The Owl 2021 by Belfast Royal Academy

The Owl Team 2021 Editor: Miss Watson Photographs: Mrs Graydon Thanks to: Mr. Coulter, Mr Carolan, Mr McCamley, Mr P McKenna The Owl Team: Sarah Saunders, Ruth Davis

Cover design by Kate Sturgess LVI

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. Any past pupil who attended BRA for at least three years and who is twenty-one or over may, subject to the approval of the Board of Governors, become a member of the Academy upon the payment of a registration fee of £1. Applications should be made to the Head of Finance and Corporate Services 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: Mrs W Graham Chairperson: Mrs N. Johns Vice Chairperson: Ms C. Dillon Hon. Secretary: Mrs C. McGovern Hon. Treasurer: Miss J. Richardson To join the Association, please email:

BRAoldgirls@outlook.com

Registered Charity Number: NIC104739 Annual Membership: £5.00

OLD BOYS’ ASSOCIATION President: Mr Trevor Sturgess Hon. Secretary: Mr P. McKenna c/o Belfast Royal Academy, Cliftonville Road, Belfast, BT14 6JL or email: philmac49@gmail.com Hon. Treasurer: Mr N. Simon, 210 Belfast Road, Dunadry, Co. Antrim, BT41 2EY Membership, annual dinner and alumni enquires: alumni@belfastroyalacademy.net London and Edinburgh dinner enquires: doc_malone2004@yahoo.co.uk Annual Dinner enquiries

iainknox@cd-group.com

Life Membership………………..............................Old Boys’ Committee has suspended membership fees. Membership (School Leaver) …………………………............................….First year after leaving is free.

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BOARD OF GOVERNORS Dr. K. M. Bill, M.B., Ch. B., F.C.A.I., F.R.C.A., F.F.I.C.M. (Warden) Mr. D.G. Walsh, B.Sc., M.B.A., C.Eng., M.I.M.E. (Senior Vice Warden) Mr. N.W. Beggs Dr. A.A.W. Bell, B.Sc., B.Agr.Sc. Mr. M. L. Blake, LL.B., B.L.; Attorney at Law Mrs. K.L. Burns, B.A. Mrs. A. Clements, B.A. (Hon. Secretary) Ms. J. C Cornell, A.B., M.A., M.F.A. Ms. C.R. Dillon, B.A. Mr. P. G. Dorman., M.Sc. Dr. J.A. Hill, F.R.Eng., B.Sc., Hon. D.Sc., C.Eng., F.I.C.E., F.I.StructE. Mr. K.A. Knox, M.Sc. Mrs. C. Latham, B.Ed., M.Sc., P.Q.H. Mr. B.W. McCormack, B.Sc. (Econ), F.C.A. Mrs. G.E. McGaughey, LL.B., Cert in Professional Legal Studies Mrs. G. McQuiston, B.Ed. Mr. B.D. Monroe, B.Sc.(Accts)., M.Acct., F.C.A. Prof. J. A. I. Montgomery, B.A., Ph.D. Mr. M. Orr, Q.C.,S.C. Mr. S.B. Orr, LL.B. Mr. D.E. Porter, M.Sc., C.Eng., M.IC.E., M.C.I.H.T., M.C.I.W.E.M. Mrs C. E. Rowan, B.Sc. (Management) Mr. G.R. Simon, F.R.I.C.S. Mr. J.D. Twinem, B.A., D.I.S. Pg.Cert., Pg.Dip., M.Sc., M.Inst.L.M., M.C.G.I. Mr. D.G. Walsh, B.Sc., M.B.A., C.Eng., M.I.M.E. Mr. S.J.S. Warke, A.C.I.I., Dip P.F.S., T.E.P. (Hon. Treasurer) Mr. G.W. Watt, M.A. Mrs. J. Weir, B.Sc., C.Math., M.I.M.A. Mrs. H. Woods, B.Sc., B.Ed., P.Q.H. (N.I.) (Principal - Non-voting member)

MEMBERS OF STAFF Principal

Mrs. H. Woods, B.Sc., B.Ed., P.Q.H. (N.I.)

Deputy Principal

Mr. M. Wilson, B.Sc., P.Q.H. (N.I.)

Vice Principals

Ms. W. Graham, B.A., M.A., P.Q.H. (N.I.) Dr. A. Bell, B.Sc., B.Agr.Sc.,PGDH., Ph.D.

Senior Teachers Mr. M. Harte, B.A. Mr. P. Dorman, B.Th. Mr. T. Hughes, M.Sc.

Staff Lists

HEAD OF DEPARTMENT ART AND DESIGN BUSINESS STUDIES BIOLOGY CAREERS CHEMISTRY ENGLISH GEOGRAPHY HISTORY COMPUTING/ DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY MATHEMATICS MODERN & CLASSICAL LANGUAGES MUSIC P.E. AND GAMES PHYSICS RELIGIOUS STUDIES TECHNOLOGY

Mrs. L. Patterson, B.A. Mrs. G. McQuiston, B.Ed. ( Mr. N. Irwin, B.Ed.) Dr. D. Currie, B.Sc., M.Sc., Ph.D. Ms. J. Adams, B.Ed. Dr. B. McMurray, B.Sc., Ph.D., M.R.S.C. Mr. W. Spence, B.Ed., M.A. Mr. C. Nash, B.Sc. Dr. J. McCombe, B.A., Ph.D. Mrs. A. O’Neill, B.Sc., M.B.A. Mr. S. Graham, M.A. Miss. K. Williams, B.A. Ms. M. McMullan, M.A., Mus.B., L.T.C.L., A.L.C.M. Mr. I. McGonigle, B.Ed. Mr. R. Budden, M.Sc. Mr. P. J. Martin, B.Ed. Mr. K. Lunn, B.Ed.

SENIOR SUBJECT TEACHERS CLASSICS Mrs. J. McGowan, M.A. DRAMA AND THEATRE STUDIES Miss S. Tinman, B.A. ECONOMICS Mr. J. M. Patterson, B.Sc.(Econ.), M.S.Sc., D.C.G. GERMAN Miss R. McCay, M.A. GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS Ms. K. Barnett, M.A. HOME ECONOMICS Mrs. R. Morrison, B.A. LEARNING FOR LIFE AND WORK Mrs. J. Robb, B.Sc. PHYSICAL EDUCATION Mrs. N. Nicholl, B.A. SOCIOLOGY Mrs. J. Robb, B.Sc. LEARNING SUPPORT Ms. D. Keenan, M.Sc.

KEY STAGE LEADERS Key Stage 3 Key Stage 4 Key Stage 5

Mrs. K. McIntyre, B.Sc. Ms. S. Ardis, B.Sc. Mr. N. Irwin, B.Ed.

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HEADS OF YEAR FORM I Mrs. E. Thornton, B.Sc. Mr. D. Morrison, M.Sc. FORM II Mrs G. Morris, B.Ed. Mr. P. Stretton, B. Ed. FORM III Mrs. J. McNally, B.Sc. (Mr. P. Rowntree, B.Ed.) Mr. M. Neill, M.Sc. FORM IV Mrs. R. Chambers, B.A. (Dr. J. Shiels, B.Sc., Ph.D.) FORM V Mr. C. McCarey, B.Sc. Miss. K. Brady, B.Sc. Ms. K. Barnett, B.A., M.A. FORM LVI Ms. L. Craig, B.A. Mr P. Porter, BA(Hons), BD(Comm), H.Dip.Th., PQH(NI) FORM MVI Mrs. R. Morrison, B.Ed. Mr. D.J. Creighton, B.Sc

CAREERS ADVISERS Ms. J. Adams, B.Ed.

Mr. S. Murphy, B.Ed.

GRAMMAR SCHOOL Dr. C. Adair, Ph.D., Dr. U. Anderson, B.Sc., Ph.D., Mrs. J. Bell, B.Sc. Mrs. K. Black, B.A. Dr. G. Brown, B.A., Ph.D. Dr. C. Burns, B.Sc., Ph.D., M.R.S.C. Mrs. D. Cain, B.A. Ms R. Christie, B.A. Mrs. J. Cleland, B.Sc. Mr. G. Forde, B.Mus. Mrs. F. Gilmore, B.Sc. Mrs. S. Graydon, B.Ed. Mrs. C. Hare, B.A. Miss. M. Hayes, B.Ed. Mr. S. Healy, B.Sc. Mrs. N. Henry, B.Sc. Miss J. Herron, M.A. Mrs. C. Hughes, B.Sc. Miss. J. Jeganathan, B.Sc. 4

Mrs. S. McCoy, B.A. Ms. S. McIlhatton, B.Eng. Mrs. S McIlwaine, B.Ed. Mr. C. McGloin, B.A. Mr. A. McKillen, B.Sc. Ms. A. McMillen, M.Sci. Dr. O. Mort, B.A., Ph.D. Miss. N. Newton, B. A. Mrs. L. Nicholl, B.Sc. Mrs. R. O’Donnell, B.A., Dip. A.D., A.T.D. Mrs. C. Prior, B.Mus. Mrs. A. Reynolds, B.Sc. Mr. S. Roberts, B.A. Miss. E. Robinson, B.Sc. Mrs. J. Shaw, B.Sc. Mrs. M. Sheeran, B.A. Mrs. J. Smyth, B.A. Dr. S. Springer, M.Sc., Ph.D. Mr. C. Stewart, B.Sc.

Staff Lists

Miss. E. Kennedy, B.Sc. Mr. J. McAleer, B.Sc. Ms. T. McBeth, M.A. Mr. K. McCleery, B.Sc. Mr. J. McClements, B.A., M.A. Mrs V. McCombe, M.A., A.L.C.M.

Mrs. H. Tate, B.A. Mrs. A. Terek, B.Sc. Ms R. Wallace, B.A. Miss. H. Watson, B.A. Mrs. M. Wilson, B.A.

GRAMMAR SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION Head of Finance & Corporate Services Finance Supervisor I.C.T. Manager Finance & General Administrator Part-time Finance Administrator Finance Administrator Part-time Librarian Part-time Librarian General Office Administrator General Office Administrator School Administration Supervisor Communications & Development Office Covid Officer

Mr. S. Burrows, B.Sc., F.C.C.A. Mrs. H. McClean, B.A., F.C.A. Mr. J. Cleland, B.Sc. Miss G. Boyd, B.A. Mrs. L. Hogg, B.A. Mrs. T. Crozier, B.A., Assoc. CIPD Mrs. T. Corcoran, B.A. PG.Dip. I.M. Miss E. McAtamney, B.A. PG.Dip. L.I.M., M.Sc. Mrs. A. Foy Miss. C. Reid Mrs. K. Holland, B.A. Mrs. J. Harvey, B.A., M.Sc, Dip.M (CIM). Miss. C. Craig

ANCILLARY STAFF Laboratory Assistants Mrs. D. Beattie Mrs. D. Younge, B.Sc. Mrs. A. Faulkner, Fd.Sc. Technology & Design Technician Mr. M. McCreight Art & Crafts Technician Mrs. L. Atkins Study Supervisor Miss. P. Maxwell Study Supervisor Ms. T. Ritchie Estates Manager Mrs. J. Lambert, BSc, Arch DAAS ARB Assistant Estates Manager Mr. P. Hughes Senior Groundsman Mr. A. Gaw, B.Tech. Grounds Assistant Mr. J. Hull, B.Sc.,Dip AAS, RIBA, Dip Project Man, MAPM Swimming Pool Manager/Instructor Mr. R. Dougan Estates Assistant Maintenance Mr. P. McCartney Estates Assistant Maintenance Mr. J. Craig Estates Assistant / Bus Driver Mr. W. Dunn Estates Assistant / Bus Driver Mr. I. Stinson Estates Assistant / Janitor Mr. K. Hogg Estates Assistant / Janitor Mr. D. McKee Modern Languages Assistants Ms. Y. Colin Ms. H. Aguilar Martínez Ms. S. Gushurst

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CLASSROOM ASSISTANTS Miss. G. Ashe, B.A. Miss. E. McAtamney, B.A. PG.Dip. L.I.M., M.Sc. Mrs. H. Blair Miss. O. McCann Mr. L. Bonnar Miss. M. McGarry, B.A. (Hons), DipLCM Mr. D. Calvert Mr. J. Meuwese Mrs. I. Campbell Miss. C. Morrissey, M.Sc. Ms. C. Colwell, B.A., P.G. Dip. Mrs. O. Purcell Mr. M. Gillen Miss. E. Ratcliffe, BA (Hons), GCert Mr. D. Graham, B.A. Mrs. A. Rea, B.A., P.G.C.E., B.A. Mrs. G. Hanna, B.A. Mrs. J. Reid Miss. P. Hill Mr. G. Rice Mrs. J. Hermon Miss. C. Sirbu, M.A. Mrs. F. Holley, B.A. Mrs. K. Tepe Mrs. P. Hull Mrs. R. Tsang, B.A. Miss. C Hynds Mrs. D. Townsend Miss. B. Jamison, B.A. Mrs. N. Watson Mrs. E. Leinster, B.A., P.G.C.E. Mrs. C. Winning Mrs. L. Lyons, M.A. Miss. O. York, B.A.

PREPARATORY DEPARTMENT Principal, Mr. R. Coulter, B.Ed., M.Ed. Mrs. S. Bell, B.A. Mrs. J. Chapman, B.Ed., P.G.Dip, A.T.S. Mr. P. Ingram, B.Ed., M.Sc. Mrs. J. Lawther, B.Ed. Mrs. P. Lennon, B.Ed. Miss. N. Friel, B.Ed. Mrs. E. Wilson, B.Ed.

ANCILLARY STAFF Secretary Mrs. F. Gouk, M.A. Classroom/After School Club Assistant Miss H. Crossen, B.A., M.A., P.G.C.E. Pre-Preparatory Group Assistant Mrs. L. Kyle Building Supervisor Mr. R. Crawford Cook Mrs. L. Johnston Part-time Catering Assistant Mrs. M. McEwan Pre-Preparatory Group Assistant Miss L. Mitchell Part-time Classroom Assistant Miss. K. Wallace

Contents

Valete ................................................................8 Obituaries .......................................................19 The COVID Chronicles ................................20 Then and Now.................................................24 Distribution of Prizes ....................................48 School Societies .............................................70 Music in School .............................................87 School Games ................................................88 Trips and Events .............................................90 Literary Contributions .................................103 Ben Madigan Preparatory School ...............112 History Corner ............................................120 Alumni News ...............................................122 Births, Marriages and Deaths ......................134

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Valete Union and preparing pupils for Oxbridge Health andheSocial Care toto the entrance. In 2003, was promoted the school and for a positionnumber of Head ofofMathematics followingthe Dr role of Subject years, fulfilled Scully’s promotion to Senior Teacher and for Rosemary Helen. worked Leader hard to maintain the high and academic standards within the department, alongside Geoff a man of many contrasts. He went involving pupilsis in the UK Mathematical Challenges. January 2009, atGeoff wasgrammar school fromInbeing a pupil a rural promoted to Senior Teacher and then in in Magherafelt studying Physics at Balliol September 2011 he was to appointed to the positionCollege, of Curriculum Vice Principal. In this Oxford, a college where four British role, Geoff has demonstrated that he is highly Prime Ministers were educated. Whilst at Oxford, organised and efficient, he provides valuable heanalysis has had with two of them – Harold statistical and, encounters through his review of the trackingMcMillan system, he implemented system to (whom he played and BorisaJohnson monitor pupil progress effectively. He football with). theschool impression that Balliol introduced Health and SocialWe Careget to the and for is a number of years, fulfilled thefourth role of prime minister but less than proud of its Subject Leader for Rosemary and Helen.

they can have much to be proud of in reflecting on

Geoff is a man of many contrasts. He went from Geoff’s career in terms of the impact he has had on GEOFF BROWN BROWN being a pupil at a rural grammar school in GEOFF the lives of young people. Magherafelt to studying Physics at Balliol Geoff’s contribution to Belfast Royal Academy College, Oxford, a college where four British over 21 years istosignificant spansAcademy many Although he educated. studied Physics, Geoff’s contribution Belfast and Royal Prime Ministers were Whilst at he teaches aspects of school life. He was appointed to the Oxford, he has had encounters with two of them great educators, over 21 years is significant and spans many aspects Mathematics. And like many school in March 2000 as a teacher of – Harold McMillan and Boris Johnson (whom hefootball carries hisWe intellect lightly. Never arrogant or of schoolMathematics, life. He was appointed school in he played having completedtohisthe teaching with). get the impression practice His Head Department at that is lessGeoff than proud of its prime aloof, takes asfourth much pride and satisfaction March 2000 ashere. a teacher of ofMathematics, having that Balliol time was Dr Catherine Scully, who commented minister but they can have much to be proud of fromonteaching the pupils who struggle to master completed hisrecommendation teaching practice here. Histhat Head ofin reflecting in her to the Headmaster Geoff’s career in terms of the “he will be time a mostwas valuable asset to the thehasbasic mathematical as he does from Department at that Dr Catherine Scully,impact he had on the lives of young concepts people. department and to the school as a whole”. And coaching our Oxbridge candidates. who commented so it came toin be.her recommendation to the Although he studied Physics, he teaches Mathematics. And like many great educators, Headmaster that “he will be a most valuable asset Geoff is a lightly. fantastic problem Geoff contributed to the curricular and extrahe carries his intellect Never arrogant orsolver. Not only in to the department and school as a whole”. curricular life of to thethe school by taking the aloof, class Geoff when takes he as whips much pride out hisandSherlock Holmes pipe involving himself in Scripture satisfaction from teaching the pupils who And so itfootball cameteam, to be. his drawer to puff on when he and the class strugglefrom to master the basic mathematical conceptsareaspondering he does from coaching our a particularly challenging problem Geoff contributed to the curricular and extraOxbridge candidates.

curricular life of the school by taking the football team, involving himself in Scripture Union and preparing pupils for Oxbridge entrance. In 2003, he was promoted to the position of Head of Mathematics following Dr Scully’s promotion to Senior Teacher and worked hard to maintain the high academic standards within the department, alongside involving pupils in the UK Mathematical Challenges. In January 2009, Geoff was promoted to Senior Teacher and then in September 2011 he was appointed to the position of Curriculum Vice Principal. In this role, Geoff has demonstrated that he is highly organised and efficient, he provides valuable statistical analysis and, through his review of the tracking system, he implemented a system to monitor pupil progress effectively. He introduced 8

but when he is writing the timetable. It is not easy writing the BRA timetable from scratch each year whilst meeting the many and varied permutations involving 1450 pupils and 88 staff. Geoff takes pride in coming up with an elegant solution; he was greatly helped by his timetabling assistant Mark Shields and latterly by David Morrison but I think that many of us are unaware of the many hours that Geoff invested in getting the timetable as close to perfect as he can. Geoff has a great sense of fun and he never takes himself too seriously. From participating in the Staff Revue as a member of the Superman Troupe, to the Mathematics Department synchronised swimming team and more recently, Lord Geoffemort in the Harry Potter sketch, Geoff

problem but when he is writing the timetable. It is not easy writing the BRA timetable from scratch each year whilst meeting the many and varied permutations involving 1450 pupils and 88 staff. Geoff takes pride in coming up with an elegant solution; he was greatly helped by his timetabling assistant Mark Shields and latterly by David Morrison but I think that many of us are unaware of the hours that Geoff enjoys contributing to the social aspect ofmany school invested in getting the timetable as close to life. He always takes the opportunity to play perfect as he can.

Geoff retired as the Curriculum Vice Principal at the end of August 2021 and on behalf of all the pupils, parents and staff, I would like to wish him a long, healthy and happy retirement.

Valete H.W.

football and has been a stalwart of the staff 5-aside Geoff has a great sense of fun and he never takes himself too seriously. From participating in the team for a number of years. Staff Revue as a member of the Superman

to the Mathematics Belfast Royal Academy is Troupe, in Geoff’s DNA and his Department synchronised swimming team and more commitment to supportingrecently, pupilsLord in their academic Geoffemort in the Harry Potter sketch, Geoff enjoys endeavours, in their sporting, musical andcontributing dramaticto the social aspect of school life. He always takes the events is a testament to theopportunity value hetoplaces on and has been a play football of thechildren, staff 5-asideConor team for a number educating the whole child.stalwart His own of years. and Molly, attended the school and he took great Belfast Royal Academy is in Geoff’s DNA and pride in their achievementshiswhilst still tomanaging commitment supporting pupils in their endeavours, in their sporting, musical that tricky balance of beingacademic a teacher in school and dramatic events is a testament to the value as well as their father. Geoff reflects the school’s he places on educating the whole child. His own Conor Molly,he attended values in how he conductschildren, himself andandhow is as the school and he took great pride in their achievements DEBORAH NICHOLL a parent – he respects knowledge, is notthat afraid whilst still he managing tricky balance of DEBORAH NICHOLL being a teacher school well as their father. of hard work, he values diversity andinhe hasashigh Geoff reflects the school’s values in how he FollowingFollowing a successful schoolschool career at Orangefield a successful career at standards. Conor and Molly are ahimself credit Geoff conducts andto how he is as a parent – he Orangefield Girls, where she was Head Girl, Girls, where she was Head Girl, Deborah Miskelly, respects knowledge, he is not and Lynn and also to Belfast Royal Academy andafraid of hard Deborah Miskelly, as she was then, graduated work, he values diversity and he hasashigh she was then, graduated from the Queen’s we hope that their values will remain them standards. Conorwith and Molly are afor credit to Geoff from the Queen’s University, Belfast in 1984 University, in 1984 and obtained her Postand Lynn and also to Belfast Royal Academy andBelfast obtained her Post-Graduate Certificate in life. and we hope that their values will remainGraduate with Education from the same institution.from the same Certificate in Education them for life. And Geoff has been a friend, counsellor and institution. Her teaching career started at the Academy in And Geoff has beenGeoff a friend,has counsellor and confidante to many of us over the years. 1985 and so began an association with the confidante to many of us over the years. Geoff Her teaching career started at the Academy in 1985 worked closely with support inwith particular school that was to last for 36 years. Appointed has staff, worked and closely support staff, and in and association within the particular the office staff and we all know howso began by Mran Sillery, she participated manyschool extra- that the office staff and we all know how close he was close he was to the Office Manager, Patricia curricular activities such as Scripture Union and Sillery, was to last for 36 years. Appointed by Mr to the Office Manager, Patricia Ferguson. Heanhas Ferguson. He has been extremely valued the World Wide Quiz. colleague within the Senior Leadership Team, she participated in many extra-curricular activities been an extremely valued colleague within the such as Scripture Union and the World Wide Quiz. Senior Leadership Team, particularly as we have navigated all of the additional challenges brought In 1991, she resigned from her full-time position about by the COVID-19 pandemic over the past 18 to devote her time and energy to her growing months. family. It was during this period that her sons Daniel, David and Andrew were born. In 1999, she Geoff retired as the Curriculum Vice Principal at rejoined the Geography Department in a job-share the end of August 2021 and on behalf of all the pupils, parents and staff, I would like to wish him a post with her good friend, Helen Miller. This was the first job share post at the Academy and was long, healthy and happy retirement. initially for a one-year trial period. They worked H.W. tirelessly to ensure that the job share was a success and this continued until retirement.

She was a teacher of the highest standards whose enthusiasm was both infectious and legendary. She inspired her pupils and encouraged an independence and spirit of inquiry long before such things became part of the educational dogma. Within the Geography department she was responsible for cataloguing the various resource materials and her production of worksheets was valued highly by colleagues and pupils alike. At GCSE and Advanced Level, she prepared a series of notes on several aspects of the courses. Never cynical, her common sense, calm approach was 9

The Owl 2021 professionalism and caring nature were much appreciated by her pupils.

much valued by her charges and by the staff. She will be much missed within the Academy and in the Geography department in particular. I am very grateful for her constant support to me and the department. I wish her many years of good health to enjoy with her family. A.S.

er full-time position rgy to her growing eriod that her sons were born. In 1999, y Department in a ood friend, Helen b share post at the for a one-year trial ly to ensure that the this continued until

highest standards oth infectious and her pupils and nce and spirit of ngs became part of hin the Geography ible for cataloguing HELEN MILLER aterials and her After graduating from the Queen’s University, as valued highly by Belfast in 1984, Helen Knox, as she was then, ke. At GCSEAfter and graduating from the Queen’s University, continued her studies with a Post-Graduate ed a series of notes Belfast inCertificate 1984, Helen Knox,inaswhich she she waswasthen, in Education, rses. Never cynical, awarded a Commendation. continued her studies with a Post-Graduate pproach was much y the staff. Certificate inbegan Education, in career which was awarded She her teaching at she Bloomfield

Mathematics. H on the teache Board and attended several courses and agreement University, Belf She was withlevel. the She NICCEA trials at GCSE andinvolved Advanced freely the classroom w Examination Board and attended several shared her notes and expertise with those in the encouraging pre courses and agreement trials at GCSE and department – many for yearsenergy to the c Advanced level.of Shethese freely will sharedbe herused notes and pitch as a Form to come.expertise with those in the department – many of these will be used for years to come. Unfortunately Within the Geography department, she had return to teach Within for the developing Geography department, she had responsibility a data base of videoseducated, and to responsibility for developing a data base of and DVDs. She recorded, faithfully, the minutes to a more rur videos and DVDs. She recorded, faithfully, the of Geography meetingsmeetings for several February 2021, minutes departmental of Geography departmental take up the posi years. for several years. We are sad to lo The Academy will miss herher greatly The Academy will miss greatly but but ititisisin in such a great futu the Geography Departmentthat that her will the Geography Department herabsence absence that he is able be most keenly felt. I valued enormously the him all the succ will be most keenly felt. I valued enormously encouragement she gave to me and to the the encouragement gave to her methe and the department as ashe whole. I send verytobest department as a whole. I send her the very wishes for a long and enjoyable retirement withbest her a family. wishes for long and enjoyable retirement with her

family.

A.S.

HELEN MILLER

Collegiate school, Belfast, in 1985 and this was a Commendation. within the Academy followed by a permanent post at Omagh tment in particular. Academy in 1986, where she remained for the her teaching career at Bloomfield nstant supportShe to me began next six years. She joined the Academy in her many years of Collegiate school, Belfast, in 1985 and1991 this was and as luck would have it, she replaced her good r family. followed friend by a permanent post Omagh Academy Deborah Nicholl. Sheatparticipated in many extra-curricular in 1986, where she remainedactivities for thesuch nextassix years. A.S. joined Scripture Union and the club. and as luck would She the Academy inski1991 During her first few at the Academy, her have it, she replaced heryears good friend Deborah children Rachel and John were born. It was Nicholl. She participated in many extra-curricular shortly after the birth of John that the possibility activities ofsuch as Scripture a job-share post wasUnion exploredand withthe Mrski club.

Sillery. He agreed to a trial period and the post During her first few years at the Academy, her was shared with Deborah Nicholl. The children Rachel and John It was shortly professionalism of bothwere Helenborn. and Deborah ensuredof John that the became after the birth that arrangement the possibility of a permanent. Helen was a dedicated teacher who job-share post was explored with Mr Sillery. He always put the needs of her pupils first. Her agreed to a trial period and the post was shared with Deborah Nicholl. The professionalism of both Helen and Deborah ensured that the arrangement became permanent. Helen was a dedicated teacher who always put the needs of her pupils first. Her professionalism and caring nature were much appreciated by her pupils.

She was involved with the NICCEA Examination 10

GERAL RYAN PATTERSON

RYAN PATTERSON

Ryan Patterson joined the Academy in August 2018 as joined a newly qualified teacher of Patterson the Academy in August

Mrs Geraldine M Academy in 19

Ryan 2018 as a newly qualified teacher of Mathematics. He was an award winning student on the teacher training course at Queen’s University, Belfast and this quickly translated to the classroom where he was an enthusiastic and encouraging presence. He not only brought this energy to the classroom but also to the rugby pitch as a Form I coach and also to the SU.

Unfortunately for BRA, the opportunity to return to teach in the school he had been educated, and to return to the west of the country to a more rural setting, was too strong. In February 2021, he joined Omagh Academy to take up the position as a teacher of Physics.

a data base of ed, faithfully, the mental meetings

to a more rural setting, was too strong. In February 2021, he joined Omagh Academy to take up the position as a teacher of Physics.

Valete

We are sad to lose such a dedicated teacher with such a great future ahead but delighted for Ryan that he is able to fulfil his ambition. We wish and Design. teacher Prior to this she completed her sad suchfora the dedicated with him to all lose the success future.

reatly but it is in t her absence will enormouslyWe the are degree at the Ulster College of Art, specialising me and to the such a great future ahead but forStudies Ryan i.e. Jewellery, in 3delighted Dimensional her the very best SilversmithingWe and Ceramics. that he is able to fulfil his ambition. wish him She then e retirement with progressed to Ulster Polytechnic to complete

RSON

all the success for the future. her Teacher Training qualification. S.G.

A.S.

S.G. Geraldine taught at a number of schools prior to the Academy. She taught in Forthill Girls Secondary School, Lisburn, for four years. Three of those years she worked as Head of Department. Shortly after this, she began teaching Special Needs Education as an Art specialist at The Park School, Belfast. She later moved on to Lisnevin Training School also as an Art specialist. Her time at Campbell College, Belfast, was one of her longest serving positions before joining Belfast Royal Academy. In between schools she took a career break to raise her family. PATRICIA KERR Golf and running were her favourite hobbies and if she was not on the golf course you would Mrs Patricia Kerr (Donnelly), a former pupil of find her out on one of her many running routes. Little Flower Girls School, completed her BA She was a valued member of the Art and Design HonsKerr degree(Donnelly), in Embroidered Textiles at Ulster a former pupil of Department for 22 years and she will be Mrs dearly Patricia University, Belfast, receiving first class missed. We thank you for your service Little to the Flower Girls School, completed her BA honours. She went on to gain an Art Teacher Academy Geraldine, and wish you a long and Hons degree in Embroidered at Ulster Diploma with CommendationTextiles in Art happy retirement. MCCADDEN Education, along with Art andfirst Design Practical University, Belfast, receiving class honours. L.A.P. Studies.

PATRICIA KERR

GERALDINE GERALDINE MCCADDEN

Mrs Geraldine McCadden began teaching at the ademy in August began teaching theArt AcademyMrs inGeraldine 1999 asMcCadden a part-time teacheratof Academy in 1999 as a part-time teacher of Art ed teacher of and Design. Prior to this she completed her degree at the Ulster College of Art, specialising in 3 Dimensional Studies i.e. Jewellery, Silversmithing and Ceramics. She then progressed to Ulster Polytechnic to complete her Teacher Training qualification.

Geraldine taught at a number of schools prior to the Academy. She taught in Forthill Girls Secondary School, Lisburn, for four years. Three of those years she worked as Head of Department. Shortly after this, she began teaching Special Needs Education as an Art specialist at The Park School, Belfast. She later moved on to Lisnevin Training School also as an Art specialist. Her time at Campbell College, Belfast, was one of her longest serving positions before joining Belfast Royal Academy. In between schools she took a career break to raise her family. Golf and running were her favourite hobbies and if she was not on the golf course you would find her out on one of her many running routes. She was a valued member of the Art and Design Department for 22 years and she will be dearly missed. We thank you for your service to the Academy Geraldine, and wish you a long and happy retirement. L.A.P.

