Electrical Wiring, among others. There was also a medical centre located on the site which provided a free service and free medication to members of the surrounding area. It was surprising to hear that the foundation runs entirely on donations. After our visit we completed a beach clean-up and had a welldeserved swim.”

The good work continued that evening, when the students gave cricket and football training to 60 local children.

Students also enjoyed visiting many tourist sites, including a tour of Kandy, an excursion to a Buddhist Temple, snorkelling in the Indian Ocean and a trip to an elephant orphanage. They also received a talk about the Sri Lankan conflict. For many, the highlight was a trip to the Cricket Shop, where many bats and shirts were purchased. The boys were also treated to a visit to Premadasa International Stadium to watch the face-off between Great Britain Combined Universities and Bangladesh.

Overall, the tour was a huge success and enjoyed by all involved. Form IV student, Michael Wilson, concluded, “We boarded the plane saying farewell to a nation we have become very fond of, making new friends and leaving with happy memories.”

M.R.S.

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BOYS’ ATHLETICS CLUB The season started with a friendly meeting at the Antrim Forum against Ballyclare High School and Coleraine Academical Institution. The following week the team participated in another friendly meeting with Methodist College and The Royal Belfast Academical Institution on the impressive new tartan at the Mary Peters’ Track. Both events were very competitive and excellent preparation for the forthcoming District Championships.

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The first major fixture of the year was the Junior and Minor District Athletics Championships at the Antrim Forum on Tuesday 7th May. In excellent conditions there were some outstanding performances, including new District records for Stephen McCorry in the Junior Hammer and Matthew Dalton in the 80m Hurdles. A more complete set of results can be found below.

The Senior and Intermediate District Athletics Championships were held at the Antrim Forum on Saturday 11th May. The poor weather conditions did not affect the Academy athletes, who performed well – with both the Senior and the Intermediate Boys’ teams finishing second overall on points. The Junior Pole Vault and 800m events were also concluded on 11th May. Shane Martin won the Pole Vault which, when added to the Junior Boys’ team’s excellent performance on Tuesday, was enough to see the Junior Boys’ team become District champions. The Boys’ team finished second in the Victor Ludorum

when all age-groups were added together. Jack Agnew competed in the inaugural T54 events with great success, winning both the 100m and 200m.

Qualifiers from the District Championships took part in the Ulster Schools’ Athletics Championships at the Antrim Forum on Friday 17th and Saturday 18th May. In perfect conditions, Stephen McCrorry set a new Ulster record in the Junior Hammer, throwing a massive 50.43m; Robert Moffett retained his Senior Hammer title and Jack Plackett won the Junior Pole Vault. Unfortunately, the weather on Saturday 18th May was atrocious, with localised flooding on many parts of the Forum. However, this did not stop Jack Agnew (T54 100m and 200m), Matthew Dalton (Junior 80m Hurdles and High Jump) and Alan Curtis (Senior 400m Hurdles and Long Jump) from becoming double Ulster Champions. Thomas Carey also performed brilliantly in winning the Junior Triple Jump. There were many other fine individual performances which contributed to the Junior Boys’ team becoming Ulster Junior Champions and the Boys’ team finishing second school overall.

On Saturday 1st June, Academy athletes competed at the Irish Schools’ Athletics Championships in Tullamore. Matthew Dalton (Junior High Jump) and Shane Martin (Junior Pole Vault) all performed extremely well and became Irish Champions.

Matthew also finished second in the Junior 80m Hurdles, as did Thomas Carey in the Junior Triple Jump. Robert Moffett (Senior Hammer) and Alan Curtis (Senior 400m Hurdles) won Bronze

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medals. The Junior Boys’ team once again performed extremely well – winning the overall Junior Boys’ Championship.

Junior Boys Stephen McCrorry

Congratulations to Alex Steenson, Shane Martin, Matthew Dalton, Stephen McCorry, Victoria Beattie and Mellissa Moffett who were all selected to represent Ulster at the AVIVA Tailteann Irish Schools’ Inter-provincial in Tullamore on Saturday 29th June.

Alex also went on to represent Northern Ireland in the Shot Putt at the UK School Games.

Rakeem Marica

Congratulations are also due to Shane Martin, Jason Poots, Trinity Geddis, Beth Magill, Charlotte Anderson and Erin Moffett who were selected to represent District B in the Year 9 U14 Inter-district competition on Thursday 13th June at the Antrim Forum.

I would like to thank Mr Moffett and Miss Stewart for their continued support of the Athletics Club.

Much of the success of the athletes would not be possible without them. I would also like to thank Mr Roberts for his enthusiasm, knowledge and faithfulness during the year. He has rekindled an interest in long-distance running in the School that I am sure will continue to grow over the coming years.

Last but not least, I would like to thank Mr Patterson, Mr Carolan and Mr D. Creighton for their continued enthusiasm and expertise.

District Athletics Championships, Antrim Forum, Tuesday 7th May and Saturday 11th May Senior Jordan Hylton Calvin Lawrence Alan Curtis Daniel Dass Stewart Martin Robert Moffett

3rd 100m 11.4 secs and 3rd 200m 24.3secs 1st 400m 59.2 secs 1st 400m Hdls 60.2 secs and 1st Long Jump 5.93m 3rd Triple Jump 10.90 m and 3rd in Shot 10.57m 2nd Shot 10.69m and 2nd Discus 35.14m 1st Hammer 48.59m

Jack Agnew Shane Martin Matthew Dalton Thomas Carey Mini Dominick Rhodes

Callum Dalzell James Carey Alex Steenson Gareth McAdams Rhys Donaldson

3rd 100m 11.7m 3rd 400m 60.3secs and 1st Hammer 44.57m 2nd 1500m SC 5min 45 2nd Long Jump 5.75m and 3rd Triple Jump 11.57m 2nd Shot 12.75m 3rd Discus 31.92m and 1st Javelin 38.61m 2nd Javelin 38.11m

1st Long Jump 4.23m 4x 100m relay 3rd -56.5secs.

Ulster Schools’ Athletics Championships, Antrim Forum, Friday 17th and Saturday 18th May. Senior Robert Moffett

Calvin Lawrence Daniel Dass

1st Senior Hammer 49.56m 2nd Discus 34.51m and 5th Shot 9.49m 1st Long Jump 5.80m and 1st 400m Hurdles 58.24s 5th 400m 58.6s 6th Shot 9.21m

Intermediate Scott McMurtry Rhys Donaldson Gareth McAdams Alex Steenson Callum Dalzell

2nd Hammer 46.60m 6th Javelin 33.96m 6th Discus 26.39m 4th Shot 12.94m 5th Steeple Chase 5.05.8

Stewart Martin Alan Curtis

Junior Jack Agnew Matthew Dalton Stephen McCrorry

Intermediate Roy Chia Scott McMurtry

1st Hammer 45. 12 m (record) and 3rd Discus 28.70m 2nd Hammer 33.65m and 2nd Javelin 32.43m 1st T54 100m 19.7 secs and 1st T54 200m 39.1secs 2nd Triple Jump 9.63m and 1st Pole Vult 2.30m 2nd High Jump 1.72m and 1st 80m Hdls 11.6 secs 1st Triple Jump 10.50m

Jack Plackett Thomas Carey Shane Martin Rakeem Marica Mini Dominick Rhodes

1st T54 100m and 200m 1st 80m Hdls 11.78s and 1st High Jump 1.58m 1st Hammer 50.43m (Record) and 4th Discus 25.89m 1st Pole Vault 2.00m 1st Triple Jump 10.86m 7th Triple Jump 10.18m 4th Hammer 40.68m

3rd Long Jump 4.17m 4 x 100m Relay 6th 57.5secs.

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Irish Schools’ Athletics Championships, Tullamore, Saturday 1st June Senior Robert Moffett Alan Curtis

Stewart Martin Intermediate Scott McMurtry

Junior Matthew Dalton

Shane Martin Thomas Carey Stephen McCorry Jack Plackett

3rd Senior Hammer 51.47m 3rd Senior 400m Hurdles 57.12secs and 5th Long Jump 6.22m 4th Senior Discus 35.85m

4th Intermediate Hammer 50.04m

1st Junior High Jump 1.71m and 2nd 80m Hurdles 11.56 secs 1st Junior Pole Vault 2.55m 2nd Junior Triple Jump 11.18m 4th Junior Hammer 39.93m 7th Junior Pole Vault 2.10m.

C.M.C.

GIRLS’ ATHLETICS CLUB Club Captain: Hannah Allen

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Athletics Cups – Summer 2013: A.R. Foster Cup: Aime Bradley (Best performance by a Minor girl) Air Formations Signals Cup: Erin Moffet/ (Best performance by a Alex Beattie Junior girl) Glanville Cup: Melissa Moffett (Best performance by an Intermediate girl) Girdwood Cup: Emma Kelso/ (Best performance by a Hannah Allen Senior girl) District Championships 60 girls were entered for the District Championships held at the Antrim Forum at the start of May. The Minor Team was 4th, the Junior Team was 2nd and both the Intermediate and Senior teams finished 1st.

There were top performances from: Katie Ritchie (Junior) 1st Pole Vault, Rachel Millar (Inter) 1st 80m Hurdles, Victoria Beattie (Inter) 1st Pole Vault, Melissa Moffett (Inter) 1st Hammer, Mykila Donaldson (Inter) 1st Shot, Sarah Martin (Senior) 1st

100m, Hilary Ferris (Senior) 1st 400m Hurdles and Emma Kelso (Senior) 1st Pole Vault. Hannah Allen (Senior) also finished 1st in the Hammer, setting a new district record.

Ulster Schools’ Championships 25 girls qualified for the Ulster Championships, many qualifying for two events. There were top performances from: Alex Beattie 1st Pole Vault, Erin Moffett 1st Hammer, Hannah Allen 1st Hammer, Emma Kelso 1st Pole Vault, Melissa Moffett 2nd Hammer, Kellie McLean 3rd Pole Vault and Katie Ritchie 3rd Pole Vault. All seven girls qualified for the Irish Championships.

Irish Schools’ Championships The Irish Schools’ Athletics Championships took place on Saturday 1st June in Tullamore. Seven girls qualified to compete at the Championships and produced excellent results, with many of the athletes achieving personal best performances. Well done to Emma Kelso who was 1st in the Senior Girls’ Pole Vault and Alex Beattie who was 3rd in the Junior Girls’ Pole Vault.

School Sports Day Sports Day was held at Roughfort on Friday 21st June. Thankfully the rain held off and approximately 200 girls were able to take part. There were a number of good performances and a great time was had by all. The House Cup was won by Cairns.

Irish Schools’ Inter-provincial On Saturday 29th June, Melissa Moffett and Victoria Beattie represented Ulster in the Irish Schools’ U17 Interprovincial competition at Tullamore. Both athletes performed well, contributing valuable points to the team competition.

UK School Games Victoria Beattie (Form IV) was selected to represent Northern Ireland in the UK Schools’ Games in Sheffield from 12th-15th September 2013. Victoria was 6th in the Pole Vault with a new personal best (2.50m).

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I congratulate all of the girls on a successful and enjoyable season. Their dedication and efforts have been rewarded. Enthusiasm and commitment to train were evident with large numbers turning out to games and extra practice. I would encourage all of the girls to continue to build upon their personal targets in the future.

K.E.B

District Championships, Antrim Forum, Tuesday 7th and Saturday 11th May 2013 Minor Aime Bradley

2nd 800m Qualifies for Ulster Championships 3rd 100m Naomi McGuckin 3rd Long Jump Katie Baird 4th Long Jump Team place overall – 4th Junior Katie Ritchie Alex Beattie Naomi Martin Erin Moffett Lauren Hamilton Laura Fleck Ellen Dalzell Rioghnach Catney Trinity Geddis

1st Pole Vault Q 2nd Pole Vault Q 2nd Discus Q 2nd Hammer Q 3rd Hammer Q 3rd 75m Hurdles Q 4th 800m 4th 1500m 5th Long Jump 4x 100m Relay 5th Team place overall – 2nd Inter Rachel Millar

1st 80m Hurdles Q 2nd 300m Hurdles Q Victoria Beattie 1st Pole Vault Q Mykila Donaldson 1st Shot Q 3rd Hammer Q Melissa Moffett 1st Hammer Q 3rd Shot Q Megan Geddis 2nd 100m Q 2nd 200m Q Rebecca Harbinson 2nd High Jump Q Kellie McLean 2nd Pole Vault Q Abbie Brown 3rd 300m Q Robyn Geddis 4th 300m Clara Montgomery 4th Triple Jump Yasmin Anderson 5th Long Jump 4 x 100m Relay- 2nd Q Team place overall – 1st

Senior Hannah Allen

1st Hammer New District Record. Q 2nd Javelin Q Sarah Martin 1st 100m Q Hilary Ferris 1st 400mH Q 3rd 100m Q Emma Kelso 1st Pole Vault Q Anna Hutchinson 2nd Triple Jump Q Megan Reilly 2nd 800m Q Faye Kidd 3rd 1500m Q Natalie Duff 3rd Shot Q 4x 100m Relay 1st Q Team Place Overall – 1st Ulster Schools’ Results Antrim Forum, Friday 17th and Saturday 18th May 2013 Minor Aime Bradley

Junior Alex Beattie Erin Moffett Katie Ritchie Lauren Hamilton Inter Melissa Moffett Kellie McLean Victoria Beattie Mykila Donaldson Rachel Millar Rebecca Harbinson Megan Geddis

Senior Hannah Allen Emma Kelso Anna Hutchinson Faye Kidd

3rd 100m 6th 800m

1st Pole Vault Qualifies for Irish 2nd Hammer Q 3rd Pole Vault 5th Hammer

2nd Hammer Q 3rd Pole Vault Q 5th Pole Vault 5th Hammer 5th 300m Hurdles 7th 80m Hurdles 6th High Jump 7th 200m 8th 100m

1st Hammer Q 6th Javelin 1st Pole Vault Q 5th Triple Jump 6th 1500m Relay 6th

Irish Schools’ Championships, Tullamore, Saturday 1st June 2013 Senior Emma Kelso Hannah Allen

1st Pole Vault 5th Hammer

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Inter Melissa Moffett Kellie McLean

7th Hammer 8th Pole Vault

Junior Alex Beattie Katie Ritchie Erin Moffett

3rd Pole Vault 6th Pole Vault 6th Hammer

Under 14 Competition Boys’ Model The Form II Girls’ team competed against Methody, Hunterhouse, Friends’, Belfast High School and Victoria College. Their results were as follows: Erin Moffett Beth Magill Charlotte Anderson Ellen Dalzell Trinity Geddis Katie McConnaghie Relay Team:

2nd Shot 2nd Long Jump 3rd High Jump 3rd 800m 3rd 100m 7th Javelin 2nd (Charlotte Anderson, Trinity Geddis, Alice Reid, Beth Magill)

Under 14 Inter District Team Competition, Antrim Forum, Thursday 13th June The following girls were chosen to represent District B in the Inter District Competition held at Antrim Forum: Charlotte Anderson Trinity Geddis Erin Moffett Beth Magill

Hurdles Hurdles and Relay Shot Long Jump

Irish Schools’ Inter-provincial, Saturday 29th June

Tullamore,

The following girls were selected for the Ulster U17 team:

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Melissa Moffett Victoria Beattie

Hammer Pole Vault K.E.B.