She went on to gain an Art Teacher Diploma with She joined the staff at Belfast Royal Academy Commendation in Art along in September 1983Education, as a teacher of Art and with Art Design. Her teaching began under Mr Baird, and Design Practical Studies. Head of Art and Design, and then under Mrs

She joinedRosemary the staff at Belfast Academy in McWhirter, before Royal progressing to becoming Head of Art and Design Department September 1983 as a teacher of Art and Design. herself in August 2010. To further her personal Her teaching began under Mr Baird, Head of staff development, she completed a Masters Level Degree in Education with ICT Art and Design, and then under Mrs Rosemary specialism through Ulster University in 2012. McWhirter, before progressing to becoming Head was a teacher of impeccable standards. of Art andPatricia Design Department herself in August Her care and dedication to the pupils along 2010. To further herinpersonal with assisting the progress staff of theirdevelopment, individual coursework Level and futureDegree career in she completed a Masters options was second to none. Many hours were Educationspent with ICT specialism through during lunch and after school ensuringUlster had access to the resources needed to Universitypupils in 2012. complete their course. Attendance at numerous

Patricia was a teacher of impeccable standards. Her care and dedication to the pupils along with assisting in the progress of their individual coursework and future career options was second to none. Many hours were spent during lunch and after school ensuring pupils had access to the resources needed to complete their course. Attendance at numerous CCEA Agreement Trials throughout her teaching career allowed her to ensure pupils were receiving the best teaching experience possible, and becoming a visiting moderator for CCEA also helped to expand her knowledge. In 1991, she was given the opportunity to judge on the panel for the Northern Ireland Design prize alongside many other prestigious members. 11

The Owl 2021

Outside of school she was a member of the Embroidery Guild at the Ulster Folk Museum and regularly gave lectures at both the Folk Museum and the Women’s Institute. Teaching embroidery classes and passing on her knowledge and skills gave her much enjoyment. Oil painting was her other love and she regularly exhibited her paintings in venues throughout Northern Ireland. She also ran an art gallery for five years, part time, inviting local artists to exhibit their work and to give demonstrations of their individual art and craft styles. Patricia was involved in set painting for many school productions throughout her teaching career at the Academy and enjoyed seeing the work come to life in the full production. On a number of occasions, she had the opportunity to join the R.E. Department on their trip to Rome. During these trips she was able to teach staff and pupils about the sculptures, architecture and artwork around the city.

in 2018 as a Tutor of Arabic Art, Culture and Language. Prior to this, he worked as a dedicated member of the health service. He also spent many years as an interpreter and volunteered throughout the pandemic with the Red Cross. Within school, he dedicated many lunch time hours to running the Arabic Culture Club and Arabic Calligraphy Club. The staff benefited from his many hobbies, which included baking cakes and crocheting items. Khaled was able to develop a good rapport with students and engaged them well in learning the Arabic language. He was very helpful when developing lessons and within the department. He was a valued member of the Art and Design Department and was enthusiastic about his subject. Khaled has moved on to work in a new role within the health service and we wish him every success in his future career. L.A.P.

Patricia was the driving force for incorporating the Arabic with Art Project within the Art Department, spanning from 2015-2021.The project began with Form II pupils initially and then gradually expanded to all year groups having the opportunity to learn about the Arabic language and culture. I know that all pupils and staff will join me in wishing Patricia a long, fulfilling and well- earned retirement, and we thank her for her dedicated service. L.A.P.

hout her nsure pupils experience g moderator d her ven the el for the ongside many

mber of the Folk Museum oth the Folk tute. Teaching on her much other love and ings in venues KHALED BERAKDAR e also ran an KHALED BERAKDAR me, inviting Khaled Berakdar joined Belfast Royal k and to give Academy in 2018 as a Tutor of Arabic Art, al art and craft Khaled Berakdar joined Belfast Royal Academy Culture and Language. Prior to this, he worked as a dedicated member of the health service. He also spent many years as an interpreter and 12 ting for many volunteered throughout the pandemic with the er teaching Red Cross.

NATALJA RITCHIE Natalja took over School Matron start Natalja took over as as School Matron at at thethe start of of the 2020-21 school year after the departure of the 2020-21 school year after the departure of our our previous Mrs.Loughran. Nuala Loughran. previous matron,matron, Mrs. Nuala Natalja had justfrom returned from completing hadNatalja just returned completing her nursingher qualification in Englandinand had toand deal with some nursing qualification England had to deal of with the most demanding issues the School has ever some of the most demanding issues the faced as to re-open the Schooltoafter Schoolwe hasattempted ever faced as we attempted re- a long period lockdown. open theofSchool after a long period of lockdown. Natalja worked diligently to deal with issues as they arose and her professional approach, coupled Natalja worked diligently dealeffective. with issues as with a caring nature, provedtovery Natalja they arose member and herof professional approach, was a popular staff; however, she coupled a caring proved very moved on inwith January 2021 tonature, continue her nursing effective. Natalja was a popular member of staff; however, she moved on in January 2021

Deird Matr signi role. cons Scho unpr envir

Deird proce scho be e profe highl

rt of n. er al he eof

as h, ry of 21 er

a me er

Valete

Helen arrang Hel Gillia arra inGill eve tointake

career and complete her postgraduate studies. Natalja did, however, return in September for a short period to cover when the post became vacant again, enabling her to work with both her mum and her Auntie Kathryn.

to taw This the Sc This of a the lockd of a differ lock includ diff incl Helen autum Hel before autu befo

S.B.

LOUISE TUCKER

DEIRDRE ARMSTRONG Deirdre DEIRDRE took over fromARMSTRONG Natalja as School Matron in February 2021 and brought a significant amount Deirdre took over from Natalja as School of nursing experience to the role. Deirdre, like Matronbefore in February and brought Natalja her, faced a2021 considerable challengea significant of nursing experience to the in coming toamount terms with School nursing as well as dealing with the demands of a a role. Deirdre, likeunprecedented Natalja before her, faced COVID-19 environment. considerable challenge in coming to terms with

Louise started in the School in 2017 and worked LOUISE TUCKER on a job-share basis as a Sixth Form study Louise started in theSchool School 2017 andworked worked supervisor, supervising Middle Sixth pupils. Louise started in the inin2017 and a to job-share basis as aofForm Sixth FormLouise study onon a job-share as a Sixth study Due the basis circumstances the post, supervisor, Middle Sixth pupils. supervisor, supervising Middle Sixth pupils. Due worked on asupervising Friday each week, ensuring that the to Due the circumstances of the post, worked to were the circumstances of the post, Louise pupils able to work in Louise an environment onworked awhich Friday each week, ensuring that the pupils on aconducive Friday each week, ensuring was to effective study. that the were able to work in an environment which was pupils were able to work in an environment Louise resigned fromstudy. her post at the end of the conducive to effective which was conducive to effective study. Summer term 2021. However, she is currently Louise resigned from her post at the end of the volunteering in the her Art post Department Louise resigned endwhere of the Summer term 2021.from However, sheatisthe currently pupils are benefiting from her artistic skills and Summer term 2021. However, she is currently volunteering in the Art Department where experience. volunteering in the pupils are benefiting fromArt her Department artistic skills where and

experience. pupils are benefiting from her artistic skillsS.B. and experience. S.B. S.B.

Deirdre getting systems School worked nursingvery as hard wellat as dealing withandthe processes in place and reached out to other school unprecedented demands of a COVID-19 nurses to ensure that best practice could be ensured environment. in Belfast Royal Academy. Her professionalism and dedication were valued highly by the School Deirdre worked very hard at getting systems and however Deirdre decided to return to her general processes in place and reached out to other nursing career and left the School at the end of the school nurses to ensure that best practice could Summer term 2021.

be ensured in Belfast Royal Academy. Her S.B. professionalism and dedication were valued highly by the School however Deirdre decided to return to her general nursing career and left the School at the end of the Summer term 2021. S.B.

HELEN CATHCART HELEN CATHCART Helen joined the School in 2019 in a job-share CATHCART arrangementHELEN in the Finance team, working with Gillian Boyd. Helen was extremely professional in everything she did and was willing and able to take 13

Peter as ass Peter’ Pete welco as a gusto Pete The welro varied gust a rang The and ev vari Peter a ra establ and

Pete esta

Helen joined the School in 2019 in a job-share arrangement in the Finance team, working with Gillian Boyd. Helen was extremely professional The Owl 2021 in everything she did and was willing and able to take on a variety of different tasks.

Peter recently decided to take up another opportunity and left the School at the half-term break. S.B.

on a variety of different tasks.

This was particularly evident during 2020 when

Thisthewas particularly evidentdaily during 2020 when the School had to re-adjust to the demands School to re-adjust daily to the demands of a had COVID-19 environment and periods ofofa COVID-19 environment and periods of lockdown. lockdown. Helen took over a number of Helen took over a number of different roles at short different roles at short notice during this period, notice during this period, including the role of including the role of School Matron. School Matron.

orked study upils. Louise hat the nment

Suzann classro team. H in the r team.

Helen’s temporary came to end an end in the Helen’s temporary rolerole came to an in the autumn of 2020 and she left the School just autumn of 2020 and she left the School just before before completing MSc in Human Nutrition. completing her MSc her in Human Nutrition.

S.B.S.B.

FERGAL MCCLUSKEY MCCLUSKEY FERGAL Fergal left the School at the start of the 2020-21

Fergal left the School at the start of the 2020-21 School year after many years of service. He was School year after many years of service. He was a a very recognisable face of the School as he very recognisable face of the School as he worked worked as a bus driver/janitor throughout this as a bus driver/janitor throughout this period.

of the rently where ls and

period.

Fergal was always willing to help and worked was always willing the to help andstaff worked wellFergal with other staff. Again, life of in the well with other staff. Again, the life of staff in Estates Team is varied and Fergal could be found the Estates Team andinFergal could be picking up pupils at is thevaried station the morning picking up School pupils to at take the station in the onlyfound to return to the on a painting only to returnthe to the School to take in onthe job,morning returning to driving pupils to Games a painting job, returning to driving the pupils to afternoon.

S.B.

PETER HUGHES

Games in the afternoon. After a very difficult year for Fergal and his family Peter Hughes joined the School in January 2021 in 2020-21, Fergal decided to for takeFergal up a different After a very difficult year and his Peter Hughes joined the School in January 2021 as assistant to the Estates Manager, Jill Lambert. opportunity and left the school in September. family in 2020-21, Fergal decided to take up a as assistant to the Estates Manager, Jill Lambert. Peter’s enthusiastic approach to work was very different opportunity and left the school in Peter’s enthusiastic approach workteaching was welcome as he threw himselftointo workvery with community, working withhis and nonSeptember. welcome he threw himself intobasis his work gusto. asteaching staff on a daily as wellwith engaging

gusto.

with the Governors.

S.B.

The role of assistant to the Estates Manager is a The role of assistant to the Estates Manager is a Peter decided to dealing take upwith another varied role and recently Peter found himself varied role and Peter found himself dealing with opportunity and left the School at the half-term a range of activities from clocks to bike sheds a range of activities from clocks to bike sheds and break. and everything in between. everything in between. Peter a very sociable person and quickly S.B. Peter is a isvery sociable person and quickly established himself thecommunity, School established himself within within the School working with teaching and non-teaching staff on a daily basis as well engaging with the Governors.

Peter recently decided to take up another opportunity and left the School at the half-term break.

SUZANNE KENNEDY

S.B.

SUZANNE KENNEDY

S.B.

Suzanne joined the School in 2016 as a classroom assistant in the Learning Support Suzanne joined the School in 2016 as a classroom team. Her teaching background was invaluable assistant in the Learning Support team. Her in the role and she became a key member of the team. Having already retired from teaching, Suzanne

Having made Howev was no devote

Suzanne joined the School in 2016 as a classroom assistant in the Learning Support team. Her teaching background was invaluable in the role and she became a key member of the team. background was invaluable in the role and teaching

20-21 e was as he t this

orked aff in ld be n the ke on pils to

d his up a ol in S.B.

end of the Summer term 2021. Valete

S.B.

sheHaving becamealready a key member of the team. Suzanne retired from teaching, Having retiredcontribution from teaching, Suzanne madealready a significant to the School. made a significant contribution to the2020 School. However, she decided in autumn that it However, decided autumn that it and was nowshe time to step in away from 2020 these duties wasdevote now time to step away from these duties and all of her time to her family. devote all of her time to her family. S.B. S.B.

Gen clas dilig prov was thro

Gen Sum Fran

GILLIAN BOYD Gillian Boyd School in October Gillian Boyd leftleft thethe School in October 20212021 after yearsofofservice. service.Gillian Gillianfollowed followedininher her after 1818years mother’s footsteps, taking up a up roleainrole the Bursar’s mother’s footsteps, taking in the Office and spent working as the Bursar’s Bursar’s Officethis andtime spent this time working as Secretary. the Bursar’s Secretary. Gillian’s polite and warm personality endeared her andvery warm personality endeared toGillian’s many andpolite she has strong friendships with SHANNON ALEXANDER ALEXANDER SHANNON herstaff to many and she has Her veryknowledge strong friendships both and Governors. of details with both staff and sorely Governors. Her knowledge missed. Shannon joined the School in 2019 as the and processes Gillian alsowill has be artistic talents and many a staff Shannon joined the School in 2019 as the of details and processes willmasterpieces. be Pool Supervisor, wall carries of Gillian’s also has one artistic talents andsorely manymissed. a Over staff Swimming Swimming Pool Supervisor, followingfollowing in the in the Gillian footsteps of her mother. Shannon’s knowledge the last number of years, Gillian has been trying wall carries one of Gillian’s masterpieces. Over footsteps of her mother. Shannon’s knowledge of of and enthusiasm for swimming and water polo to number establish ofher art Gillian businesshas and willtrying be to years, been and enthusiasm for swimming and water polo were the last were extremely useful as both school swimming concentrating on this in the future. establish her art business and will be concentrating extremely useful as both school swimming and and external groups using the school pool on this in the future. external groups using the school pool flourished. S.B. flourished.

S.B.

During the lockdown periods in 2020 and 2021, During lockdown periodsassisted in 2020 and while the pool wastheclosed, Shannon the 2021, while the pool was closed, Shannon assisted the school with additional administrative tasks and also school the withchildren additionalofadministrative helped supervise key workerstasks and and also helped supervise the children of key the school was grateful for her commitment and flexibility. workers and the school was grateful for her commitment and flexibility.

Shannon has now moved to Scotland to take up a Shannon hasand nowleft moved to Scotland to end take up different opportunity the school at the a different opportunity and left the school at the of the Summer term 2021. end of the Summer term 2021.

S.B. S.B.

GENEVIEVE EVRARD

Genevieve joined the School in 2019 as a classroom assistant. Genevieve Genevieve joined the School in 2019was as a quiet, diligent and hardworking. However, she diligent also classroom assistant. Genevieve was quiet, provided her opinion when it was important and was a key member of the Learning Support team 15 throughout her time in Belfast Royal Academy.

the end of the 2020-21 school year and she decided to take it, leaving the school at the end of the Summer term.

The Owl 2021

Harriett classroo

S.B.

and hardworking. However, she also provided her opinion when it was important and was a key member of the Learning Support team throughout her time in Belfast Royal Academy.

Harriett Support commit through provide children

Genevieve left the School at the end of the Summer term 2021 and returned to her native France. S.B.

Harriett of year challeng

JAKE HAWKEY

Jake joined the School in 2019 as a classroom assistant and his literary background was very JAKE HAWKEY useful in the Learning Support Team.

JAKE HAWKEY

Jake joined the School in 2019 as a classroom Jake was of the assistant and ahisvalued literarymember background wasteam very and he Jake split joinedhis thetime School in 2019 as a classroom between working useful in the Learning Support Team.in the school and

assistant and his literary background was very working towards his PhD. Unfortunately, it was useful the aLearning SupportofTeam. Jakeinwas valued member the team and he

impossible for Jake to provide the time to both

KERRY MILLEN Kerry joined KERRY the school atMILLEN the start of the 2020-21 School Year as a classroom assistant. However, she KERRY MILLEN Kerry joined the school theMadigan start ofand the was 2020had previously worked in at Ben no stranger to theYear BRA family. 21 School as a classroom assistant.

split hisa time between working the school Jake was valued member of theinteam and heand roles and he regretfully had to give up his role working towards his PhD. Unfortunately, it was split his time between working in the school and in Belfast Academy at the end of the impossible for Royal JakePhD. to provide the time to both working towards his Unfortunately, it was 2020-21 Year. impossible Jake to provide thegive timeuptohis both roles andfor heSchool regretfully had to role roles and he regretfully had to give up his role in in Belfast Royal Academy at the end of the Belfast Royal Academy 2020-21 School Year. at the end of the 2020-21 S.B. School Year. S.B.

S.B.

Kerry joined the school at the start of the 2020-

However, she previously in Kerry’s yearhad at the school wasworked blighted by Ben the 21 first School Year as a classroom assistant. impact of COVID-19. However, her polite, softlyMadigan and was no stranger to the BRA However, she had previously worked in Ben spoken approach waswas appreciated in her Madigan and no stranger to role. the BRA family.

Kerryfamily. was offered an attractive opportunity at the Kerry’s first year at the school by end of the 2020-21 school year andwas sheblighted decided to Kerry’s first year at the school was blighted by takeimpact it, leaving the school at the end of the the of COVID-19. However, herSummer polite, the impact of COVID-19. However, her polite, term. softly-spoken approach was appreciated in her softly-spoken approach was appreciated in her

role. role.

S.B.

offered attractiveopportunity opportunity atat KerryKerry was was offered an an attractive the of end the of the 2020-21school school year year and and she the end 2020-21 she decided to take it, leaving the school at the end decided to take it, leaving the school at the end of the Summer term. of the Summer term. S.B.

S.B.

HARRIETT WATSON HARRIETT WATSON HARRIETT WATSON Harriett joined the School inas 2018 as a Harriett joined the School in 2018 a classroom Harriett joined the School in 2018 as a classroom assistant. assistant.

classroom assistant.

Harriett a key member the Learning Harriett waswas a key member of theofLearning Support Team and herTeam flexibility andher commitment Support flexibility Harriett was aand key member of were theandLearning much appreciated, especially through periods of commitment muchand appreciated, Support were Team her especially flexibility and lockdown 2020 when she provided throughin periods of lockdown in 2020supervision when she

commitment were much appreciated, especially

provided supervision to some of our vulnerable through periods of lockdown in 2020 when she children.

provided supervision to some of our vulnerable

Valete

to some of our vulnerable children. Harriett had been with the school for a number of years and decided to look for a new challenge. She left the school in August 2021. S.B.

GRACE WARD Grace joined the School at the start of the 202021 school year as a classroom assistant. Her enthusiastic and bubbly personality allowed her to integrate into the School and the Learning Support team very quickly.

GRACE WARD

Grace GRACE was very competent WARDin her role but also flexible andthe sheSchool was happy takeofonthedifferent Grace joined at thetostart 2020whenever the opportunity presented 21roles school year as classroom assistant. Her Grace joined the School at athe start of the 2020- itself, including a trip to Ben Madigan to fill in for enthusiastic and bubbly assistant. personalityHer allowed hera 21 school year as a classroom whointo waspersonality absent for aand day.the Learning to teacher integrate the School enthusiastic and bubbly allowed her to team veryand quickly. integrateSupport into the School the Learning Support Grace is hoping to become a teacher in the team very future quickly. andvery has now taken up great opportunity Grace was competent inaher role but also Grace was very competent in her role but also in London to further this career choice, leaving flexible and she was happy to take on different flexible and she wasofhappy to taketerm on presented different at the end the 2021. roles whenever theSummer opportunity itself,

ETHANPURCELL PURCELL ETHAN Ethan joined the School in September 2020 as a

Ethan joined the School in September 2020 as a classroom assistant and was a great asset to the classroom assistant and was a great asset to the Learning Support team. Ethan is a former pupil Learning Support team. Ethan is a former pupil and and also had the advantage of his mother being also had the advantage of his mother being close close by to keep an eye on him. by to keep an eye on him.PURCELL ETHAN Ethan’s knowledge of school the school Ethan’s knowledge of the andand the the staffstaff was was extremely useful and he was very effective Ethan joined the School in September 2020 as extremely useful and he was very effective in hisa in his role.assistant and was a great asset to the role. classroom

Learning Support team. Ethan is a former pupil

Ethan also provided assistance to General the General Ethanand also provided to his the also had the assistance advantage of mother being Office staff atend theofend the Summer term Office staffbyat theonof Summer term which close tothe keep an eye him. which was much appreciated by the school and was much appreciated by the school and the staff thehelped. staffknowledge that he helped. that he Ethan’s of the school and the staff

useful andcareer he was very effective Ethanwas hadextremely been considering Ethan had been considering careeropportunities opportunities in histaking role. up an opportunity with one of and after and after taking up an opportunity with one of roles whenever the opportunity presented itself, including a trip to Ben Madigan to fill in for a the world’s biggest consulting firms during thethe the world’s biggest consulting during including a trip who to Ben Ethan also provided assistancefirms to the General teacher wasMadigan absent fortoa fill day.in for a summer, Ethan did not return forfor thethe start summer, Ethan startofofthe the teacher who was absent for a day. Office staff at did the not endreturn of the Summer term school year. Grace is hoping to become a teacher in the 2021-22 2021-22 school which was muchyear. appreciated by the school and Grace is hoping to become a teacher in the future future and has now taken up a great opportunity S.B. the staff that he helped. and has now taken up a great opportunity in in London to further this career choice, leaving London to further this career choice, leaving at the Ethan had been considering career opportunities at the end ofterm the Summer S.B. end of the Summer 2021. term 2021. and after taking up an opportunity with one of the world’s biggest consulting firms during the summer, Ethan did not return for the start of the 2021-22 school year.

S.B.

The Owl 2021

SANDRA GRIFFITHS GRIFFITHS SANDRA Sandra joined the school at the start of the 2020-

Sandra joined the school at the start of the 202021 school year as a Sixth Form study supervisor. 21 school year as a Sixth Form study supervisor. Sandra had a background in education, Sandra had a background in education, however, however, her start in the school was impacted by her start in the school was impacted by COVID-19 COVID-19 and whilst she worked well with the and whilst she worked well with the other other study supervisors, it was difficult for her study supervisors, it was difficult for her to get to get established in the role, given all the established in the role, given all the disruptions. disruptions.

Sandra’s commitment and flexibility were greatly Sandra’sthroughout commitment and of flexibility were appreciated periods lockdown when greatly appreciated throughout periods of she helped to supervise the children of key workers lockdown when she helped to supervise the who were still coming to school. children of key workers who were still coming

Sandra was offered another job opportunity in to school. January 2021 which was closer to home and left Sandra wasmonth. offered another job opportunity in the following

January 2021 which was closer to home and left S.B the following month. S.B.

Obituaries

Obituaries PATRICIA FERGUSON PATRICIA FERGUSON

than once, especially when it came to en year reporting anda Staff the ice-bucket dreaded Departme a Staff trip to Malawi in 2003, challenge,Education end of termschool festivities ……the list is census! endless.

Patricia’s involvement School extende Aside from her efficient running of thein School Office, Patricia willthe be School remembered by everyone beyond Office. Her three childr who met attended her for her friendship She washerself i B.R.A. and Sheloyalty. immersed always ready to help anyone who had a problem; school taking part init,many of the she was awider listening ear forlife those who needed a Revues, tasty a Staff trip to Malawi baker of extremely chocolate cakes, coffeein 2003, a lover andice-bucket a break-time cross-word challenge,solver endalongside of term festi James Cleland. ……the list is endless.

Patricia was diagnosed with Small Cell cancer It was with much sadness that the School Aside from efficient running of the S in September 2020. She her underwent radiotherapy community heard of the passing of Patricia seeming It was with much sadness that the School and chemotherapy Office, stoically, Patricianeverwill be to remembered Ferguson in the early hours of Thursday 10th June get her down. I know that she was 2021. community heard of the passing of Patricia let her illness everyone who met her for her friendship immensely grateful to friends who visited, phoned, th Patricia McKinney, as shehours then was, appointed Ferguson in the early of was Thursday 10 sent cards, loyalty. was always ready to help an flowers orShe presents. in August 1998, as a Clerical Officer, working in June 2021. whobehad problem; washer a listening e Patricia will mucha missed by hershe family, the School’s General Office under the supervision those who needed it, a Office, baker the of extremely friends, her colleagues in the School of Mrs Roberta Lynn. [Mrs previously Patricia McKinney, as Lynn she had then was, was Leadership Team with whom she worked closely, chocolate cakes, coffee lover and a break taught Patricia her word-processing/typing skills at appointed in August 1998, as a Clerical Officer, all of the teaching and non-teaching Staff but evening classes in Glengormley High School.] On cross-word solver alongside James Cleland most of all by her children Christopher, Ciara and working in theofSchool’s Office the retirement Mrs Lynn General in 2003, Patricia wasunder her grandchildren Paige, Katie, to Office a positionLynn. she held [Mrs Meghan and the promoted supervision of Manager, Mrs Roberta Patricia was diagnosed with and Small Cell c James to whom she was devoted. untilhad ill-health forced her to takePatricia leave of absence. Lynn previously taught her wordin September 2020. She under L.C. Patricia’s appointment to the School Office

processing/typing skills at evening classes in largely coincided with the introduction of the Glengormley High School.] On the retirement Computerised Local Administration of Secondary of Mrs Lynn in 2003, Patricia was promoted to Schools, CLASS, the fore-runner of C2K and Office Manager, a position shesystem held was until illSIMS. Patricia’s knowledge of this second to none. recording to health forced herFrom to take leaveattendances of absence. School Comms to Parentmail to SIMS Parent to EMAs, Patricia mastered them all with relativeOffice Patricia’s appointment to the School ease. In my years as Vice-Principal I know that I largely coincided with the introduction of the relied upon her to get me out of tricky situations, Computerised of when using SIMS,Local more thanAdministration once, especially Secondary Schools, CLASS, the fore-runner of when it came to end-of-year reporting and the dreaded of Education school census! C2K and Department SIMS. Patricia’s knowledge of this

Patricia’s School extended far system wasinvolvement second toin none. From recording beyond the School Office. Her three children all attendances to School Comms to Parentmail to attended B.R.A. She immersed herself in the wider SIMS Parent to EMAs, Patricia them school life taking part in many of themastered Staff Revues, all with relative ease. In my years as VicePrincipal I know that I relied upon her to get me

radiotherapy and chemotherapy stoically, seeming to let her illness get her down. I that she was immensely grateful to friends visited, phoned, sent cards, flowers or pres

Patricia will be much missed by her family friends, her colleagues in the School Offic Leadership Team with whom she wo closely, all of the teaching and non-tea Staff but most of all by her children Christo Ciara and Meghan and her grandchildren P Katie, and James to whom she was devote

The Owl 2021

The COVID Chronicles Owing to the COVID-19 pandemic, education changed dramatically for staff and pupils alike. OwingMembers to the COVID-19 pandemic, of the BRA staff reflect oneducation how their roles changed during these changed dramatically for staff andunprecedented pupils alike. times. Members of the BRA staff reflect on how their

roles changed during these unprecedented times.

This proved to be a significant task, although we could only make direct contact with the parents Google Classroom which dedicated to support of our pupils, rather than with was the pupils and wellbeing. were was uploaded, as themselves. I certainlyAssemblies felt that this contact appreciated by many at the time, but it served as were wellbeing tasks, to social media. I vividly no real substitute to speaking to our pupils in remember the first ever trial of a Zoom assembly person, even though a number of our parents put in June 2020, which was such an unknown at that their son/daughter on the phone to speak. We alsostage. moved to create a Google Classroom which was dedicated to support and wellbeing. As we moved to the second more recent period Assemblies were uploaded, as were wellbeing oftolockdown, theI vividly live lessons helped tasks, social media. remember the to support pupils. firstfurther ever trialthe of ainteractions Zoom assemblywith in June 2020, However, there which wasno such an unknown for at that was replacement thestage. subtle conversations

in moved the corridors, or before, during or after classes. As we to the second more recent period of lockdown, livesought lessons to helped to support Pastoralthe staff maintain contact using further the interactions However, virtual assemblieswith andpupils. recorded messages, and there was no replacement for the subtle pupils could contact pastoral staff for support at conversations in the corridors, or before, during anyclasses. stage Pastoral duringstaff thissought time.to maintain or after contact using staff virtualmissed assemblies recorded Pastoral the and daily interactions with messages, and pupils could contact pastoral andatopportunities continue to build staffpupils, for support any stage duringto this time. MR MARTIN WILSON

MR on MARTIN As I reflect the period of WILSON school closures and national lockdowns, and the impact which these have had schoolofcommunity, I am met As I reflect on on theour period school closures and with a mixture of and emotions. I clearlywhich remember national lockdowns, the impact these meeting with key members of pastoral staff just have had on our school community, I am met after the initial announcement, trying to with a navigate mixtureour of emotions. clearly remember way throughI this ever-changing meeting with key of pastoral staff just situation. Themembers challenge was how to maintain contact with our pupils in school during a after the initial announcement, trying to period navigate of through time whenthis theyever-changing would not be physically on our way situation. site. All face-to-face counselling sessions The challenge was how to maintain contact with ceased, as telephone appointments became more our pupils in school a period of time towhen common. Duringduring this time, we endeavoured phone not the parents of all pupils the school. they would be physically oninsite. All face-to-

positive relationships. The school was simply not

Pastoral staff missed the daily interactions with the same during these times. Empty classrooms, pupils, and opportunities to continue to build quietrelationships. corridors, playgrounds positive The school wasdeserted. simply One of the many strengths of our school is the relationships not the same during these times. Empty classrooms, corridors, playgrounds which arequiet fostered between our pupils and our deserted. One of the many strengths our was missed. staff, and there is no doubt thatofthis school is the relationships which are fostered would then b between our pupils and our staff, and there is no Google Clas doubt that this was missed. 2020, we hel plans to staf After a few u

face counselling sessions ceased, as telephone appointments became more common. During this time, we endeavoured to phone the parents of all pupils in the school.

This proved to be a significant task, although we could only make direct contact with the parents of our pupils, rather than with the pupils themselves. I certainly felt that this contact was appreciated by many at the time, but it served as no real substitute to speaking to our pupils in person, even though a number of our parents put their son/daughter on the phone to speak. We also moved to create a 20

MR PHIL DORMAN

On reflectio different bea speed of org One was phen for 1450 pupi something an aspect of the p but the pasto from pupils u concern. Seco competent co teaching brou them.