BADMINTON Badminton ran once (sometimes twice) a week in the Sports Hall. The Senior team consisted of Bonnie Li (LVI), Yasmin Anderson (V), Jenna Todd (LVI) and Megan Bingham (LVI) and they competed in the Senior Girls’ League. For the first time, a team was entered into the Junior Boys’ Cup and this group consisted of Luke Auterson (IV), Jack Park (III), Niall Gray (IV) and John Millar (IV). Both of the teams

played very well against very difficult opponents.

Major honours were awarded to Bonnie Li, Jenna Todd and Yasmin Anderson and Minor honours to Megan Bingham for their contribution and achievements in badminton for the School.

A.M.M.

CROSS COUNTRY RUNNING While the fortunes of the Cross Country Club remain at a relatively low ebb, there are encouraging signs that this state of affairs will not last for long. Not only is the number of pupils involved in the sport increasing, there has also been a notable improvement in the quality of participants. If the undoubted abilities of Aimee Bradley, Ellen Dalzell, Rioghnach Catney, and Caolan Lyttle can be nurtured and their interest sustained, before long the former vibrancy and success of our club will be restored.

Little in the way of team success was to be had during the season. Most prominent were the Senior boys, comprising Matthew Donnelly, Malachy McKenna, Mannix McAlister, James Duffy and Jamie Moore.

The team was runner-up in the District Championships and a praiseworthy 6th in the highly competitive Ulster Schools’ Championships. As an individual, Donnelly finished in a fine 4th place in the District Championships. Unfortunately, through

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Mannix McAlister, like Matthew Donnelly, Malachy McKenna, James Duffy, and Jamie Moore, departed the school at the end of the year. All were committed members of the Club, and all enhanced its reputation.

We wish them well.

J.H.C.

BOYS’ GOLF

injury, he was to miss the Ulster Championships.

Again in the Districts, Aimee Bradley completed the Mini Girls’ race in 3rd place.

In the Ulster Championships perhaps the most encouraging performance came from Caolan Lyttle, a Fifth Form pupil who had qualified to run in the Intermediate race, but who instead, in Donnelly’s absence, moved up to Senior level and was our school’s top finisher in a splendid 23rd place. If he is so-minded, he has a bright future in the sport.

One of the privileges of being involved in sport is to witness the development of someone of perhaps limited ability who, through determination, persistence and dedication to his sport, exceeds the expectations of his coaches. Mannix McAlister epitomises the athlete who enjoys his sport for its own sake, but who is, at the same time, determined to explore his talents. His 9th place in the District Championships was a pleasure to see and appropriate reward for his efforts.

The golfing season began in disappointing fashion as we failed to qualify for the next stage of the Irish Schools’ Senior Match-Play Competition, held on 10th September 2013 in Edenmore Golf Club. It was our first competitive fixture of the year and with the exception of Aaron Cairns who played to his handicap, the boys (Jamie Dwyer, Pierce Clements and Kieran McGahan) didn’t perform to their usual high standards. This, however, would serve as an experience on which to build. Our new target was to achieve success in the Ulster Schools’ Winter League Competition.

Having defeated Methodist College and Aquinas Grammar School comfortably in the group stages, our Senior golf team faced Our Lady and St. Patrick’s College, Knock at Dunmurry Golf Club in the Semifinal of the Winter League Competition. Our captain, Jamie Dwyer led from the front with a very convincing victory 6&5. Aaron Cairns also won his match with a hard-fought but deserved victory 4&2, eagling and birdying 2 of his last 3 holes. Pierce Clements fought back well after a slow start narrowly to lose his match 3&2 and Kyle Higginson, having

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led for much of the round, narrowly lost his match 2&1. Fortunately, the margin of our victories by Jamie and Aaron saw us win the match overall and put us through to our 1st golfing final, to be played at the home of golf, Royal Portrush.

The Final unfortunately proved to be one step too far.

The standard of the opposition was extremely high and the difficult weather conditions on the North Coast made scoring difficult. Pierce Clements drew one of his matches and lost the other but Jamie, Aaron and Kyle were narrowly defeated in both their matches. Despite the disappointment of losing in the final, the boys should get much credit for achieving 3rd place. Furthermore, it had been a very enjoyable day out and the boys have certainly benefited from the whole experience.

P.M.

GIRLS’ GOLF Judithe Allen and Amy O’Donnell represented the School at the Ulster Schools’ Championship on a very cold and wet day in March at Portstewart Golf Club.

The format required teams of three to compete with the best two scores counting. Remarkably, as a team of two, Judithe and Amy battled courageously through the horrendous conditions winning the Ulster Junior Cup outright. This is the first time that Belfast Royal Academy has won this prestigious trophy.

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Our Belfast Cup 1st round game was away to Lurgan College. The team passed the ball well and were unlucky not to take an early lead, with a number of efforts from Matthew Harvey going very close.

Unfortunately, lapses in defence cost the team two goals in quick succession and they went into half-time 2-0 down. In the second half our midfield was the stronger of the two, and this enabled the Academy team to build momentum and put the opposition under pressure. This paid off when Matthew Harvey got on the end of a long ball and slotted home to make it 2-1 with 10 minutes to go. Unfortunately, no equaliser was to come and the team went out of the Competition at the first hurdle.

Having won the Ulster section of the Championship, the girls had the honour of representing Ulster Schools at the Irish Schools’ Championship at Milltown Golf Club, Dublin on 29th April. Playing within the same format as the Ulster Championship, Judithe and Amy once again triumphed, winning the Irish Schools’ Junior Cup. They are the Irish Schools’ Junior Champions. It was a privilege and pleasure for me to attend the event and see the girls excel in their field. They deserve all credit that comes their way for this outstanding achievement. I have little doubt that the girls will go on to achieve much more during and beyond their school life. Of further note, during the recent summer break, Judithe played and won all three of her matches as the U18 won the interpro competition.

In the Belfast Cup we faced a strong St. Mary’s Grammar School side. The game was played on the 3G pitch at Solitude. With a defensive set-up we frustrated the opposition. Eventually, however, St. Mary’s pressure paid off and they scored two goals from crosses into the Academy box. There was a brief rally when Jack Calwell made the score 2-1 but further St. Mary’s goals in the second half meant the game finished 5-1.

P.M.

R.B./N.I.

Despite these defeats there were some good performances. Matthew Harvey looked dangerous in both games, and Matthew Chism and Jordi Fettis were strong in midfield. In defence Matthew Purdy was solid and our goalkeeper Luke Jones made some world-class saves.

FOOTBALL CLUB

JUDO

In the 2012/13 season the Football team competed in the Belfast Cup and Northern Ireland Cup. The squad consisted mostly of MVI pupils who had played competitively for the School previously.

There was unprecedented success for the Academy at the 2013 Northern Ireland Schools’ Judo Championships on Saturday 1st June 2013 when the School team took home three individual Gold medals and a

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team Silver medal. Kiah Reid (Form III) won Gold in the Under 40kg class; Matthew Elliott (Form II) won Gold in the Under 60kg class; while James Reid (Form IV) won in the Under 73kg class.

The boys’ team of Matthew Elliott, Dylan Getty (Form III) and James Reid won a Silver medal for BRA in the team event. The boys fought admirably and were beaten by a much older and heavier Wallace team in the final.

All four of the aforementioned pupils are exceptional fighters and every time they represent BRA they do so with distinction.

Special praise must go to James Reid. In September 2012, James became one of the youngest recipients of a ‘Black belt’ when he fought a number of men, much older than him, and beat each of them by ippons (the highest finishing move possible). Last year he was also down to the last 23 of the Senior Northern Ireland Judo Commonwealth selection team. This was a remarkable achievement as he was still only 15.

In March 2013 James represented BRA in the British Schools’ Judo Competition in Sheffield and won the Bronze medal. In April 2013 he also won the Gold medal at the Northern Ireland Open at Queen’s University. Everyone at BRA is thrilled by James’ continued success.

T.H.

FORM I NETBALL Netball practice for the Form I girls started on the 18th September and continued through to March. The girls were extremely enthusiastic and enjoyed warmup and skills training, as well as a game to round off the Tuesday afternoon practices. As some had never played netball before coming to BRA, the Form I girls showed great commitment and their netball skills improved dramatically.

After a break for Christmas and the examinations, the teams were selected and the girls were excited about the prospect of their first matches. The A team started with a match against St. Dominic’s at home and after a closely fought match, drew (6-6). The second match was away at Lagan College and resulted in another draw (6-6). The girls had many chances of scoring and came from behind to draw. Finally they were disappointed to be narrowly defeated by Grosvenor away from home by a one goal margin.

The B team played two matches this season against Grosvenor and Ashfield Girls’, and although they played with enthusiasm, they did not pass through to the next stage of the competition.

Thank you to all the girls for their commitment and enthusiasm throughout the season. I would also like to thank Melissa Moffett and Rachel Miller for their help each week during the Tuesday practice, leading the warm-up activities and in assisting with coaching.

H.M.

JUNIOR NETBALL Junior Netball had a very enjoyable year. We trained every Monday after school from 3:20pm-4:45pm and worked hard to improve our netball skills.

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Unfortunately, we lost against strong teams from Sullivan and Aquinas, but played a very exciting and tough match against Bloomfield Collegiate which we drew 10-10. We are hoping this year we can enjoy training, play some more matches and fulfil our potential.

Junior Squad: Ciara Patterson (Captain), Rachel O’Mullan, Molly Gould, Natasha Kelly, Erin Getty, Mary Cousins, Clodagh Poots, Kirstyn Smith, Hannah Edgar, Cherie McDermott, Lori McDermott.

Ciara Patterson (IV)

INTERMEDIATE NETBALL MINOR NETBALL The Minor Netball team met every Tuesday after school. The team was extremely enthusiastic and committed and came determined to improve their skills. However, despite all of our hard work we did not have a very successful season.

The team played in League ‘A’ and faced tough opposition from Methody, Rathmore, Sullivan and Grosvenor Grammar School. The team showed great determination but unfortunately did not progress through to the league finals.We met St Genevieve’s in the first round of the Cup and won 11-6.

Unfortunately, we were defeated narrowly by Lumen Christi College in the second round of the Cup.

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This season recorded considerable team success for both Intermediate teams. The Intermediate ‘A’ team won comfortably against Aquinas (18-10), Lagan College (30-11), Dominican (30-8) and Rockport (340) in their League matches, but unfortunately did not progress through to the Belfast League finals.

The team faced Rathmore in the first round of the Cup, winning 19-17 in a tough, but enjoyable match and progressed to reach the semi-final. Despite a strong performance, the team lost narrowly to Assumption Grammar, a school with a rich netball tradition.

We will continue to develop this group of committed players to fulfil their potential and hope they continue to enjoy playing netball at BRA.

Individual success was also a characteristic of this season. Lauren McCullough achieved a place on the Belfast Area Podium Squad while Abbie Brown, Courtney Duncan, Judithe Allen and Emer Gribbon were selected for the U15 Belfast Area Netball Academy.

Minor Squad: Eilish McEwan, Jenny Fekkes, Amber Vick, Ellen Dalzell, Caitlin Hoey, Charlotte Poh, Eileen Donaldson, Lauren Hamilton, Alice Gamble, Chloe Watt, Bobbi Linton.

Intermediate A: Lori Turkington (Captain) Lauren McCullough, Courtney Duncan, Judithe Allen, Abbie Brown, Emer Gribbon, Kellie McLean, Mimi Joffroy, Lucy Miller.

K.E.B.

The Intermediate ‘B’ team had a very successful year winning their matches with convincing scores against Aquinas (17-2), Wellington College (14-8) and Girls’ Model (29-5) securing a place in the Belfast Schools’ finals. The team played with great endeavour and went on to win their final against Hunterhouse (182).

Intermediate B: Rachael Miller (Captain), Melissa Moffett, Kellie McLean, Emma MacDougall, Hannah Torrens, Sophie Porter, Ruth McConnell, Hannah McCalmont, Holly Sharpe, Jordanna Park.

I would like to thank all of the girls for their hard work and dedication to training. They showed great determination, talent and commitment to netball and

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I would like to thank each girl for her commitment and determination throughout the year and look forward to training with them again in the coming season.

Senior Squad: Stephanie Stronge (Captain), Charis Hanna, Emily Taggart, Katie Nixon, Naomh McGuigan, Sarah Smyth, Kathryn Brice, Paula Keenan, Claire Hughes, Jade Anderson-Flaherty.

D.B.C.

SHOW-JUMPING I hope they continue to develop and improve their skills next season.

K.E.B.

SENIOR NETBALL This year the girls played in the Senior ‘A’ League and had a challenging year. The team worked and trained hard throughout the year. The team played a number of league matches and were narrowly defeated and unfortunately didn’t make it to the League finals. The girls played exceptionally well against much stronger sides and we hope to do better next year.

Stephanie Stronge as captain was outstanding. She led by example, motivating and encouraging the team, ensuring each member was at training and playing to the best of their ability. Stephanie was very organised and will be sorely missed next season.

Congratulations to Naomh McGuigan who was selected to play for the Podium U19 Squad representing schools in the Belfast area. Jade Anderson-Flaherty received the Netball award during the School Honours Assembly for her contribution to the sport as she was a committed player, and also assisted with coaching Junior school netball.