We offered t throughout th As a Senior Teacher in school, one of my roles As a Senior Teacher in school, one of my roles is guides and tr is to have an oversight of eLearning. This vague issues as they carries a of wide range of This rolesvague and term to haveterm an oversight eLearning. challenges ou responsibilities, and has a lot of flexibility built hadn’t pre-em in to move with the ever-changing face of IT. Our staff sho However, the original job description didn’t they adapted include “launch remote learning during a Global

The COVID Chronicles

carries a wide range of roles and responsibilities, and has a lot of flexibility built in to move with the ever-changing face of IT. However, the original job description didn’t include “launch remote learning during a Global Pandemic!” In the years preceding the pandemic, we began developing our use of Google software such as Google Classroom and Google Drive. We had the foresight to see how much potential the software had to help us manage our pupil’s learning for the coming decade. Overnight, the 4 years from 201620 became invaluable as we were in a position to ask the whole school community to revert to Google Classroom as a means to aid teaching and learning. We had a sense at the end of February 2020 that there was a slim chance that schools may close. This spurred us to meet and begin developing ‘How to’ guides for parents, pupils and staff. We weren’t sure if these would ever be needed but inevitably they were. On Monday 16th March 2020, the eLearning Committee met and put together a plan of how staff could post work to a central area, which would then be passed on to pupils and staff via Google Classroom. On Tuesday 17th March 2020, we held staff training and conveyed our plans to staff, should we go into lockdown. After a few user tests we were ready to go… On reflection, Lockdown One was a very different beast to Lockdown Two. Firstly, the speed of organisation needed for Lockdown One was phenomenal. Creating an online school for 1450 pupils, with two weeks’ notice was not something any of us had trained for. The IT aspect of the planning was a huge consideration, but the pastoral and welfare needs that arose from pupils using screens all day was another concern. Secondly, while many of our staff were competent computer users, the thought of online teaching brought about very real anxieties for them. We offered the staff ‘helpdesk’ style support throughout the two lockdowns and created user guides and training sessions that addressed the issues as they were presented to us. Many of the challenges our staff faced were difficulties we hadn’t pre-empted at the start of March 2020. Our staff should be very proud of how quickly they

adapted to online teaching. In the middle of each week staff sent me their teaching material for the coming week, which was then arranged in a format that pupils and parents could access remotely. The weekly Google Sheet update containing lessons, tasks and activities was then uploaded to the Pupil Notes Google Classroom. We began to hear rumours about a piece of software called Zoom; little did we know back then that it would become our main source of school communication for at least eighteen months to come. I can remember the very first Zoom meeting we held in the Heritage Room. Mr Cleland and I spent hours in advance, testing and planning for an online Subject leaders meeting. Six of us sat in trepidation in the Heritage Room waiting for the Subject Leaders to appear on the big screen. The novelty factor of this first Zoom meeting was equivalent to the first time I realised a VHS could record a TV programme! On our return from Lockdown One, we felt it would be prudent to begin the process of training staff to be able to use Software that would allow us to conduct online live teaching, and so the term ‘Google Meet’ entered our lives. Between September and December 2020, we tested and trialled live teaching using Google Meet and offered the staff training sessions. It came to pass that in January 2021 our training was needed – live teaching had begun. Through the period of Lockdown Two, we created training videos for the staff as problems arose. We also learnt that we could ‘dial in’ to a staff device from home and help them remedy any problems they were having. A Remote Learning policy was also written to help all of the stakeholders know what they could expect and what was expected of them. This document is still in use and is constantly being reviewed and adapted. Live teaching brought its challenges, and staff and pupils alike had to adapt to a much more intense online teaching experience. Phrases such as “can you all turn on your cameras please?” became the norm. Encouraging pupils to participate in online classes, negating the impact of excessive screen time and encouraging pupils to exercise between classes became a priority for us. 21

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We decided to assess the pupils in June; this in itself provided a huge logistical challenge, along with the need for staff to learn to use another piece of software – Google Forms. The staff and pupils coped admirably with the assessments and the feedback we received was very positive.

We could look back at this period and be selfcritical; lessons were learnt and we critically reviewed our online learning provision, but I feel that as a school we should be very proud of what we achieved. Our staff created a virtual school that dealt with pastoral and wellbeing issues, taught a full school timetable period by period and still managed to provide stimulating activities such as virtual PE lessons and interactive House we felt it competitions. My hope is that we don’t lose the skills we process of gained during the two lockdown periods. To that My hope is that we don’t lose the skills we gained tware that end, in the 2021-22 academic year our staff are the two lockdown periods. that more end, e teaching, duringusing Google Classroom on a To much 2021-22 academic yearshifted our staff are using d our lives. in the regular basis, and we have our mind-set Classroom on aan much more regular basis, 2020, we Google now from IT being add-on to teaching, to ng Google and we being a much more integral part of our day-tohave shifted our mind-set now from IT essions. It being day work. to teaching, to being a much more an add-on ur training integral part of our day-to-day work. n. Through

e created ems arose. ’ to a staff medy any

written to what they d of them. constantly

, and staff much more e. Phrases r cameras ing pupils gating the ime and en classes

MR SIMON BURROWS

As Head of Finance and Corporate Services, COVID-19 has had a unique impact on my life As Head ofschool. Finance and Corporate Services, at the I started in my role on 9th March ne; this in COVID-19 has had a unique impact on my life at 2020 and within two weeks, the school had gone nge, along I started in my role on 9th March 2020 into lockdown. se another the school. two weeks, the school had gone into e staff and and within By this stage, I had not even met the majority of sessments lockdown. the staff or got any sort of understanding of what y positive. thestage, role entailed. I spent mymet timethe ‘fire-fighting’ By this I had not even majority of on the acquisition of equipment to keep staff nd be selfthe staff or got any sort of understanding of what safe, dealing with individual staff concerns, critically entailed.onI spent my timeand ‘fire-fighting’ consulting risk registers any other ion, but I the role acquisition to keep staff y proud of on thenecessary stepsof to equipment ensure that staff welfare wassafe, d a virtual maintained, as we tried to adjust to the new wellbeing demands of running the school in a COVID-19 22 period by environment.

dealing with individual staff concerns, consulting on risk registers and any other necessary steps to ensure that staff welfare was maintained, as we tried to adjust to the new demands of running the school in a COVID-19 environment. Once the initial adjustments had been made, I found myself working on site with very few members of staff trying to ensure that payments were still being made, staff were paid and that the vastly different operating requirements could now be supported.

the vastly requirements Overall, it wasdifferent definitely aoperating challenge and I had to hit the now ground However, I am only now could berunning. supported. seeing the school operating in a more normal way Overall, it awas definitely challenge had and getting better sense of awhat my job and reallyI is.

to hit the ground running. However, I am only now seeing the school operating in a more normal way and getting a better sense of what my job really is.

The COVID Chronicles

d y e t

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Then and Now THE ACADEMY:THEN THENAND AND NOW NOW THE ACADEMY: In1995, 1995, Friso Friso Spoelstra, Spoelstra, aa photographer In photographerfrom from Amsterdam, visited the Amsterdam, the Academy Academyand andtook tooksome very striking images of what a typical day at BRA some very striking images of what a typical looked like in the 1990s. day at BRA looked like in the 1990s.

Some 25 years later, local photographer, Tara Some 25 years later, local photographer, Tara Torrens, spent time capturing images around Torrens, spent time capturing images around the the school, chronicling what life is like in the school, chronicling what life is like in the Academy Academy in the midst of the COVID-19 in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. pandemic.

Sixth Form Study and Common Room

Then and Now

Art

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Staff at BRA

Then and Now

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Then and Now

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Then and Now

Computers

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Crombie and School Buildings

Then and Now

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Then and Now

Canteen

Covid

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Drama

Then and Now

First year playground

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Girdwood

Then and Now

History

Languages

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Playground

Then and Now

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Then and Now

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Music

Then and Now

Roughfort (Games)

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Technology

Then and Now

Dr Olly Mort Then Wingfield

Now

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Distribution of Prizes The Annual Distribution of Prizes took place this year on Friday 22nd October at The Spire’s Centre. The Warden, Dr. K.M. Bill, reflected on the impact of the pandemic and the resilience pupils had demonstrated. Mrs H. Woods introduced the Guest of Honour, Mr Tony Danker, to the prize-giving ceremony. In his speech, Tony Danker considered the lessons we should all learn from the COVID-19 pandemic. He advised pupils that they should aim to ‘squeeze out the juice,’ ultimately seizing all opportunities presented to them throughout their school careers. The Guest of Honour outlined how he, himself, had approached his own school career in Belfast Royal Academy in this manner. He humorously reflected on his involvement in a range of activities as a pupil, including his memorable performance in the school play and his victory in the annual Battle of the Bands competition. Mr Danker then detailed how this attitude has afforded him many exciting opportunities in his own career, allowing him to work in several countries and meet many prominent figures. He specified that subjects such as Mathematics and Geography have been relevant and valuable in his understanding of everyday issues. In closing, Tony Danker assured the pupils that ‘BRA is a safe place to try everything,’ and extended his congratulations to prize-winners. The Senior Orchestra gave an engaging virtual performance of ‘Rondeau’from H. Purcell’s Abdelazer Suite, while the Chamber Choir gave an uplifting performance of ‘A Clare Benediction’ by J.Rutter. A rousing rendition of ‘High-Towered Academy’ was also given virtually by the School Choir. We are most grateful to Rev. P.Taylor, B.D. for opening the prize-giving ceremony.

THE PRINCIPAL’S ADDRESS Good afternoon Warden, Professor Taylor, ladies and gentlemen, pupils, staff, Governors and our distinguished guest, Tony Danker. I present my report on this my fifth year as principal of this great school, although in COVID years it feels like my 55th year! We are delighted to welcome prize winners, staff, Governors to this venue and also to our parents who are joining us via a link downstairs. This return to some normality is so welcome and most importantly, to recognise the achievements of our prize winners. When studying the Shakespearean tragedies, one may be asked to write an essay on the title “Character is Destiny – discuss.” Shakespearean tragedy presents the hero in terms of flaws in their character. Shakespeare himself lays emphasis on this fact: “the fault, dear Brutus, lies in ourselves and not in our stars,” However, we also know that one’s strength of character can be a powerful force for good, leading to revolutionary changes in human society. We place considerable emphasis on developing character in BRA because we know the impact that this will have in one’s future working life and on the lives of others. Let us consider how Tony Danker’s character has helped propel him from being a pupil in Belfast Royal Academy to becoming the Director General of the Confederation of British Industry – the UK’s leading business organisation – and informing politicians on national and international issues. I am informed by my predecessor Moore Dickson that Tony was a popular, able and good humoured pupil at school. Amusing and responsible, he was one of the leaders of the form. He was a good actor taking a lead role in the play “Our Town” by Thornton Wilder and he also sang in the Senior Choir. When in L6, Tony’s altruism was ably demonstrated in his role as Chairman of the Save the Children Fund Committee. Throughout this year and alongside his peers, Tony organised

Distribution of Prizes

activities such as Mr Poseur, Blind Date and Valentine Postal Services in order to raise a very creditable £2,500. That was 34 years ago so is now worth over £7000. It is important for a leader to be tenacious – when Tony was studying A Level History he discovered that he was not timetabled to be in Mr McCamley’s class. This was a problem. Not because Mr McCamley was the Head of History but because a certain young lady who Tony had taken a fancy to was in Mr McCamley’s class. Undeterred, Tony was so keen to spend time with the object of his affection that he simply turned up, bold as brass in Mr McCamley’s class from whence he was subsequently ejected. This is Mr McCamley’s claim to fame – not even Boris Johnson would have the gall to order the head of the CBI to leave the room! We can read about Tony’s successes in the world of business in the pen portrait contained within today’s programme. He also worked for a time as a personal assistant to the late Chief Rabbi Jonathan Sacks who was probably the best loved and most respected religious leader in the UK and I suspect Tony’s personal values mirrored those of his former boss. Rabbi Sacks said this about kindness “Acts of kindness never die. They linger in the memory, giving life to other acts in return.” Given the tumultuous years that British industry has endured recently following the Brexit debacle and the devastating impact on the economy of the COVID pandemic, we know how difficult it must be as CEO of British industry to demonstrate a mind to be kind but also how crucial it is to be a level-headed, pragmatic, determined leader and we are so proud that we can call Tony one of BRA’s finest! Tony, we are delighted that you have taken time out of your hectic schedule to speak to us this afternoon and we are looking forward very much to hear what you have to say to our prize winners. A warm welcome also to your mother, Mrs Danker who is present this afternoon. The 20 – 21 academic year marked an extraordinary period in the School’s history. When the M6 pupils left in March 2020 at the beginning of the first lockdown, following much more muted end of school celebrations than normally experienced by the Leavers’ cohort, we felt that their experience was pioneering and cheered ourselves with the story that it would be unique. However, the trajectory of the pandemic

demonstrated that, at times, Mother Nature is much more powerful than the will of man and all year groups endured another period of full lockdown from January to Easter 2021 and, for the second year running, schools and colleges across the United Kingdom saw the cancellation of the public examinations. The 18 months since the School closed for the first time on 23 March 2020 have been extremely challenging for all members of the BRA community including Ben Madigan Preparatory Department. We have faced difficulties that have been collective, individual frustrations over missed opportunities, experienced personal setbacks, disappointments and faced adversity in ways we could not previously have imagined. I would like to take this opportunity to thank every single member of the School community pupils, parents, Governors, teaching and support staff for the efforts that have been made to continue to have learning and pastoral care at the heart of everything that we do. The beginning of the academic year in September 2020 heralded the introduction of some extreme measures designed to keep the school community safe. Our Health and Safety Committee worked tirelessly to put in place strategies to mitigate against the risks of Covid and, as was well documented in the media, made the decision to make the wearing of face masks compulsory for all pupils. We implemented a one-way system, cleaned classrooms every evening with a fogging machine (there’s a phrase that has probably never been included in a Prize Distribution report), created a 2m exclusion zone for each teacher at the front of the classroom and devised means of continuing with assemblies and lunch arrangements whilst retaining year group bubbles – not easy on a cramped site with 1450 pupils and over 150 staff! However, credit must go to all the pupils and staff who responded admirably to these restrictions and simply got on with things. The 2020 autumn term began with minimal disruption in terms of pupils who tested positive with Covid, however, that all changed in midOctober with our first pupil case. Senior staff had to go round classrooms with our 2m stick, seating plans in hand and identify those pupils who were within the infection zone. Many parents came to 49

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dread the ‘phone call of doom’ – your child has been identified as a close contact and now must isolate for 14 days. However, we still only had 5 cases in all of the autumn term last year and therefore it was a shock to us when the Minister for Education announced in early January that all public examinations would be cancelled. Aside from examinations, there have been many other aspects of school life that have taken a massive hit as a result of the pandemic. For example, many of our extra-curricular activities have been curtailed and throughout the year, the rugby and hockey season all but disappeared with no competitive fixtures. For the first time ever, Prize Day was cancelled as was the Carol Service and the Spring Concert. The M6 leavers were denied the traditional Leavers’ Ball and the Form 1 induction event had to take place virtually. It is only when these key events disappear from the School calendar that it becomes patently clear that Belfast Royal Academy is so much more than a building – it is a living, breathing community that needs these public events to bind us all to the ethos and values of this great School and to strengthen relationships between all members of our community. By the time of the second lockdown that was announced over the Christmas holidays in December 2020, we were much better prepared. All teaching moved to online teaching from 4 January and all lessons were live using Google Meet. We held all of our parents’ meetings virtually using a platform called Parent Cloud that enabled parents to book a 5-minute slot with their child’s teacherand for the pupils who were present for this exchange, that could have been an agonisingly long 5 minutes! All of our staff meetings, departmental meetings and Governor meetings have been conducted virtually and whilst we are grateful for the advances in ICT that enable us to continue to operate the school as effectively as possible, we are all heartily fed up of staring at a screen for more hours a day that are good for us and have heard the phrases “you’re on mute” and “is your hand up or is that a legacy hand” ad nauseum. Remote learning was particularly challenging for the younger members of our school in Ben Madigan and the Castle Grounds were particularly desolate without the sound of laughter and chatter and the energy of our Prep 1 – Prep 7 pupils. Throughout 50

this period of remote learning, pupils continued to benefit from opportunities for stretch and challenge by achieving highly in various competitions such as the Top of the Bench Chemistry competition, the Mathematics and Physics Olympiad, Barnardo’s Leading Change programme and the Seamus Heaney Award for Poetry Achievement. Pupils created a virtual dance display and a virtual art exhibition in lieu of our traditional live exhibitions. Our pupils’ achievement in the Arts was recognised at the beginning of the summer when we were informed that 3 former pupils, Aaron Ferguson, Joanna McClurg and Zara Meadows had been selected for the ’21 Artists for the 21st Century’ cultural initiative. BRA was one of only two schools to have 3 former pupils selected for this programme – a reflection of the encouragement and motivation and desire for lifelong learning instilled by the English and Drama staff in our pupils. On their return to school at Easter, pupils threw themselves back into school life with vengeance. Junior pupils raised £1600 for the NI Children’s hospice whilst Sixth Form pupils undertook fundraising for the mental health charity AwareNI by completing a sponsored walk and raising over £1000. The Evans trophy had not been presented at the end of the 2019-20 academic year and the point tally for each house was carried over to the 2020 – 21 academic year. We were able to have some house competitions in the summer term including Sports Day and therefore were able to present the Evans trophy to Currie House – the second time in two years for previous underdogs Currie to be crowned victorious. We are so lucky to have such an active and vibrant house system but this is only possible due to the enthusiasm and commitment of so many staff who understand what this area of school life contributes to both the enjoyment for pupils and also to developing their character. All GCSE, AS and A level pupils received a centre determined grade in Summer 2021 for each subject on the basis of evidence completed during the course of the year. Alongside their teaching and pastoral duties, staff were also required to take on the role of the examination boards by devising assessments on the basis of the specification, writing mark schemes, confirming access arrangements and special circumstances, marking papers and then completing the standardisation and

Distribution of Prizes

moderation stage of the grading process. Subject Leaders and class teachers reviewed all of the evidence available to them alongside the subject grade descriptors for the appropriate level GCSE/ AS/A2 and did so with great integrity, exercising care and consideration in allocating grades and reviewing each pupil’s progress on an individual basis. However, we very much hope that pupils will sit public examinations in Summer 2022 and that grading will be as fair as possible for this cohort. This summer marked the departure of a number of members of staff: Dr Geoff Brown, Curriculum Vice Principal, Mrs Pat Donnelly (formerly Kerr), Subject Leader of Art and Design, Mrs Geraldine McCadden, Teacher of Art and Design, Mrs Helen Miller, Teacher of Geography and Mrs Deborah Nicholl, Teacher of Geography all retired from the School. We thank them for everything that they have contributed to the success of the school over the years. We wish them health and happiness in their retirement and hope that they will maintain their connection with School in the future. We continue to remember our Office Manager Patricia Ferguson who passed away on 10 June this year after a brief illness. She was the epitome of our School ethos – caring, professional and a friend to us all. She will be deeply missed by all who knew her and we extend our condolences to her family. Finally, I would like to acknowledge the leadership role played by the Prefect and Senior Prefect Teams, ably led by Head Girl Erin McQuiston, Head Boy Cameron McKee, Deputy Head Girls Olivia Snoddy and Rhiana Young and Deputy Head Boys Jude Moorehead and Jordan McNeill. The manner in which they succeeded in creating an esprit de corps amongst their peers through the most difficult of circumstances, manage the prefect rotas and represented the school at various virtual events alongside their studies is a testament to their tenacity, loyalty and cheerful optimism that better things are ahead.

has lodged in a part of your soul. We are proud of the manner in which you conducted yourself over the past very difficult 18 months. Equally, we know that you will face various challenges in the immediate future as you navigate the next stage of your education or career and different ways of working and we wish you much success and happiness in the future. Rabbi Sacks said “We achieve greatness by handing our values onto the next generation and empowering them to go and build the future.” You are our bright future, the product of our values and beliefs and I hope that you will always be proud to say that you attended Belfast Royal Academy Our world has changed so much since the beginning of 2020, often amid deep uncertainty and anxiety. However, I have been greatly encouraged by the strength of character shown by pupils, staff and parents in making the best of a very difficult situation. I would like to pay tribute to the guidance and support that the current Warden, Dr Bill and previous Warden, Ms Dillon and all Governors have provided to me and he staff – we are indebted to them for the time and energy they invest in the effective management and governance of the school. My final quote from Rabbi Sacks (Tony – it’s just as well you didn’t work as an intern for Nigel Farage) – “We are as great as the challenges we have the courage to undertake.” We will face the challenges that are undoubtedly around the corner as we have throughout this pandemic, and indeed throughout the School’s history – with courage and together as a strong and supportive community. Warden, this concludes my report for the 2020 – 21 academic year.

To our Middle Sixth leavers – Belfast Royal Academy has played a hugely significant role in shaping your minds and attitudes for the future and I suspect that, for most of you, the ATID sentiment 51

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2021 PRIZE LIST Form I Armstrong, Mya Maitland, Daniel J Black, Jonah G Marron, Charlotte E Bryan, Finn K McCarthy, Roisin M Callaghan, Leah McCullough, Vincent Crowe, Elizabeth G Murphy, Eleanor E Dalzell-McGhee, Rebekah A O’Kane, Aoife T Duffy, Zara A Press, Hannah R Foley, Ethan A Raghuram, Keshav Hanif, Hannah Raju, Heaven Knott, Aaron A Rossal, Nadia E Kyle, Lucas M Stevenson, Lucy G Laverty, Ciaran M B Toal, Elizabeth R Lockhart, Samuel J R

HONOURABLE MENTION

Adam, Ella J McVeigh, Sophie R Aidaroos, Shimous Miskimmin-Young, Austen Burns, Harry M Nicholson, Aaron Curley, Bethany R O’Brien, Erin S Derezinski, Antoni O’Conallain, Conor Patrick Eyjolfsson, Michael S Ross, Holly Gallagher, Adam Scott, Alexander C Lane, Timothy J A Simpson, Zachary M McAuley, Keon S Tate, Eimear I A McKeown, Rebecca L Walsh, Ethan J McMullan, Alicia Wilkinson, Oliver McNevison, Leah G Woloszyn, Michal L McVeigh, Lucy E Form II Akmad, Aliyah N McCullough, Lauren S Baird, Finlay J McKeown, Eve G H Campbell, Maya M McLaughlin, Jacob R Chen, Sean Moreland, Grace S Clements, Ruby I Moreland, Lily V Craig, Chloe A Morrison, James R Crossan, Eva R O’Hanlon, Patrick J Cummings, Toby A Scott, Ines A J Daniels, Hope Staworzynski, Olivier P Januszewska, Wiktoria Strong, Beth S Johnston, Samuel Torrens, Ethan E Kearney, Clodagh Wallace, Malachy P Kulig, Oliver 52

Distribution of Prizes

HONOURABLE MENTION Beacom, Jake McQueen, Alex N Blayney, Lydia L Moan, Odhran J Cahill, Grace E O’Carroll, Ella R Carter, Aaron J O’Hara, Christopher T Donaldson, Rosa J Patterson-Wilson, George W French, T Alex Pollock, Lucca Gray, Erin S Seymour, Mya J Hipolito, Samuel G Shibu, Jerin Kirkpatrick, Rebecca C Smyth, Lucy K Laughlin, Maya Taylor, Finn L Mallon, Maria Teague, Sarah McCollam, Hugo Woods, Rosie A McCurley, Toby Form III Anderson, Rachael A Pandiaraj, Madhumitha Blaskett, Niall I Rea-Lavery, Sofia L Chambers, Lucy H Robinson, E Grace Finnegan, Eva E M Rossal, Nathan C Gastar, Kian F Saneesh Krishna, Aditi Graham, Daniel S Schilling, Clara E Horkan, Katie E Toal, Annabelle C Lane, Jessica S Vacchiero, Nicole McCall, Jenna R Walsh, Clara E McCarney, Katie E Warnock, Emily S McLean, Sarah J Whiteside, Matthew O’Brien, Adam T Wilson, Jamie T O’Dowd, Anna J

HONOURABLE MENTION Adams, Claudia K McCorry, Savannah K P Agnew, Robyn E McKean, Kalee M Barsalini, Oisin R McKittrick, Max Cleland, Joel McVicker, Luan Curran, Anna Meekin, Emily Dabrowski, Jakub J Nemeth, Benjamin Gallagher, Ellie Orr, Mia Gibson, Gabrielle Philip, Fiona Gribbon, Rosa Place, Zoe K Guy, Ben S Saji, Diana Hetherington, Leah Stewart, Beth A Hillis, Faith C Webb, Jack W P Mallon, Amber C

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DEPARTMENTAL PRIZES Form IV Adam, Beth M Physical Education, Religious Studies Akmad, Aoife M General Excellence Allen, Matthew J Spanish Bell, Ellie R Food and Nutrition, Geography, Spanish Boone, Charlotte L Economics Cairns, Jack D R Drama Callaghan, Beth Business Studies, Religious Studies Canning-Ward, Rosa E C Science Choi, Etta Food and Nutrition, Physical Education Cleland, Andrew S Economics Craig, Kara A Biology Crawford, Georgia M Spanish Dalzell, Tara A Physical Education Dillon-Wright, Haydn A Geography, German Donaldson, Daisie B Chemistry, History, Physics Gilmour, Jack S Computer Science Golden, Joseph L Biology, Mathematics, Religious Studies, Technology Gueye-Dorval, Carla-Lina Art and Design, French Haddock, Jackson General Excellence Hill, Oscar T Computer Science, Latin, Technology Joseph, Alana English, History, Latin Kirk, Harrison S Biology, Chemistry, French, Mathematics, Music, Physics McCord, Leah C Art and Design McLaughlin, Matthew R E Business Studies McNeilly, Thomas R Digital Technology Millard, Riona J Technology Mirfield, Jasmine K Business Studies, Drama Morwood, Madeleine R English Murugaperumal, Gopi G Digital Technology Nibu, Siona Chemistry, German Nicholson, Harry English, History, French Ogilby, Grace Art and Design, English, Mathematics Pearce, Oliver P D Biology, Chemistry, English, History, Latin, Mathematics Rankin, Matthew A Music Reilly-Stewart, Hugo J Music Sittlington, Mia Digital Technology, Geography Sterritt, Brianna M Drama Woods, Harry R German

HONOURABLE MENTION Form IV

Adam, Beth M Business Studies 54

Distribution of Prizes

Akmad, Aoife M Chemistry, Physics, Spanish Allen, Matthew J Physics Beck, Johnathon W S Physical Education Brogan, Sarah E Spanish Burns, Sophie E Physical Education Callaghan, Beth Biology, Geography Choi, Etta Business Studies Crawford, Georgia M Biology, History Dalzell, Tara A Business Studies Dillon-Wright, Haydn A Physics, Technology Donaldson, Louise M Science Eneh, Iruoma B Computer Science Ferguson, Andrew J Economics Gilmore, Jay S Computer Science Gilmour, Jack S German, Technology Golden, Joseph L Chemistry Hadden, Olivia A Food and Nutrition, History Haddock, Jackson German, History, Music Harold, Joshua C Economics, German Harvey, Emma A Religious Studies Hill, Oscar T Mathematics Hobson, Samuel J Digital Technology Jackson, Matthew J M Geography Jennings, Ben C Science Joseph, Alana Biology Kelly, Shannen L Art and Design Kirk, Harrison S Religious Studies Logan, Alice R English McArdle, Mya C Food and Nutrition Mirfield, Jasmine K Art and Design Montgomery, Sasha Drama, French Moore, Tom S Drama Morwood, Madeleine R French, Latin Mulholland, Alex L E German Nibu, Siona Biology, English, Mathematics, Religious Studies, Technology Nicholson, Harry Latin O’Hara, Alessandro R Computer Science, French O’Hara, Philip A Science O’Kane, Hannah J Drama O’Kane, Joe M Music O’Reilly, Ryan P Physics Pearce, Oliver P D Physics Robinson, Ciara A Biology, Spanish Scott, Aoife M G Physical Education Simon, Alex N Art and Design, Music Sittlington, Mia Biology, English Topping, Anna History Walker, Aoife R Drama Williamson, Matthew D Geography 55

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DEPARTMENTAL PRIZES Form V Anderson, Ben M General Excellence Armstrong, Archie H General Excellence Balgos, Jericho A D Physical Education Baxter, Scott E History, Technology Beattie-Logan, Charlotte E Food and Nutrition Beattie, Olivia E Physical Education Black, Eleanor P English Language, English Literature, Latin, Music Boyd, Jessica R General Excellence Braniff, Abbie A Physical Education Carroll, Rebecca H Technology Chow, Tiffany T Digital Technology Coburn, Isabelle E General Excellence Del Castillo, Lorena Spanish Duncan, Rachel E German Elliott, Ellyn C General Excellence Enriquez, Robert Digital Technology Ferguson, Ryan C Further Mathematics, German, Physics Gamble, Hannah M Business Studies Ghosh, Soham J Computer Science Gilchrist, Noah J General Excellence Glendinning, William R Computer Science Green, Eleanor E General Excellence Greer, Regan Food and Nutrition, Religious Studies Hasan, Noah D General Excellence Hayward, Theo P Geography, Music Hoogelander, Ebony M Drama, French Hooks, Holly K Art and Design Joseph, Alby General Excellence Kane, David G General Excellence Lennon, Lara S D General Excellence Loane, Ellen B General Excellence Logan, Sasha G General Excellence Loat, Sarah C Latin Mack, Joshua D R Religious Studies Majury, Abi E History Mallon, Sophia M French Marshall, Helen S Art and Design Martinovs, Edgars Digital Technology McCarney, Sarah P R Chemistry, English Language, Mathematics, Physics, Spanish McDaid, Connie General Excellence McGowan, Will H Science McGrath, Cara J Spanish, Exceptional Performance McIvor, Ellie F Drama McKendry, Calum English Literature, Geography McKnight, Abbie M Latin 56

Distribution of Prizes

Morrow, Robbie J English Literature Mullan, Matthew H Drama Nazareth, EJ Chemistry, Further Mathematics, German, Mathematics Newton, Natasha H Technology, Exceptional Performance Raghuram, Riya Biology, Chemistry, Computer Science, English Language, French, Further Mathematics, Mathematics, Physics, Religious Studies, Exceptional Performance Ramalho-McCourt, Sofia Economics Scott, Isabella C General Excellence Scott, Katie Biology, Business Studies Scott, H. Oliver General Excellence Shephard, Leah M Art and Design, History Spence, Charlotte B Biology Thompson, Hannah E Geography Toal, Kaitlyn H Art and Design Todd, Naomi E General Excellence Vasilache, Gabriela General Excellence Whiteside, Callum S Music Willey, Ethan J Economics Wylie, Max R Business Studies Zboralska, Emilia General Excellence

HONOURABLE MENTION Form V Anderson, Ben M Geography Beattie, Olivia E Business Studies, Food and Nutrition Bingham, Ben G M Science Boyd, Jessica R Further Mathematics Calwell, Luke Technology Coburn, Izzy E Biology Coleman, Ross Geography Del Castillo, Lorena Biology Doran, Sophie Physical Education Drummond, Faith M Business Studies, Food and Nutrition Ferguson, Ryan C Music Gilchrist, Noah J Chemistry, Drama Gillam, Connor M Economics Green, Eleanor E English Literature Greer, Regan History Hayward, Theo P History, Latin Kandel, Anjana Latin Khosla, Aryan Digital Technology Laird, Ryan A Digital Technology Lennon, Lara S D Geography, History Loat, Sarah C English Language Mack, Joshua D R Computer Science, German 57

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Mallon, Sophia M Technology Marshall, Helen S Food and Nutrition McCarney, Sarah P R Biology, Further Mathematics McGrath, Cara J Drama, Further Mathematics, Mathematics, Physics McIvor, Ellie F Music, Religious Studies McKnight, Lucy Physical Education McLaughlin, Sarah E Art and Design Millar, Piaras Science Miller, JP G L R Mathematics Morrow, Robbie J Computer Science Mullan, Matthew H Economics Nazareth, EJ French, Physics Newton, Natasha H Business Studies, Chemistry, Mathematics, Religious Studies Pina Semedo, Ash Spanish Raghuram, Riya English Literature Ramalho-McCourt, Sofia Technology Rutherford, Sophie C M German Saunders, Anna Physical Education Scott, Katie Chemistry Spence, Charlotte B Computer Science, English Language, English Literature Thompson, Hannah E Religious Studies, Spanish Toal, Kaitlyn H English Language, French, Physics Trombino, Sasha A Art and Design Upritchard, Grace S Drama Vasilache, Gabriela Spanish Watson, Lucy-Beth German Watt, Cassie Food and Nutrition Wilson, Anna E Music Withers, Cameron M Science Zboralska, Emilia Biology, French, Latin

DEPARTMENTAL PRIZES Form LVI Agbonkpolor, Timothy O Religious Studies Ahmed, Adrib Mathematics, Physics Baine, Siobhan M C Physical Education Beattie, Hannah N General Excellence Briggs, Mark D Chemistry, Technology Brolly, Shannon L General Excellence Buckley, Anna M English Language Cairns, Ella L General Excellence Carson, Kerrie P History Carter, Ethan L Drama and Theatre Studies Clarke, Eva J English Literature, German, Latin Cole, Eve L N General Excellence Craig, Katie M Biology, Geography 58

Distribution of Prizes

Crawford, Hannah J General Excellence Dickinson, Jack A Software Systems Development Dillon, Ethan C A Software Systems Development Don Joseph, Alvin Life and Health Sciences Donaghy, Caitlin M General Excellence Donnelly, Ben C Digital Technology Duffy, Ethan J Government and Politics Elliott, Neil C English Literature, History Erwin, Maia General Excellence Gaspar, Denise Q Spanish Gergett, Sabriel L Economics, Physics Gillespie, Jack A General Excellence Golden, Ben E Biology, Chemistry, Mathematics, Physics Haken Keery, Emma General Excellence Hamilton, Sophie L Sociology Handcock, Lucy X General Excellence Harvey, Georgia R Health and Social Care, Nutrition and Food Science Hawela, Nada Biology, Chemistry, Religious Studies, Technology Hennessy, Caitlin Physical Education Hillis, Beth M Business Studies Irvine, Emma G Sociology Johnston, Alex R Geography Kennedy, Jayne H Drama and Theatre Studies Kerr, Susie M Business Studies Kirkpatrick, Molly E General Excellence Linton, Ella French, Music, Spanish Lough, Becky General Excellence Mahood, Thomas J Government and Politics, History Malone, Kathleen M Art and Design Martin, Ben E J Spanish McBride, Shannon R Drama and Theatre Studies McGoldrick Mathers, Eva General Excellence McGrath, Rachael E Religious Studies McGuigan, Joseph P Mathematics McHenry, Abbie General Excellence McIlroy, Grace J Geography McMahon, Ella E English Language McRoberts, Mia C Art and Design Misiunas, Domas Technology Murugaperumal, Veda M K General Excellence O’Neill, Abbie M E Physical Education O’Neill, Emma C General Excellence Ramsey, Rachel A Health and Social Care Reilly-Stewart, Maya R French, Music Seawright, Daniel J Software Systems Development Scott, Alex K General Excellence Shevlin, Mason L Art and Design, English Language Simpson, Alex C Business Studies, French Sloan, Jordan R N Digital Technology Thompson, Eve K English Literature, Sociology 59

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Wallace, Finn J Warnock, Christina A Wilson, Evan Zilionis, David

General Excellence General Excellence General Excellence Economics

HONOURABLE MENTION Form LVI Agbonkpolor, Timothy O Biology, Chemistry Allen, Giulia N Physical Education Askin, Ruby J English Language Beattie, Hannah N Religious Studies Beattie, Lauren A A English Literature Boersma, Sorcha C M Government and Politics Briggs, Mark D Physics Brolly, Shannon L Art and Design Burns, Catelyn J Physical Education Carleton, James L Technology Carter, Ethan L Sociology Cole, Eve L N Business Studies, Geography Crawford, Áine I G Art and Design Crawford, Hannah J History Cromie, Charlize Life and Health Sciences Dillon, Ethan C A Mathematics Dwyer, Rebecca N Nutrition and Food Science Elliott, Neil C Latin Garvin, Zoe A M English Language Hamilton, Sophie L Business Studies Handcock, Lucy X Chemistry Hillis, Beth M Religious Studies Irvine, Emma G Drama and Theatre Studies, English Literature, History Johnston, Maria C French Kerr, Susie M Health and Social Care Kirkpatrick, Molly E History Landa, Jessie K Economics Leavey, Nina P Latin Lough, Becky Technology Mahood, Thomas J Geography Malone, Kathleen M Drama and Theatre Studies, English Literature Martin, Ben E J Biology, Chemistry Mawhinney, Logan M R Software Systems Development McAllister, Harriett French McAuley, Sacha Life and Health Sciences McBride, Shannon R Religious Studies McGoldrick, Caleb R Life and Health Sciences McGrath, Rachael E English Language, Health and Social Care McGrath, Rebecca A Government and Politics McHenry, Abbie Art and Design 60

Distribution of Prizes

Moore, Cullan H French O’Neill, Abbie M E Biology, Mathematics O’Neill, Emma C Health and Social Care, Nutrition and Food Science Osman, Lila A E O Sociology Peters, Gosha L N Software Systems Development Rooney, Martha-Rose D Economics Scott, Alex K Physics Scott, Matthew Digital Technology Simpson, Alex C Spanish Smith, Harry Drama and Theatre Studies Stronge, Charlotte J Technology Tharun, Jaana Geography Urbanczyk, Martyna N Spanish Varghese, Fibin Business Studies Wallace, Finn J Physics Warnock, Christina A Spanish Wilson, Carter W Digital Technology Zilionis, David Software Systems Development

DEPARTMENTAL PRIZES Form MVI Adams, Louis T General Excellence Ali, Sarah N Life and Health Sciences Armstrong, Aoife M Chemistry Bell, Corey J Computer Science Bell, Jessica General Excellence Bloomer, Martha R General Excellence Bloomfield, Megan General Excellence Browne, Laura C Drama and Theatre Studies, English Literature Burton, Zach D Computer Science Cheung, Sinead Y Art and Design Corry, Aoife C General Excellence Crawford, Bryan J General Excellence Davidson, Jessica J A Religious Studies Davidson, Nathan J Economics, Government and Politics, Exceptional Performance Del Castillo, Monica Physical Education Dixon, Ciaran N General Excellence Doran, Leah Physical Education Dorman, Louise C Art and Design, English Literature, Exceptional Performance Enriquez Jr, Roosevelt Software Systems Development Gibson, John S W Mathematics Gossrau, Richard R German Graham, Yolanda D Business Studies, Drama and Theatre Studies, Exceptional Performance Harpur, Amy C Spanish Harvey, Ella J General Excellence 61

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Harvey, Michael A Physics Henderson, Eve Drama and Theatre Studies, History, Exceptional Performance Hetherington, Lauren French, Spanish Hughes, Eoghan Art and Design Hunter, Bethany J Biology Johnston, Amy S Sociology Lindsay, Kyle W General Excellence Marro, Giulia Music Massey, Katie-Rose Biology, History McCarter, Leah A Technology McClean, Nicole C Physical Education McClelland, Sam F General Excellence McCluskey, Jodie A General Excellence McConnell, Sam G General Excellence McCoubrey, Eden Geography McDowell, Amy English Language, French, Government and Politics, Exceptional Performance McFarland, Naomi S Exceptional Performance McIlroy, Daniel J Latin, Software Systems Development McIvor, Niamh E General Excellence McKee, Cameron J French, Further Mathematics, Exceptional Performance McMahon, Erin B General Excellence McMahon-Beattie, Lucy E General Excellence McQuiston, Erin K Business Studies, Health and Social Care Meadows, Zara M A English Literature Moore, Rowan T Sociology Moorehead, Jude C Chemistry, Further Mathematics, Mathematics, Physics, Exceptional Performance Noble, Molly D Religious Studies O’Kane, Anna E Economics, Mathematics, Exceptional Performance O’Neill, Joel A English Language O’Reilly, Jonathan D English Language, Software Systems Development Patterson-Wilson, Eve E Music Plackett, Rebecca E Technology Poots, Ronan D Chemistry, Physics, Exceptional Performance Quinn, Ceri L General Excellence Rea, Stuart J Business Studies, History, Religious Studies, Exceptional Performance Reid, Hermione K General Excellence Simpson, Ryan A General Excellence Skillen, Ben P General Excellence Smallwood, Amber Technology Taylor, Oran J Spanish Thompson, Aidan M General Excellence Thompson, Olivia G General Excellence Uprichard, Kerry Health and Social Care Wallace, Cain G Geography, Sociology Warke, Megan R General Excellence 62

Distribution of Prizes

Watson, Ellie Woods, Charlotte J Wylie, Archie R Worthington, Rees I Young, Rhia E Zhang, Mandy Y E

General Excellence Life and Health Sciences General Excellence Geography General Excellence Biology, Exceptional Performance

HONOURABLE MENTION Form MVI Adams, Louis T Chemistry Armstrong, Aoife M Physics Baxter, Abbie L Business Studies Bloomfield, Megan French, Geography Boyd, Joshua A L Software Systems Development Bunting, Nathan Life and Health Sciences Carter, Cameron J Sociology Corry, Aoife C Religious Studies Crawford, Bryan J Biology, Business Studies Crowe, Olivia E Nutrition and Food Science Davidson, Jessica J A Business Studies Dobbin, Emma J Drama and Theatre Studies Gibson, John S W Further Mathematics, Physics Harvey, Ella J Biology Henderson, Eve Government and Politics Hunter, Bethany J Spanish Ingram, Harry W Physical Education Lindsay, Kyle W Geography, Sociology Marro, Giulia Drama and Theatre Studies McAuley, Cuann Sean S Art and Design McCarter, Leah A Mathematics McClelland, Sam F Art and Design McCoubrey, Eden English Literature McFarland, Naomi S Chemistry McGrath, Oliver A Economics McGrotty, Aaron C English Language McKee, Cameron J Mathematics, Physics McMahon, Erin B Health and Social Care McNeill, Jordan R English Language McQuiston, Erin K French Meadows, Zara M A History, Spanish Moore, Rowan T English Literature, Government and Politics Mulholland, Amy R German Murray, Ellie L Geography Noble, Molly D English Language O’Kane, Anna E Biology Poots, Ronan D Further Mathematics Quinn, Ceri L Technology Reid, Hermione K English Literature, History 63

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Robinson, Evan E Nutrition and Food Science Seawright, Shannon R Sociology Sheerin, Zoe Drama and Theatre Studies Skillen, Ben P Religious Studies, Technology Snoddy, Olivia J Religious Studies Taylor, Oran J French Thompson, Aidan M Health and Social Care, Life and Health Sciences Todd, Matthew J S Physical Education Wallace, Cain G History Warke, Megan R Life and Health Sciences Watson, Ellie Technology Wylie, Archie R Economics Young, Rhia E Spanish Zhang, Mandy Y E Chemistry, Mathematics

SPECIAL PRIZES ANNE BARRON PRIZE (Ben Madigan) Amelia E Manley SIR SAMUEL FERGUSON PRIZE (English Literature)

Zara M A Meadows

FREDERICK WHITE MEMORIAL PRIZE (For the top performance at G.C.S.E.)

Riya Raghuram

HAROLD RAINEY MEMORIAL PRIZE (English) Eleanor P Black THE ANNE CAMPBELL CUP (Nutrition and Food Science) Olivia E Crowe Evan E Robinson J. J. KANE MEMORIAL PRIZE (for contributions to ‘The Owl’)

Zara M A Meadows

THE MARK LONG POETRY PRIZE

Kathleen M Malone

T. R. COLLIER PRIZE (Mathematics) Jude C Moorehead THE J. W. and EVELYN DARBYSHIRE AWARD (Geography) Eden McCoubrey J. C. PICKEN MEMORIAL PRIZE (Art and Design)

Sinead Y S Cheung

ANTHONY TAYLOR MEMORIAL PRIZE (History) Stuart J Rea

Distribution of Prizes

J. N. SHEARMAN MEMORIAL PRIZE (Classics) Daniel J McIlroy R. H. HARTE MEMORIAL PRIZE (Greek) Oscar T Hill G. B. TAYLOR MEMORIAL PRIZE (Mathematics)

Mandy Y E Zhang

TECHNOLOGY AND DESIGN AWARD Sponsored by Envision Intelligent Solutions (GCSE Technology and Design)

Natasha H Newton

R. J. BRYCE MEMORIAL PRIZE (Irish Studies) Neil C Elliott THE W. L. CLEMENTS MEMORIAL PRIZE (Music) Ronan D Poots R. M. FANNIN MEMORIAL PRIZE (Music) Matthew S Logan McCORMICK PRIZE (English) Katie E McCarney ALLISON HERON PRIZE (Biology)

Mandy Y E Zhang

AMY DICKSON TROPHY and PRIZE (Art and Design)

Louise C Dorman

S. S. N. PIERCE MEMORIAL TROPHY (for outstanding endeavour at GCSE)

Holly E Strutt

TROPHY FOR EXCELLENCE IN THE PERFORMING ARTS (Presented by the Old Girls’ Association) Eve Henderson MERVYN SEMPLE PRIZE (Chemistry) Jude C Moorehead R. S. J. H. MAGOWAN PRIZE (GCSE Geography) Theo P Hayward MARY A. HYNDMAN PRIZE (GCSE Home Economics)

Charlotte E Beattie-Logan

WALTER TATE PRIZES Economics Anna E O’Kane Government and Politics Nathan J Davidson 65

The Owl 2021

Physics Jude C Moorehead Chemistry Ronan D Poots Religious Studies Stuart J Rea Sociology Amy S Johnston CLYDE PRIZE (GCSE Religious Studies) Regan Greer Joshua D R Mack McCLAY PRIZE (Business Studies) Erin K McQuiston JACKSON PRIZE (GCSE Science) Riya Raghuram KNOX PRIZE (Physical Education) Leah Doran Nicole C McClean HAROLD HUTCHINSON PRIZE (Religious Studies) Nada Hawela OWL TROPHY (Presented by W. H. and J. Gray for outstanding endeavour at Advanced Level)

Olivia E Crowe

SIR DONALD CURRIE SCHOLARSHIPS (for the top overall performance in the Form) Form I Keshav Raghuram Form II Malachy P Wallace Form III Katie E McCarney Form IV Harrison S Kirk Form V Riya Raghuram

LEAVING SCHOLARSHIPS SIR PAUL GIRVAN Rowan T Moore J. M. CLEMENTS Nathan J Davidson SIR FRANCIS EVANS Louise C Dorman WHITEHEAD Cain G Wallace MAURICE JACKSON Naomi S McFarland HUGH GIRVAN Mandy Y E Zhang WALTER TATE Cameron J McKee KNOX Yolanda D Graham ANTHONY TAYLOR Jude C Moorehead C. B. and A. M. MURRAY Anna E O’Kane McCLEERY Ronan D Poots G. B. TAYLOR (Mathematics) John S W Gibson PICKEN Stuart J Rea 66

Distribution of Prizes

ARCHIBALD Louis T Adams BRUCE and PIM PRIZE Niamh E McIvor DR L.H. CAMPBELL (Chemistry) Rhia E Young

CAMBRIDGE UNIVERSITY BURSARY Amy McDowell W. A. RAW BURSARY (Modern Languages) Lauren Hetherington MacDERMOTT TRAVELLING BURSARY (Modern Languages) Amy McDowell SHEARMAN TRAVELLING BURSARY (Modern Languages) Amy C Harpur GLORIA SIDWELL (née KINKEAD) MEMORIAL BURSARY (Art and Design) Eoghan Hughes J. S. LOUGHRIDGE BURSARY (Geography) Alex R Johnston THE MONA McCONNELL CARES AWARD Timothy O Agbonkpolor TENNANT SALVER (Chair of Sixth Form Centre Committee) Jack T Sterrett WALTER TATE ROSE BOWL (Head Girl) Erin K McQuiston MARTIN PRIZE (Deputy Head Girls) Olivia J Snoddy Rhia E Young WHITEHEAD TROPHY (Head Boy) Cameron J McKee

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ANNUAL PRIZE FOR BOYS (Deputy Head Boys) Jordan R McNeill Jude C Moorhead N. M. SAVAGE AWARD (for the most impressive combination of academic attainment, prowess in organized games and sense of corporate responsibility) Megan R Warke ULSTER UNIVERSITY ENDEAVOUR CUP (for outstanding achievement throughout the year) Ellie J Byrne THE EVANS TROPHY Currie Captains: Eva McGoldrick Mathers Harry D Norton

Distribution of Prizes

BELFAST ROYAL ACADEMY SENIOR PREFECTS 2021/2022

HEAD BOY : Finn J Wallace

HEAD GIRL : Eva McGoldrick Mathers

DEPUTY Adrib Ahmed HEAD BOYS: Benjamin E Golden

DEPUTY Christina A Warnock HEAD GIRLS: Ellie J Reid

BOYS GIRLS Ryan T Armstrong Siobhan M C Baine Timothy O Agbonkpolor Eva Bannon-Mutlu Jude S Black Hannah N Beattie Mark D Briggs Lauren A A Beattie James L Carleton Sorcha C M Boersma Ethan L Carter Anna M Buckley William B S Jones Emma Connolly Benjamin D Lonsdale Molly K Connolly Logan M R Mawhinney Hannah J Crawford Harry D Norton Rebecca N Dwyer Daniel J Seawright Maia Erwin Harry Smith Denise Q Gaspar Tristan L W Wallace Sabriel L Gergett Emma Haken Keery Lucy X Handcock Georgia R Harvey Nada Hawela Caitlin Hennessey Beth M Hillis Emma G Irvine Zoie Li Kathleen M Malone Rachael E McGrath Kristie M A Monro Veda M K Murugaperumal Lila A E O Osman Martha-Rose D Rooney Rebecca Ross Sarah M Saunders Alex C Simpson Jaana Tharun

The Owl 2021

School Societies

JUNIOR AND SENIOR MINI ART JUNIOR ANDCLUB SENIOR MINI ART CLUB

Junior Mini Art Club took place each Tuesday Junior Mini place each Tuesday lunchtime in Art the Club Art took and Design department lunchtime in the themed Art and Design with monthly activitiesdepartment around JUNIOR AND SENIOR MINI ART with monthly themed activities adventure, and monsters. JUNIORmagical ANDworlds SENIOR MINIaround ART CLUB adventure, magical worlds and monsters.

CLUB

Junior Mini Art Club took place each Tuesday lunchtime in the Art and Design department with monthly themed activities around adventure, magical worlds and monsters.

include a Senior Mini Art Club each Thursday lunchtime to encourage those students interested in growing and developing their own personal art skills outside of the Art and Design subject curriculum. Senior students spent time improving their own art styles with encouragement and direction from the Technician, Laura as well as subject curriculum. Senior students spent time subject curriculum. Seniorand students spent time learning how to share other’s improving their own art artcritique styleseach with improving their own styles with artwork. encouragement and direction from the

ART

Tuesday artment around s.

encouragement and direction from the Technician, Laura Laura as as well well asas learning learninghow howtoto L.A.P. Technician, share and critique each other’s artwork. share and critique each other’s artwork. L.A.P. L.A.P. JUNIOR SCRIPTURE subject curriculum. Senior studentsUNION spent time improving their own art styles with They also designed Artist Trading and Junior Mini Art Club took place each Cards Tuesday and direction the They also designed Artist Trading Cards and Thisencouragement year has been challenging for allfrom clubs and enjoyed exciting projects. Technician, Laura as well as learning how lunchtime the Artcollaborative and Designart department with enjoyedin exciting collaborative art projects. The The JUNIOR SCRIPTURE UNION Unionto societies, however the JuniorUNION Scripture JUNIOR SCRIPTURE success of this club was expanded this year to share and critique each other’s artwork. success of this club was expanded this year to monthly themed activities around adventure, Committee and staff worked hard to ensure that include aaSenior Mini Art Club each Thursday L.A.P. include Senior Mini Art Club each Thursday This year year has has been beenchallenging challengingfor forall allclubs clubsand and This magical worlds and monsters. pupils in Forms I to III were able to meet regularly lunchtime lunchtime toto encourage encourage those those students students societies, however however the the Junior Junior Scripture ScriptureUnion Union societies, and safely throughout the year and share the Word interested in growing and developing their own interested in growing and developing Committee and and staff staffworked workedhard hardtotoensure ensurethat that Committee They also designed Artist Trading Cards and personal art skills outside of the Art and Design of God. personal art skills outside of the Art and enjoyed exciting collaborative art projects. The JUNIOR SCRIPTURE UNION success of this club was expanded this year to The year began slightly differently from previous asyear we moved to theforUpper Floor include a Senior Mini Art Club each Thursday years, This has beenvenues challenging all clubs andof lunchtime to encourage those students the Sixth Form Study the HallJunior to ensure goodUnion social societies, however Scripture interested in growing and developing their own distancing between year groups. We studied the Committee and staff worked hard to ensure that personal art skills outside of the Art and Design book of John, which allowed members of Junior

SU to hear a variety of stories, some which they were familiar with and some of which they heard for the first time.

Theysubject also designed Artist Trading Cards curriculum. Senior students spentand time enjoyed exciting collaborative art projects. The improving their own art styles with encouragement and expanded direction this from the success of this club was year to 70

Technician, Laura as well as learning how to share and critique each other’s artwork. L.A.P.

Committee members made use of the WordGo app which provides short devotionals focusing on specific books of the Bible. We followed the

School Societies

course, focusing on John 1-6. This was a ten-week programmme which included a daily passage of scripture, questions and a short explanation. WordGo allowed committee members to further understand the topics being discussed at SU the following Wednesday as we had all engaged with the passages throughout the week. This led to a strong correlation between the talks, games and overall the committee members felt more connected to both each other and to God. The typical structure of Junior SU had to change as a result of the restrictions. We were unable to enjoy large scale games; instead the committee had to think of innovative ways to make everyone still feel connected within the Scripture Union family despite being socially distanced. The thirteen members of Junior SU committee took it in turns to lead a Wednesday lunchtime of SU. This typically consisted of two short talks led by members of committee, a fun game related to the topic or story and a memory verse which the pupils learnt.

to meet Unfortunately, into one big lunchtime Google Meet every in the new year another lockdown ear and Wednesday. These meetings allowed members resulted in our weekly Junior SU meetings being of both Junior and Senior SU to come together cancelled. However, the SU community showed virtually to hear the word of God during a time and resilience by combining Junior and y from strength when many pupils felt isolated. As these Scripture Union into one big lunchtime to the Senior lunchtime meetings were led by staff, the 2020Google Meet every Wednesday. These meetings Hall to 21 Junior and Senior SU committee members members of both Junior and Senior SU to en year allowed decided to create short videos and devotionals together virtually to hear the word of God , which comefocusing on a variety of topics, including studies during a time when many pupils felt isolated. As variety we had been working on, theology books we lunchtime meetings were led by staff, the iar with thesehad read or worship songs we wanted to share 2020-21 Junior and Senior SU committee members rst time. with everyone. These videos and messages were decided to create short videos and devotionals then posted daily into the SU Google Classroom WordGo focusing on a variety of topics, including studies for pupils to watch and read. One pupil said, “I ocusing we had been working on, theology books we had enjoyed watching the videos committee wed the read really or worship songs we wanted to share with posted on Google Classroom. It was weird not s a ten- everyone. These videos and messages were then seeing them standing at the front in the Study a daily posted daily into the SU Google Classroom for Hall, but it was really thought-provoking.” a short

mmittee cs being ay as we oughout relation rall the d to both

change nable to mmittee o make hin the

pupils to watch and read. One pupil said, “I really

Around Easter time we were allowed to begin our ‘in person’ Junior SU meetings again in the

enjoyed watching the videos committee posted on Google Classroom. It was weird not seeing them standing at the front in the Study Hall, but it was really thought-provoking.” Around Easter time we were allowed to begin our ‘in person’ Junior SU meetings again in the Study Hall and all staff, committee and pupils were really excited to be back! We ended the year with a joint Junior and Senior SU barbecue in June at Ben Madigan grounds, which was a brilliant way to bring everyone together again and share the word of God. The day was a great end to a difficult year and despite the rain we managed to have an amazing time sharing faith, fellowship, food and lots of fun! Natasha Newton (V)

SENIOR SCRIPTURE UNION OVER LOCKDOWN When lockdown hit, most of the clubs and societies came to a standstill, including SU. Of course, this was devastating for all pupils, however, for the members of SU this meant losing out on learning about God. Subsequently, the Committee members and staff set out to ensure that the pupils remained proactive in their relationship with God. This started in June 2020 when the Committee members and SU staff got together over zoom and studied the book ‘In the Grip of Grace’ by Max Lucado. This involved weekly Zoom meetings with discussions about God, His grace and what it means for us. This was accompanied by the classic SU banter between the pupils and teachers that filled all the screens with smiles and laughter, which was amazing to be a part of during such trying times. Moving into September, with restrictions still in place, SU was one of the very few clubs to start back within school. The Committee had to take a different approach to accommodate those who were isolating or those who would have to in the near future, meaning they would not be able to attend SU. The teachers introduced the app WordGo which is a Bible study app that allows you to read all books of the Bible and answer relevant questions on each chapter. The Committee decided to focus on the Gospel of John which illustrates Jesus’ life and teaches us the miracles He 71

ubs and g SU. Of pupils, s meant quently, t out to ctive in d in June and SU died the Lucado. gs with what it d by the pils and h smiles a part of

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performed and what His teachings are; this app was used in both Junior and Senior SU. The Committee answered the questions of those who attended, and for those who were isolating, this format allowed them to still follow the readings for each week. Therefore, they didn’t fall behind the others in school and were not missing out on learning more about Jesus. Alongside this, with the next lockdown, the teachers made a Google Classroom to keep SU alive and the pupils engaged with God even though we could not meet in person. The Committee took it in turns to upload a video each day with individual talks on what we had been learning in our personal Bible study.

past pupils who had missed their chance at a last SU weekend. It was an afternoon filled with fun, games, burgers and of course a downpour of rain. We had speakers from Crown Jesus Ministries who talked about God’s love for us and reminded us that He is with us even during all this confusion.

During this this time, we we hadhad online school, During time, online school,which which meant we had online SU. meant we had online SU. Every Wednesday lunchtime, we Every Wednesday lunchtime,like likein inschool, school, we had ahad Google Meet Meet whichwhich was led theby teachers. a Google wasbyled the teachers. We also had a Zoom meeting with We also had a Zoom meeting with Ruth Dalzell Dalzell fromNI Scripture Union whothe fromRuth Scripture Union who taught us NI about taught us about the importance of a quiet time importance of a quiet time with God. This kept our with God. This kept our tradition of bringing in tradition of bringing speakers for SU. in speakers for SU.

ns still in s to start d to take ose who to in the e able to the app att allows d answer er. The ospel of aches us hat His h Junior ered the or those Finally, the restrictions eased Finally, the restrictions easedininJune June2021 2021 and and SU them to SU were itching to get the chance to hold some were itching to get the chance to hold some type h week. type of event, as we had missed out on our ‘Big others in of event, as we had missed out on our ‘Big SU SU Weekend’. We SU BBQ for present We held anheld SUan BBQ for present and learning Weekend’. and past pupils who had missed their chance at the next a last SU weekend. It was an afternoon filled Google 72 with fun, games, burgers and of course a e pupils downpour of rain. We had speakers from Crown

Overall, SU had a different and challenging year Overall, SU had a different and challenging year but nevertheless, we stayed strong in our faith and but nevertheless, we stayed strong in our faith closeand to close God.toProving that Hethat never leavesleaves us even God. Proving He never when we feel lost. Jeremiah 29:11 “For I know us even when we feel lost. Jeremiah 29:11 “For the plans I havethe forplans you, Ideclares Lord. Plansthe to I know have forthe you, declares Lord. Plans to prosper you and not to harm you, prosper you and not to harm you, plans to bring bring you hope and a future.” you plans hope to and a future.” Rachael McGrath (LVI) Rachael McGrath (LVI)

JUNIOR BOOK BOOK CLUB JUNIOR CLUBGOES GOES VIRTUAL VIRTUAL Junior Book Club did not stop when the

Junior Book Club not stop the lockdown lockdown began.didInstead, thewhen club began to run began. Instead, the club began to run more more frequently! Pupils met over ‘Google Meet’ frequently! PupilseBooks met over ‘Google Meet’ to to read online and discuss their thoughts what eBooks they read. book their club encouraged readon online andThe discuss thoughts on thinking debate each text. whatcritical they read. Theand book clubaround encouraged critical thinking and debate around each text.

The pu before fulfil th

The sch impress Mathem COVID not run place o (MVI), (MVI) impress

For book club members, reading has been a

For particularly book club members, reading has been a powerful tool, enabling escapism and learning about tool, different people,escapism places and particularly powerful enabling perspectives whilst living in a world filled and with and learning about different people, places lockdown restrictions. perspectives whilst living in a world filled with lockdown restrictions.

LIBRARY CLUB

LIBRARY CLUB At library club, pupils trained to become pupil librarians. Organising pupils to help with the library club, not only ensures the smooth day-to-day At library pupils trained to become pupil runningOrganising of the library, but also helps develop librarians. pupils to help with the a sense of responsibility, achievement and selflibrary not only ensures the smooth day-to-day esteem in pupils. Examples of some of the running of the library, but also helps develop a duties carried out by our pupil librarians sense of responsibility, achievement and selfincluded:

esteem in pupils. Examples of some of the duties

Individ posed s rewarde

At Seni and 14 Award,

School and Societies British Mathematical Olympiad earned a certificate of merit in this elite competition.

carried out by our pupil librarians included: • Helping in the library during breaks and lunches • Shelving fiction books in A-Z order - Helping in the library during breaks and • Shelving non-fiction books by subject order lunches • Keeping a section of the stock tidyorder and in the - Shelving fiction books in A-Z correct order non-fiction books by subject - Shelving • Helpingorder with library displays - Keeping a sectionfind of the stock tidyare and • Helping other students what they in the correct order looking for - Helping with library displays • Helping the librarian with the issuing and - Helping other students find what they returning materials areof looking for

- librarians Helping the librarian with issuing The pupil gave up their freethetime before and returning of materials school, break, lunch and after school to fulfil their The pupil librarians gave up their free time assigned duties. before school, break, lunch and after school to fulfil their assigned duties.

E.M.

ging year E.M. our faith EXTRACURRICULAR MATHS er leaves EXTRACURRICULAR MATHS :11 “For The school representatives continue to perform lares the The school continue to perform arm you, impressively inrepresentatives competitive, extracurricular impressively in competitive, extracurricular Mathematics despite serious disruption due to Mathematics despite serious disruption due to COVID-19. The UKMT team competitions did COVID-19. The UKMT team competitions did th (LVI) not run competition diddid taketake place notbut runthe butQueen’s the Queen's competition online. The senior team of John Gibson (MVI), place online. The senior team of John Gibson ES Jude Moorehead (MVI), Ronan Poots Jude (MVI), Moorehead (MVI), Ronan Poots (MVI) and (MVI) and Ben Golden (V) claimed an Ben Golden (V) claimed an impressive second impressive second place finish. hen the place finish. an to run le Meet’ thoughts couraged British Mathematical Olympiad and earned a h text. certificate of merit in this elite competition. been a escapism aces and led with

me pupil with the y-to-day evelop a and selfe of the ibrarians

At Intermediate level, pupils achieved: 2 Gold, 5 Silver and 6 Bronze awards. In addition to their Gold awards, Riona Millard (IV) and Riya Raghuram (V) were selected to participate in the next round (the Pink Kangaroo) with Riya earning a certificate of merit for her performance.