On Saturday 20th October the second round of the Ulster Schools’ Show-Jumping Championships’ took place at Knockagh View Equestrian Centre. The competition runs as a league from October to December. Schools from all over the province made the journey to Greenisland, some as far away as Donegal. The arena was looking brilliant thanks to course builder Alistair Megahey and the team at Knockagh View.

The Novice Team event with 15 teams got underway at 9am sharp and it wasn’t long before the first successful team clear rounds were recorded. The teams who made it to the jump-off on a zero score were Ballymena Academy, Saintfield High School, Methodist College Belfast and Bloomfield Collegiate Greens.

The Open Team event got underway with only two of the seven teams making it through to the jump-off, showing how challenging the course was. Belfast Royal Academy and Ballymena Academy were the teams that had to jump-off. Sarah Sproule and Jessica Johnston jumped-off for Belfast Royal Academy and produced two quick clears to win the competition.

Ballymena Academy was second and Ballyclare High finished third being the fastest team on a score of four.

On Saturday 17th November the third round of the Ulster Schools’ Show-Jumping Championships’ took place at Knockagh View Equestrian Centre.

NOVICE RESULTS: 5th Belfast Royal Academy, Amber Vick, Victoria Minford, Mimi Joffroy.

OPEN RESULTS: 1st Belfast Royal Academy, Sarah Sproule, Jessica Johnston, Beth Moss, Amy Wilson.

On Saturday 1st December the final of the USSJ league took place at Knockagh View Equestrian Centre. The Novice team won the final round of the competition and finished in fourth place in the league.

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The team consisted of Amber Vick II, Victoria Minford IV and Mimi Joffroy IV.

Open Team League Results Final PSTN.

Novice Team League Results Final

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PSTN.

SCHOOL

PTS

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

Ballymena Academy ‘1’ Bloomfield Collegiate ‘Blue’ Cambridge House ‘Red’ Belfast Royal Academy Saintfield High School Methodist College Belfast Bloomfield Collegiate Green Ballyclare High Russell Dalriada Limavady

39 26 26 23 22 19 15 14 11 8

The Open team also had a good day finishing second in the final round which put them on level points with Ballyclare High School. As Ballyclare finished better on the day they won the league leaving BRA as USSJ runners up 2012. The team consisted of Sarah Sproule MVI, Amy Wilson LVI, Beth Moss LVI and Jessica Johnston IV.

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

SCHOOL

PTS

Ballyclare High School ‘Brann’ Belfast Royal Academy Cambridge House ‘White’ Ballymena Academy High Shire Mixed Team Saintfield High School St Joseph’s College Limavady Grammar School Carrick and Downshire Mixed Team Carrickfergus Grammar School

37 37 30 30 23 14 6 5 4 2

On Saturday 12th January the final round of The Inter-School Show-Jumping Competition was held at the Meadows Equestrian Centre, Lurgan. The Novice team comprised Amber Vick FII, Mimi Joffroy FIV, Victoria Beattie FIV and Victoria Minford FIV. The Novice team had an unlucky four faults in the jumpoff to finish in sixth, which meant they finished in fourth place in the League.

The Open team: Amber Vick FII, Jessica Johnston FIV and Sarah Sproule MVI won the competition by 16 seconds and was crowned as M.E.C Champions 2013. This is the third year in a row that we have won this league.

S.B.M.

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BOYS’ SWIMMING Captain: Mark Wylie The Swim team had another great year; we are the top grammar school in Ulster again with the Junior Boys’ team winning medals at every competition (Finn Purdy, Lui Hurson, James Desmond, Charlie George and Lorcan Gourley). The team won 132 medals in total for the last school year.

Conor Ferguson set two new Ulster Schools’ Records and he was also selected for the Ulster Schools’ Interprovincial team. Conor went on to win eight medals at the Irish Age Group Championships in July (7 Gold and 1 Silver) picking up the Best overall Boy award.

He went to Sheffield at the end of July for the British Championships where he won 100M and 200M Backstroke and 200 IM, adding three Gold medals to his ever increasing medal haul.

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GIRLS’ SWIMMING Captains: Kate Miller and Seana Harley-Moyes The Swim team had another great year becoming the top grammar school in Ulster, with the Senior Girls’ team becoming outright Ulster Champs again! They picked up a total of 132 medals for the year. Eorann O’Neill and Katie Baird were selected for the Ulster Inter-pro team, who won the Inter-provincial Championships at the beginning of May. The girls picked up medals individually and in relays across all the competitions this year. The Junior Relay teams of Maria Del Castillo, Katie Baird, Zoe Parkes,

Sinead Gourley, Jenny Fekkes and Charlotte Anderson are Ulster Champions in both Medley and Freestyle Relays. The Senior girls, not to be outdone, followed suit; also at the Secondary Schools’ Championships Eorann O’Neill won five Gold medals.

At the Irish Age Group Championships Katie Baird won five medals (3 Gold and 2 Silver).

The aquatic performances this year across the board, swimming, waterpolo and lifesaving have been spectacular. Hopefully, they will continue to grow from strength to strength.

E.A.

WATERPOLO Boys’ Captain: Matthew Francey The Senior Boys’ Waterpolo team have had a reasonably good year. They finished 3rd in the Schools’ League, 3rd in the Canada Trophy and 3rd

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BOYS’ LIFESAVING Captain: Sam Lindsay Both of the Senior Boys’ teams finished first and second at the Ulster Lifesaving Championships and go through to the Irish later in the year. Two boys were selected for the Ulster U16 Waterpolo Team and played in Manchester at a National Tournament.

Ruairi Hurson was selected for the Northern Ireland Lifesaving Commonwealth Games Team and went to Canberra, Australia. Ruari returned with two Bronze Commonwealth Medals.

again in the Irish U19 Schools’ Championships. Tom Donnelly, Ruairi Hurson and David Speers were selected for the Ulster Schools’ U19 Inter-provincial team and finished runners up in the Irish Inter Provincial Tournament. The U16 boys finished 2nd in the school league. The boys narrowly lost to a very impressive Polish team.

The same three boys were selected for the Ulster U17 team that went on to win the Irish Interpro Tournament in Dublin. Tom Donnelly and David Speers were also selected for Irish U17. Tom Donnelly now takes over as the new captain.

Girls’ Captain: Caroline Montgomery The Senior Girls’ Waterpolo team have had a reasonably good year. Lori Turkington was selected for the Irish U16 team that headed off to Cardiff to compete in the Tri-Nations. Eorann O’Neill and Caroline Montgomery continued to train with the Irish U19 squad. More recently the U14 team have competed in the Irish U14 tournaments in Galway and Dublin. Anna Whiteside, Cara Carson, Emma Gourley, Ashley Johnston and Jennifer McCorry were selected to play for the Ulster 14 team and Maeve Gallagher played for the U16 Ulster team in the Irish Interprovincial Championship in September 2013.

E.A.

Ruairi’s Account of The Lifesaving Commonwealth Games, Canberra, Australia: ‘‘We left Dublin on Friday 30th August for a 40-hour trip to Canberra. On arrival we stayed in the Australian Institute of Sport. On the Wednesday we competed in a short course competition; I was placed 4th in three Relay events. We had a welcoming conference at the Old Parliament in Canberra; we were welcomed by Aboriginal elders. I met some very interesting people – the CEO of Kulture Break and the Australian Olympic swimmer, Alicia Coutts. We also helped RLSS Members raise money to help lower the drowning rates in Asia.

During the actual Commonwealth Games Competition I made an ‘A’ final and three ‘B’ finals. The Northern Irish Team was 4th in the Obstacle Relay and we finished 3rd in the Manikin and Medley Relays. At the Closing Ceremony Dinner, we had the pleasure of seeing an aboriginal dance group; we also learned that Northern Ireland was placed 4th overall in the medals table. To round off my fantastic experience we spent some time sightseeing in Sydney before heading home.’’

E.A.

GIRLS’ LIFESAVING Belfast Royal Academy won the Smyth Cup. This is the award for top school/club in Northern Ireland successfully completing and passing lifesaving awards.

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Lori Turkington had a great Ulster Lifesaving Championships by finishing 3rd and going through to the Irish competition later in the year.

The Girls’ team for the British Championships had a good competition and picked up a few medals. Eorann O’Neill won the 100m Obstacle and finished 2nd in the 200m Obstacle and the Rescue Medley. She was also selected for the GB National Squad and the Northern Ireland Commonwealth Games Lifesaving Team, along with Lori and they headed out to Canberra, Australia with Ruairi and their other team mates.

Eorann won two Bronze medals and Lori picked up one. Lori said “I had the most amazing time ever; it was the experience of a lifetime!”

E.A.

AUSTRALIA 2013 At the start of June I was picked to represent Northern Ireland in the Commonwealth Lifesaving Championships held in Canberra, Australia. We left for our epic journey on 30th August, travelling from Dublin to London to Malaysia to Sydney and finally arriving in Canberra where we stayed in the Australian Institute of Sport. We competed in a short course competition on the 4th September and came fourth in the Obstacle Relay.

The Championship began on the 6th September and ended on the 8th of September. I carried the flag at the Opening Ceremony. The team came third in the Obstacle Relay and picked up the first medals for Northern Ireland. Overall Northern Ireland won 22 Bronze medals and came joint fourth with Canada in the team rankings.

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After the competition we travelled around Sydney for a day and took in the sights before starting the long journey home.

Lori Turkington (LVI)

BOYS’ TENNIS Numbers participating in boys’ tennis in the summer term grew again this year. A regular band of twenty five pupils from FI-FV took their chances with the weather at Cavehill Tennis Courts, honing their tennis skills in all conditions from glorious sunshine to pouring rain. It was encouraging to see so many new members joining the stalwarts. Hopefully, numbers will grow again next year.

S.C.S.

GIRLS’ TENNIS In Girls’ Tennis, teams were entered at Junior, Intermediate and Senior level. Both the Senior team and Intermediate team won all their matches and therefore progressed to the knock-out stages of their Cup. The Intermediates consisting of Emma McAllister, Kellie McLean, Lucy Miller and Hannah Torrens are a young team, and lose only Emma for next year’s team.

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was enough to progress to the Northern Ireland finals at the Nutts Corner Circuit.

Team members and non-team members went to three separate practice sessions at Nutts Corner Circuit, mostly for fun. However, this gave the ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams a chance to practice for the Regional finals which offered the top team from Northern Ireland the chance to go to the National finals at Whilton Mill, England.

The Senior team consisted of Anna Hutchinson, Elizabeth Sinclair, Amy Mellor and Faye Kidd and like the Intermediate team lose only one player from the team for next year. They were the first Academy tennis team to reach the Schools’ Cup final in 8 years after an excellent win over Strathearn at the knock out stage. The final was against Victoria College, who are frequent winners of the Girls’ Tennis Cups. Our team could not have given anymore, but unfortunately lost to a Victoria team that included Ulster players.

N.N.

The ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams arrived at Nutts Corner on the 25th April 2013 for the Regional finals, having to contend with forever changing weather. There were two eight-minute practice sessions following the drivers’ briefing, which gave the drivers a chance to battle for good grid positions. Stephen Rea won the first race for the ‘B’ team; Michael Woods won race two for the ‘A’ team and Peter O’Neill won his race making it a hatrick of wins for BRA in race three.

Unfortunately, the next three races didn’t go our way, with unreliable karts, steering problems and an engine switch off. The ‘A’ team managed to finish 2nd overall in Northern Ireland and the ‘B’ team a respectable 6th.

Later in the year we had a fun outing for teachers and pupils. 16 participants in total had a fun afternoon in a rather wet Nutts Corner Circuit. The event received very positive feedback from all involved and everyone is looking forward to the next outing.

Stephen Rea (V)

KARTING Captain: Oliver Vick The BRA Karting teams enjoyed a very successful campaign, in only our second year of competing. We had several practice sessions at Nutts Corner and Raceview, Ballymena in preparation for the BSKC (British Schools’ Karting Championship). The semifinal of the BSKC was held at Raceview in Ballymena on the 19th February 2013. Despite being relatively unfamiliar with the track, the ‘A’ and ‘B’ teams were placed 2nd and 3rd respectively, which

“I have very much enjoyed captaining the karting team this season. Together we achieved second in the country in the BSKC of which we are all immensely proud. I would also like to commend the high standard of the ‘B’, ‘C’ and ‘D’ teams and congratulate the two teams qualifying for the regional final.

At a time when the sport is very much growing, I would encourage students in any forms to try karting next year. It is a sport that requires both physical and mental skill and is open to any ability.”

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Oliver Vick (Captain LVI)

GIRLS’ RUGBY Girls’ rugby was first introduced as a Games option in 2012. There was a small group of girls wishing to choose this option and after around three or four weeks of coaching, it became a topic to talk about which increased the popularity and also increased the group to a larger number. We were inexperienced on how to play rugby, but that didn’t stop our willingness to learn. The highlight of our week suddenly became Wednesday Games time which wasn’t common for many of the girls who were taking part!

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Two coaches from Malone Rugby Club, John and Johnny came in to coach us and they made it an enjoyable two hours teaching us new skills, new tactics and how to work together as a team. After several weeks of training we were entered into a tournament in which BRA had three teams. BRA stole the competition taking first and second place winning the overall trophy.

The girls were quick to realise that they had made history of not only the first girls’ rugby team, but also the first girls’ rugby team to win their first tournament. This made everyone feel really good about themselves and encouraged them to carry on playing rugby.

A few girls, such as Amy Kingston, Sophie Orr, Rose Beavis and Eilis O’Loan, decided to try rugby at the next level and attend Malone Girls’ Rugby Club on a Wednesday night.

This increased the girls’ interest in rugby even more, encouraging them to stick at the sport, to meet the current team and learn new skills from them. Girls’ rugby continues to be a popular Games option and is improving the fitness of a good number of the Senior girls in the School.