At Junio Silver an earning h qualified Kangaroo

At Jun Silver earnin qualifi Kanga

Hopefully opportun Mathema national l aspect of

This year Hopef been stud opport Greek, w Mathe June 2022

nation aspect Two othe

alphabet Duke of E The Clas COVID-1

This ye been s Greek, June 2

Two o alphab Duke o The C COVID

Individual competitions moved online. ThisThis posed Individual competitions moved online. significant logistical challenges but was rewarded posed significant logistical challenges but was with rewarded strong results at all results levels.at all levels. with strong At Senior level, pupils achieved: silver At Senior level, pupils achieved:11 Gold, Gold, 77silver and 14 bronze awards. In addition to his Gold and 14 bronze awards. In addition to his Gold Award, JohnJohn Gibson (MVI) qualified for for the the Award, Gibson (MVI) qualified British Mathematical Olympiad and earned a At Intermediate level, pupils achieved: 2 Gold, certificate of merit and in this elite competition. 5 Silver 6 Bronze awards. In addition to

their Gold awards, Riona Millard (IV) and Riya Raghuram (V) were selected to participate in the next round (the Pink Kangaroo) with Riya earning a certificate of merit for her

At Junior level,level, pupilspupils achieved: 1 Gold, 8 Silver At Junior achieved: 1 Gold, 8 andawards. 3 Bronze awards. to In earning additionhim to and 3Silver Bronze In addition earning him Ryan his Gold award, Ryan Baird his Gold award, Baird (II) qualified for(II) the qualified for the next round (the Junior next round (the Junior Kangaroo). Kangaroo).

At Junior level, pupils achieved: 1 Gold, 8 Silver and 3 Bronze awards. In addition to earning him his Gold award, Ryan Baird (II) The Owl qualified for2021 the next round (the Junior Kangaroo).

Gold, on to Riya in the Riya her

Hopefully next year will afford more opportunities to engage with challenging Hopefully next year will afford more opportunities Mathematics and represent the school at a to engage with challenging Mathematics and national level as this is certainly a much missed represent theschool schoollife. at a national level as this is aspect of certainly a much missed aspect of school life. S.C.S. S.C.S.

THE GREEK CLUB THE GREEK CLUB

This year, one Fourth Form pupil, Oscar Hill has been studying the first year of GCSE Ancient ThisGreek, year, with one Fourth Form pupil, Hill has a view to sitting the Oscar examination in been studying June 2022. the first year of GCSE Ancient Greek, with a view to sitting the examination in June 2022. Two other pupils worked hard to learn the Greek as partworked of theirhard Bronze Award the Twoalphabet other pupils to learn the for Greek Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. alphabet as part of their Bronze Award for the The Classics Society was not held due to Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme. COVID-19 restrictions. J.M.G The Classics Society was not held due to POLITICS SOCIETY COVID-19 restrictions. As many clubs and societies found,J.M.G it was difficult to meet as we had before. But that did not deter a committed group of four LVI POLITICS SOCIETY students from taking part in the Covid-proof Politics in Action group, a cross-community As many clubs societiesengaged found, young it waspeople difficult group and of politically from BRA, St. Malachy’s and Dominican College. to meet as we had before. But that did not deter Thisgroup year the meetings held from on Zoom and a committed of four LVI were students were once again very ably led by Ulster taking part in the Covid-proof Politics in Action University lecturer and political commentator, group, a cross-community David McCann. group of politically

engaged young people from BRA, St. Malachy’s and Dominican College. Thisgroup’s year thework meetings The focus of the was about outand of the pandemic and thevery impact it is were held coming on Zoom were once again had on mental health. During course of ably led byhasUlster University lecturer andthe political the meetings, held over several months, students commentator, David McCann. contributed to group discussions, proposed

helpwork young people receive The focus ideas of theabout group’s was aboutcould coming from schools, youth organisations and out of the pandemic and the impact it is has had on politicians around the themes of mental health, mental health. During the course of the meetings, 74

sectarianism, equality and public services. They were also fortunate to have discussions with NI politicians. In our North Belfast cluster group, students questioned Robbie Butler and Nichola

held over several months, students contributed to group discussions, proposed ideas about help young people could receive from schools, youth organisations and politicians around the themes of mental health, sectarianism, equality and public services. They were also fortunate to have discussions with NI politicians. In our North Belfast cluster group, students questioned Robbie Butler and Nichola Mallon. Ruby Askin (LVI) made particularly challenging points to Robbie Butler. In the final presentation, made to Gerry Carroll, People Before Profit MLA for West Belfast and Nichola Mallon, Minister of Infrastructure and SDLP MLA for North Belfast, Sorcha Boersma led the discussion on public services, which was very well received. The group were also treated to Zoom calls with various ‘big names’ of local, Irish and British politics, including deputy First Minister, Michelle O’Neill, Minister for Education, Peter Weir, former NI Secretary of State, Julian Smith and former Taoiseach, Leo Varadkar. These sessions were insightful, not least because through the Zoom call we got glimpses in their offices and homes; Michelle O’Neill’s dog barking interrupted her on more than one occasion. Tara O’Neill (LVI) was also brave enough to put herself forward for Politics in Action TV, a YouTube broadcast in which she and another student gave their opinions on recent political events.

Finally, withwith it being a US Politics Finally, it being a USelection election year, year, Politics Society was keen allow the opportunity Society was to keen to students allow students the to vote in the House MockinPresidential opportunity to vote the HouseElection. Mock Presidential Election. with 2016, each Tutor As with 2016, each TutorAsGroup was given a state Group was given a state to represent and so we to represent and so we were able to follow the were able to follow the Electoral College system Electoral College system that the real presidential that the real presidential election uses (the election usesis(the electiononispopular not decided election not decided vote). on popular vote). Voting took place via Google Classroom, with students looking to exercise their (mock) democratic right digitally. With just Donald Trump and Joe Biden on the ballot, students

ons with NI uster group, nd Nichola particularly In the final oll, People Belfast and ructure and ha Boersma , which was

students looking to exercise their (mock) democratic right digitally. With just Donald Trump and Joe Biden on the ballot, students could opt to spoil their ballot and still help their House win the House competition based on turnout.

School Societies

this year, it was a great event and should serve to remind us again that our votes do indeed matter. K.S.B.

m calls with and British Minister, ation, Peter ulian Smith kar. These st because pses in their Neill’s dog than one also brave Politics in n which she pinions on

KARTING

Voting took place via Google Classroom, with students looking to exercise their (mock) democratic right digitally. With just Donald Trump and Joe Biden on the ballot, students could opt to spoil their ballot and still help their House win the House competition based on turnout.

After an absence from the race track last year due to COVID-19 restrictions, it was with great excitement that Form I had their first taste of BRA Karting on Wednesday October 4th at Need4Speed, Doagh. The 16 pupils raced well and returned impressive lap timings. For many this was their first time in a kart, and they spoke of how it was a little scary at first but that the experience gave them courage. Many said that they enjoyed the competitive aspect of racing against each other and competing against the leader board timings. We hope to run a house event so that all pupils

We can hopecompete to run aforhouse that pupils houseevent pointsso and theall 'Campbell can Cup compete for house points and the ‘Campbell 4 Karting' which has been kindly donated Cupby 4 Karting’ has been kindly donated Dr. Louiswhich Campbell who has supported theby BRA Karting clubwho for many years. Dr. Louis Campbell has supported the BRA Karting club for many years. Congratulations to all who took part but

The results were even more decisive than in 2016, with a resounding win for Biden, winning 474 electoral college votes to Trump’s 64. The tutor group/state breakdown was also particularly interesting as it demonstrated, in both 2016 and 2020, that Form V boys are Trump supporters. Despite doing it online, the results information sent out to tutor groups The results were even more decisive than in presented the opportunity for discussion on 2016, with a resounding wincollege for Biden, whether the electoral votewinning was fair, as The were even more decisive than in 474results electoral college votes to Trump’s Trump received just 12% of 64. the The electoral tutorwith group/state breakdown was particularly college votes compared to 18% of thewinning popular 2016, a resounding win foralso Biden, vote. interesting as college it demonstrated, in Trump’s both 2016 and 474 electoral votes to 64. The

We hope run atook house event solapthat all pupi Congratulations toto allwho whoachieved partthe but especially especially to those fastest to those who achieved theGraham fastest lap times: (1st) can compete house points and the 'Campbe times: (1st) Kadynfor (2nd) Dexter Thompson (3rd) Bryn Hewitt. Kadyn Graham (2nd) Dexter Thompson (3rd) Bryn Cup 4 Karting' which has been kindly donate Hewitt.by Dr. Louis Campbell who has supported th P.C.P.

P.C.P. BRA Karting club for many years.

SCHOOL COUNCIL Congratulations to allREPORT who took part bu

SCHOOL COUNCIL 2020-the fastest la 2020-2021 especially to those REPORT who achieved 2021

times: (1st) Kadyn Graham (2nd) Dexte

It was aThompson busy but disruptedBryn year for the School It was a busy but (3rd) disrupted yearHewitt. for the School Council in 2020-2021. The Council in 2020-2021. TheSchool SchoolCouncil Council held held its annual non-uniform day in October. The Pupil its annual non-uniform day in October. The P.C.P and Pupil Schooland Council to split thetomoney raised Schoolchose Council chose split the money raised foractivity this fund-raising activity for this fund-raising between Jigsaw CCC, between Jigsaw CCC, NI Children’s Hospice, NI Children’s Hospice, Lighthouse and TAMHI. Lighthouse and TAMHI. Representatives from 2020, that Form V boys are Trump supporters. Representatives from each of these organisations tutor group/state breakdown wasbasedalso each of these organisations received cheques for In the House competition, which was on Despite doing it online, the results information cheques for £600 at whole-school SCHOOL REPORT 2020 particularly interesting as took it demonstrated, in received £600 at whole-schoolCOUNCIL Assemblies in December. turnout, Pottinger again the glory with 48% sent out to tutor groups presented the opportunity Assemblies in December. turnout. beatthat ShawForm to second place, 2021 both 2016 andonCairns 2020, V boyswith are for discussion whetherupthethe electoral college Currie bringing rear. Despite the Trump supporters. Despite doing 12% it online, the vote was fair, as Trump received of theand challenges this year, it wasjust a great event It was a busy but disrupted year for the Schoo results information out to18% tutor groups electoral college votes compared to the should serve to sent remind us again thatofour votes Council in 2020-2021. The School Council hel presented the for discussion on popular do vote. indeedopportunity matter.

whether the electoral college was on fair, as In the House competition, which vote was based K.S.B. Trump just took 12% turnout,received Pottinger again the of glorythe withelectoral 48% college to second 18% of thewith popular turnout.votes Cairnscompared beat Shaw to place, KARTING Currie bringing up the rear. Despite the challenges vote. After an absence from the race track last year due to competition, COVID-19 restrictions, was with great House which itwas based on excitement that Form I had their first taste of

In the turnout, Pottinger again took the glory with 48%

its annual non-uniform day in October. Th Pupil and School Council chose to split th money raised for this fund-raising activit between Jigsaw CCC, NI Children’s Hospic Lighthouse and TAMHI. Representatives from each of these organisations received cheques fo 75 £600 at whole-school Assemblies in Decembe

K.S.B.

The Owl 2021

last year ith great taste of r 4th at ced well or many ey spoke that the said that f racing ainst the

throughout the school site; recycling facilities; and the possibility of the installation of bike racks. The Head Boy, Head Girl and their deputies addressed whole-school assemblies regarding these various issues in December. T.H

THE DUKE OF EDINBURGH’S AWARD

THE DUKE OFbeen EDINBURGH’S The last school year has one of the most AWARD challenging for our DofE participants. The pandemic had daily implications for us all, with The last schoolworking year has been one of the most online learning, from home, testing and challenging our DofEtheparticipants. contact tracing for all becoming new normal, The and pandemic had daily implications for us all, with with ever-changing rules and guidance from many online learning, working from home, testing and different sources. Trying to keep some normality contact tracing all becoming the new normal, was a challenge at times, never mind taking on a and with ever-changing rules and guidance from new DofE challenge! many different sources. Trying to keep some The TheSchool SchoolCouncil Councildecided decidedtotorecognise recogniseAntiAntiBullying November by organising a a Bullyingweek weekin in November by organising number and various numberofofwhole-school whole-schoolactivities activities and various Assemblypresentations. presentations.Representatives Representativesfrom from Assembly theSchool School Council took lead in the Council also also took the leadthe in devising devising and implementing an ‘Inclusion, and implementing an ‘Inclusion, Diversity and Diversitypupil andquestionnaire. Equality’ pupil questionnaire. Equality’ Results from this Results from this questionnaire were questionnaire were relayed to all pupilsrelayed during to all pupils during various whole-school various whole-school assemblies and also to Senior assemblies and also to Senior Management. The Management. The results will be used to formulate results will be used to formulate and plan future and plan future policies. policies. The School Council was inspired by the Netflix film Day’ and implemented own The‘Yes School Council was inspireditsby theversion Netflix infilm May. AllDay' pupils encouraged collect as 'Yes andwere implemented its to own version much money as they could for Marie Curie and in May. All pupils were encouraged to collect as NI Children’s Pupilsforwere encouraged much money Hospice. as they could Marie Curie andto get friends/family members to sponsor them; give NI Children’s Hospice. Pupils were encouraged totheir get friends/family sponsor them; up pocket money;members do extra to chores around give up their pocket money; do extra chores the house; help a neighbour/relative etc. Pupils around thethe house; a neighbour/relative etc. who raised mosthelp money were able to present Pupils who raised the most money were able to their ‘Yes Day’ proposals to Mrs Woods and she present their ‘Yes Over Day’ proposals Mrs Woods had to say ‘Yes’!!! £1700 wastoraised by this and she had to say ‘Yes’!!! Over £1700 was initiative. All pupils who participated were treated by with this 5 initiative. All One pupils who toraised ice cream of their friends. lucky participated were treated to ice cream with 5 of Form II pupil was also able to take 30 of his friends friends. One lucky Form II pupil was also totheir the cinema. able to take 30 of his friends to the cinema. Other issues discussed by the Pupil and School Councils throughout the by year theSchool food Other issues discussed theincluded Pupil and provision the canteen; reduce the litter Councilsinthroughout theways year to included food provision in the canteen; ways to reduce litter 76 throughout the school site; recycling facilities; and the possibility of the installation of bike

normalityinwas a challenge times, never mind However, the midst of thisatour membership taking onstrong a newwith DofE challenge!370 pupils remained a whopping continuing to work on their DofE Awards - 173 in the of this our membership ofHowever, whom signed upmidst in September 2020 when remained strong with a whopping everything was very much uncertain. 370 pupils continuing to work on their DofE Awards - 173 Due to COVID-19 unable to 2020 run thewhen of whom signed we up were in September vast majoritywas of our expeditions, although, with a everything very much uncertain. lot of perseverance, we were able to finally get a handful the MVI Gold participants their Due toofCOVID-19 we were unablethrough to run the Qualifying section after a few falsealthough, starts (and just vast majority of our expeditions, with asathey were finishing their school career rather lot of perseverance, we were able to finally get than the summer sixth forms). The legacy a handful of thebetween MVI Gold participants through oftheir this year is goingsection to be tough overcome, with Qualifying after atofew false starts (and participants just as theyunable weretofinishing schoolof many enjoy thetheir challenge career rather than the summer between their Expedition section at the normal time. sixth forms). The legacy of this year is going to be In recognition of a very difficult time since tough to overcome, with many participants March because unable2020, to and enjoy the expeditions challenge were of their nearly impossible to run, have been issuing Expedition section at theDofE normal time. Certificates of Achievement for anyone who completes the Volunteering, In recognition of a very Physical difficult and timeSkill since sections of their Award. To achieve this, the March 2020, and because expeditions were participants have shown nearly impossible to their run, determination DofE have to been keep on going, to pushofthemselves andfor in many issuing Certificates Achievement anyone cases, outside box in order Physical to safely and who think completes thethe Volunteering, doSkill theirsections activities. alsoTo had to workthis, of They their have Award. achieve with in have a different face-tothe Assessors participants shownway theirsince determination to keep onhas going, push themselves in face contact been to severely restricted, orand even many cases, think Some outside thearranged box in order impossible at times. have to chatto their activities. They have also had to onsafely videodo calls with their Assessors or share fitness work with Assessors in a different way since face-to-face contact has been severely restricted, or even impossible at times. Some

School Societies

Our participants also managed to log 1,131 volunteering hours between 1 April 2020 and 31 Volunteering for your community was something up on neighbours, gardening or doing shopping Fabienne Cochrane who completed her March 2021, a social value of £5,146! for those who were isolating, video calls to keep Certificate of Achievement. many of us naturally progressed to, and our tracker app screenshots to verify their progress. the

loneliness

bay...Some

industrious

to thealso many people who were participants were no different; checking up onquizzes withWe participants designed online an are indebted Our participants managed to log 1,131 extended network of family and friends, volunteering hours between 1 April 2020 and 31 willing to give of their free time to make possible neighbours, gardening or doing shopping for collected litter from their favourite walking March 2021, a social value of £5,146! those who were isolating, video calls to keep the haunts, did an Urban Conservation projectthe or huge undertaking of the Expedition section. We letters to sick children and their siblings. are indebted to the manyvolunteer people who were sincerelyWe thank the following supervisors loneliness at bay...Somewrote industrious participants willing to give of their free time to make who generously their timeof and assistance designed online quizzesPotentially, with an the extended most easily completed section possible thegave huge undertaking the Expedition turned outcollected to be Physical, with many of whenever our section. We this sincerely thankyear: the following possible school network of family and friends, litter up on neighbours, gardening or doing shopping Fabienne Cochrane who completed her participants tracking their daily walks or runs volunteer supervisors who generously gave those who were isolating,haunts, video calls to keep Certificate of Achievement. from theirforfavourite walking did an Urban that had started as a way to get out of the house,• Matthew their time and assistance whenever possible this Blair the loneliness at bay...Some industrious Conservation project or wrote letters some of which builttoupsick into challenges to raise school year:participants designed online quizzes with an Our participants also Grant managed to log 1,131 • Holly money for charity. children and theirnetwork siblings. extended of family and friends, volunteering hours between 1 April 2020 and 31 • Peter McArthur Matthew Blair March 2021, a social value of £5,146! Holly Grant • Maurice Miller Peter McArthur We are indebted to the many people who were • Catherine MauriceNelson Miller willing to give of their free time to make Catherine Nelson Gary Nelsonof the Expedition participants tracking theireasily dailycompleted walks section or runs thatpossible the• huge Potentially, the most undertaking Gary Nelson turned out to be Physical, with many of our section. We sincerely thank the following • Dennis McArthur had started as a way to get out of the house, some Dennis McArthur participants tracking their daily walks or runs volunteer supervisors who generously gave Shelley Wilson • Shelley Wilson of which that built up into challenges to raise money had started as a way to get out of the house, their time and assistance whenever possible this some of which built up into challenges to raise school year:for charity. money for charity. Matthew Blair Holly Grant Peter McArthur Maurice Miller Catherine Nelson Gary Nelson Many of us naturally tried learningDennis a new McArthur skill Shelleywere Wilson over lockdown, and our DofE participants no different - including learning Yoruba (a West African language), sign language, cookery and an online sailing navigation course. collected litter from their favourite walking Potentially, thedid most easilyConservation completed section haunts, an Urban project or wrote letters to sick children and their siblings. turned out to be Physical, with many of our

In the last school year, we have had 3 Bronze Awards, 11 Silver Awards and 3 Gold Awards successfully completed, alongside 14 Bronze, 6 special Very thanks special thanks must go alsotogothe to following the Very must also Silver and 1 Gold Certificate of Achievement, following people: Maurice Miller, Holly Grant people: Maurice Miller, Grant and Shelley which is a fantastic achievement in itself and Shelley WilsonHolly for their outstanding Many of us naturally tried learning a new skill considering the difficult circumstances. contribution in overseeing all aspects of the Wilson for their outstanding contribution in Many of over us naturally tried learning a new skill lockdown, and our DofE participants were Expedition section; Shelley Wilson and Holly no different including learning Yoruba (a West overseeing all aspects of the Expedition section; over lockdown, and ourThe DofE participants total number of awardswere gained from 1984 to Grant for Award administration; and to Niall African language), sign language, cookery and date are: Bronze –1,457; Silver – 736; Gold – Shelley Wilson Grant for from Award no different including learning Yoruba (a West Mowbray and and Holly Margaret Mullan the an online sailing navigation course. 480. Education Authority for very administration; and to Niall Mowbrayvaluable and African language), sign language, cookery and an assistance with administration work. In the last school year, we have had 3 Bronze Congratulations who Mullan from the Education Authority for online sailing navigation course. must go to the past pupils Margaret Awards, 11 Silver Awards and 3 Gold Awards gained the Gold Award - Jennifer McCorry, Although the Volunteering, Physical, Skill and very valuable successfully completed, alongside 14 Bronze, 6 Very special mustassistance also go towith the administration work. Keeva Drummond John Miller - and to thanks In the lastSilver school year, we have had 3 and Bronze Residential Sections are primarily co-ordinated and 1 Gold Certificate of Achievement, following people: Maurice Miller, Holly Grant Although Awards, 11 Silver 3 GoldinAwards which is a Awards fantastic and achievement itself and Shelley Wilsonthe forVolunteering, their outstandingPhysical, Skill and considering the difficult circumstances. contribution in overseeing all aspects the Residential Sections areofprimarily co-ordinated successfully completed, alongside 14 Bronze, 6 Expedition section; Shelley Wilson and Holly Silver andThe1 total Gold Certificate of Achievement, number of awards gained from 1984 to Grant for Award administration; andDofE to Niall and supported by the staff, we still have are: Bronze –1,457; Silver –in736; Gold – Mowbray and Margaret Mullan from the which is date a fantastic achievement itself school staff members who run 480. Education Authority for very valuable various activities considering the difficult circumstances. assistance with administration work. enabling the participants to complete their sections. Congratulations must go to the past pupils who like Physical, to thankSkill theandstaff of the P.E. and The totalgained number of awards 1984 to AlthoughWe the Gold Award -gained Jenniferfrom McCorry, the would Volunteering, Drummond John Miller to – 480. Residential Sections are primarily co-ordinated Music Departments for all their much appreciated date are: Keeva Bronze –1,457;andSilver – 736;- and Gold

Congratulations must go to the past pupils who gained the Gold Award - Jennifer McCorry, Keeva Drummond and John Miller - and to Fabienne Cochrane who completed her Certificate of Achievement.

help throughout the past year. Many thanks are due to the numerous members of staff who gave up their time to act as Skills Section Assessors. Thanks must go to Maurice Miller for his help in looking after our finances.

The Owl 2021

We would like to say a huge thank you to the school office staff who have been fantastic, as always, helping us collect forms etc. and distributing participants’ logs, projects and other important information. In conclusion, 2020-21 was a highly unusual year for everyone, but one in which our participants have shown an even greater resilience, determination, initiative, drive, commitment and a sense of responsibility to others than what we would normally expect.

We are incredibly proud of those who are pursuing their Certificate of Achievement and remind them to keep in touch. Finally, pride of place and congratulations must go to the following pupils and past pupils who gained awards during the past year:

CERTIFICATE OF ACHIEVEMENT:

BRONZE AWARD

BRONZE

Jack Coyle (V) Emma Dobbin (MVI) Lucy White (LVI)

Ryan Cowden (IV) Natasha Morrison (IV) Hannah Convery (IV) Darragh Quinn (III) Aimee Courtney (IV) Matthew Rankin (IV) Haydn Dillon-Wright (IV) Ieuan Mclean (IV) Alana Joseph (IV) Georgia Crawford (IV) Josh Manson (IV) Grace Ogilby (IV) Elyse Taylor (IV) Sophie Burns (IV)

SILVER AWARD

SILVER

Siobhan Baine (LVI) Hannah Beattie (-) Hannah Crawford (LVI) Emma Dobbin (MVI) Georgia Harvey (LVI) Alex Johnston (LVI) Abbie Mchenry (LVI) David Monahan (MVI) Sarah Saunders (LVI) Ally Shaw (-) Christina Warnock (LVI)

Alby Joseph (V) Benjamin Dewhurst (V) Kate Sturgess (V) Lara Lennon (V) Noah Hasan (V) Peter Richardson (V)

GOLD AWARD

GOLD

Keeva Drummond (-) Jennifer McCorry (-) John Miller (-)

Fabienne Cochrane (-)

GOLD EXPEDITION (MVI) PROJECT - DUKE OF EDINBURGH DURING THE GOLD EXPEDITION (MVI) PROJECT PANDEMIC

- DUKE OF EDINBURGH DURING THE PANDEMIC

Leah McCarter This year’s expedition was very different from Leah McCarter my Bronze and silver awards, as a result of the pandemic. My DofE experience This year’sCOVID-19 expedition was very different from was just one of the many things affected by this over my Bronzethe and silver awards, as apractices result of the to be past 18 months, from having COVID-19repeated, pandemic. My DofE experience wasbeing to disappointment at expeditions just one ofcancelled. the many things affected by this over were Government guidelines and right up to until the past 18changing months, regularly from practices having be days before our final expedition, we were unsure repeated, to disappointment at expeditions being whether we would be allowed to camp. This cancelled. Government guidelines were changing meant we were effectively planning for two regularly and right upone until days before and our final scenarios; with camping the other expedition,would we were whether wehome would be the haveunsure involved travelling from every evening. process of allowed toMournes camp. This meant we wereThe effectively completing the expedition section of theand DofE planning for two scenarios; one with camping was much more drawn out because of COVIDthe other would have involved travelling home 19 and unfortunately this meant that some from the Mournes every evening. The process of teammates dropped out. Groups had to change, completingand thenumbers expedition the DofE weresection greatlyofreduced. Our final was much expedition more drawn out because of COVID-19 To involved only 7 participants. completethis themeant expedition, we all had to be and unfortunately that some teammates flexible andhad adapt these changes. I am very dropped out. Groups to to change, and numbers glad to have been able to complete my gold were greatly reduced. Our final expedition involved expedition given these challenging only 7 participants. To complete the expedition, we circumstances.

Societies wrappers as well as tents, School barbeques etc. and discarding these after camping. If this continues, litter in the Mournes could become a major Thereproblem. were also some big changes to how we

completed our expeditions. For our safety, we There were also some big changes to how we camped in separate tents. This made it necessary completed our expeditions. For our safety, we to carry extrain clothing for warmth in itcase of cold camped separate tents. This made necessary nights as well as increasing the time taken to carry extra clothing for warmth in case ofto cold nights as after increasing theday time to prepare forasthewell night a long of taken walking. prepare for the night after a long day of walking. Because of this, we camped in the same location of this,picked we camped the same location each Because night, being up atincheckpoints which each night, being picked up at checkpoints we would navigate our way to each day. This which we would navigate our way to each day. madeThis the whole less connected made expedition the whole feel expedition feel less as weconnected were unable to have continuous as we were one unable to have route one continuous route throughout the four days. throughout the four days. Whilst on the bus, we bus, ourselves we wore masks to protect woreWhilst maskson to the protect and others. This ourselves and others. This was not a big change was not a big change as we have got very used as we have got very used to wearing our masks to wearing over the year during over theour lastmasks year during thislast pandemic. Other this pandemic. Other to ensure our things we did to things ensure we ourdid safety included safetyusing included handregularly sanitiserand regularly and hand using sanitiser cleaning surfaces of equipment after using, example, cleaning surfaces of equipment afterfor using, for the Trangia. example, the Trangia. Overall, this this pandemic hashas changed Overall, pandemic changedso somuch much in people’s including activities manymany people’s lives,lives, including activities likelike DofE. DofE. Making these small changes to how we Making these small changes to how we completed completed our expedition was a small price to our expedition was a small price to pay to allow us pay to allow us to complete our gold DofE. to complete our gold DofE.

all had to be flexible and adapt to these changes. I am very glad to have able to Alongside the been differences in complete how the expedition was run, we alsothese madechallenging several observations my gold expedition given while walking and camping. The first thing I circumstances. noticed while on my expedition was the increase

Alongside in thenumbers differences in how the expedition of people walking in the Mournes. Being inside for so long and having many was run, we also made several observations while activities closed has encouraged the public to walking and camping. The first thing I noticed turn to the Mournes for both exercise and while on my expedition was the increase in entertainment from the long days at home. I numbers ofhope people walking popularity in the Mournes. Being this increased will be continued inside for so andpeople havingcan many activities andlong many continue to enjoy the closed has beautiful encouraged the public to turn to the there Mourne Mountains. However, areboth also some negatives to increased popularity. Mournes for exercise and entertainment Throughout our expedition we noticed from the long days at home. I hope this increased increased littering. I believe this is directly popularity will be continued and many people can related to the public enjoying this space more continue tooften. enjoyAsthepeople beautiful MournetoMountains. are deciding camp in the However, there negatives to as plastic hills, are theyalso are some bringing litter such increased popularity. Throughout our expedition we noticed increased littering. I believe this is directly related to the public enjoying this space more often. As people are deciding to camp in the hills, they are bringing litter such as plastic wrappers as well as tents, barbeques etc. and discarding these after camping. If this continues, litter in the Mournes could become a major problem.

EvanEvan Robinson Robinson

the first wave of COVIDwehad had WhenWhen the first wave of COVID1919hithitwe already completed a training and practice already completed a training and practice weekend weekend and had a date for our expedition. and had a date for our expedition. Lockdown Lockdown resulted in the qualifying expedition resulted in cancelled. the qualifying expedition being being Autumn of the next term in cancelled. Autumn of the next term in school and a provisional second qualifying date was set and we were told we must complete another training weekend. A few participants left as the dates didn’t suit or they no longer wanted to take part. The training weekend was carried out in order to comply with the COVID-19 guidelines so this meant we had to abide by social distancing regulations. We were given one tent each and 79

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instructed to stay 2 meters apart and wear masks at the campsite and on the bus. It was hard for some people to stay in a tent on their own. The weekend was hard mentally as we had done a training weekend already for Gold and knew all the map and compass skills. As the date of the Qualifying drew closer, the number of cases was rising and, as a result, two weeks before we were due to go, the weekend expedition was cancelled again. We began to wonder if we would ever get a chance to do it. The rest of the year passed with yet another lockdown and it wasn’t until around May 2021, just as we were finishing our exams, that we were asked if anyone was still interested. Most people didn’t respond because they had forgotten about it, or given up, and some couldn’t make the proposed qualifying dates. This left a mix of seven interested people from different groups, who came together to form a single group to head into the qualifying weekend. Once again, we had to attend another training session, but this time it was just a refresher which made it a lot more bearable. Masks were worn on the bus and we only carried a day ruck. Right up to a couple of days before we were due to leave, we were worried that it wasn’t going to happen again or that we might have to make our own way to and from the Mournes every day for four days. Then the Stormont Executive lifted the restrictions and our routes and plans were accepted. We made sure to adhere to all the COVID-19 regulations, so this meant using hand sanitisers at all times, wearing masks on the bus and being in a tent on your own. These restrictions had to be followed if we wanted to get a chance at finally completing our Gold Award expedition. We all just wanted to get it finished, so the rules about social distancing and masks didn’t annoy us that much. We camped in the same place every night so we didn’t have to put up and take down our tent each day and carry it in our rucksacks on the hike. However, in case of an emergency, everyone carried their sleeping bag and we split two tents and a Tranja between the group. This did feel a bit pointless but in comparison to what we would have carried pre-COVID, we didn’t complain. Being thrown together into a team made up of people from different friend groups was difficult at the 80

beginning but as the weekend went on we started to gel, work together and become more of a team. Nathan Davidson My Duke of Edinburgh Gold award began normally in Lower Sixth with classes, akin to those in Bronze and Silver. In addition, we had a training weekend in September 2019, in which everything was normal, where tents were shared. Obviously, there was no consideration of how that could possibly change. Then everything changed in March 2020, when there was a lockdown; most of us probably believed that this would maybe last for a month or so. I wasn’t tremendously worried about the DofE at this point, mainly due to the novelty of being at home and off school. It had caused our practice weekend to be cancelled, which was scheduled for April 2020. We most likely thought that we would get back to it, before entering Middle Sixth. However, that didn’t happen. This then meant that the leaders were anxious to get our Gold done quickly, as they had another year group waiting to do Gold now. Therefore, it was arranged that we would do another training day (as the last one had expired), the practice expedition and the Qualifying all in the space of two months, September, and October. The reality of COVID-19 had made its mark on the training day, as I recall Cuann having to join us via Zoom, as his sister was getting tested for coronavirus. Then a few weeks later, we had the practice expedition, the main differences being that we were rooted in a singular campsite at Torybush cottages, with everyone being in individual tents and the presence of maskwearing of the minibus. Other than that, it was pretty normal, in my opinion. Once we had finished the practice, we were preparing ourselves to have to do the real thing in the middle of October, however, nature intervened and DofE was once again cancelled. I didn’t believe that it would resume for at least 4-5 months, since we were entering the winter months and that October was probably the latest it could take place before March, due to the cold temperatures. Then there was a national lockdown in January 2021, therefore putting the Qualifying into the long grass for at least three or four months, if the one in 2020 was anything to go by.

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We then had confirmation from Holly in June, that the qualifying would indeed go ahead on the 10th-13th of July and that we would have to a third training day before the qualifying. This was definitely a relief, given that we could finally get it over and done with. However, the delay of over a year had meant that the cohort had dropped to a mere seven.

very difficult for me, as someone who enjoys working with others, playing sport and generally being around people, it was all taken away for a gruelling period of time. As previously mentioned, not only did our expeditions have to stop, but for most of us, our other sections within the programme such as volunteering etc. all ceased as well.

However, we still didn’t know until a few days before the expedition whether we were going to be allowed to camp, as the DofE regulations hadn’t changed to allow that. This would have meant getting picked up and dropped off every day, which would have been a further alteration of the Duke of Ed experience, even more than camping in a singular spot had already changed it from Bronze and Silver.

Much later in the year, certain restrictions were eased, and as what we needed to do was outdoors, we could once again resume our plans to carry out our qualifying expedition. As it had been so long, yet another training day was required before we were able to partake in an actual practice expedition. The practice would be held over a weekend, instead of an actual four days and three nights, with a few changes to how things worked. The two major areas came regarding transport and tents. Any time we were to be moved via minibus or entering a building, a face covering had to be worn at all times, which for me was no problem at all. The biggest change in my opinion was that, due to the social distancing measure, it was now a maximum of one person per tent, which honestly was, and still is, music to my ears, as I could enjoy my own personal space and not have someone snoring in my ear.

Overall, I am incredibly glad we were able to get Gold done; obviously it would have been preferable to do it when it is normally undertaken in the summer of LVI, however, beggars can’t be choosers. Ryan Creaney The COVID-19 pandemic, which changed the world forever in so many ways, brought the planet to a complete halt for the better part of two years, and only recently have things began to return to a sense of normality. Among those areas that were affected by the pandemic, such as the cancellation of all international travel, schools and even basic socialising, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award too had to cease its operations in regard to safety of its assessors and participants. At the beginning of 2019, our Gold award was just getting into full swing. The beginning of the year brought us back into the way of map and compass work, as well as general safety for being in the hills. This was done through refresher classes at our base of operations at Belfast Royal Academy. Not long after these classes we took to the hills for the first time since Silver Qualifying to complete a training weekend, putting our newly refreshed skills into practice again, whilst getting our fitness back into line and getting used to our tents once again. Little did we know that this would be our last outing with the award scheme for almost six months due to the first lockdown imposed by the government. During this time, it was personally

After being back out in the hills and being prepared and ready to finally attempt the qualifying expedition, a hint of déjà vu was given to us as a second nation-wide lockdown was imposed. For me, this time around it wasn’t so mentally exhausting as we had online classes to take our mind off things, whilst also giving us a routine to stick to. At this point, in regard to DofE, nobody knew if the award would ever go ahead for our cohort. It did feel almost like defeat that we had given so much time and energy into something that would just simply fade away. In the summer of 2021, around two years from the start of our Gold award, we were told that we had one opportunity only to complete the Qualifying in the month of July. Beforehand, we embarked on a final training day to tidy up our skills that we would need for our Qualifying. This day certainly proved to be ‘third time lucky’ as it was thankfully the last training day we had to complete. A few weeks after, the day had finally arrived to begin the four-day haul to finish this particular section. To 81

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keep it brief, the four days were very challenging, at some points making me question if it was worth it. However, upon completion, there was a great sense of satisfaction and achievement among the group, and I could be proud that I persevered and got the job done. To close, COVID-19 certainly took its toll on the Duke of Edinburgh Award, especially with our group, as you could never plan or know about an expedition. Overall, this expedition may have ended up meaning more to us than before, as not only did we complete a great achievement, but we also did so during one of the most difficult time periods our generation may ever have to face. Ryan Simpson My Gold Duke of Edinburgh began in Lower Sixth and started in the same way as Bronze and Silver. It began with the usual night training classes, with the training weekend in September 2019. Our expedition was set for Summer 2020 and was to be conducted in the Antrim Hills. Then in March of 2020 the COVID-19 lockdown hit with promises of a two-week lockdown. I assumed the award would take place as usual, in the summer, before we entered Middle Sixth. This was not the case, now that another year group was registering for Gold, which put pressure on the leaders. They aimed to get our expedition over September and October of 2020. We then completed another training day, as the other one had expired, in preparation of our upcoming practice and Qualifying. The practice took place in September, but the way in which the expedition was carried out differed significantly. Now there was a need for face masks on the bus and single tents alongside one fixed campsite rather than camping in different locations throughout the 4 days. The expedition, apart from these changes, felt like any other DofE expedition and went very smoothly. With the practice over, it was time to prepare for the real thing in October. However, due to a spike in COVID-19 cases, new restrictions meant it could no longer go ahead. After the long lockdown from January to March, I thought the prospects of being able to complete the expedition were quite slim. However, with exams to focus on, DofE went to the back of my mind until we received news from 82

our leader in June 2021 that it was being held from the 10-13th of July in the Mournes instead of the Antrim hills. This was the final chance to get it done and all fingers were crossed that it would go ahead. However, we were still unsure whether we could camp as restrictions were due to be lifted only days before the expedition. This would have meant being dropped down each morning and picked up each night. This would have meant a huge change to DofE when compared with my experiences of Bronze and Silver. The final expedition was confirmed to go ahead but with only one group as many had fallen by the wayside over the last year and a half. Overall, I am glad we were able to get the expedition done. Obviously, it would have been preferable to be done in the correct year and to the previous specifications but completing a Gold award is still an achievement. Cameron McKee Before words such as COVID-19, pandemic and social distancing were commonplace in our everyday lives, I, along with forty-odd other classmates, started my Gold Duke of Edinburgh’s Award in September 2019. Everything went ahead the same as it had done for the countless years before us, the only difference for our year being a complete lack of candidates for the canoeing expedition. We had our several classes on Thursday nights, and afterwards, sat the standard test on the content of those classes - for which we were separated to different desks roughly two metres apart (but at this stage only to prevent cheating!) Eventually, we embarked on our first training day in October, where I sat beside my mates on the bus, slept in a tent with a person roughly half a metre away from me on either side, and shared a Trangia with 3 or 4 different people. By the end of the weekend I returned home, excited for the practice expedition that was to come and our qualifying expedition in Scotland that following summer. All that was to happen before then was the Bronze classes, where us Lower Sixth mixed freely with the Third Year pupils. Sadly, not all went to plan. The first effect that COVID-19 had on the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award was the cancellation of the Bronze practice and qualifying expeditions in the

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Easter time which a few of us Gold Leaders were supposed to be helping out on. Initially, this struck me as convenient as it would mean that I would have more time to revise for exams. However, with the continued cancellation of expeditions such as our own Gold practice and qualifying, it started to become clear the impact that this pandemic was going to have on not only our Gold award, but on everyday life as we knew it. Throughout the months from March to August, only a single message was sent into our group chat, simply explaining how each of our award sections could still be completed, even if in different ways to before. I, personally, have not changed my activities to be anything more pandemic-friendly as I am still determined to complete those which I started almost two years ago. Finally, the summer-long silence was ended with an out-of-the-blue message from our Leader Holly, outlining the plans for a final push to get both of our expeditions completed in time for the new season of Duke of Edinburgh commencing that Autumn. For the first time, those who had only ever taken part in the awards scheme because it was convenient to them, were whittled away, with nearly 20 participants dropping out, more than halving our number to a remaining 18. An emergency tent sorting afternoon was held, and only a few weeks later, we now 3 teams found ourselves back in the Mournes. Not only did it feel good to start making progress towards completing our award, but it was refreshing to be back in the hills hiking again. Speaking for myself at least, barely, if any, hillwalking was done by me or many other teammates during the first lockdown. This was due to the fact that the Newcastle area was an illegally far journey for anyone to travel from the Belfast area for the purpose of exercise. Nevertheless, COVID-19 was far from a distant memory and its effect was still very much evident on our expedition. Most notably (and most enjoyably) there was to be no more sharing of tents. Therefore, rather than bringing six tents between us three teams, we instead brought 14 - one for each individual team member. This measure was taken in order to reduce our time in a confined space together. However, there still remained two long bus journeys there and back, as well as several

minibus journeys throughout the expedition and the organising of equipment back at the school. To help reduce risk on these occasions, masks were to be worn at all times when not outside (although I think we had all already grown very well versed in this practice by the time September 2020 rolled around). In addition, smaller measures were taken such as no sharing of food between team members and sanitising the containers of water given to us by the leaders before returning it to them. Even though these many things were influenced by the pandemic, the amount of walking set for us each day was not, and we still found ourselves with sore feet and in need of a bath by the end of it all. Before leaving the school grounds on that September night, I remember our leader Maurice warning us that the positive COVID-19 cases in Northern Ireland and the UK were dramatically increasing and we would need to have the Qualifying expedition ASAP. With this being planned for only two and a half weeks after finishing our practice, we all thought that it would surely go ahead. Unfortunately, two days before we were meant to go out, we heard news for the second time that Duke of Ed had been cancelled. Spirits now low again, I, along with everyone else, started to doubt whether we would ever be able to complete our award. Another silence of over seven months fell on the groupchat as there was once again nothing to be done about it. Once again, we were locked in our homes, teaching went online, and the Mournes became too far outside of exercise zones. Fast forward to exactly two days after we as a year group had finished school, and nearly a year after we had been meant to complete our Gold, it was announced that, with the same restrictions as our previous practice expedition, a qualifying date was looking possible. The only issue was that since it had now been well over a year since our training expedition, we were going to have to embark on a brief training day. When the dates were laid out for us, each participant’s commitment to completing the award was put to the test as our numbers were one final time whittled down another 11, leaving our final team of 7. After a very chilled out training day, returning to the Mournes for the first time in nearly a year, all of our suspicions that only the best walkers remained were confirmed. With my previous team, there had been doubts as to 83

f weeks ght that ely, two we heard Ed had I, along ether we award. ll on the ng to be ed in our Mournes s.

we as a nearly a lete our he same pedition, The only ll over a we were ing day. s, each ing the ers were leaving lled out for the spicions d were ere had plete the w, with d gifted that we it very personal er to go days of now felt

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how we would complete the full four days of the Qualifying, but now, with this brand new team that COVID-19 had gifted us, there was no doubt in our minds that we would not only complete it, but enjoy it very much too. With masks on, our own personal bandicoots, and plenty of hand sanitiser to go around, we completed our four full days of walking, under these restrictions that now felt like second nature to us. It has been a very challenging 16 months for everyone, myself included, but when it comes to Duke of Ed, I am very proud to be able to say that I was a part of the team that persevered and completed our award during the pandemic.

from the winter and frosts. I have also planted more flowers and shrubs and found that my garden is now home to many more bugs, insects and birds. I have spent time making bird feeders to encourage the birds of all kinds to come into my garden using recycled and household materials. Having left my grass to grow and planted particular plants, I have attracted some beautiful butterflies. insects and frogs to my garden. I even discovered some very bright green caterpillars. My wildflowers have started to spring up and my strawberries are now flowering for the 2nd stage of their growth. I also spent a couple of hours in my local park searching for natural materials for my bug hotel, and photos have been uploaded showing each stage in making my Bug hotel. I have loads of visitors already for their staycation...:). My strawberry plants have now grown their fruit. I grew some home strawberries, some for the fruiteating birds, insects and caterpillars and of course some for me!

DOFEVOLUNTEERING: VOLUNTEERING: URBAN DOFE URBAN CONSERVATION – DARRAGH CONSERVATION – DARRAGH QUINN QUINN (III) (III) Location: At my home, at my extended family Location: my home, at myguidelines extendedfrom family home At within COVID-19 1st April until 30th June 2021, (three months). home within COVID-19 guidelines from 1st April

until 30th June 2021, (three months).

Goals: As part of the conservation option, I Goals: Astopart ofnature the conservation hope hope give a home: to option, support Ibees, butterflies birds.to I hope to provide wildlife to give nature and a home: support bees, abutterflies gardenIfor the to animals anda insects that visit my and birds. hope provide wildlife garden for garden while promoting biodiversity. I intend the animals and insects that visit my garden while for example, to let the grass grow promoting promoting biodiversity. I intend for example, to insect life, make a compost heap, grow flowers let the grass growthat promoting life, make and climbers attract andinsect feed certain insects,a compost heap,and grow flowers climbers butterflies birds, createand a mini pond, that build attract andhotels feed certain insect and birdinsects, boxes. butterflies and

birds, create a mini pond, build insect hotels and bird Activity boxes. Log: Since leaving my grass to grow we have created

Activity Log:haven and encouraged the growth of a wildlife many flowers, whilst giving the ground time to

Sincerecover leaving my grass to grow we have created a from the winter and frosts. I have also wildlife haven and encouraged the and growth many planted more flowers and shrubs foundofthat flowers, whilst giving ground timemore to recover my garden is now the home to many bugs, insects and birds.

I have spent time making bird feeders to encourage the birds of all kinds to come into my

Photos have also been uploaded of insects at the bug hotel, my new plants, my overgrown grass and wildflowers in bloom which are encouraging all sorts of bugs, flies, bumblebees and now butterflies. ART in nature: I have drawn masks in Art class, designed by me, inspired by the wildlife in my garden and local park. I thoroughly enjoyed this project as it gave me a great opportunity to play a small role in providing habitats and food for insects, birds and frogs while using rich variety of natural resources. With the rapid expansion of urbanisation and the depletion of green areas it was wonderful to create a project that helped nature thrive on my doorstep. What my assessor thought: “Darragh worked over a number of weeks to complete this task. He planned and created each task to ensure it was a success. and put a lot of thought into each section. His project has been a success and it has been lovely to see insects using the hotels and frogs and birds in the garden as a result of his efforts.

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Darragh not only achieved his goal but gained additional skills during the project. He researched the project and gained knowledge in finding out the environmental importance of the project. He gained planning and research skills by planning each task and by researching how to create bird feeders, the pond and bug hotels. He sourced all materials used locally from reusable material. He used his skills from Technology class to create and build everything himself. He gained gardening skills by planting colourful plants to attract bees and birds and succeed in turning a small garden into an attractive place for bees, insects, butterflies and birds. yy local attractive for bees, insects, butterflies and local park attractive placefor forbees, bees,insects, insects,butterflies butterflies and my localpark park attractive place place and

yy bug birds. my bughotel, hotel,Well done bug hotel, birds. Darragh on bringing wildlife into your owing each Well Darragh on bringing wildlife into howing each each done into owing Well done done Darragh Darraghon onbringing bringingwildlife wildlife into garden. You put a lot of effort into this and the ve your You put lot effort into this and aveloads loadsof of your garden. garden. into this and ve loads of garden.You Youput putaaalot lotofofofeffort effort into this and .:). the results are brilliant.” results are brilliant.” ...:). the results are brilliant.” .:). the results are brilliant.”

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of weeks to created of weekseach to of weeks dreated put a each lotto of ect been reated each put has a lot of oct see put ainsects lot of has been birds in the ct has been see insects see insects irds in the al but in gained irds the project. He but gained knowledge in but gained roject. He rtance of the roject. He nowledge in search skills nowledge in tance of the arching how tance of the earch skills d bug hotels. earch skills rching how locally from rching how bug hotels. skills from hotels. ocally from ldbug everything ocally from skills from s by planting skills everything nd birdsfrom and dden everything by planting into an planting dbybirds and

DOFE NEW SKILL: COOKERY PETER RICHARDSON (IV) During the first COVID-19 pandemic lockdown and restrictions, I decided to use the time to learn a new skill, cookery at home. This had a double benefit for me as I developed skills in cookery which would benefit me in life and I was also able to use this towards my DofE Silver award. I chose to try preparing, cooking and presenting dishes that I had never attempted before, as well as learning new skills such as using the barbecue and baking. I followed recipes to make the following: • Scones • Meringues • Classic Tomato Spaghetti • Pizza • Chicken Chasseur • Smoked Brisket • Bacon Cheeseburger • Spaghetti Carbonara • Sizzling Steak Stir-Fry • Poached Eggs on Toast • Gooey White Chocolate Cookies • New Potato Salad with shallots, parsley and vinaigrette • The Perfect Steak • Victoria Sponge Sandwich What did I enjoy the most? I enjoyed looking up the recipes and deciding what to try, then learning how to prepare and cook all of the above dishes and treats. My personal favourite was the pizza, although it did not come out perfect the first time I tried it and was messy to make. The family had two favourites, Spaghetti Carbonara and Classic Tomato Spaghetti, both of which were tasty and presented well when served. These two dishes are now regular meals I cook at home. What dish did I enjoy preparing the least? The dish I found the most time consuming to make was the Chicken Chasseur. I underestimated the amount of preparation work required. What did I learn to do differently? To present the food better when plated and some dishes needed to be tweaked to get the perfect dish. 85

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The dish that I needed to tweak was grilling the To present the food as better when a plated and some steak onTo the barbecue, it when was bitand undercooked present the food better plated some dishes needed to be tweaked to get the ERY - PETER dishes needed to be first tweaked to get the ERY - PETER for me and my family time around. I have now perfect dish. V) perfect dish. V) got the timings justIIneeded right toand thewas steak now The dish dish that that needed totweak tweak was grilling thecomes The grilling the emic lockdown steak on the barbecue, as it was a bit off the barbecue grillperfect and ready to eat. emic lockdown steak on the barbecue, as it was a bit

se the time time to to undercooked for for me me and and my myfamily familyfirst firsttime time se the undercooked me. This had a around. I have now got the timings just right What have I learned from this experience? me. This had a around. I have now got the timings just right eloped skills in in and the the steak steaknow nowcomes comesoff offthe thebarbecue barbecuegrillgrilleloped skills and me life and and perfect and andlearning readytotoeat. eat. How enjoyable to cook meals from scratch me in in life II perfect ready my DofE Silver Silver my DofE is. g, and What have haveIIlearned learnedfrom fromthis thisexperience? experience? g, cooking cooking and What ever attempted How enjoyable cook meals meals from from ever attempted Would IHow sayenjoyable give it learning alearning go? toto cook skills such as as scratch is. is. skills such scratch

llowing: ollowing:

Yes, it is something that anyone can try and it is a Would II say saygive giveititaago? go? Would useful life to have. Yes,skill it is something that anyone can try and it is Yes, it is something that anyone can try and it is useful life lifeskill skilltotohave. have. aa useful

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Music in School

Music in School MUSIC IN SCHOOL 2021/21 With COVID-19 restrictions in place, many rehearsals were unable to resume but a bunch of intrepid pupils in Chamber Choir, Senior Traditional Group and Senior Strings attempted to rehearse in a socially distanced manner. Rehearsals resumed every morning and Friday lunch-time and in no time at all we had learnt a couple of pieces for Prize Day. However, the country was soon plunged into an extended two-week Hallowe’en break and Prize Day was moved online, so we decided to save those pieces for a performance at a later date.

Department. After one week of lunch-times without any rehearsals, I started going slightly insane. I am especially sorry to miss the Spring Concert of this year’s MVI – Eve H, Aoife O’H, Ronan, Matthew, Ellie, Megan, Ella, Erin McQ, Anna, Kate, Aoife A, Emma, Louise, Roan, Giulia, Eve P-W, Nicole, Rebecca and Cuann (apologies to anyone I’ve forgotten). It promised to be a fabulous concert. I will have fond memories of you all for a long time and I hope you continue to enjoy performing music in your chosen path. M.M.M.

After Halloween we turned our attention to the forthcoming Carol Service in Belfast Cathedral. With no congregation being allowed to attend, we took the decision to record the service during the day and post it online at 7pm that evening (when the Carol Service would normally happen). Belfast Cathedral was a wonderful acoustic to perform in although it was incredibly weird performing to absolutely no one. The Chamber Choir sang the usual festive stalwarts with Stuart Knox (Form 2) opening the service with the first verse of Once in Royal David’s City. Ms Maebh Martin and Callum Whiteside (V) were the organists for the occasion. The Senior Strings performed a Christmas Carol medley and the Senior Trad performed the Wexford Carol with Ronan Poots playing the uilleann pipes solo. Many thanks must go to Ronan who kept Senior Trad going throughout a very difficult year. I naively assumed that there would be some form of online Spring Concert in March 2021, but with the announcement on 30th December that schools would not re-open after the Christmas break, I quickly realised that this would not happen. Once schools reopened in March 2021, we set about recording the GCSE, AS and A2 practicals, before the students sat their final track exams. What a strange year that was! I missed musicmaking terribly and the banter in the Music 87

The Owl 2021

School Games CRICKET CRICKET

Despitethe the COVID restrictions, it was Despite COVID restrictions, it was heartening toheartening see some cricket to seebeing someplayed. cricketThere beingwere played. upwards of 75upwards Form I and boys at practice There were of 75II Form I and II boys at every week. Competitions were run at junior, practice every week. Competitions were run at intermediate and seniorand level.senior It is alevel. credit It to both junior, intermediate is a pupils these werethese played. The creditand to staff both that pupils andgames staff that games 1stwere XI played four matches in the season with the played. The 1st XI played four matches in highlight being thethedefeat of Ballyclare the season with highlight being theHigh. defeatWe of travelled to Ballyclare, who, having won the toss, Ballyclare High. We travelled to Ballyclare, inserted us to bat off to us thetoworst who, having wonfirst. the We toss,got inserted bat first. possible start as James Carleton was out bowled We got off to the worst possible start as James byCarleton the thirdwas ballout of the match weball hadof the bowled bybefore the third progressed the scoreboard. Adrib Ahmed and Max match before we had progressed the scoreboard. Wylie steadied the ship, but they were a little too Adrib Ahmed and Max Wylie steadied the ship, circumspect. When Max was run out on the first but they were a little too circumspect. When ball of the 6th over, we were reduced to 13-2. This Max was run out on the first ball of the 6th over, brought Olly Scott to the crease who provided a bit we were reduced to 13-2. This brought Olly of impetus to the innings, not through bludgeoning Scottbut to the crease who provided a bit ofthe impetus shots, by energetic running between to the innings, bludgeoning shots, wickets. Olly’s 21not wasthrough to prove our top score (save but by energetic running between the wickets. the 25 extras Ballyclare presented us with) before 21 ended was todisappointingly prove our top score (save the hisOlly’s innings as he chipped 25 extras Ballyclare presented us with) before a catch to extra-cover. Only Adrib (17), his innings ended disappointingly as heRyan chipped Armstrong (11) and Adam Gooderham (10*) of the others made it to double figures as we posted 102-8 in the 20 overs available. Ballyclare’s reply started well as Olly Scott’s radar misfired and presented them with a few wides, helping them to 13-0 after 3 overs. Ryan 88

a catch to extra-cover. Only Adrib (17), Ryan Armstrong (11) and Adam Gooderham (10*) of Armstrong then had 2 wickets in 3 balls, clean the others made itand to double figures as weheposted bowling McCallen Wightman. When added in of theMcAllister 20 overs available. the102-8 wicket in his next over we were in the ascendency, reducing our hosts to 17-3 Ballyclare’s reply started well as Olly Scott’s after 6 overs. Then came easily the best batting radar misfired and presented them with a few of the match as Gillespie (60*) was supported by wides, helping to 13-0 aftervery 3 overs. Ryan McIlrath (17) andthem helped by some ordinary Armstrong then had 2 wickets in 3 balls, clean fielding by the BRA boys. The dropped catches bowling McCallen could and should haveand cost Wightman. us the match When as this he pair added the wicket of McAllister in his next over progressed to 71-3, needing 31 off 5 overs. Olly we returned, were in the ascendency, reducing our hosts Scott radar adjusted and clean bowled to 17-3 after 6 overs. Then came easily the best McIlrath and Scarlett 2 balls later. From there we batting of the match as Gillespie (60*) was did well to starve Gillespie of the strike and see it supported by McIlrath (17)Armstrong and helped(4-11) by some home by a margin of 7 runs; and very(2-9) ordinary BRA boys. The Scott by farfielding the pickby of the the bowlers. dropped catches could and should have cost us We lost to both Wallace High School and RBAI’s the match as this pair progressed to 71-3, 1st and 2nd XI. The Junior XI had a fine win needing 31 and off lost 5 overs. Olly Scott and returned, against RBAI to strong Wallace radar adjusted and clean bowled McIlrath and Campbell sides. Our under 12XI played very well 2 balls later. From High there we did well to in Scarlett their game against Wallace School, despite starve Gillespie of the striketeam and see home by their defeat. The Intermediate lostitnarrowly margin of 7 runs; in Armstrong (4-11) and Scott to aStrabane Academy the Cup competition. My (2-9) by far the pick of the bowlers. thanks go to Mr Harte, Mr McCarey, Mr Creighton, MrWe Rowntree, Warke, Mr Burton, Hughes lost to Mr both Wallace High Mr School and and Mr Stewart for their help throughout the nd RBAI’s 1st and 2 XI. The Junior XI had a fine season. win against RBAI and lost to strong Wallace NETBALL I.M.G. and Campbell sides. Our under 12XI played very well in their game against Wallace High School, despite their defeat. The Intermediate team lost narrowly to Strabane Academy in the Cup competition. My thanks go to Mr Harte, Mr McCarey, Mr Creighton, Mr Rowntree, Mr Warke, Mr Burton, Mr Hughes and Mr Stewart for their help throughout the season. I.M.G. Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions, there was nodue competitive school netball this Unfortunately, to COVID-19 restrictions, there year. Players managed to do some outdoor was no competitive school netball this year. Players trainingtoand availed of the newly managed do some outdoor training and marked availed outdoor practice court at school. of the newly marked outdoor practice court at school.

NETBALL

Unfortunately, due to COVID-19 restrictions, there was no competitive school netball this year. Players managed to do some outdoor training and availed of the newly marked outdoor practice court at school.

School Games

Nada Hawela and Catelyn Burns were Nada Hawelaas andpotential Catelyn Burns identified identified futurewere International asnetballers. potential future International Asgirls As part of this elite netballers. training, the part of this elite training, the girls were selected were selected for Netball Northern Ireland’s forEmerging Netball Northern Emerging Warriors WarriorsIreland’s programme. This included programme. This included not only developing not only developing their netball skills and tactics, butskills alsoand undertaking Strength and their netball tactics, butaalso undertaking Conditioning Programme. The The players a Strength and Conditioning Programme. thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity! players thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity! Nada Hawela and Catelyn Burns were identified future Both coachesas andpotential players hope to seeInternational netball return netballers. As part of this elite training, the girls to school next year and look forward to getting wereto selected for matches Netball on Northern back competitive court. Ireland’s Emerging Warriors programme. This included not only developing their netball skills K.E.B. and tactics, but also undertaking a Strength and Conditioning Programme. The players thoroughly enjoyed this opportunity!

Both coaches and players hope to see netball return to school next year and look forward to getting back to competitive matches on court. K.E.B.

ons, this door rked 89

the fast een ive the with g a for ans has was sed In gn,

improved accessibility as well as providing a wide range of key information and resources for current parents and guardians Theand Owlprospective 2021 and for our alumni. This major project has taken over six months to complete and was undertaken with the assistance of Belfast-based brand and web agency, Pale Blue Dot. In addition to a clean and easy-to-navigate design, key features of the site include new sections on transport links, term dates and the school calendar, up-to-date latest news and access to all our statutory documents and policies. The project also included the design of a new LAUNCH OF NEW SCHOOL website for Ben Madigan Preparatory WEBSITE Department.

was to communicate the School’s vision and values, improve communications with families, staff and the wider community, raise the profile of Belfast Royal Academy, as well as being a vital resource for current pupils and parents. You can visit the new Belfast Royal Academy website at www.belfastroyalacademy.com

Trips and Events

We are very excited and proud to announce the launch of a complete redesign of the Belfast Royal One aspect of the new website that we are Academy website. The website has been designed particularly proud of is the stunning and built to provide a comprehensive overview photography of pupils and the School estate that of is allfeatured aspects ofthroughout, day-to-day in lifeaddition at the School, as to a new well as being more user-friendly with improved school video. The aim of the website redesign accessibility as well as providing a wide range of key information and resources for current and prospective parents and guardians and for our alumni. This major project has taken over six months to complete and was undertaken with the assistance of Belfast-based brand and web agency, Pale Blue Dot. In addition to a clean and easy-tonavigate design, key features of the site include new sections on transport links, term dates and the school calendar, up-to-date latest news and access to all our statutory documents and policies. The project also included the design of a new website for Ben Madigan Preparatory Department.