Amy Kingston (LVI)

SPORTS COLOURS AWARDS OF TROPHIES HOUSE TROPHIES Rugby Form I Form II Form III Overall

Janson de Sailly – Cairns, Captain Tom Stewart Sarcelle – Cancelled due to snow Currie – Captain Stephen McCorry Jack Kyle – Cairns – Captain Sam Lindsay

TEAM AWARDS Girls’ Hockey:Owls Cup – (Most successful Hockey team)

1st XI Captain – Vice Captain, Faye Kidd

Rugby:FP Cup – (Most successful rugby team)

1st XV Captain – Mark Wylie

INDIVIDUAL AWARDS

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Netball Outstanding contribution to Netball Most promising Junior Swimming Bicentenary Cup – Best performance by a boy swimmer Bicentenary Cup – Best performance by a girl swimmer Commonwealth Cup – Most improved girl swimmer Girls’ Hockey Carroll Cup – (Most promising middle school player) Davis Shield – (Greatest contribution to hockey)

Jade Anderson-Flaherty Hannah Edgar

Finn Purdy Eórann O’Neill Katie Baird

Abbie Brown Amy Mellor

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INDIVIDUAL AWARDS Boys’ Hockey Best Player during the year Most improved player Best Junior player

Niall Bradley Richard Ware Thomas Carey

Rugby Patterson Shield (Most promising young senior player) Dalzell Salver (Most promising junior players) Honours Caps

David Campbell Gareth McAdams, Michael Wilson Daniel Dass – Ulster U18 Stewart Martin – Ulster U18

SCHOOL PLAQUES For playing 50 matches for 1st XV For playing over 75 matches for 1st XI

Adam Brice, Daniel Dass, Mark Wylie Amy Mellor

Kickboxing N.I. Champion, who reached the quarter final when he represented N.I. at the World Championships in Florida Kristian Irwin Taekwondo Rebecca Marno and Cathryn Morrissey competed for Northern Ireland at the British National Poomsae Championships in Nottingham. Rebecca and Cathryn produced some outstanding performances to secure 4 Gold and 2 Bronze medals between them. Their achievements are all the more special as they competed in several categories, including an U29 section against women twice their age.

COLOURS AWARDS – EASTER 2013 Netball Major Re-Dates:-

Charis Hanna, Katie Nixon, Sarah Smyth, Stephanie Stronge, Emily Taggart

Major New Colours:-

Jade Anderson-Flaherty, Kathryn Brice, Claire Hughes, Anna Hutchinson, Paula Keenan, Naomh McGuigan

Minor Colours:-

Lauren McCullough 211

Swimming Major Re-Dates:-

Mykila Donaldson, Seana Harley-Moyes, Alice Kavanagh, Kate Miller, Clara Montgomery, Eórann O’Neill, Lori Turkington, Ruairi Hurson, Mark Wylie

Minor Colours:-

Robert Bowman, Tom Donnelly, Sam Lindsay, Thomas O’Callaghan, Christian O’Connor, Robbie Shaw,

Waterpolo Matthew Francey Cross Country (Boys) Minor Colours:-

Matthew Donnelly, James Duffy, Caolan Lyttle, Mannix McAllister, Malachy McKenna, Jamie Moore

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Badminton Major New Colours:-

Yasmin Anderson, Bonnie Li, Jenna Todd,

Minor Colours:-

Megan Bingham

Hockey (Boys) Major Re-Dates:-

Niall Bradley, Matthew Constantine, Alan Curtis, Mark Kerr, Neil McAllister, Jordan Shaw

Major New Colours:-

James Bingham, James Carey, James Donaghy, James Johnston, Ryan McAllister, Chris Roe, Danny Worsell

Minor Colours:-

Thomas Carey, Ben Irvine, Mark Johnstone, Owen Kinnear, Ryan Lawell, Oliver McGowan, Daryn McMeekin, John Millar, Jason Roe, Richard Ware

Hockey (Girls) Major Re-Dates:-

Robyn Geddis, Anna Hutchinson, Faye Kidd, Sarah Martin, Amy Mellor, Lauren Montgomery, Holly Reid

Major New Colours:-

Judithe Allen, Abbie Brown, Lauren Crothers, Erin Getty, Taylor McCombe, Sarah McGrath, Lucy Miller, Megan Reilly

Minor Colours:-

Leah Baillie, Rebecca Curtis, Rebecca Harbinson, Anna Hogg, Beth Marsh, Orlagh McBriarty, Clara Montgomery

Rugby Major Re-Dates:-

Adam Brice, Ross Bryans, Jordan Carlisle, Stephen Craig, Daniel Dass, Ryan Hogg, Sam Lindsay, Stewart Martin, Max Oates, Mark Wylie

Major New Colours:-

David Campbell, Jordan Hylton, Angelo Marica, Daniel McFadden, Ryan Montgomery, Chris Torrens, Jonathon Torrens

Minor Colours:-

Ruari Brogan, Ben Cave, Gavin Gilfillan, Luke Ireland, Michael Kane, Calvin Lawrence, Stuart McCombe, Jonathan McCreesh, David McCullough, Scott McMurtry, David O’Donnell Anderson, Angelo Onang, Jonathan Rainey, Robbie Shaw, Matthew Simpson, Alex Steenson, John Walsh, Drew Willis

Medallion XV

Luke Auterson, Connor Benson, Cameron Black, Robert Bowman, Connor Boyd, Michael Bradley, Francis Collins, Roy Chia, Callum Dalzell, Lewis Donaldson, Scott Macaulay, Gareth McAdams, Jay McCrum, Christopher McLoughlin, John Mooney, Christian O’Connor, James Reid, Sean Rice, Ben Sayers, Michael Wilson

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SPORTS COLOURS AWARDS AND TROPHIES – SUMMER 2013 TROPHIES Boys’ Athletics A.R. Foster Cup – Best performance by a Minor boy

Dominic Rhodes

R.A.F. Cup – Best performance by a Junior boy

Stephen McCorry

Junior Athletics Cup – Best Junior Athlete

Matthew Dalton

G.B.Taylor Athletics Cup – Best performance by an Intermediate boy

Scott McMurtry

Girdwood Cup – Best performance by a Senior boy

Robert Moffett/Alan Curtis

Sir Ronald Baskett Cup – Best Intermediate 1500 metre performance

Callum Dalzell

Ft. Lt. Stanley Gray Cup – Best Senior 800 metre performance

n/a

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Girls’ Athletics A.R. Foster Cup – Best performance by a Minor girl

Amy Bradley

Air Formations Signal Cups – Best performance by a Junior girl

Erin Moffett/Alex Beattie

Glanville Cup – Best performance by an Intermediate girl

Melissa Moffett

Girdwood Cup – Best performance by a Senior girl

Emma Kelso/ Hannah Allen

Tweedie Cup – Best overall contribution to Girls’ games

Amy Mellor

Cricket R.U.C. Cricket Shield – for the most promising Junior cricketer

Francis Collins

John Shaw Cricket Cup – for the most successful team

1st XI – Captain: Jordan Carlisle

Cricket bat for scoring 100 runs

Michael Wilson

Junior Girls’ Super 8 Cup –

Captain: Katie McConaughie

Girls’ Tennis Minor

Darcy Collins

Form II

Irish Alvardo

Form III

Anna Wilson

Intermediate

Hannah Torrens

Senior

Anna Hutchinson

Evans Trophy – Cairns

Boys’ Athletics Major Re-Dates:-

Alan Curtis, Daniel Dass, Stewart Martin

Major New Colours:-

Scott McMurtry, Robert Moffett, Alex Steenson

Minor Colours:-

James Carey, Callum Dalzell, Rhys Donaldson, Jordan Hylton, Calvin Lawrence, Gareth McAdams, Angelo Onang

Girls’ Athletics

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Major Re-Dates:-

Hannah Allen, Anna Hutchinson, Emma Kelso, Melissa Moffett

Minor Colours:-

Victoria Beattie, Mykila Donaldson, Natalie Duff, Hilary Ferris, Megan Geddis, Faye Kidd, Sarah Martin, Sarah McGrath, Kellie McLean, Megan Reilly

Bridge Major New Colours:-

Melissa Antonio, Angela Cao, Victoria Frame, Lucy Kinnear, Ryan Lightowler, Eilis O’Loan, Phillip Rowan, Rebecca Rowan, Pooja Sridhar, Luke Taylor, Chris Turnbull

Minor Re-Dates:-

Jason Roe, Erin Getty, Cameron McGaughey, Andrew Milligan, Roma Mulholland

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Cricket Major Re-Dates:-

Ross Bryans, Jordan Carlisle, Andrew Forbes, Ben Kane, Cameron McClurkin, Daniel McFadden, Jonathan Rainey

Major New Colours:-

Jordi Fettis, Andrew Palmer, David Reid, Suraj Tirupati

Minor New Colours:-

Michael Colhoun, Christian O’Connor

Golf Major New Colours:-

Judithe Allen, Aaron Cairns, Pierce Clements, Jamie Dwyer, Kyle Higginson, Amy O’Donnell

Lifesaving Major Re-Dates:-

Alan Curtis, Ruairi Hurson, Eórann O’Neill, Lori Turkington

Minor Re-Dates:-

Robert Bowman, Tom Donnelly

Minor New Colours:-

Maeve Gallagher, Ashley Johnston

Waterpolo (Boys) Major New Colours:-

Tom Donnelly, Matthew Francey, Ruairi Hurson, David Speers

Minor Re-Dates:-

Peter Bannon, Robert Bowman, Alan Curtis, Peter Hughes, Tom Loane, Malachy McKenna, Adam McQuoid, Gary Nelson, Thomas O’Callaghan, Christian O’Connor

Waterpolo (Girls) Major Re-Dates:-

Caroline Montgomery, Eorann O’Neill, Lori Turkington

Minor New Colours:-

Maeve Gallagher

Rifle Shooting Major Re-Dates:-

Eric Macauley

Major New Colours:-

Luke Frame, Peter Gilleece, Jake Magill

Minor Re-Dates:-

Alistair Ogilby

Minor Colours:-

James Duffy, Max Magill

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Major Re-Dates:-

Beth Moss, Sarah Sproule

Major New Colours

Jessica Johnston

Minor New Colours:-

Mimi Joffroy, Victoria Minford

Tennis Major Re-Dates:-

Amy Mellor

Major New Colours

Anna Hutchinson, Faye Kidd, Elizabeth Sinclair

Minor Re-Dates:-

Emma McAllister, Lucy Miller

Minor New Colours:-

Kellie McLean, Hannah Torrens

Ben Madigan Preparatory School CHARITY NEWS This year was a busy year (charity-wise) and we raised a great deal of money for various charitable causes.

Samaritan’s Purse Shoe Box appeal raised £117 plus online donations and 100 filled shoe boxes were sent to Eastern Europe this year.

Mr Wilson’s Prep. 6 had an astounding Bring and Buy sale in school on Friday 23rd November when the sum of £973.57 was raised for the Suzi Fund. He and the class put in a tremendous amount of work and much fun was had by all.

of activities throughout the year. The children were encouraged to bring their own entertaining board games to the Club to play with their friends. Much fun was had throughout the year.

Mrs P. Lennon

DIARY AUGUST 2012 29th Some Pre-Prep & Prep 1 begin school

Royal British Legion Poppy appeal raised £51.99.

30th

Children in Need had a donation of £3284.20 and Comic Relief Red Nose Day had £285.90 which was very good for non-uniform days.

SEPTEMBER 19th Parents’ evening took place

The donations at our school Carol Service at Whitehouse Presbyterian Church and contributions made at the Key Stage One performance at Christmas raised £579.30 which was sent to NI Hospice.

From Sponsored Walk money we were able to send £500 to BRA’s Malawi Project and £125 to the NI Chest, Heart and Stroke Fund.

Many thanks, to the friends and parents of Ben Madigan, who have supported us so generously again in our various fund-raising achievements. These are all very worthwhile causes and when you think of the total of our contributions coming to £2,916.96 it is an impressive amount from our school.

Mrs B. Marshall

BOARD GAMES The Board Games Club took place every Tuesday afternoon. Budding members participated in a variety

Back to School

OCTOBER 2nd

Prep 4 to Chichester Library

8th

NINA/NILA Computer Tests

15th/16th

Class & Individual photographs

19th

M&M Production’s performance of “Beauty & The Beast”

26th

BRA Prize Day

NOVEMBER 16th Pre-Prep had their faces painted as Pudsey Bear for Children In Need 23rd

Prep 6 held a Bring & Buy Sale in aid of the Suzi Fund raising £973.57

DECEMBER 12th Preps 4-7 held their Carol Service in Whitehouse Presbyterian Church 14th

Preps 1-3 performed their Nativity Play “Born in a Barn”

17th

Aldo the Magician, Pre-Prep – P2

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18th

Pre-Prep Nativity, “Shepherd Little”, was held

19th

Preps 3-7 had their Christmas Cinema trip. Preps 5-7 continued with ice skating. Prep 3 had a fun afternoon with party games and dancing

FEBRUARY 2013 5th/12th/16th Jumping Beans visited Pre-Prep.

PE sessions focusing on hand/eye co-ordination and healthy eating 8th

Prep 5 went to the Waterworks to meet Mr Conway, Wild Bird Education

27th

Prep 5 to Castle Espie

MARCH 4th

Book Fair week

13th

Prep 3 visit to Chichester Library to meet author Julia Donaldson Preps 6 & 7 participated in a Music Morning at the School of Music, Fortwilliam

26th

APRIL 12th

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Prep 6 went to Whitehouse Presbyterian Church to learn about the events of Holy Week and Easter

Prep 7 visited Bee Safe event at Boucher Road Fire Station

19th

Mini Rugby Festival at CCB

22nd

Assessment week

24th

Northern Ireland Hockey Finals at Lisnagarvey

MAY 7th

Prep 7 start cycling proficiency

15th

Rugby Festival at Ravenhill

16th

Mrs Wilson and Girls’ Cross Country attended the N.I. finals

20th

PSNI Officer visited Prep 7

22nd

York Trip for Preps 6 & 7 Pre-Prep family Day at the Zoo

29th JUNE 6th

Pre-Prep Induction took place

Prep 6 to BRA for “Big Day of Science” Prep 1 Induction

7th

Sports’ Day

10th

Prep 2 to Music Makers’ workshop at School of Music

11th

Fire Service visited Prep 5

19th

Prep 3-7 Play

20th

Prep 3-7 Play Preps 1 & 2 to Folk & Transport Museum

24th

Prep 7 Trip to Titanic

25th

Prep 5 Trip to Crawfordsburn Prep 3 to Clementsmount Open Farm

26th

Pre-Prep – Prep 2 Summer Concert

27th

Prep 4 & Prep 6 out to Belfast Castle and Adventure Playground.