One of the new website that wevision are and wasaspect to communicate the School’s particularly proud of is the stunning photography values, improve communications with families, ofstaff pupils School estate that is featured andand thethe wider community, raise the profile throughout, addition to a new of Belfast in Royal Academy, as school well asvideo. beingThe a vital for redesign current pupils parents. aim of resource the website was toand communicate 90

You can visit the new Belfast Royal Academy website at www.belfastroyalacademy.com

J.E.H.

the School’s vision and values, improve communications with families, staff and the wider WELLBEING community, raise the profile WEEK of Belfast2020 Royal Academy, as well as being a vital resource for Our pupils annualand Pupil Wellbeing Week 2020 was current parents. under the heading of ‘Self-esteem’. You can visit the new Belfast Academy Representatives from the Royal local mental health website at TAMHI www.belfastroyalacademy.com charity spoke to all pupils in Forms III, IV and V about this very important topicJ.E.H. and gave useful advice on how pupils could build up their resilience. WELLBEING WEEK 2020 During our Wellbeing Week, pupils were treated to a ‘Staff Jukebox’ each morning within Ourtheir annual PupilTutor Wellbeing Week Staff 2020 was under Class groups. members thenominated heading oftheir ‘Self-esteem’. Representatives favourite song. The song from that thereceived local mental health charity TAMHI spoke to the most votes within a particular Class all Tutor pupils in IV andThere V about verythe setForms was III, played. wasthisalso important topic and gave useful advice on how pupils could build up their resilience. During our Wellbeing Week, pupils were treated to a ‘Staff Jukebox’ each morning within their Class Tutor groups. Staff members nominated their favourite song. The song that received the most votes within a particular Class Tutor set was played. There was also the opportunity for pupils to receive House Points during their Tutorial period by guessing the member of staff by just their smile. Form I and II pupils had the opportunity to win a £10 Victoria Square voucher by solving a clue to help them find Dr Springer dressed up as Wally in a ‘Where’s Wally?’ challenge. Kate Emerson was the first pupil to solve the clue - ‘Roll up, Roll up! Come see the stripèd man. In sight of building filled with words, And by the place where Form I go, Trek down the serpent path, And turn to find the hidden one. Roll up your sleeves, Come get involved! Find Handford’s man, And claim the prize!’, and therefore won the £10 voucher. During the week, there was also a Form I Extracurricular Fair organised by the Head Boy and Head Girl and their deputies, and the start of the ASPIRE programme for Form V pupils organised by external agencies YeHa and Streetbeat.

Streetbeat.

anticipation in being hunted down by 450 junior pupils as one cowers in a stripy jumper amongst old crockery, suitcases and a broken pram.

WHERE’S WALLY?

andEmerson Events Finally, the shutter rolled upTrips and Kate As part of Wellbeing Week 2020, the now (I) and Ahmed Haridy (II) were the first sighted annual ‘Where’s Wally?’ competition returned. by me. They participated in a tie break (finding Forms I and II were issued a clue at the end of Wally an A3 image) and Kate house then won this for period threeWALLY? and then let loose over lunch to finddeclared theonvictor, thus gaining points WHERE’S to be declared the victor, thus gaining me hidden around school dressed as theCairns stage and an individual a Victoria house points for Cairns prize and an of individual prize Square famously covert lover of red and white attire. of a Victoria Square voucher. voucher. of Wellbeing Week 2020, the now annual The clue is below if you would like to see if you

As part can solve it (some knowledge of the ‘Where’s Wally?’ competition returned. Forms I school’s geography is required). The answer follows and II were issued later. a clue at the end of period three and then let loose over lunch to find me hidden Roll up, around school dressed as Roll the up! famously covert Come see the stripèd man lover of red and white attire. The clue is below if you would like toIn see canfilled solve it words, (some sightifofyou building with And by the place where Form 1 go, knowledge of the school’s geography is required). Trek down the serpent path The answer followsAnd later. turn to find the hidden one. Roll up, Roll up! Roll up your sleeves— Come see the stripèd man Come get involved! Find Handford’s man

In sight of buildingAnd filled with words, claim the prize! And by the place where Form 1 go, And ifpath you solve this cryptic clue Trek down the serpent Then I’m impressed and props to you. And turn to find the hidden one. Roll up your sleeves— Come get involved! Find Handford’s man And claim the prize!

Thanks toto all the teachers who shared the clue, Thanks all the theteachers teachers who shared the well clue, Thanks to all who shared the clue, well done to all the pupils who took part and donedone to all to the all pupils took who part and apologies well thewho pupils took part and apologies to my at to all subjected to subjected my attemptsto at cryptic poetry. at apologies to all all subjected to my attempts attempts cryptic cryptic poetry. poetry.

And if you solve this cryptic clue Then I’m impressed and props to you. There was the usual trepidation that I might not be found and had donned a ridiculous outfit just to sit alone in the dark for the duration of my lunchtime…feeling a Wally in every sense of the word. The solitude gave some time to reflect on the flaws of my poetic attempt and the unique aroma made eating lunch a challenge (a cat once made its way into this corner of BRA and its efforts to mark the territory have stood the test of time). The final step in locating me required some initiative and many pupils could be heard outside realising they were in the correct vicinity but unable to locate the ridiculously attired maths teacher that was their quarry. I sat poised in the gloom with my iPad ready to capture a photo finish (in the event of any appeals as to who was first to set eyes on me). There is a disconcerting sense of nervous anticipation in being hunted down by 450 junior pupils as one cowers in a stripy jumper amongst old crockery, suitcases and a broken pram. Finally, the shutter rolled up and Kate Emerson (I) and Ahmed Haridy (II) were the first sighted by me. They participated in a tie break (finding Wally on an A3 image) and Kate then won this stage to be

Solution: Solution:

and very appreciated by parents. The Owl 2021

Solution: Roll up, Roll up! (Encouragement to roll up the shutter) Come see the stripèd man (My attire) In sight of building filled with words, (Louis Lord building) And by the place where Form 1 go, (Form 1 playground) Solution: Trek down (The long, winding Roll the up, serpent Roll up!path (Encouragement to roll up the ramp) shutter) And turn to find hiddenman one.(My attire) Come see the the stripèd Roll up your sleeves- (Another roll reference to In sight of building encourage the last step) filled with words, (Louis Lord building) Come get involved! And by theman place whereisForm 1 go, (Form 1 Find Handford’s (Author Martin Handford) playground) And claim the prize!

We normally hold a second uniform sale in November. Unfortunately, we were unable to proceed with this this year due to low stock levels and the impracticality of an outside location at that year. in July appetite fortime the of sale, again held outside, in

July 2021.2021.

The lack of a second uniform sale during the

Many thanks to meant everyone who with school year there wasassisted an even greater the logistics of the running these held sales,outside, particularly appetite for sale, again in July 2021. the logistics of running these sales, particularly the gatekeepers who had the task of collecting Many thanks everyone assisted with the gatekeepers whotohad the taskwho of collecting details logistics of running these sales, particularly the for Track & Trace purposes.details for Track & gatekeepers who had the task of collecting Trace purposes. details for Track & Trace purposes.

FORM I PARENTS’ BREAKFAST FORM I PARENTS’ BREAKFAST

Trek down the serpent path (The long, winding

And if you solve this cryptic clue ramp) And turn to find theprops hidden Then I’m impressed and toone. you. (It is the Props store)

Roll up your sleeves- (Another roll reference to S.C.S. encourage the last step) Come get involved! Find Handford’s man (Author is Martin FOTA EVENTS Handford) And claim the prize!

UNIFORM SALE Our summer uniform sale was held in July 2020, in the Jackson playground. Thankfully we had in the Jackson playground. Thankfully we had a dry and sunny day for this. Social distancing a dry and sunny day for this. Social distancing meant we were only able to let a certain number meant we were only able to let a certain number of people in at a time, with parents queuing in of people in at a time, with parents queuing in the frothe front car park. The sale was a great success nt car park. The sale was a great success and very appreciated by parents.and very appreciated by parents. We normally hold a second uniform sale in old a second uniform sale in November. Unfortunately, we were unable to November. Unfortunately, we were unable to proceed with this this year due to low stock proceed with this this year due to low stock levels and the impracticality of an outside levels and the impracticality of an outside location at that time of year.location at that time of year.

The lack of a second uniform sale during the orm sale during the school yearschool year meant there was an even greater meant there was an even greater appetite for the sale, again held outside, 92

One ofof ourour most important events is the Form I I One most important events is the Form Parents’ breakfast, held at the end of August, to Parents’ breakfast, held at the end of August, to welcome thethe parents of new FormForm I pupils. Again, welcome parents of new I pupils. due to the pandemic, this could not be held in be Again, due to the pandemic, this could not August held in2020. August 2020.

Aga thes We forget about this though,and andininJune June We diddid notnot forget about this though, 2021, were able to hold a “Brown Paper Bag” 2021, were able to hold a “Brown Paper Bag” breakfast. the uniform this took also breakfast. As As withwith the uniform sale,sale, this also took place in the Jackson playground, with place in the Jackson playground, with the verythe very gratefully of a marquee. gratefully receivedreceived additionaddition of a marquee. Despite Despite the breakfast being 10 months later than the breakfast being 10 months later than normal, normal, there was a strong turnout from parents there was a strong turnout from parents who who appreciated the opportunity to meet with other parents.

breakfast. As with the uniform sale, this also took place in the Jackson playground, with the very gratefully received addition of a marquee. Despite the breakfast being 10 months later than normal, there was a strong turnout from parents who appreciated the opportunity to meet with appreciated the opportunity to meet with other other parents. parents.

A breakfast for the parents of new Form I pupils breakfast foracademic the parents ofwas newable Form pupils forAthe 2021/22 year toItake for the 2021/22 academic year was able to place at the start of this school term. This alsotake took start of this school Thisagain also theplace formatofthe a “Brown Paper Bag” term. event and took thereceived form of aby“Brown was well parents.Paper Bag” event and again was well received by parents. Again, many thanks to all who assisted with these the Form Ievents.

fisAugust, toI the Form m I pupils.to of August, rm I not pupils. ould be

could not be

h,and andininJune June Paper n PaperBag” Bag” le, ale,this thisalso also nd, und,with withthe the ofa amarquee. marquee. nths laterthan than hs later fromparents parents rom meetwith with otomeet

us to show.

Trips and Events

than from the school community, staff and pupils? So the idea was hatched! Myself and my husband attended school at the same time as Nicola Glass then Creative Director of Kate Spade - I messaged her asking if she would be able to send FOTA a handbag for a raffle. Nicola replied promptly, askingsome more and saying she could of information her new Spring/Summer collection for send show. some us of to her new Spring/Summer collection for us to show.

This exciting news started the momentum and it was decided theme ofinthemany show would be Having been the involved fundraising local talent/designers/businesses. Old Girl and events previously, I knew that a Fashion Show now with her own children attending the school, wasClaire always a hit, especially if the models were McCollum was delighted to be asked to familiar to your audience. Where better to be our faces compere. I approached other companies gather models school and the final than list offrom thosethe taking partcommunity, included Cercle OutsideIn, staff andBoutique, pupils? Joli, So DV8, the idea was Suitor hatched! Bros, Bluebird, Madlug and the finale of Kate Myself and my husband attended school at the Spade NY.

same time as Nicola Glass - then Creative Director of Kate Spade - I messaged her asking if she able to send FOTA a and handbag Thiswould excitingbe news started the momentum it was decided the theme of the show would be for a raffle. Nicola replied promptly, asking local talent/designers/businesses. Old Girl andsend more information and saying she could Again, many thanks thanks toto all allwho whoassisted assistedwith with Again, many these events. Alison Monroe these events. Alison Monroe Alison Monroe

FOTA SHOW FOTAFASHION FASHIONSHOW SHOW FOTA FASHION

some of her new Spring/Summer collection for us to show.

now with her own children attending the school, Claire McCollum was delighted to be asked to be our compere. I approached other companies and the final list of those taking part included Cercle Boutique, Joli, DV8, OutsideIn, Suitor Bros, Bluebird, Madlug and the finale of Kate Spade NY.

OG a

When Mr innovativ all deligh the idea, I the Acad

OG an

When Mrs innovative all delight the idea, I w the Academ

This exciting news started the momentum and it was decided the theme of the show would be local talent/designers/businesses. Old Girl and now with her own children attending the school, Many peo Claire McCollum was delighted to be asked to be Mrs Burn our compere. I approached other companies and the final list of those taking part included Cercle Boutique, Joli, DV8, OutsideIn, Suitor Bros, Bluebird, Madlug and the finale of Kate Spade NY.

Form I pupils

orm s ableI pupils to take ableThis to take m. also Having been involved in many fundraising m. ag”This eventalso andHavingHaving been involved in fundraising beenpreviously, involved in many events I knew thatmany afundraising Fashion Show events . event and g” events previously, I knew that a Fashion Showalways was always a hit,that especially if the models previously, I knew a Fashion Show were was was always a to hit, especially if the models familiar facesif your audience. Where betterwere to faces a hit, especially the models were familiar gather models from the school community, familiar faces than to your audience. Where better to to your audience. Where better to gather models staff and pupils? thetheidea wascommunity, hatched! gather models thanSo from school Myselfand andpupils? my husband attended at the staff So the idea school was hatched! same time as Nicola Glass then Creative Myself and my husband attended school at the Director of Kate Spade - Glass I messaged her Creative asking same time as Nicola - then

Many peop Mrs Burns

The Owl 2021

The day before the show, we were very fortunate to get some catwalk training from the professionals- Tracy and Teresita from Style Academy. Some models were like ducks to parenthood, it was thatwere morning water, whilst others in direwith needtwelve of further students, telling them what they could and could practice.

not wear to the fashion show.

d it for the evening. Staff members chose their be outfits from fashionable boutiques whilst and Academy students spent the morning in the um and it ool, Kathryn Sturgess,has Abbey Centre with myself. If anything would be dGirl to and OGprepared and Mother Rob anditKate Sturgess me for of parenthood, was that morning with twelve students, telling them what they nies e school, Kathryn Sturgess, Kathryn Sturgess, could and could not wear to the fashion show. asked to OGand and Motherapproached of and Kate Sturgess ded WhenOG Mrs Sturgess FOTA with her Mother ofRob Rob and Kate Sturgess ompanies itor innovative idea for the Fashion Show, we were Mrs Mrs Sturgess approached her included WhenWhen Sturgess approachedFOTA FOTA with with her Kate all delighted. When the Committee approved innovative idea for the Fashion Show, we were n, Suitor innovative idea for the Fashion Show, we were idea, I was designated recruitapproved models from delighted. When the Committee the e of Kate allthe all delighted. When the to Committee approved the the pupil and staff cohort. idea, IAcademy’s was designated to recruit models from idea, I was designated to recruit models fromthe Academy’s pupil and staff the Academy’s pupil and cohort. staff cohort.

When th backstage entertaine The day before the show, we were very fortunate to gifted wi

get some catwalk training from the professionalsTracy and Teresita from Style Academy. Some models were like ducks to water, whilst others were in dire need of further practice.

for the evening. Staff members chose their outfits from fashionable boutiques whilst Academy students spent the morning in the Abbey Centre with myself. If anything has prepared me for parenthood, it was that morning with twelve students, telling them what they could not to the Thecould dayand before the wear show, wefashion were show. very

fortunate to get some catwalk training from the professionalsTracymembers and Teresita for the evening. Staff chose from their Style Academy. Some models were likewhilst ducks to outfits from fashionable boutiques Many people, with some gentle persuasion from Many people, with some gentle persuasion from water, whilst others were in dire need of further Academy students spent the morning in the Mrs Burns, relished the idea of being a model Mrs Burns, relished the idea of being a model for Many people, with some gentleIfpersuasion from practice. Abbey Centre with myself. anything has the evening. Staff chose outfits prepared formembers parenthood, it was that morning Mrs Burns,me relished the idea of their being a model fromwith fashionable boutiques whilst Academy twelve students, telling them what they students the morning thefashion Abbeyshow. Centre couldspent and could not wear in to the

with myself. If anything has prepared me for

The day before the show, we were very fortunate to get some catwalk training from the professionals- Tracy and Teresita from Style When the night arrived, the energy the night finallyfinally arrived, the energy Academy. Some models were like ducks to When backstage electric.Our Ourguests guests were were not waswas electric. notonly only water, whilst others were in dire need of further backstage entertained talenteddance danceteam team but but were were entertained by by thethe talented practice. gifted with an array of items from our sponsors. gifted with an array of items from our sponsors.

The day before the show, we were very fortunate to get some catwalk training from the

what they ion show.

Trips and Events

were very ng from the from Style e ducks to d of further

When the night finally arrived, the energy backstage was electric. Our guests were not only entertained by the talented dance team but were gifted with an array of items from our sponsors.

As models filed out to Mr Jamison’s playlist, things started to get real. The furore was voltaic and definitely encouraged the nervous models waiting to go on. A memorable moment was when Dr Brown stepped onto the stage, leaned over the banister and waited for the crowd to compose themselves. Naturally, it took a while.

From the Fashion s Thanks t amount worthwhi 95

Amy Rea Paula Hill Sorcha Lavery The Owl Nuala 2021 Loughran Kim Tepe Tanya Crozier Helen Cathcart As models filedPatricia out to Mr Jamison’s playlist, Ferguson

things started to get real. The furore was voltaic and definitely encouraged the nervous models waiting to go on.Cercle A memorable moment was when Sharon Ardis Dr Brown stepped onto the stage, leaned over Wynn Graham the banister andLouise waitedPatterson for the crowd to compose themselves. Naturally, it took a while. Kristy McIntyre Bluebird Sophia Simon Marley Hammill Halle Sinnerton Eva Sinnerton Niamh McKenna Murray As a Kate Spade model, I was last to go on; there Dexter Thompson is no doubt that IIngram was petrified. However, when Charlotte I joined Miss Watson, Mrs Chambers, Mrs Petra Keeling Bo Stewart McCracken, Mrs Sheeran and Mrs Woods, I felt better. Grace Cunningham

Eve Patterson Wilson

amount of money was raised for such a Amy Harpur worthwhile cause. Suitor Bros K.L.W. Paul Martin Olly Mort Geoff Brown DJ Creighton From the applause, it was evident that the FOTA Ryan Patterson Fashion show was a very successful evening. Thanks to Ross Mrs Coulter Sturgess’ idea, a substantial amount of money was raised for such a worthwhileKate cause. Spade Brenda McCracken Hilary Woods K.L.W. Robyn Chambers Mary Sheeran Hannah Watson Kayleigh Williams

OutsideIn Eva Hayward Lorca Convery a Kate Spade model, was last there As a As Kate Spade model, lasttotogogoon;on; Nik Kane I Iwas is no doubt that I was petrified. However, when there is no doubtDavid that Russell I was petrified. However, Sophie Mills Mrs Watson, whenI Ijoined joinedMiss Miss Watson, MrsChambers, Chambers,Mrs Mrs Olivia Quinn McCracken, Mrs Sheeran and Mrs Woods, I felt McCracken, Mrs Sheeran and Mrs Woods, I felt better. n’s playlist, better.

re was the nervous rable ped onto the waited for Naturally, it

DV8 Connor McVicker George Patterson Wilson María Morton Daniel Blayney Corey Mitchell

MODEL LIST (IN RUNNING ORDER)

From the applause, it itwas that the FOTA From the applause, was evident evident that the FOTA FashionFashion showshow was was a very successful a very successful evening. evening. Mrs Sturgess’ a substantialamount ThanksThanks to Mrsto Sturgess’ idea,idea, a substantial amount money raised for such a cause. of money wasofraised forwas such a worthwhile worthwhile cause.

K.L.W. K.L.W.

Joli Orla Glenn Naomi Watson Amy Rea Paula Hill Sorcha Lavery Nuala Loughran Kim Tepe Tanya Crozier Helen Cathcart Patricia Ferguson Cercle Sharon Ardis Wynn Graham Louise Patterson Kristy McIntyre

Trips and Events

Bluebird Sophia Simon Marley Hammill Halle Sinnerton Eva Sinnerton Niamh McKenna Murray Dexter Thompson Charlotte Ingram Petra Keeling Bo Stewart Grace Cunningham OutsideIn Eva Hayward Lorca Convery Nik Kane David Russell Sophie Mills Olivia Quinn DV8 Connor McVicker George Patterson Wilson María Morton Daniel Blayney Corey Mitchell Bhuvanesh Venkatesan Isabella Scott Kate Sturgess Timothy Agbonkpolor Rhia Young Eve Patterson Wilson Amy Harpur Corey Mitchell Suitor Bros Paul Martin Olly Mort Geoff Brown DJ Creighton Ryan Patterson Ross Coulter Kate Spade Brenda McCracken Hilary Woods Robyn Chambers Mary Sheeran Hannah Watson Kayleigh Williams 97

The Owl 2021

Trips and Events

THE SCHOOL LIBRARY The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in a reevaluation of library services and how they could be provided in a safe way. Planning the reopening of the school library in September 2020 involved reading CILIP guidance, liaising with senior leadership, reviewing risk assessments and putting measures in place for safety and cleaning procedures, involving quarantining library items. The Librarians felt it was useful to view this situation as an opportunity to see what the library could do to keep staff and students reading and accessing quality resources to support their studies. Even a pandemic didn’t stop Accelerated Readers at the Academy! The Accelerated Reader programme continued to be successful for both Forms I and II. Although we weren’t gathering for parties this year, to continue our best social distancing practices, pupils were still being rewarded often for their hard work with prizes sent home! We were not able to travel the world during the pandemic, but our staff and pupils “travelled” in the comfort of their own homes with good books! Timetabled library lessons continued for pupils during lockdown. Our Accelerated Reader programme was made accessible from home. Our pupils were able to continue taking tests on the books they were reading. We even ended up with our highest performing pupil on the programme since its introduction to the school in September 2012. A massive well done to Heaven Raju on such a massive achievement!

ACCELERATED READERMILLIONAIRE READERS Despite the lockdown, twenty-four pupils from Forms I and II managed to become millionaire readers. Huge congratulations to all our top readers for the 2020/21 academic year. Place Pupil Name

Words Read

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

8,001,689 4,456,371 3,603,420 3,090,007 2,830,427 2,077,536 2,045,877 1,997,860 1,977,089 1,834,996 1,688,119 1,573,078 1,517,285 1,500,794 1,480,791 1,318,268 1,306,583 1,243,721 1,229,993 1,126,671 1,103,877 1,085,037 1,073,945 1,073,519

Raju, Heaven Ward, Daniel Campbell, Maya Scott, Alexander Suresh, Arjun Murphy, Eleanor Banasik, Luna O’Kane, Finn McCrea, Toby Convery, Charlie O’Kane, Aoife Crooks, Katie O’Kane, Matt Kearney, Clodagh Wilson, Mya Ogilby, Daniel Duffy, Zara Lockhart, Samuel McCullough, Vincent Jones, Ema Laverty, Ciaran O’Carroll, Ella McKeown, Eve Gilmore, Madison

THE BIG DISNEY LOCKDOWN QUIZ We can’t deny it, we went absolutely quiz mad at the school library during the lockdown! Quizzes were a fabulous way of bringing pupils together remotely. COVID-19 has been a truly unprecedented crisis, beyond anything that any of us have ever faced before. At the Academy we’ve been adapting to this surreal and bizarre new of way of life, as best as we could, with the help of some exciting Disney quizzes along the way. 99

ils were still d work with ble to travel our staff and of their own

ed for pupils ated Reader from home. king tests on en ended up pil on the o the school well done to ievement!

The Owl 2021 THE BIG DISNEY LOCKDOWN QUIZ

a sample of some of our Disney cryptic questions below? Each clue should lead you to the name of a Disney film. Good luck!

DERERS

pupils from millionaire all our top ear.

Words Read ,001,689 ,456,371 ,603,420 ,090,007

We can't deny it, we went absolutely quiz mad at the school library during the lockdown! Quizzes were a fabulous way of bringing pupils together remotely. COVID-19 has been a truly unprecedented crisis, beyond anything that any of us have ever faced before. At the Academy we've been adapting to this surreal and bizarre new of way of life, as best as we could, with the help of some exciting Disney quizzes along the way.

1. Mixed up scar 2. Not scared 3. Brick barrier and a vowel 4. Change just one letter of this Disney title and you’re in a European city 5. Ship stealers from near Cuba 6. The existence of an arthropod invertebrate

Four big Disney lockdown quizzes took Four big Disney lockdown quizzes took place placeduring during lockdown. The number of pupils The numbertook of place pupils Four biglockdown. Disney lockdown quizzes participating in the from home waswas utterly participating in quizzes the The quizzes from during lockdown. number ofhome pupils participating in the quizzes home was utterly We hadfrom lots ofprizes fabulous Four bigoutstanding. Disney lockdown quizzes took outstanding. We had lots of fabulous up place for Pupils received questions in many different utterly outstanding. We had lots of fabulous prizes up for grabs. Canvas book bags of during lockdown. The number of pupils grabs. Canvas book bags Canvas of Disney characters were Pupils receivedThe questions in many was different formats. most popular our picture prizes up for grabs.were booksought-after bags of Disney characters highly formats. The most popular was our picture participating in the quizzes from home was highlyprizes. sought-after prizes. We also had beautiful rounds and our cryptic clue rounds. The cryptic Disney characters were highly sought-after Answers We also had beautiful die-cast metal rounds and our cryptic clue rounds. The cryptic clues certainly provided a linguistic utterly outstanding. We had lots of fabulous prizes. Wecollectors’ also had beautiful die-cast metal die-cast metal figurines of popular collectors' figurines of popular Disney clues certainly provided linguistic in many different received a questions 1. Pupils Cars collectors' figurines of Canvas popular book Disneybags of workout. Double-meanings and wordplay were prizes up such for grabs. Disney characters such as Mickey and Minnie workout. Double-meanings and wordplay were characters as Mickey and Minnie Mouse, formats. The most popular was characters such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse, taken to mind-bending new levels. Why not our picture 2. Brave to mind-bending new levels. Why not Disney characters were highlyandand sought-after Kermit the frog, Buzz Lightyear Mouse, Kermit frog, Buzz Lightyear and the takenchallenge Kermit thethe frog, Buzz Lightyear the the rounds and our cryptic clue rounds. yourself to a sample challenge 3. yourself to a sample of someof of some our of our The cryptic Wall-e Cheshire Cat, to name just few. die-cast metal prizes. We had beautiful Cheshire Cat, to name just few. Cheshire Cat, to also name just aa afew. Disney cryptic questions below? Each clue certainly provided a linguistic Disney cryptic questions below? Each clue 4. clues Mulan collectors' figurines of popular Disney should lead you to the name of Disney should leadworkout. you to theDouble-meanings name of a Disneya and wordplay were 5.Good Pirates of the Carribean characters such as Mickey and Minnie Mouse, film.film. Good luck! luck! to Life mind-bending new levels. Why not 6. taken A Bug’s Kermit the frog, Buzz Lightyear and the challenge yourself to a sample of some of our 1. Mixed up scarup scar 1. Mixed Cheshire Cat, to name just a few. 2. Not scared 2. Disney Not scaredcryptic questions below? Each clue 3. Brickshould barrier and a vowel HOSTS ACADEMY LIBRARY lead you to the name of a Disney 3. Brick barrier and a vowel 4. Change just one letter of this Disney title 4. Change just one letter of this Disney title film.inGood luck! QUIZZES AID LITERARY QUIZZES IN IN AID OFOF OUR and LITERARY you're a European city and you're a European city 5. Ship stealers frominnear CubaNHS OUR NHS 5. Ship stealers from near Cuba 6. The existence of up an scar arthropod 1. Mixed 6. The existence of an arthropod invertebrate

2. Not scared 3. Brick barrier and a vowel Answers Answers 4. Change just one letter of this Disney title We also had our very own handmade Disney quiz 1. Cars and you're in a European city WeThe alsofabulous had our very own handmade mascot! clay figurine of Disney Stitch from 2. Brave 1. Cars quiz mascot! The fabulous clay figurine of 3. Wall-e 5. Ship stealers from near Cuba We also had our very handmade Disney Disney’s ‘Lilo and Stitch’ was madewas bymade Madhu 2. Brave Stitch from Disney's 'Liloown and Stitch' 6. The existence of an arthropod 4. Mulan quiz mascot! The fabulous clay figurine of 3. Wall-e by Madhu from Form III. Pandiaraj fromPandiaraj Form III. 5. Pirates of the Carribean invertebrate Stitch from Disney's 'Lilo and Stitch' was made Mulan 6. A4.Bug's Life Pupilsbyreceived questions inForm manyIII.different Madhu Pandiaraj from 5. Pirates of the Carribean 6. Answers A Bug's Life formats. The most popular was our picture rounds and our cryptic clue rounds. The cryptic clues 1. Cars certainly provided a linguistic workout. DoubleWe also had our very own handmade Disney 2. Brave meanings and wordplay were taken to mindquiz mascot! The fabulous clay figurine of 3. Wall-e bending levels. Why'Lilo not challenge to Stitchnew from Disney's and Stitch'yourself was made 4. Mulan by Madhu Pandiaraj from Form III. 5. Pirates of the Carribean The school libraryLife hosted its BIG BUMPER 100 6. A Bug's BOOK QUIZZES weekly since the return to invertebrate

The

Trips and Events

Kind and Smile. The message is focused on sharing

The school library hosted its BIG BUMPER the love, andquizzes at a time when thislibrary sentiment is more weekly since the return to The in the school brought The school library BOOK hosted QUIZZES its BIG BUMPER school in September 2020. Junior pupils met much joy to juniorThe pupils, at a time this ws important than ever. funds willwhen be donated to BOOK QUIZZESweekly weekly since the to return to in the fun during lunch take part so very crucial. Special edition 'Love heart' a dedicated Intensive Care Unit research fund, part literary quizzes. weremet quizzed on a wide Swizzels sweets were purchased as prizes for school in September 2020. JuniorPupils pupils of Manchester University NHS Foundation range of topics and the pupils competed in the quizzes. This is because all profits fromTrust, weekly during lunch to take part in the fun literary groups of four. There were many exciting these special edition bags go directly to the into and will contribute to the continued research quizzes. Pupils were quizzed on a wide range of topics including: NHS.

topics and the pupils competed in groups of four.  Potions in Harry Potter There were many exciting topics including:  Name the Fairytale

 Shakespeare • Potions in Harry Potter  Complete the title • Name the Fairytale  Reading the Roald Dahl Menu  Christmas in books • Shakespeare • Complete the title Songs in books  Disney • Reading the Roald Dahl Dads Menu in books  War • Christmas in books • Songs in books  Animals in books  Classics • Disney • Dads in books Individual spot questions were also asked at • War the end of the rounds. Some examples of spot • Animals in books questions were: • Classics 

Which Hogwarts student has a first

Individual spot questionsname werethatalso at association to has aasked significant a dragon? the end of the rounds. Some examples of spot  What birds are used instead of mallets questions were: when Alice is playing croquet with the

• Which Hogwarts student has a first name that has a significant association to a dragon? • What birds are used instead of mallets when Alice is playing croquet Queen Queen of Heartswith in the Alice and of HOSTS Wonderland? Hearts in Alice and Wonderland? N AID OF  In Lemony Snicket's 'A series of • In Lemony Snicket’s ‘A series of Unfortunate Unfortunate events', what does Violet do events’, what Violet do to help her think? to helpdoes her think?

The specially branded NHS Love Hearts sweets feature messages such as Thank You, My Hero, Be Kind and Smile. The message is focused on sharing the love, and at a time when this sentiment is more important than ever. The funds will be donated to a dedicated Intensive Care Unit research fund, part of Manchester University NHS Foundation Trust, and will contribute to the continued research into COVID-19.

We'dtolike to give a big thankstotoall all NHS staff, We’d like give a big thanks NHS staff, One day ha We'd like tirelessly to give a on bigthe thanks to all to NHS One daytheh working frontline carestaff, for celebrate working tirelessly on the frontline totocare for working tirelessly on the carestaff for celebrate th people in need, and to frontline NHS support school library inbehind need,to to support NHS staff peoplepeople in need, and NHS staff working school libra working theand scenes, in thesupport fight against all things Ha behindinthe scenes, the fightCOVID-19. against COVID-19. all things H behindworking the scenes, the fightinagainst

COVID-19.