YORK TRIP 2013 Day 1: The Airport At 09.15 we arrived at Belfast International airport.

We left our bags off at the bag drop and walked to security. A few of us were searched, but not many. We then went into the shops and bought some things for the plane. We were delayed for 30 minutes so we took off at 11.15. We arrived at the John Lennon airport in Liverpool at 12.05.

Leeds Armouries On the first day we went to Leeds Armouries. We saw lots of old armour and the type of animals they used at war and the armour they wore. The biggest fighting animal we saw was an elephant. At the end, many of us went to the gift shop.

The Hotel We arrived at the hotel at around 17.45. Most of us were happy with who we were in a room with. We had five minutes to get ready for dinner. Our dinner was very good. A lot of us had spaghetti and there was a vegetarian option too. After dinner we went to our rooms and unpacked our suitcases. We had 30 minutes and then we went out for a mini tour of York. The rooms were big enough. All the boys were on the first floor and most of the girls were on the 2nd floor.

Day 2: In the morning we went on a walking tour of York to see the walls and what was left of some of the ancient buildings that tell us about the history of York. We then went to the Jorvik centre and experienced the sights and smells of Viking York. This museum is underground because that is where the Viking remains have been found.

Some people went to the York dungeons and went the whole way through to the end and some people went to the Castle museum.

Ben Madigan

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Castle Museum Some of us went to the Castle museum. We saw lots of interesting things! We went to the gift shop after and bought some toys.

Day 3: Eden Camp We went to Eden Camp and saw several things which relate to the Second World War. We went through a hut and it was made to look like a sinking U-boat at war!

After we went through some huts we went to a puppet show at Eden Camp. Some of us got soaked at the Puppet show by the people squirting water at us! This was all part of the show.

Sea Life Centre We then went to the Sea Life Centre in Scarborough.

We saw lots of sea creatures and we got to pet a starfish and a crab. We went to the gift shop and most of us bought sweets and teddies! Some people even bought ‘Build a Bears’. After that we went to the amusements on the sea-front at Scarborough and then we had our tea at Harry Ramsden’s.

Day 4: Last Day! :( We had to be down to the ground floor of the hotel at 7.30 a.m. to put our suitcases into the bus. After breakfast we travelled into York and we did some shopping before having our packed lunch and getting onto the coach to travel to the airport at Liverpool to fly home. We flew out of John Lennon airport at 20.35 and arrived back in Belfast shortly after 21.00.

Caitlin McKeith and Olivia Crowe

SPORT AT BEN MADIGAN

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Rugby Ben Madigan attended several mini rugby events in the summer, the most notable being the Preparatory Schools’ Tournament at Campbell College Junior School, and an invitation to play at a festival at the transforming Ravenhill.

In the Prep. Schools’ tournament we played Inch Marlo, Downey House and Campbell College Junior School. As has been our form in recent years, we got off to a sluggish start against a large and surprisingly quick CCB Junior School. We had leaked three tries before we got our hands on the ball. We played some superb rugby with the ball, but really struggled to work when we didn’t have it.

Our next two games were a different affair after the riot act had been read and first up tackling greatly improved. We deserved a win against Downey House but ended up getting a draw conceding in the dying seconds of the game.

Thankfully we finished with a flurry, after several phases of play we ran in some great scores against Inchmarlo. Regardless of the score, this showed great maturity and patience for a very young group containing only one Prep 7 pupil.

Ravenhill Our invitation to Ravenhill was gratefully received and we were the last team to play at Ravenhill while the old stand was still in place.

The boys welcomed the challenge of schools from Enniskillen, Carrick and Newtownabbey. Scores in a 14-minute match 7-6, 6-6, and 4-3, showed that while we loved to score it was our speed at the breakdown and tackling that was still letting the opposition score so many tries.

The Ravenhill festival finished with Ben Madigan being awarded the Best Skills certificate presented

by Darren Cave. The boys also featured in the “Belfast Telegraph” which gave them another boost.

P.J. Ingram

Cross Country Club The Cross Country Club met for the first time on Tuesday, 2nd October 2012. 23 children from P6 and P7 enjoyed improving their stamina and fitness week by week as they ran around the beautiful grounds of Ben Madigan.

We entered several competitions throughout the year and with hard-work and determination we recorded some very pleasing results indeed. In the Belfast Schools’ Cross Country competition the girls’ team qualified from their local heat to secure a place in the Belfast final where they finished in the top 8 schools and were selected to represent Belfast in the Northern Ireland regional finals. Well done to Emmanuela Mathioudaki, Julia Uprichard, Olivia Crowe, Bryanna Catney, Zara Watson, Anastasia Mathioudaki, Annabel McGrath, Laura Meeke and Julia Forbes.

The Cross Country Club wishes to thank Mrs. C. Service for coming to help with the Club every Tuesday afternoon, rain or shine! Many thanks also go to Mrs. M. McGrath and Ms. S. Sykes for transporting and helping the girls at these race meetings. We hope we didn’t make the cars too muddy!

Ben Madigan

3rd BEST HOCKEY TEAM IN NORTHERN IRELAND With 197 schools, from different regions in Northern Ireland, entering the Northern Ireland Cup for Primary Schools’ Hockey, you wouldn’t have given a small school like Ben Madigan a chance to make it to the Northern Ireland Finals!

On 6th March Ben Madigan breezed through the N.I. Qualifiers at Mossley Hockey Club and were unlucky not to win overall. They were narrowly beaten by local friends and rivals Fairview, but nevertheless the top three teams qualified.

On 24th March there was an air of optimism around the Castle Grounds and Ben Madigan as Mrs Lennon and Mr Patterson led the girls off to Lisnagarvey Hockey Club. The competition consisted of six groups of six teams. In the Ben Madigan group, were overall favourites and eventual winners, Waringstown along with Cookstown, Ballyholme, Victoria Prep. and Carryduff.

The Ben Madigan girls breezed through the group stages and met Holywood (winners of group 2) and Hazlett (3rd place in group 3) at the quarter-final stages. With comprehensive wins over both of these teams Ben Madigan pupils were rewarded with a semifinal showdown with Waringstown Primary School.

The girls had 80% possession during the match and set up camp inside the Waringstown half from the start.

The pressure paid off and with 90 seconds to go, Ben Madigan found themselves 2-1 up. However, this was short lived, as a last gasp shot from Waringstown saw the game go to penalties. Four brave Ben Madigan girls stood up and volunteered to take a penalty, but it wasn’t to be the girls’ day and they went out of the semi finals losing 2-0 on penalties.

On reflection, however, this may well be the most talented hockey team which Ben Madigan has ever produced. Mr Patterson and Mrs Lennon can’t speak highly enough of the girls and are proud to have been involved with such a talented team that has so much potential for the future.

Squad: Julia Uprichard, Laura Meeke, Annabel McGrath, Alex Fawcett, Sophia Del Castillo, Rebekah Lennon, Emma Uprichard, Emmanuella Mathioudaki, Anastasia Mathioudaki, Kerry Uprichard, Zara Watson.

golfing circles. Tom came 18th in the European Championships in Scotland against opposition from players representing 30 different countries.

He went on the World Championships which was held in Pinehurst, North Carolina. Tom came 26th overall and also gained some valuable experience playing the American Nationals where he came 2nd overall. Watch this space…

Sports Day Unlike last year, we were blessed with some fantastic weather for Sports Day this year. Pre-Prep, Prep 1 and Prep 2 got proceedings underway with some terrific support from very enthusiastic mums and dads. There was a carnival atmosphere with Mr Wilson on the sound system and the Prep 7 Business Club taking the opportunity to make some money at their individual stalls. The main event saw Preps 4-7 battle it out in many disciplines from sprint races to obstacle races.

This year introduced a new event, the Whole School Cross Country. Children from Preps 4 to 7 could enter voluntarily to run a lap of the beautiful Castle Grounds. They disappeared out of sight behind the building only to reappear again for the final 100 metres to rapturous applause from the excited parents. This was a great success with the majority of pupils entering the race. It was a successful day all round with plenty of silverware on show for the efforts of all those who took part.

BEN MADIGAN CUP WINNERS

Name of Cup

Winner

Athletics Cup (Ryan Moore)

David Service

Athletics Cup (McCoubrey)

Dervla Craig Alex Fawcett

Cross Country

Emmanuella Mathioudaki

Swimming (Girls)

Sophia Del Castillo

Most Improved Hockey

Alex Fawcett Kate Handley

Hockey

Julia Uprichard Annabel McGrath

Physical Education

Julia Uprichard Lewis Gould

Mr Patterson/Mrs Lennon Golf After Tom McKibbin (Prep 7’s) success last year he has established himself as an up-and-coming star in

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Name of Cup

Winner

Cycling Proficiency Shield

Erin Wallace Julia Forbes

Peter Thompson Cup

Jodie Bates Adrian Hollywood

Tennis Cup

Laura Meeke

Gymnastics Cup (Warke)

Anastasia Mathioudaki

Creative Writing

Sasha Mateer

Art

Annabel McGrath

Violin

Zara Watson

Music

Dervla Craig Zak Thabeth

MUSIC AT BEN MADIGAN When the members of the choir met at the beginning of October, I was encouraged both by the large numbers who attended week after week and by the well-focused and musical sound which they produced.

The first occasion at which we sang was the annual Carol Service in Whitehouse Presbyterian Church in early December. All the pupils from Prep 4 to Prep 7 took part in the service and the readings were provided

by Prep 7 pupils. These readings that covered the Christmas story were chosen by staff members and refreshed the format of our Carol Service. This service was repeated in school on the last day of the Christmas term and included contributions from our Pre-Prep and Prep 1 to 3 pupils.

The Spring term was devoted to practising for the Open Day at the end of March and we had a very interesting programme planned for this. Unfortunately, the adverse weather conditions prevented our performance as the Open Day had to be cancelled. We performed the items in school at a special assembly on a separate occasion.

The play which we presented at the end of the Summer term and was written by Dan Gordon, contained several musical items, and was very well received by our enthusiastic audiences.

Associated Board of the Royal Schools of Music Grade 2 Violin

Zara Watson

Trinity Guildhall Grade 1 Merit Nov 2012

Oliver O’Kane

Initial Distinction Nov 2012

Hannah O’Kane

Initial Pass March 2013

Stephen Service

Grade 1 Pass March 2013

Cara McGrath

Grade 3 Pass March 2013

Zac Thabeth

Initial Merit June 2013

Eve Taylor

Grade 1 Distinction June 2013

Hannah O’Kane

Grade 2 Merit June 2013

James Russell

Mr T. Wilson

COOKERY CLUB This year, every child in Prep 3 joined the Cookery Club and transformed themselves into eager and enthusiastic chefs. It was great to see the children willing to try different foods that they might not be so keen to try at home. They all enjoyed every session.

Bread-making was a fun experience and the children appreciated being able to use a bag of flour after we had tried to mill some with a pestle and mortar!

Preps 4 to7 enjoyed creating a variety of sweet and savoury dishes. It was good to see how able and confident the children became as they matured. The boys gave the girls a run for their money when it came to decorating skills!

Actively creating your own food, coupled with tasting it all added up to a successful outcome and proved the benefits of activity-based learning.

Instrumental teaching in violin and piano has continued throughout the year and I would like to thank Miss Jane McCartney for her work.

We are very grateful to the Prep 3 parents who gave up their time to help. Thank you to Mrs Montgomery, Mrs O’Kane, Mrs Gould, Mrs Rea, Mrs Collins, Mrs McLaughlin and Mrs Thompson.

The successes achieved by our pupils are listed below.

Mrs S. Sherrard and Mrs B. Marshall

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LITERARY CONTRIBUTIONS MY MAGIC FINGER I would turn my little brother into a dog.

I will teach him tricks. I would get him a dog kennel and feed him sausages. I would give him a juicy bone.

I will take him for walks then turn him back when he is 5.

Benan Hegarty, Prep. 2

MY HORSE RIDING Tonight I am going to my horse riding club. I am looking forward to it. I am going to ride a new horse.

Her name is Matilda. I hope she is nice when I ride her. My cousin has a horse there called Silver. I always go over to stroke it. I would like a horse too.

Grace Cowden, Prep. 2

MY SURPRISE CHRISTMAS PRESENT

MY MAGIC FINGER

During the Christmas holidays I got a new dog. He is a Labradoodle. Like a Poodle and a Labrador. He is big and white and very friendly. He is so funny. He chases me all the time when I run. He jumps up to me when I go home.

I will turn my cousin into a rabbit because he always annoys me. He always annoys my brother Ryan too so he will be happy. He’s only 4. I’ll send him to Japan for years and bring him back when he’s much older and sensible. Then I’ll bring him home.

Daniel George, Prep. 2

Amy Simpson, Prep. 2

THE MAGICAL PET One day I was talking to my hamster, Sniffleoddie when something strange happened. Sniffleoddie said, “Hi Corey!” I was so shocked and then he said, “What’s up, are you ok?” Then I was even more shocked!

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I called my mum and I said that Sniffleoddie was talking to me. My mum looked at him and she was so scared that she ran away. Something else strange happened. I started to tingle and I began to shrink.

When I had shrunk I was a hamster and I was in Sniffleoddie’s cage! I was so surprised that I was in his cage.

We played lots of games like hamster tip and hide and seek. It was so much fun. Then it was time for me to go. Sniffleoddie turned me back to big again so I was not a hamster anymore. It was just in time as it was tea time!

Corey Mitchell, Prep. 3

Ben Madigan

THE BOY WHO GETS WHAT HE WANTS One day a little boy was walking on a field when he saw an older boy. He said, “I have a challenge for you”. They went to a forest; it was very damp and smelt of flowers. They found a cave. It was lit up with torches and smelt like a burning fire.

The little boy found a chest. It had an X Man costume and a spear for the little boy. He put the costume on.

It felt great, the spear was very strong. The protector showed the little boy a gate. It was protected by a guard. The little boy threw the spear at the guard and the guard died. The blood was pouring out of the guard’s body.

The little boy ran through the gate. Then before the Land of Hearts’ Desire there was a big barrier; it was full of water. The little boy just got across by swimming. He was in the Land of Hearts’ Desire. What he wanted most was to play for Manchester United.

Whenever he went through the portal he was on a football pitch about to play a match. On his journey home his protector took him through a magical portal

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and they were on the field which they started off on.

They both said goodbye to each other and went home.

Benjamin Watson, Prep. 4

MY ADVENTURE Once upon a time I was in a field. It was a beautiful day and a tiger came up to me and said, “My name is Holly, can you help me?”

I said, “Sure I’ll help you”.

Holly and I entered a forest, it was quite scary. There were spooky sounds, spooky trees and it was very dark. I entered a cave, it was grey, it was bright. I found a chest but it was behind some rocks. I had an idea. I climbed up on top of the rocks. I found a key and opened the chest and I saw a pirate’s costume and a light-sabre. So I put the pirate costume on and I cut the rocks down with my light-sabre. I followed Holly to a gate and a guard was there. I fought with the guard and I defeated him.

Behind the gate was a river. I had to try and get past the river. I found a boat. I jumped into the boat and it took me to Sugar Rush. It was so pretty. There was chocolate everywhere, there were lollipop trees. I walked up a path with Holly. Up there was a Candy Mansion and Holly said it was all mine. I loved it there.

I got to keep Holly and in my future I became a singer.

And the end of one of my songs was Candy Land!!!!!

Cara McGrath, Prep. 4

A SURPRISE It was a sunny day and me and my sister, Daisy, were in the field beside our house when suddenly there was a bright light and a girl that looked the same age as me appeared.

“Hello”, she said.

“Hi”, I said.

I’ve been told never to trust strangers but she looked nice. I asked her what age she was. She said she was 8 years old, like us. Then she said “Well if you come with me you will get your heart’s desire”. Of course we said, “Yes”. She took us to a wood. It was dark but we could see something at the end of the forest.

We asked her what it was but she didn’t answer. When we got closer we could see it was a cave but that wasn’t the light. It was some sort of chest surrounded by fallen stars. “Can we see what the light is now?” she said.

“Yes”, we said (well more like shouted).

Then she said, “Can you guess my name? It’s something to do with our current surroundings”.

My sister Daisy guessed, “Cave”.

She said, “No”.

I said, “Star” She said, “Yes” She said, “Open the stone chest”.

We opened it. Two dresses, two hair bands and two shooting stars. “They are beautiful”, we said together “Thanks Star”, I said, “by the way my name is Heart”.

We travelled through the forest to a gate. It was guarded by black magic. Star said, “I shall help”. Star hit it with a star striker and we used our shooting stars to break it. Then we saw a barrier. Star used her starfrezz and we broke it with our shooting stars. We got into a place. It felt magical there. “Welcome to the Land of your Hearts’ Desire girls, what is your Heart’s Desire it will be granted here”.

Eve Taylor, Prep. 4

POP 224

Once there was a girl called Lorena. She was 7 years old and she was in a field on a lovely sunny day when she mysteriously got nudged by a monkey. Then Lorena realised that the monkey could talk. The monkey said that his name was Pop and that Pop wanted her to complete a task. So she said “yes”.

So off they went but then they came to a forest. The forest looked a wee bit scary but Pop said it was ok.

Then after they walked through the forest they came to a cave. Lorena asked Pop if it was somebody’s house and Pop said that it was his house. He had stairs to climb to get to the cave. But when Lorena got to

Ben Madigan

the cave it was amazing. He had a tree in his house.

The tree had a ladder and a slide. But then she asked why they came to his house instead of just going to complete the task. But then Pop said that he had a costume and weapon for her in a treasure chest.

Then 5 minutes later she had the costume on and the weapon in her hand. And then they were ready! After walking a while they stopped at some gates. Pop told her that there was a guard behind the wall. And he said that if the guard saw you he would arrest you. Anyway they were trying to look for a way to get past. Then she found a hole and went through with Pop following behind.

They found a tunnel to get past without the guard looking. Then they got past and then they came to a barrier. Pop and Lorena were so small that they could fit under the barrier. Then Lorena looked up ….. she saw candy, sweets, lolly pop trees, everything she wanted. Then Pop told her that there was a mansion for her just by the corner. It had a water slide so that meant she could live there.

The End. Lorena Del Castillo, Prep. 4

BORNHALD THE RICH Long, long ago there was a man named Bornhald. He was a very wealthy man who owned lots of jewels and nice things. He was married to a very beautiful woman named Seeta and they had a daughter named Boudicca.

Of course everybody wanted to be his friend for his wealth, but for Bornhald it didn’t matter if they were loyal, it mattered if they were rich, or if they were female, beautiful.

Also long ago, there was a family; they were most definitely not as wealthy as Bornhald. This family was barely scraping by. In the family there was Furfingd, Yokult, and Enifau. Yokult was married to Furfingd and they had a beautiful daughter named Enifau. The family also had two horses. One was a rather large stallion named Quorvote, and another was a mare named Cyrinsa.

Enifau ran, Quorvote was lost, their strongest horse was gone. Enifau had checked everywhere, but Quorvote was not to be seen. Then Enifau went down to the market, at last she saw the large figure that belonged to Quorvote. But then she saw Bornhald, and he didn’t look happy.

Enifau said, “Oh my lord what is the matter?”

Bornhald answered in a rather bitter voice, “This horse of yours has knocked over my stall and broken my most expensive jewel, I will have to kill him” Enifau then said, “Oh please my lord, he is our strongest horse, spare his life”.

You may have thought that Bornhald took pity on the girl but he just said, “Leave your horse to be killed at my longhouse, nothing more to be said”.

After his beloved horse had been killed, Yokult had been sent to raid Ireland with lots of other Viking men.

Furfingd had worked hard to help make their longboat sail. The Vikings were off, just when Furfingd had noticed something about Cyrinsa; the mare looked rather fat so she stopped her work for a while. Enifau was getting on Furfingd’s nerves. Enifau was pleading for a horse of her own but the family just didn’t have the money.

The gods were angry at Bornhald for killing a horse that had simply done nothing wrong; Bornhald had set his stall in the wrong place because you’re meant to set up your stall at the side, not in the middle of the road. Frikka, the goddess of animals had decided to punish Bornhald, Frikka knew that Bornhald liked to boast about how his stallions were so stunning so she decided that she would transform all his stallions into ugly frogs.

Meanwhile Cyrinsa had given birth to a gorgeous little filly named Colleen. Colleen was named the most beautiful mare in Jorvick. Furfingd then decided to give Colleen to Enifau, so everyone was happy, or were they?

Nadia Scanlon, Prep.6

JOULI AND HOLTA One day, Bornhald collected his trading things and left for the market – where he traded. Bornhald had just set up his trading stall when there was a CRASH and a BANG! Bornhald was knocked over. Bornhald stood up and he saw a very big horse looking at him.

Bornhald then looked around at his knocked over stall then he saw it, his most expensive jewel, broken.

Bornhald was extremely angry at the horse.

Once upon a time there was a beautiful goddess who lived in Askard. Her name was Jouli. Jouli was the goddess of ice and snow and she was beautiful. She knew she was beautiful! Jouli carried around a mirror encrusted with rubies, emeralds, sapphires and diamonds. Every five minutes she would take out her mirror and stare at herself for ages. Jouli thought that she was the most beautiful goddess in Askard.

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But there was just one problem. There was another goddess who thought she was the most beautiful goddess in Askard. Her name was Holta. Holta was the goddess of heat and fire. Jouli and Holta hated each other so they did horrible things to each other.

Once, Holta threw a fireball into Jouli’s face cream, which kept Jouli looking young and beautiful. As soon as Jouli put the cream on her face, she was burnt black!

When Jouli found out that it was Holta, her worst enemy who had done this, she was furious! So Jouli froze Holta’s deep auburn hair in her sleep! They were so angry with each other. So angry in fact, that Jouli went to see Odin, the chief god.

“Holta is making me very angry. She burnt my face black!” said Jouli.

“It is your own fault, Jouli. If you and Holta had thought you were as pretty as any other goddess, maybe you wouldn’t have been burnt. You must show Holta you didn’t mean to hurt her,” said Odin.

“Yes,” mumbled Jouli.

“How can I give Holta something nice for showing her I didn’t mean to hurt her if I absolutely hate her?” thought Jouli.

“I know! I’ve got a plan…”

Jouli ran across the rainbow bridge to Midgard and stopped near a river. She pulled some reeds out of the river and mashed them with a stone. She mashed up some wild berries and mixed those in with the reeds.

She ran back to Askard with the mixture and put it in an old face-cream pot. Jouli had made her herbal mixture which makes spots appear on your face! Jouli put the cream in a package and addressed it to Holta.

Holta received the package two days later and she opened it immediately to put it on her face.

Huge spots appeared a couple of hours later just as she was going out to dinner with her husband, Thor. He noticed it just as they left and Holta was very shocked!

She found out that it was Jouli who had sent later that night, so she went to see Odin.

“If you and Jouli were friends then maybe horrible things wouldn’t happen to you,” said Odin.

So Holta set off to find Jouli.

When she found Jouli, she was lying on her bed weeping.

“Why are you so sad Jouli?” asked Holta.

“I’m sad because my husband has gone and left me for Freya because I kept on doing nasty things to you,” said Jouli. “I just came to say if we could be friends even if we were worst enemies,” said Holta.

They both sat chatting for hours and from then on, Jouli and Holta were best friends.

Ella Harvey, Prep. 6

BEN MADIGAN VALETE

JENNY BRADLEY Sadly Mrs Jenny Bradley left us at the end of June.

Jenny had been with us for nearly eight years. She was a dedicated team member whom the children and staff all loved. She is sadly missed.

C.S.

ANDY MOORHEAD Andy was caretaker at Ben Madigan for over 10 years.

He is a kind, robust man who is happy with his own company, often working in the depths of winter in a short-sleeved shirt!

Towards the end of his working life his work ethic did not change and he was a fit and able man right up until his last day of work.

Andy had previously worked as a mechanic and a fireplace fitter. Following his retirement he had decided to look out for a classic Jaguar and put his previous skills to use before computers and power steering became a must in cars.

He has promised to call when he has found a suitable car to show the envious staff.

Mr. P. Ingram

MRS OLIVE SHIELDS Olive joined the catering staff at Ben Madigan 22 years ago to work with Mrs McAllister, the catering supervisor. She quickly endeared herself to pupils and staff alike and we all looked forward to her witty repartee at lunchtime. She worked with Mrs Deirdre Bruton and then was appointed to the position of Supervisor, working with Mrs Michelle McEwan. The last few years have not been easy for Olive. We will all miss her but hope that she will continue to enjoy the odd cruise or two in her retirement and her games of darts.

Mr T. Wilson

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Former Pupils’ News OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION The Old Girls’ Association has been in existence for more than 50 years. Mary Hyndman was one of the founders of the Old Girls’ Association and our first President. She was a member of the Academy teaching staff and served the School devotedly for over forty years, during which time she had been Domestic Science Mistress and Senior Mistress.

From September 1900, girls who had hitherto attended the Preparatory Department continued their education through the higher classes of the Academy. In 1923 it was the decision of the Headmaster, Mr Foster, to make the Academy a co-educational school. This important development would not have been accomplished as smoothly as it was had not Miss Hyndman supervised the practical details of the change. Mary Hyndman remained a Patron of the Old Girls’ Association until her death in 1958.

The Constitution states that the aim of our Association was to unite former pupils of the Academy and to engage in social, philanthropic and educational enterprises. Membership came under the headings of ‘Ordinary’ and ‘Magazine’. Ordinary membership included former pupils and members of staff who had been connected with the School for at least one year.

Magazine membership was for former pupils residing in Great Britain or abroad, who would not receive any notices or invitations connected with the Association, but would receive ‘The Owl’.

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Today we have Life Members from as far away as South Africa, Hong Kong and New Zealand. If you are not a member, and would like to be, please contact the School.

OLD GIRLS’ NEWS Alexandra Watson was awarded three prizes at the recent Undergraduate Prize-giving Ceremony in Queen’s University Management School. The images show Alexandra with Ian Gibson from Ernst & Young.

The prize was for the best student in Auditing module ACC3009 and with Claire Cochrane from BDO. The prize was for the best student in Taxation module AC3012. **** Emily Taggart accepted a rowing and an academic scholarship to Michigan State University in March 2013 to start in August 2013 for 4 years. Emily started rowing in June 2012 after being selected through a talent identification scheme. She trains 6 days a week at Belfast Boat Club and is coached through Rowing Ireland Development Academy. In order to apply to American Universities Emily had to get a certain time on the ergometer of at least 7.20 minutes for a distance of 2 kilometres. When she comfortably achieved this in November 2012, and after visiting Michigan University in February, Emily decided that MSU was for her and accepted the scholarship. Emily will be studying Animal Science whilst there in order to complete a Veterinary Science degree later. ****

Former Pupils’ News

Helen Caters

Marinah Moser

Helen Caters, until recently General Manager of the Malmaison Hotel in Liverpool, has been appointed the new General Manager of the 5-star Culloden Estate and Spa.

In September 2013 the School had a visitor from Brazil.

Marinah Moser, then aged sixteen, had spent a term at the Academy in 1996 and as a pupil she enrolled for History and English courses. While attending the Academy, Marinah lived with a local family.

On leaving the Academy Helen studied for a degree in Hotel and Tourism Management at the University of Ulster. She graduated in 2000. Thereafter she worked in the hospitality industry. She was Sales Manager at Ten Square, and later at Galgorm Manor and then the Fitzwilliam Hotel.

After her time at the Malmaison, Helen was keen to return to Northern Ireland and the position at the Culloden offered the perfect opportunity. Her role as General Manager of such a prestigious hotel will certainly give her a very high profile in the industry. ****

Rosemary Bennett Rosemary, who had always wanted to be a journalist, left the Academy to study PPE (Politics, Philosophy and Economics) at St Hugh’s College, Oxford. She was the first pupil from the Academy to choose this degree – now of course, de rigueur for so many aspiring to a career in national politics. On graduation Rosemary joined Reuters as a financial markets reporter and became that well known agency’s political correspondent in 1997. After two years she moved to the Financial Times and thereafter to the Times where for five years she was the Deputy Political Editor. In all she worked at Westminster for ten years.

In 2007 Rosemary became Social Affairs correspondent of the Times. Her areas of special interest are adoption and welfare reform and she oversees the Times’ annual charity appeal.

Rosemary is married to Martin Brookes and they have two daughters: Frederica and Alice. ****

Marinah now lives in Sao Paulo – popularly known to its citizens as “Sampa”. The population of her native city is just over eleven million, though the greater metropolitan area has a population of about 20 million.

This makes it the largest city in the region, in Brazil itself, in the southern hemisphere, and the seventh largest in the world. Rather different, as Marinah pointed out, to Belfast!

After leaving Northern Ireland in 1996, Marinah spent some time in English schools. On her recent visit she declared that her mistake back in 1996 was to assume that all schools were as good as the Academy, but she unhappily discovered that that this was not the case.

After graduation Marinah worked in banking for some years and now she is a Project Manager for Avon, the American cosmetics company. **** Victoria Campbell obtained an MSc from the University of Glasgow in City Planning and Real Estate Development. ****

OLD BOYS’ ASSOCIATION The main event in the Association’s calendar is the Annual Dinner. This was held in the Wellington Park Hotel on Saturday 24th November 2011. The President, Mr Geoff Simon, welcomed a total of around 180 members and their guests. The speakers at the dinner were the Headmaster, the President and Jim Neilly. Mr Neilly entertained the members and guests with stories from his long career as a sports

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commentator covering rugby, boxing and the Olympics. The success of the dinner was due, in no small measure, to the Dinner Secretary, Iain Knox, who worked extremely hard to encourage a large number of members to attend. It is very encouraging to note that a good number of ‘recent’ Old Boys now attend the Annual Dinner.

The annual Table Quiz was held in Greenisland Golf Club on Tuesday 6th March 2012. The event was organised by Adrian Brown and Mark Cooper with Question Master Robin Reid, ably assisted by Louis Campbell, challenging the teams with his usual blend of pictures, anagrams, local geography and general knowledge; all who attended had a good night’s entertainment. Why not plan to attend the next quiz which will be held in February 2014? [Date will be posted on the Old Boys’ website.]

The Old Boys’ website – www.belfastroyalacademyoldboysassociation.com – continues to attract a lot of interest from younger and older members alike. The Association is in the debt of Iain Knox and Michael Bennett for keeping this internet site up-to-date.

The Annual General Meeting of the Association was held on 22nd April 2013 and the following officials were elected for 2013/2014: President Vice President Hon. Secretary Hon. Treasurer Hon. Membership Secretary Dinner Secretary Hon. Auditor

David Haslett Adrian Brown Louis Campbell Nik Simon Michael Bennett Iain Knox Drew Wilkinson

The Committee for 2013/2014 was also elected. It is again worth noting that key positions on the Committee are now held by Old Boys who left School relatively recently. The future of the Association depends upon Old Boys becoming involved and I would again appeal to anyone who has an interest in joining the Committee to speak to the Hon. Secretary or any member of the Committee.

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Michael Bennett’s Captains Day at Royal Belfast G.C. Friday 13th September 2013 Winner: Sheldon Coulter Ferguson Cup for best aggregate score over two outings Winner: Sheldon Coulter Throughout the year, Robin Reid again masterminded, with the assistance of others, a series of monthly lunches which are normally held in golf clubs around the greater Belfast area. These continue to be very popular with around 50 or more, mainly retired, members attending.

Each year, the Old Boys’ Association tries to make a financial contribution to School to support particular projects. Last year, the Roughfort Pavilion was extensively renovated and the Association donated money that assisted with the internal refurbishment.

This donation was used to fund the provision of framed international and representative jerseys which decorate the walls of the Pavilion contributing to what is a now most impressive interior.

At the time of writing these notes, the President’s letter is about to be sent to all members; a copy of the School’s Academy Newsletter will also sent with the letter. Also included in this mailing will be the second edition of the Old Boys’ Newsletter which highlights the activities of some of our Old Boys. If you would like to contribute an article for a future edition of this Newsletter please contact the Hon. Secretary at honorarysec@bra-oldboys.com Inevitably, many of these President’s letters are returned to School as members have moved away from the address kept by the Membership Secretary. I would appeal to all members who have moved in recent months or years to contact Michael Bennett at membershipsec@bra-oldboys.com Again, I appeal to those Old Boys of School who are reading these notes but who are not members of the Association, to think about joining and thereby restoring links to the School.

L. Campbell Hon. Secretary

Sadly, the annual cricket match of the Old Boys’ XI against the School XI had to be cancelled because of the inclement weather.

The Golf Society, under the leadership of Ken Knox, continues to attract good numbers of golfers for the two main competitions normally held in June and September. The results this year were: Picken Cup at Malone G.C. Thursday 8th August 2013 (postponed from June) Winner: James Beattie

OLD BOYS’ NEWS Ian Coulter, who left BRA in 1970, was awarded the BEM (British Empire Medal) in the New Year’s Honours List in 2013 for services to charity work in Bushmills. He has raised over £50,000 mainly by running charity quizzes. ****

Former Pupils’ News

Stuart Robinson, who left BRA in 1999, underwent a kidney transplant in 2010 and represented GB&NI at the World Transplant Games in Durban in August 2013 with considerable success. He won four Gold medals in swimming, two Silvers in swimming and Javelin and set two World Records in Swimming.

The manager is paid a percentage of the profits. The word “hedge” is used to describe the means of ensuring against a downturn in the market by selling stock that the manager believes will perform less well.

There are over 8,000 such funds globally, the majority of them in the United States.

****

Those of our readers considering shifting their funds from their respective piggy banks should be aware that hedge funds cater to the needs of the very wealthy.

Dr J. McKnight was awarded an Honorary Chair at Edinburgh University. Further information can be found at the following web address: http://www.ed.ac.uk/news/staff/john-mcknight-160412 **** Adam Montgomery is studying Actuarial Science at Herriot-Watt University. ****

Noel Lamb Noel Lamb, who is currently a hedge fund manager with Russell Investments, a subsidiary of Northwestern Mutual based in Seattle, Washington State, gave a master-class in high finance to a group of Academy sixth formers last year.

Noel left School in 1974 to study Law at Exeter College, Oxford. After graduation he was commissioned into the 5th Royal Inniskilling Dragoon Guards and in 1980-1987 he was Adjutant and ADC to the Commandant of Sandhurst.

On completion of his military career (which he enjoyed enormously) Noel joined Lazars Bros., the investment bank. Advancement here came as rapidly as it had in the armed forces, and from 1990 to 1996 he was Managing Director of Lazars, Japan. In his lively discussion with Economics sixth formers it was clear that he relished his time in Japan and he spoke eloquently about his fascination with Japanese culture and society.

On leaving Japan Noel was recruited by Russell Investments which delivers multi-asset investment strategies in forty-seven countries. The company’s institutional clients include retirement plans, endowments and foundations. Many of the world’s top banks, brokers and insurance companies are linked to Russell Investments.

And for those who have always wanted to know: ‘hedge fund’ is a term used to describe an investment partnership that deploys various strategies to maximise profits on behalf of those who have invested with it.

****

Michael McKnight Michael McKnight, who attended the Academy 19741981, is currently principal of Lough View Integrated Primary, Belfast.

On leaving School Michael studied at Birmingham University and on graduation proceeded to postgraduate work at Durham University and then Queen’s, Belfast.

In an interview with the Belfast Telegraph in 2013 Michael spoke with great warmth of his time at the Academy. He mentioned particularly Mr Hawtin, then Head of Classics and Mr McCoy, who retired as Head of History in 2010. Indeed, as a pupil Michael made a very significant contribution to assisting both these members of staff to popularise athletics, and especially to reviving the tradition of cross-country running in the Academy. ****

Shane Allen After three gruelling interviews, Shane Allen, formerly head of comedy at Channel 4, has been appointed the new BBC controller of comedy commissioning.

Shane is a fan of the comedy show ‘Mrs Brown’s Boys’ (for many viewers an acquired taste) which won last year’s BAFTA Award for best sitcom. He has declared his attention to attract and retain comedians with a three-year development plan, giving the series ‘Little Britain’ as an example of what can be achieved.

Shane also aims to revive the career of the controversial Frankie Boyle whose series, ‘Frankie Boyle’s Tramadol Nights’ resulted in five hundred complaints to Ofcom.

Shane was Assistant Producer and writer of ‘Bran Eye Special’ and Director of ‘Ali G in Da USAiii’. ****

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Professor James Stirling to be Imperial’s first Provost Professor James Stirling CBE FRS, an internationally renowned theoretical particle physicist and currently the Jacksonian Professor of Natural Philosophy and Head of the Department of Physics at the University of Cambridge, was named Provost of Imperial, and becomes the first person to occupy the new position at the university. His appointment follows an international search after changes to the College’s governance, which created the new role, were announced in April 2012. ****

James Bryce, Viscount Dechmont, 1838-1922 James Bryce was a former pupil of the Academy, one of the most intellectually gifted citizens of Belfast, and an internationally renowned scholar, lawyer, politician and statesman. He left the Academy to begin a career that would earn him a reputation as one of the most celebrated men of his age.

On May 10th 2013 Bryce was commemorated by the Ulster History Circle which unveiled one of the familiar blue plaques near the site of his birthplace in Arthur Street, Belfast. James Bryce was so well thought of in the United States that when, as British ambassador to that great country just before the first world war, he attended Sunday worship in Washington, he and his wife were automatically shown to Abraham Lincoln’s family pew; and Bryce is also honoured in New York. He was the author of a famous book on the American constitution and the vestibule of Trinity Church, Wall Street contains a bust of Bryce on the plinth of which he is described as ‘Friend and Ambassador to the American People and Interpreter of their Institutions’.

James Bryce was a pupil of the Academy when the School was situated in Academy Street near St Anne’s

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Cathedral. His father, also called James, was a teacher in the School and his uncle Reuben J Bryce, whose portrait may be seen in the vestibule of the Crombie Building, was headmaster 1826-1880.

E.M.C. **** A number of Old Boys have passed away since the last edition of The Owl; they include:

Trevor Danker 24th April 2013 He was captain of Cricket when he was at School. He left to become a journalist and after working on the Larne Times, was with the Belfast Telegraph and The Irish Times before going to London to work on the Daily Mirror and the diary of the Daily Mail. He spent most of his career with Independent newspapers in Dublin and in his heyday was the social columnist of the Sunday Independent. Trevor Danker was a keen observer of Ireland’s social scene during a more relaxed media era of the Eighties and Nineties and dined with, among others, Frank Sinatra. On retiring he had lived in Brighton where he died. ****

John Smyth 7th April 2013 John Smyth, known to his friends as John G, spent his entire working career in the Ulster Bank. He was in the Foreign Department (as it was called then) for most of his time but became a manager near the end of his days in the bank. He was a very strong supporter of his old school, playing for BRA (FP) as a prop and later becoming President. He was also President of the Old Boys’ Association and a Committee Member for some years. ****

Peter Gulston 17th March 2013 Peter Gulston, more recently known as Peter Scott has died aged 82, was a controversial character in many ways. Although academically able, he was not interested in passing examinations, but was a very competent full back on the 1st XV. He became involved in petty crime and then moved to London where there were greater pickings to be had. He was referred to as a ‘cat burglar’ for his skill at climbing over the roofs of the rich and famous including Sophia Loren. He was sufficiently infamous to warrant obituaries in many of the more prestigious newspapers such as The Times, Daily Telegraph and The Guardian. ****

Former Pupils’ News

ALUMNI PROGRAMME 2012-2013 Four distinguished alumni were invited back to the Academy to speak to present pupils and proved especially popular with the groups of sixth-formers who clearly enjoyed themselves questioning the visitors.

The former pupils who cheerfully submitted to thoughtful interrogation were: Noel Lamb, one of the senior management team of Russell Investments, a major player in the world of global hedge funds; Basil McCrea MLA, who has contributed in his own colourful way to the querulous world of local politics; Claire McCollum, a freelance broadcast journalist familiar to television audiences in Northern Ireland; and Judith Gillespie, Deputy Chief Constable of PSNI and thus Northern Ireland’s most senior policewoman.

A primary concern of the alumni programme is to affirm the bond between past and present pupils of the Academy. The general format is an unscripted ‘conversation’ between the visitors and small groups of interested sixth-formers. The guests talk generally of their time at the School and then describe the development of their professional lives. As the young people interact with them a friendly dialogue takes place, career possibilities are discussed and attitudes to the world of work are considered.

Key themes to emerge from these exchanges were the importance of aspiration, as well as having the confidence to persist with ambition rather than

accepting the inevitable setbacks of professional and business life as final judgements on career progression.

Noel Lamb graduated from Oxford, and after some time as a commissioned officer in a cavalry regiment joined Lazars Bank which he represented in Japan for a number of years before moving to the world of strategic financial management. Basil McCrea studied engineering at university before embarking on a career as a member of the Stormont Assembly. Claire McCollum’s early enthusiasm for sports journalism led to a career in broadcasting in which, among other highlights, she shared a platform with Noel Thompson in hosting BBC TV’s Proms in the Park. Judith Gillespie is a renowned public servant and high profile spokesperson for the PSNI, having risen to the senior ranks of a service which operates in one of the most sensitive policing environments in the developed world.

We are very grateful to these former pupils for taking time out from busy professional lives to return to the Academy. Their willingness to do this says a great deal, not only of their affection for the School, but of their willingness to encourage those who are about to take their first, sometimes apprehensive steps, into the increasingly challenging world beyond the school gates.

E. McCamley Alumni Officer

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UnIVERSItY DEStInAtIOnS MIDDLE VI BOY LEAVERS 2013 O'Donnell Benjamin

Glasgow School of Art

Product Design

Heriot-Watt University

Economics and Business Management

Browne Oliver

Heriot-Watt University

Actuarial Science

Gilfillan Gareth John Glen

Heriot-Watt University

Actuarial Science

Torrens Jonathan David

Heriot-Watt University

Finance

Calwell Gault Noel Jack

Liverpool John Moores University

Marketing

Liverpool John Moores University

Criminology

Manchester Metropolitan University

Environmental Science

National University of Ireland (Galway)

Modern Languages

Queen Mary's University, London

Medicine

Queen's University Belfast

Biomedical Science

Dass Daniel

Queen's University Belfast

Mathematics

Devlin Aodhan

Queen's University Belfast

Politics, Philosophy and Economics

Devlin Ben

Queen's University Belfast

Mathematics

Donaghy James

Queen's University Belfast

Archaeology

Donnelly Matthew

Queen's University Belfast

Medicine

Doyle Stephen

Queen's University Belfast

Medicine

Harvey Matthew

Queen's University Belfast

Environmental Planning

Hughes Ciaran

Queen's University Belfast

Software and Electronic Systems Engineering

Queen's University Belfast

Medicine

Queen's University Belfast

History and Philosophy

McAlister Mannix

Queen's University Belfast

Mathematics

McAllister Neil

Queen's University Belfast

Biomedical Science

Queen's University Belfast

Chemistry (with a Year in Industry)

Queen's University Belfast

Electrical and Electronic Engineering (with a Year in Industry)

McGeough Patrick

Queen's University Belfast

Civil Engineering (with a Year in Industry)

McLarnon Dean

Queen's University Belfast

Physics

Queen's University Belfast

Business Economics

Queen's University Belfast

Physics

Spence Ryan William

Queen's University Belfast

Computer Science

Linden Eoin

Robert Gordon University

Pharmacy

Moffett Robert

Stranmillis University College Belfast

Mathematics & Science with Education

Brice Adam

University of Bath

Mechanical Engineering (Sandwich)

Duffy James

University of Brighton

Automotive Engineering (with Integrated Foundation Year)

Allen Patrick Johnston Ruben

Kerr Mark Richardson Gary Jack Taylor Luke McCambridge Scott Bradley Niall Patick James

Irwin Kristian Jordan Nathan Thomas

McAuley Curtis Joseph McCullough Peter

Moore Jamie Karl 234

Shaw Jordan Wallace Albert

Former Pupils’ News

McConnell Benjamin

University of Bristol

Spanish and Portuguese (4 years)

Browne Callum

University of Durham

Law

Curtis Andrew

University of Durham

Computer Science

University of Durham

Mathematics (3 years)

University of Edinburgh

Art

University of Exeter

Economics and Finance with Industrial Experience (4 years)

University of Glasgow

History (Medieval/Modern or Medieval/Modern/Scottish)

University of Glasgow

Chemistry

University of Glasgow

Economics

University of Glasgow

Economics

University of Glasgow

Civil Engineering with Architecture

University of Manchester

Music

Hughes Peter William

University of Newcastle

Business Accounting and Finance (includes business placement) (4 years)

Barnes Adam Stephen

University of Northumbria

Media, Culture and Society

Brogan Connor

University of Oxford

Chemistry

Donnelly James Rory

University of Reading

Accounting and Business

Rainey Jonathan

University of Reading

Accounting and Business

Craig Stephen

University of Southampton

Zoology

Lindsay Samuel

University of Southampton

Oceanography with Physical Geography

University of Southampton

Medicine

University of St Andrews

Biology

Oates Max

University of Strathclyde

Mathematics, Statistics and Finance

Simpson Matthew

University of Strathclyde

Finance, Mathematics and Statistics

Greenlee Christopher

University of Swansea

Business Economics

Anderson George John

University of Ulster

German with History

Barnes Daniel

University of Ulster

Computing Science

Cairns Aaron Ireland Christopher David

University of Ulster University of Ulster

Law Geography with Education

University of Ulster

Computing Science

McCord Samuel

University of Ulster

Management and Leadership Development

McCreesh Jonathan

University of Ulster

Business with Spanish

McKeown Adam

University of Ulster

Business Studies with Psychology

Purdy Matthew

University of Ulster

Business Management

Bailie Steven Ronald John

University of York

Mathematics

University of York

Accounting, Business Finance & Management with a Year in Industry

Warwick University

Mathematics

Rodgers Paul Hamill Ryan McGahan Kieran Carlisle Jordan Frame Luke David John Hogg Ryan Alexander John McFadden Daniel Uche Samuel Chinedu Nwabueze Bell Michael Allen

Smith Matthew Dwyer Jamie Rodney Andrew

McConnell Matthew James

McAteer Pearse

Hanna Thomas Jared

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UnIVERSItY DEStInAtIOnS MIDDLE VI GIRL LEAVERS 2013 Holmes Kevan McCreary Stronge English Harley-Moyes Montgomery Faulkner

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Leona Courtney Rebecca Stephanie Rebekah Sophie Seana Lauren India Sarah

Belfast Metropolitan College Belfast Metropolitan College Belfast Metropolitan College Edinburgh Napier University Glasgow Caledonian University Heriot-Watt University Heriot-Watt University King’s College London

McBride Bannon Conlon Dougan McCullough McDermott

Bethany Simone Laura Dominique Bronagh Taylor Stacey Chloe Ashleigh

Liverpool Hope University Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool John Moores University

Montgomery Reilly Miller Taggart Ferris Baird Benson Bowman Clements Coyle Dawson Green Holmes

Caroline Mary Megan Kate Elizabeth Emily Hilary Melissa Louise Niamh Sarah Isobel Shannon Joy Lauren Deborah Emma Elaine Nicole Rebecca

Liverpool John Moores University Liverpool John Moores University Loughborough University Michigan State University Queen Margaret Unveristy Queen Mary’s University, London Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast

Rachel Louise Sheerien Rebecca Hannah Elizabeth Katy Amy Rebecca Rebecca Sarah Kimberley Tessa Ruth Lawren Ruth Anna Zoe Catharine Anastasia Maebh Jane

Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast Queen’s University Belfast Stranmillis University College Belfast Stranmillis University College Belfast University of Aberdeen University of Aberdeen University of Cardiff

Ireland Manzoor McCrea McKinstry McLarnon Mellor Rooney Sproule Stewart Shiels Wallace Leyden O’Reilly King

Elmore Rachael

University of Dundee

Beauty Therapy Beauty Therapy Drama and Performance Veterinary Nursing Optometry Actuarial Science Mathematics with Finance Nursing Studies with registration as a nurse (Mental Health Nursing) Criminology and Politics Marketing Law Criminal Justice Criminology and Sociology Education Studies and Early Years Business Studies Fashion Chemical Engineering Animal Studies Public Relations and Marketing French and History (4 years) Medicine Biological Sciences Dentistry Accounting English and History Business Management Finance (with a Year in Industry) English Biomedical Science Economics with Finance Medicine Drama and English Dentistry Archaeology Geography Business Management Primary Education Early Childhood Studies Medicine Marine Biology Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging Medicine

Former Pupils’ News

Mooney Shirazi Bradley Dunlop

Ellen Parisa Lauren Jayne

Martin Sarah Alexandra Hamill Holly Eleanor Sarah Hamilton Lynsay Hanna Charis Elizabeth Reid Bronte Keenan Paula

Wilkinson Rebecca Murphy Meadhbh Banas Chiara Francesca

University of Durham University of Durham University of Edinburgh University of Edinburgh University of Edinburgh University of Glamorgan University of Glasgow University of Glasgow University of Hertfordshire University of Kent

University of Lincoln University of Liverpool University of Newcastle

Moody Nicole Davis Ciara

University of Newcastle University of Northumbria

Brown Bethany Hudson Ellie

University of Plymouth University of Portsmouth

Quinn Emma Olivia Rainey Nixon Davies Currie Devine Duffy Allen Bartsch Beggs Crossan

Kelly-Anne Kathryn Hannah Neena Suzanne Alex Niamh Hannah Laurie-Anne Lauren Rose

Flynn Aine Flynn Forgie McAdam McGrath McKerracher Moore Morgan O’Kane Snoddy Warren

University of Southampton University of Southampton University of St Andrews University of Stirling University of Strathclyde University of Strathclyde University of Strathclyde University of Ulster University of Ulster University of Ulster University of Ulster University of Ulster

Catriona Suzanne Nicola Sarah Kirsty

University of Ulster University of Ulster University of Ulster University of Ulster

Rebecca Elizabeth Kerri Cara Bethany Gillian Vanessa Rosalind

University of Ulster University of Ulster University of Ulster University of Ulster University of Ulster

Ford Elaine

University of West England, Bristol

Chemistry (4 years) Law Social Work International Business with a Language Biological Sciences (Zoology) Creative and Professional Writing Human Biology Geography Psychology English & American Literature with an Approved Year Abroad (4 years) Criminology and Law Psychology Biomedical Sciences with Medical Microbiology Economics and Mathematics International Business Management with French Physiotherapy Criminology and Forensic Studies Healthcare Science (Audiology) Modern Languages Biology Film & Media and Marketing Speech and Language Pathology Social Work Social Work Sport and Exercise Sciences Sociology with Criminology Marketing Art and Design (Foundation Year for Specialist Degrees) Business Studies with Computing Business Studies Marketing Sport and Exercise Sciences Art and Design (Foundation Year for Specialist Degrees) Geography with Education French and Spanish Community Youth Work Business with Psychology Art and Design (Foundation Year for Specialist Degrees) Physiotherapy

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Degrees and Diplomas UNIVERSITY OF GLASGOW MDFS Anthony P Bannon BDS Christine V Lyttle MSc Victoria Campbell

QUEEN’S UNIVERSITY

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Luke McCorry Daryl Porter Judith Spence Alexandra Watson Edward Williamson

Corina McCrellis Ruth Kell MSc Paula McMillen Jeremy Surgenor

BEng Kevin Cheung Laura Fisher James Surgenor

MPharm Emma Cupples Kathryn McAvoy Kristoffer Stewart

BMus Lauren Beck Jonathan Boyd

PGCE Luke Gourley Whitney McAdam

BSW

Phillip Brett Clarisse Corr Curtis Darragh Natalie Foster Laura Largey Christopher Morrison Lori McLarnon Louise Reid James Williamson

Laura Kernohan

Jennifer Blaney Corey Kelly Rosie Kinnear Hannah Laird Ryan Totten

Sarah Ennis Hayley Mahon Catherine O’Kelly Jacob Thompson

BSc

BDS

BSc

Paul Allen Jane Boyd David Costley Rebecca Cromie Ryan Delaney Jon Dickinson Jack Gaston Mark Glover Stacey Lockhart Dr Gillian Luney Matthew Nicholl Michelle Martin Brett Mahon

Charlotte McFadden

Christopher Bailie Rachel Bennett Christopher Blaney Samantha Davidson Mark Downey Aisling Hardy Rachael Holmes Stuart Holmes Rebecca Houston Sarah Johnston Michael Lawrenson Gregory Loftus Ryan McAuley

UNIVERSITY OF ULSTER

LLB

Hannah Martin Sinead McCourt Conor O’Neill Jennifer Spence MEng Jordan Carmichael Jordan Gibson

BEng Christopher Montgomery Gareth Smyth BDes Jonathan Fleck

BA

MB

Michael McBriarty Marcus McIlwaine Charly Mifsud Emily Philips Michael Rea Stephen Rooney Laura Ross Rory Saville

BA

LLB David Bannon Emma Harmon Chelsea Johnston CertHE Rebecca Sweetlove

HERRIOT-WATT UNIVERSITY BA Laura Moody

ROYAL NORTHERN COLLEGE OF MUSIC B Mus (Hons) Nathan Moore

Births, Marriages and Deaths BIRTHS

ADAIR, 10th December 2012 to Charlene and Ewan, a daughter, Charlotte Cythia Elizabeth BEATTIE, 18th July 2013 to Jennifer (nee O’Neill) and Jackie, a son, Jack BEATTY, 4th June 2013 to Catherine (nee Rainey) and Stephen, a daughter, Ellie CAIRnS, 16th of April 2013 to Jessica (nee Thompson) and Thomas, a son, Arthur Berkeley CRAWFORD, 10th July 2013 to Emma Louise (nee Johnston) and Jonathan, a son, Jack Jonathan FOY, 15th April 2013 to Steven and Jennifer, a daughter, Lilia Dorothy Foy GILLIES, 27th December 2012 to Pamela (nee Gamble) and Neil, a son, Freddie KERR, 15th March 2013 to Lizzie and Lindsay, a son, Monty KNOX, 7th March 2011 to Terry and Niamh, a son, Jack KnOX, 31st December 2011 to Iain and Alison, a boy, Harry Alexander Knox KnOX, 7th August 2013 to Iain and Alison, a boy, Luke Michael Knox LUNN, 17th April 2013 to Leigh and Kevin, a son, Christian William Robert McCULLOUGH, 27th June to Cara (nee Patterson) and Mark, a son, Raphael McINTYRE, 4th December 2012 to Kirsty and David, a daughter, Hollie Beth MURPHY, 10th June 2013 to Kerry and Stuart, a daughter, Ellie Alexandra Jayne OLIVER-CINNAMOND, 30th June 2013 to Diane and Mark, a son, Blake 239

PORTER, 29th October 2012 to Joanne and Paul, a daughter, Jenna Marie SEWELL, 9th of November 2013 in Sydney Australia to Louise (nee Connor) and Jason, a son SHAW, 5th April 2013 to Jenny and Paul, a son, Will Joseph Shaw SMITH, 16th July 2013 to Caroline (nee Moore) and David, a son, Alfie Ted tREWIn, 25th January 2013 to Jill (nee Connor) and Paul, a daughter, Eliza Kate

MARRIAGES

COLE-FLETCHER: 21st December 2012, Sarah Cole and David Fletcher HOOD-DALE: 11th May 2013, Simon Hood and Tom Dale KYLE-MCMENAMIN: 13th July 2013, Alexandra Kyle and Iain McMenamin POOLE-FERGUSON: 26th June 2013, Amanda Poole and Andrew Ferguson

DEATHS

BROOKS: 13th May 2013,W. F. (Derek) CAMPBELL: 15th May 2013, Noel E. CATHERWOOD: 24th August 2013, H. S. E. (Sidney) COLE: 7th November 2013, John CORNETT: 16th September 2013, Jane CORNETT: 26th May 2013, J. C. (Conn) DANKER: 24th April 2013, T. T. (Trevor) GOURLEY: 7th Dec 2012, Ian GULSTON: 17th March 2013, P. C. (Peter) aka Scott HARBINSON: 8th June 2013, T. R. (Ronnie) KIRKPATRICK: January 2013, Richard McMANUS: 2012, H. SMYTH: 7th April 2013, J. G. (John) TROTTER: 19th October 2013, W. M. (Bill)

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