G BUMPER The quizzes in the school library brought much the return to The quizzes in the school library brought joy to junior pupils, atpupils, a time thisthis wswsso or pupils met much joy to junior at awhen time when very crucial. ‘Love 'Love heart’heart' Swizzels rt in the fun so verySpecial crucial. edition Special edition zed on a wide sweets were as the prizes for sweets Swizzels were purchased aspurchased prizes for quizzes. competed in the quizzes. This is because all profits from This is these because all edition profitsbags from special many exciting special go these directly to the edition NHS. bags go directly to the NHS.

COVID-19.

The specially branded NHS Love Hearts sweets feature messages such as Thank You, My Hero, Be

Do you know

MAGICAL VIRTUAL WORLD has? Do kno yo Do you Firebolt bro BOOK DAY CELEBRATIONS! MAGICAL VIRTUAL WORLDBOOK has? Do yo MAGICAL VIRTUAL WORLD quidditch Firebolt fou br BOOK DAY CELEBRATIONS!

DAYcould CELEBRATIONS! Lockdown not prevent the young wizards of BRA meeting mark World Book Day Lockdown could nottoprevent the young wizards 2021. from the school of BRAExcited meetingwizards to mark World Book met Day virtually to participate in the Harry Potter 2021. Excited wizards from school met quizzes during lunchtime. in Harry Potter virtually to participate quizzes during lunchtime.

challenging quidditch fo quizzes. challenging

quizzes. It was fanta remotely wi It was fant World Boo remotely w 101 reading. Free World Bo for World Bo

The Owl 2021

Lockdown could not prevent the young wizards of BRA meeting to mark World Book Day 2021. Excited wizards from the school met virtually to participate in Harry Potter quizzes during lunchtime.

ll NHS staff, One day had simply not been enough to One day haddaysimply not been enough to celebrate NHS ell to carestaff, for One had simply not for beenreading. enough The to celebrate their huge love eupport to carestaff for their huge love for reading. The school library celebrate theirhosted huge a love for reading. The school library week-long celebration of support staff fight against library hosted a week-long all things Harry Potter to celebrate. hosted school a week-long celebration ofcelebration all thingsofHarry fight against all things Harry Potter to celebrate.

Potter to celebrate.

Do you know how many staircases Hogwarts

youDoknow many staircasesHogwarts Hogwarts know how many staircases WORLD Do youDo has? you how know the maximum speed of a has? WORLD has? Do you know the maximum speed of a broomstick or how many possible TIONS! Do youFirebolt know the maximum speed of a Firebolt Firebolt or how TIONS! quidditchbroomstick fouls there are? Thesemany are thepossible types of

broomstick or how many possiblearequidditch quidditch fouls there are? the types of fouls challenging questions ourThese pupils faced in the oung wizards challenging questions our pupils faced in the oung wizards there are? These are the types of challenging quizzes. d Book Day quizzes. d school Book Day questions our pupils faced in the quizzes. met schoolPotter met It was fantastic to see our pupils engaging arry It was fantastic toour see our pupils engaging Harry Potter It was fantastic to seeone pupils engaging remotely remotely with another and celebrating remotely with one another and celebrating World Book Day and their love for with one another celebrating World World BookandDay and their love Book for Day reading. Free copies of special books published and their loveFree for copies reading. Free books copies of special reading. of special published for World Book Day were posted out for pupils for World Book Day were posted out for pupilsposted books published World Book Day were to enjoy andfor keep. to enjoy and keep. out for pupils to enjoy and keep.

102

E.M. E.M.

E.M.

Because we never lose in a test. Literary Contributions

My English teachers are real fun,

Watching the seconds…

Cause they are as bright as the sun

Slowly becoming minutes…

Literary Contributions Alexander Scott (I)

When I got home to my surprise, FIRST DAY RAP

Then becoming hours…. LOCKDOWN HAIKUS

My parents waiting withgreat, a surprise! Mywere first day was kinda I met Nelly Rebecca Cause McKeown (I) at her gate.

FIRST DAY about RAP the school We walked and talked

And how daygreat, was gonna rule. My first day wasthe kinda CauseWe’re I met Nelly at her gate.which is the best, both in Shaw,

The gold sun rises; Slowly becoming minutes…

Every day is always the same,

I didhours…. online school. Then becoming

Drowning without death.

Alexander It wasn’t really that cool, Scott (I)

I did onlineHannah school. Hanif (I)

Because we never lose in a test.

But that I made It wasn’t really cool, it

My English teachers are real fun,

But I madeOscar it work.Hilditch

We walked and talked about the school And how the day was gonna rule.

We’re both in Shaw, which is the best,

work.

(I) Watching the seconds…

Oscar Hilditch (I)

Cause they are Because we never loseasinbright a test. as the sun

Slowly becoming minutes…

My English are real fun,surprise, When teachers I got home to my

Then becoming hours….

Cause they are as bright as the sun

Alexander Scott (I)

My parents were waiting with a surprise!

When I got home to my surprise,

Rebecca McKeown (I)

My parents were waiting with a surprise! Rebecca McKeown (I)

I did online school. It wasn’t really that cool, But I made it work. Oscar Hilditch (I)

Well done to Middle Sixth pupil, Zara Meadows, whose poem “Growth” was published in the ‘Fighting Words’ section of The Irish Times, a feature which celebrates young Irish and International writing.

GROWTH LOCKDOWN HAIKUS The gold sun rises;

of their bursting around the edges, their distinguished outpouring of sweetness, polite assassinations

Every day is always the same,

jouking round the juiced-up corners

Drowning without death. Hannah Hanif (I) Watching the seconds…

These words have ripened- I am aware

of my imagination, apologetically wrathful. Coming to write at all is coming to sink your knuckles deep into rot, to 103

The Owl 2021

leave your stains behind in the blank spaces between stanzas to thumb out the letters that will fill them in. It is to heave lungfuls of language and feel your breath blow open a thousand dictionaries, spit marks on footnotes, sticky prints on page numbers, to clutch a question mark in your fist like a sword in a stone. Tomorrow I think I will dance in a full-stop field, tongue a phantom protagonist, get wine-drunk on a satisfying denouement. But now it is helpful to know your way around the black opening of a tonsilled alley, out of which a million guttural hacks are phlegmed every day- it will be these that first define you. They will knot your eloquence like a clumsy Boy Scout, hang you gagged and yearning for a sentence. If your opened wounds are not peppered with salt once you’ve saved the word document, all of it was nothing but a few etchings of inky software, the clot-gluey dregs of a knife- scraped jam jar You are responsible for this clarity, this opening of yourself for leisurely auction-write only on what the world will surely understand. In the tradition of a thousand poets before me, this was about blackberries- but you had to know at least one deep metaphor about fruit to really ‘get it’. Zara Meadows (MVI) The poetry of several students was published in a special anthology entitled “Write to the Heart.” A number of year groups took part in the Community Arts Partnership’s “Poetry in Motion” initiative 104

earlier in the year. Lower Sixth Student, Kathleen Malone, went on to win the Seamus Heaney Award for Achievement for her poem, “Daniel’s Piano.” Form III student, Niall Blaskett was

Literary Contributions

‘Highly Commended’ for his poem, “Melodies of Memories.” Congratulations to all students whose work was selected for this anthology.

Pause left lying in our tablature. So we broke apart and went a cappella, Lamenting alone. Without accompaniment. Left only with an arpeggio of the past. Even Daniel’s Piano couldn’t make it last. Kathleen Malone (LVI)

The poetry of several students was published in a special anthology entitled “Write to the Heart.” A number of year groups took part in the Community Arts Partnership’s “Poetry in Motion” initiative earlier in the year. Lower Sixth Student, Kathleen Malone, went on to win the Seamus Heaney Award for Achievement for her poem, “Daniel’s Piano.” Form III student, Niall Blaskett was ‘Highly Commended’ for his poem, “Melodies of Memories.” Congratulations to all students whose work was selected for this anthology.

DANIEL’S PIANO There was always one note that never jived

On Daniel’s old, faithful piano. DANIEL’S PIANO One weighted key that wasn’t sharp enough

To unlock the doors of our troubled songs, Or catch the thinning strings of our disquiet. That key told us we lived in dissonance; That our makeshift family lacked rhythm, Always beating out of time, grasping for Rhyme to lead us as we went. Truly we Were making it up as we went along. But sometimes there was birdsong, and we had Made a sanctuary full of all musicEven if my pseudo-brother couldn’t Sing like me or other boys led in choir, Even then. With music we could aspire. Even as we saw it fall apart and we Searched for a melody in the wreck. But all we found was that note. It was flat. And this time it would cost too much to fix. It would cost us the last shred of harmony. The last line; the last note; the last Pause left lying in our tablature. So we broke apart and went a cappella, Lamenting alone. Without accompaniment. Left only with an arpeggio of the past. Even Daniel’s Piano couldn’t make it last.

There was always one note that never jived On Daniel’s old, faithful piano.

One weighted key that wasn’t sharp enough To unlock the doors of our troubled songs,

Or catch the thinning strings of our disquiet. That key told us we lived in dissonance;

That our makeshift family lacked rhythm, Always beating out of time, grasping for Rhyme to lead us as we went. Truly we Were making it up as we went along.

Kathleen Malone (LVI) But sometimes there was birdsong, and we had

Made a sanctuary full of all musicEven if my pseudo-brother couldn’t Sing like me or other boys led in choir, Even then. With music we could aspire. Even as we saw it fall apart and we Searched for a melody in the wreck. But all we found was that note. It was flat. And this time it would cost too much to fix. It would cost us the last shred of harmony. The last line; the last note; the last

PAINTING SHIPS

Today’s work left a PAINTING blister. SHIPS A jutting, bloodshot tongue Today’s work left a blister.

A jutting, bloodshot tongue

my words a whisper. Turning myTurning words into into a whisper. Those words in water they seem to swim

Those words water seem to swim In ain liquid, thick, they incarnadine. It tells me I am sick, and I will die.

In a liquid, thick, incarnadine.

And try as I might to take a breath,

they ache, my soul is tired, It tells me IMy amdepths sick, and I will die. The air I make is puss and bile.

And try as IThere’s might to take breath, a sickness in me,aI know, But I’ve no other place to go,

My life ache, is labour, my plumbous My depths they soulandisstiff,tired, Always waiting on another shift, The air I make is knotting, puss and Knuckles never bile. stopping, Enslaved by this flicking wrist.

There’s a sickness in me, I know, But I’ve no other place to go, My life is labour, plumbous and stiff, Always waiting on another shift, Knuckles knotting, never stopping, Enslaved by this flicking wrist. My life itself seems to drip. My blood is lead, flaked and thick,

105

My life itself seems to drip. My blood is lead, flaked and thick, The paint becomes The Owl 2021 my fingertips.

This piano, my soul, my life, To me, there is no greater art Then hearing sound cut silence like a knife.

My life itself seems to drip. My memory burning now.and thick, Myis blood is lead, flaked The paintknow becomes my fingertips. I don’t my own face. The paint becomes my fingertips.

For I am a musician at heart, This piano, my soul, my life, To me, The there isharmonies no greater art then start to All around, the is too, filled, The melodies and then Then hearing sound air cut silence like a knife.

don’t know my own face. I don’t knowIOnly my own face. a muddy, leaden reflection.

The melodies too, and then The piece draws slowly to an end, All around, the air is filled,

Only a muddy, leaden reflection. My memory is burning My memory isnow. burning now. Only a muddy, leaden reflection.

Kathleen Malone (LVI)Kathleen Malone (LVI) Kathleen Malone (LVI)

build,

All around, theagain. air is filled, As notes ringstart out The the harmonies then to build,

As the notes ring out again.

As the notes ring out again. V-I, the chords The pieceresolve, draws slowly to an end, piece draws to an resolve, end, V-I, theslowly chords IThe stand up, take a bow, and send V-I, theIchords standresolve, up, take

a bow, and send Joy as the mystery of silence is solved. Joy as the mystery of silence is solved.

I stand a bow, and Joy asup, thetake mystery ofsend silence is solved.

For music is my love, my passion, For music is my love, my passion,

For music is my My light within the dark, My light within the dark,love, my passion, Never out of fashion, My light within

the dark,

Never out of my fashion, In flooded tears, Ark. Never out of fashion,

In tears, Ark.my Ark. In and flooded tears, Theflooded ebony ivory my Sit solemnly beside,

The ebony and And deep within myivory heart, I see

Thenever ebony That music dies.

and ivory

Sit solemnly beside,beside, Sit solemnly

Niall Blaskett (III) Andwithin deep within myI heart, And deep my heart, see I see

That music never dies. That music never dies. Niall Blaskett (III)

MELODIES OF MEMORIES MELODIES OF MEMORIES The The

The before keys stand before me, keys stand me, The notes fill my mind, nowhere that I’d rather be notes fillThere’s my mind, Than here, leaving doubt behind.

There’s nowhere that I’d rather be

The music sits upon the stand,

Photocopied, dog-eared, well worn, Than here, leaving doubt behind. MELODIES OF MEMORIES I channel the notes from eyes to hand,

The music sits uponthis thewas stand, Knowing why I was born.

The keys stand before well me, worn, Photocopied, dog-eared, The first note rings out, loud and clear, The notes fill my mind, Transferred to keys from stave,

I There’s channel the notes from eyes to reaches hand, And I know as the sound nowhere that I’d rather be my ear, There’s no path I’d rather pave.

Than here, Knowing thisleaving was whydoubt I wasbehind. born.

The first note rings out, loud and clear,

The music sits upon the stand,

Transferred to keys from stave, Photocopied, dog-eared, well worn,

I channel notes from eyes to And I knowthe as the sound reaches myhand, ear, Knowing this was why I was born.

There’s no path I’d rather pave.

For heart, TheI am firsta musician note ringsatout, loud and clear,

Transferred keysmy from This piano, mytosoul, life,stave,

And I know as the sound reaches my ear, There’s no path I’d rather pave.

To me, there is no greater art

Then hearing sound cut silence like a knife. The harmonies then start to build, The melodies too, and then

106

Niall Blaskett (III)

YOU REALLY GOT A HOLD ON ME It soothes, delights and motivates Whenever life gets me uptight And in my sleep, I contemplate To recall some lyrics throughout the night Its aura seems to connect others An aspiration for joyful lots YOU Still then, I’ll think, REALLY in darkest hoursGOT A HOLD REALLY OfYOU four Liverpool moptops GOT A HOLD ON

ON ME

Zachary Gomito (I) It soothes, delights and motivates

It soothes, delights and motivates Whenever life getslife megets uptight Whenever me uptight in my Isleep, I contemplate And inAnd my sleep, contemplate To recall some lyrics throughout the night To recall someseems lyrics throughout night Its aura to connectthe others Its aura to connect others lots Anseems aspiration for joyful Still then, think, An aspiration forI’ll joyful lotsin darkest hours Of four Liverpool moptops Still then, I’ll think, in darkest hours

Zachary Gomito (I) Of four Liverpool moptops Zachary Gomito (I)

Literary Contributions

THE CREATURE THE CREATURE THE CREATURE The creature’s timid and soft nature,

The creature’s timid and soft nature, Is feared by most people. The creature’s timid and soft nature, Is feared by most people.

Its tiny little feet move swiftly throughout the

little feet move swiftly Is feared Its bytiny most people. halls. throughout the halls.

It doesn’t like to boast, one of its humble sort

It doesn’t like to boast, one of its humble sort of features. Its tiny little feet move swiftly throughout the halls. of features.

UNCONDITIONAL

She looks at me and gently sighs

Its long pinkish tail, its tiny button nose sighsI lightly stroke her head It doesn’tItslike boast, one ofbutton its humble sort ofShe looks at me and gently And then long to pinkish tail, its tiny nose Its lengthy whiskers, its beady black eyes. And then I lightly stroke her head And carry her up to my bed. Its kindblack littleeyes. face, to his family he goes, features. Its lengthy whiskers, its beady her up to my bed. play together every day Its kind little face, to his In family he goes, his hole his little baby lies. And carryWe In the morning she wakes me up In his holetail, his little Its long pinkish itsbaby tinylies. button nose My beautiful, chocolate morning she wakes me up loving We run and tumble in the hay pup The baby is awaiting her dinner In as the is his wife. I adore mypup dachshund, my Coco bean My beautiful, loving chocolate And he knows, so the first whiff of cheese Thewhiskers, baby is awaiting dinnerblack as is hiseyes. wife. Its lengthy its her beady She looks at me and gently sighs To she is never, ever mean. I adore my myme Coco bean draws I dachshund, throw her treats and make her bark And he knows, so the first whiffhim of in. cheese To me she is never, ever mean. He runs towards it and is about to take a bite, And then I lightly stroke her head draws face, him in. to his family he goes, Its kind little No need to shout it but it’s true The trap goes down, the human has Being with her is such aour lark. He runs towards it and isSNAP! about to take a bite, The warmest heart of crew And carry her up to my bed. No need to shout it but it’s true sinned. SNAP! trapbaby goes down, the human has In his hole his The little lies. Her love needs no amplifier The warmest heart of our crew sinned. With her Nor brown and the help of agracious town crier! eyes The little creature lies on the floor, Her love needs no amplifier The baby is awaiting her dinner as is his wife. Its family house, Nor little the help a town crier! In the morning shelies wakes mescared up and alone, in their The little creature on the floor, Sheof looks at me and Cézar Spack (1) gently sighs This poor creature, was Its family scared and alone, in their little house, My he beautiful, chocolate pup drawsCézar Spack (1) And knows, soloving the first whiff A mouse.of cheese This poor creature, was And then I lightly stroke her head him in. Amy I adore dachshund,Beatrice my Coco bean mouse. Seath (I) And carry her up to my bed. Toruns me she is never, ever mean. He towards it and Beatrice Seath (I) is about to take a bite, UNCONDITIONAL In the morning she wakes me up SNAP! The trap goes down, the human has sinned. UNCONDITIONAL playtrue together every day No need to shout it butWe it’s My beautiful, loving chocolate pup We run and tumble in the hay The little creature lies on the floor, The warmest heartevery of our crew We play together day I throw her treats and make her bark I adore my dachshund, my Coco bean with her is such a lark. We run and and tumble in theBeing hay Her love needs no alone, amplifier Its family scared in their little house, I throw her treats and make her bark To me she is never, ever mean. With her brown and gracious eyes Nor poor theBeing help ofherawas crier! with istown such a lark. This creature, No need to shout it but it’s true A mouse.With her brown and gracious eyes Cézar Spack (1) The warmest heart of our crew Beatrice Seath (I) Her love needs no amplifier

Nor the help of a town crier!

Cézar Spack The (1)fur creeps up

As she peers arou Someone creeps And scoops Stray

HOW DO I WRITE THIS POEM?

Stray cat, stray ca Meows so loud Where she’s goin It isn’t homeward Crunch, crunch, g And the ‘predato What to do, wher Stray Cat doesn’t Vroom vroom, g As it sets off at sp Stray Cat wonder And the things th 107the door is Soon Stray Cat is taken

The Owl 2021

HOW DO I WRITE THIS POEM?

Predators are laying low. The fur creeps up her back As she peers around

I cannot keep delaying.

Someone creeps up behind with a sack

Why am I so stressed about it?

The fur creeps up her back

How do IAswrite this around poem? How do I lay it out? she peers creeps up behind with atosack Do I use Someone witty writing? Does it need rhyme? And scoops Stray Cat off the ground.

I have begun my research Stray cat, stray cat

And scoops Stray Cat off the ground. Stray cat, stray cat Meows so loud Where she’s going, she knows that

And the panic Meowswon’t so loudgo away.

Where she’s going, she knows that I only have a few days.

It isn’t homeward-bound. Crunch, crunch, goes snow Surely I will know what to the write by then. And the ‘predator’ opens a door YouTubeWhat wasn’t much help! to do, where to go Stray Cat doesn’t know anymore. Turns outVroom I’m too young for Seamus Heaney. vroom, goes the car As it sets off at The standard seems sospeed high. Stray Cat wonders where they are Will I ever done? Andget thethis things that she might need. Soon the door is opened There areStray so many thingsinto to the choose from. Cat is taken warmth POEM? She doesn’t knoworwhere Life, Lockdown, Love Loss.she’s going Until she sees her best friend, Morph! Stray is greeted warmly Why is this soCat hard!? And she isn’t scared anymore. do I lay it Wait! I’ve got it! I know what to say.

Fox (I) eed to rhyme? Now it’s Claire time to get started…

Evan Craig (I)

It isn’t homeward-bound. Crunch, crunch, goes the snow And the ‘predator’ opens a door What to do, where to go Stray Cat doesn’t know anymore. Vroom vroom, goes the car As it sets off at speed Stray Cat wonders where they are And the things that she might need. Soon the door is opened Stray Cat is taken into the warmth She doesn’t know where she’s going Until she sees her best friend, Morph! Stray Cat is greeted warmly

y then.

And she isn’t scared anymore.

us Heaney.

Claire Fox (I)

e from. say.

STRAY CAT Stray cat, stray cat Wanders in the snow Little does she know, that 108

THE BEAUTIFUL NATURE OF MUSIC

Literary Contributions

Music is by your side, Because music can be found anywhere, From CD’s to online. And music proves everyone wrong, By making them happy. Nobody knows how important music is, In today’s living society. So if you are feeling down, Anxious, angry or depressed, Go to music for help,

Because music just beats the rest. Kian Gastar (III)

oul.

TURE MUSIC RE OFOF MUSIC

There is About st The rom Lit by on

eart, mind soul. t, mind andand soul.

holes. stkest holes.

ng, r life. fe. hapes and sizes, pes and sizes, y devices.

The beau Stars fill Realising And how

evices.

d anywhere,

nywhere,

e wrong,

So many Like life Out of al These on

rong,

ant music is,

music is,

But I rea About be Maybe I’ Or mayb

e rest.

est.

THE BEAUTIFUL NATURE OF MUSIC

MY LOVE FOR LUNA There is something almost magic,

When music is played,

About staying up all night,

It stops the decay of your heart, mind and soul.

The romantic glow of the earth,

It radiates a powerful light,

Lit by only the moonlight.

That shines through the darkest holes.

The beauty of the constellations,

Music is a one of a kind thing,

Stars filling the sky,

That everyone needs in their life.

Realising how small I really am,

Music comes in countless shapes and sizes,

And how one day this earth will die.

That can be played in many devices.

So many things are possible,

No matter where you go,

Like life far away,

The beau The ama Like how And som

The anom The moo If I could Oh how Oh how That I ca The vast And the

It’s funn It would years, And alth frighteni The stars 109 And yes

THIS LITTLE GIRL The Owl 2021

Out of all the thoughts that keep me up, These ones can’t be kept a bay. But I really am not mad, About being kept up late, Maybe I’m an insomniac,

The courage it took this little girl, To overcome her biggest fear Climbing higher The myher fears. Asstars fearhelp triedmetoface push down again She’s And yes fighting, there may be science, This little girl won’t give up her battles That proves in sleep I need eight hours, She’s not going to quit But Notmaybe untilI’m dayanisinsomniac, done. Or perhaps I have some powers.

Zoe Piddington (III) Sophie-Jane Graham (III)

Or maybe it’s my fate. The beauty of this reality, The amazing view, Like how life will forever continue, And somewhere stars are new. The anomalies of the world, The moon in each phase,

MY LOVE FOR LUNA There is something almost magic, About staying up all night, The romantic glow of the earth, Lit by only the moonlight. The beauty of the constellations, Stars filling the sky, Realising how small I really am, And how one day this earth will die. A WHISPER

If I could touch the stars, Oh how I’d be in craze. Oh how I always wish, That I can someday visit space, The vast dark vacuum, And the moon base.

whisper the wind calls its name, So many A things areonpossible, but itaway, does not listen. Like life far looks at the skythat above, Out of allItthe thoughts keep me up, and watches the stars glisten. These ones can’t be kept a bay. The whisper slashes at its skin,

It’s funny how the stars aren’t even here, It would be amazing to travel all those light years, And although people say the night is frightening,

But I really the am scarsnot willmad, never fade. Yet itkept moves About being upforward, late, impaled by the wind’s blade. Maybe I’m an insomniac, THIS LITTLE Or maybeItit’s my fate. walks for miles,

GIRL

far, far away.

Thebeauty courage it took thisup,little girl, The reality, Butof thethis wind catches no matter where it goes, the whisper follows. The amazing view, To overcome her biggest fear Like how life will forever continue, It stops and holds its ground, And somewhere stars are new. Climbing and higher thinks of what to do. For now it knows the price to pay,

THIS LITTLE GIRL The courage it took this little girl, To overcome her biggest fear Climbing higher As fear tried to push her down again She’s fighting, This little girl won’t give up her battles She’s not going to quit Not until day is done. Zoe Piddington (III)

As anomalies feartotried to push her The world, makeof thethe whisper go down away. again The moon in each phase, She’s fighting, considers, but doesn’t cave in, If I couldIttouch the stars, it still strides. Oh howlittle I’d be in won’t craze. give up her battles This girl The whisper finally stops, Oh how Iand always wish, now it can do what it wants. She’s notsomeday going to quit That I can visit space, Kacper Przednowek The vast dark vacuum, Not until day is done. (III) And the moon base.

Zoe Piddington (III)

It’s funny how the stars aren’t even here, It would be amazing to travel all those light years, And although people say the night is frightening, The stars help me face my fears. And yes there may be science, That proves in sleep I need eight hours, But maybe I’m an insomniac, Or perhaps I have some powers.

110

Sophie-Jane Graham (III)

Literary Contributions A WHISPER A whisper on the wind calls its name, but it does not listen. It looks at the sky above, and watches the stars glisten. The whisper slashes at its skin, the scars will never fade. Yet it moves forward, impaled by the wind’s blade. It walks for miles, far, far away. But the wind catches up, no matter where it goes, the whisper follows. It stops and holds its ground, and thinks of what to do. For now it knows the price to pay, to make the whisper go away.

A WHISPER

THIS LITTLE GIRL The on courage took this little A whisper the itwind calls itsgirl, name, To overcome her biggest fear

Climbing higher but it does not listen.

It considers, but doesn’t cave in, it still strides. The whisper finally stops, and now it can do what it wants. Kacper Przednowek (III)

As fear tried to push her down again

It looksShe’s at the sky above, fighting,

This little girl won’t give up her battles

and watches thegoing starsto glisten. She’s not quit Not until day is done.

The whisper slashes at its skin, Piddington (III) the scarsZoewill never fade.

Yet it moves forward, impaled by the wind’s blade. It walks for miles, far, far away. But the wind catches up, no matter where it goes, the whisper follows. It stops and holds its ground, and thinks of what to do. For now it knows the price to pay, to make the whisper go away. It considers, but doesn’t cave in, it still strides. The whisper finally stops, and now it can do what it wants. Kacper Przednowek (III)

111

The Owl 2021

Ben Madigan Preparatory School SCHOOL DIARY SCHOOL DIARY2020/21 2020/21 SEPTEMBER 2020 SEPTEMBER 2020

Due to COVID restrictions, the annual MacMillan Coffee Morning was unable to operate as normal. Despite this, a tremendous total of £855.40 was raised by pupils, parents and staff. OCTOBER 2020 During October Ben Madigan received a beautiful donation of flowers to brighten up the entrance to our main school building.

Prep 4 pupils adapting to using their brains on mental maths tasks again after summer! **** Ben Madigan opened its doors to pupils on August Ben Madigan opened its doors to pupils on August 26th 2020. During the month of September 26th 2020. During the getting month of pupils enjoyed to September know their pupils new enjoyedteacher getting to know their new and and classroom setting. It teacher didn’t take long to settle into the rhythm take of a new academic term. classroom setting. It didn’t long to settle into

the rhythm of a new academic term.

Due to COVID restrictions, the annual MacMillan Coffee Morning was unable to operate as normal. Despite this, a tremendous total of £855.40 was raised by pupils, parents and staff.

OCTOBER 2020 During October Ben Madigan received a beautiful donation of flowers to brighten up the entrance to our main school building. **** ****

**** enjoyed a fabulous in the month Later inLater the month pupilspupils enjoyed a fabulous Halloween Party Day complete with fancy Later in the Day month pupils with enjoyed a fabulous Halloween Party complete fancy dress, dress, dancing and games. Halloween Party Day complete with fancy dancing and games. dress, dancing and games.

4 pupils adapting to using brains Prep 4Prep pupils adapting to using theirtheir brains on on mental maths tasks again after summer! mental maths tasks again after summer!

Ben112 n August

**** **** Due to COVID restrictions, the annual MacMillan Coffee Morning was unable to operate as normal. Despite this, a tremendous

NOVEMBER 2020 After half term Ben Madigan held a Sponsored Run to raise money for Children in Need. This NOVEMBER 2020total of £1250.92. The generated a fantastic pupils had a thoroughly enjoyable day and the

Prep On Pr classic c cla to Tea’. to enjoyed en no tiger

Ben Madigan Preparatory School

DECE

Throug with th DECE the pro Throug carol s with the alongsi the pro Mr Cou carol se alongsi Mr Cou

NOVEMBER 2020 After half term Ben Madigan held a Sponsored Run to raise money for Children in Need. This generated a fantastic total of £1250.92. The pupils had a thoroughly enjoyable day and the top fundraisers were presented with Pudsey Bears.

Prep One pupils were very excited by the ‘Tiger’s Tea’ picnic event. Prep One pupils were very excited by the ‘Tiger’s Tea’ picnic event.

Prep began One began topic, based upon Prep One theirtheir newnew topic, based upon Prep One began their new topic, based upon classic children’s book ‘The Tiger Who Cameto classicclassic children’s book ‘The Tiger Who Came children’s book ‘The Tiger Who Came to Tea’. At the end of their topic the pupils Tea’. At the end of their topic pupils enjoyed to Tea’. At the end of theirthe topic the pupils enjoyed a celebratory picnic event – thankfully a celebratory picnic event – thankfully no tigers enjoyed celebratory no tigers acame to visit!picnic event – thankfully came no to visit! tigers came to visit!

Charlo design Northe Charlot compet design w fantasti Norther compet fantasti

fabulous fabulous th fancy h fancy

ponsored eed. This Prep One pupils were very excited by the ‘Tiger’s ponsored .92. This The eed. Tea’ picnic event. y92. andThe the Pudsey and the Pudsey

****

Although not able to hold a traditional

Although not able hold**** a traditional assembly, assembly, ontoWednesday 11th November each on Wednesday 11th observed November each classsilence ‘bubble’ class ‘bubble’ a one-minute in Although not able to hold a traditional observed a one-minute silence in order to mark order to mark Remembrance Day. assembly, on Wednesday 11th November each Remembrance Day. observed a one-minute silence in class ‘bubble’ order to mark Remembrance Day.

DECEMBER 2020

Throughout December Ben Madigan was filled with the sound of singing as pupils prepared for the professional filming of a virtual Christmas carol service. This was then presented online alongside a virtual Christmas assembly led by Mr Coulter. ****

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the professional filming a virtual Christmas carol service. This was of then presented online carol service. This was then presented alongside a virtual Christmas assemblyonline led by alongside Mr Coulter.a virtual Christmas assembly led by The Owl 2021 Mr Coulter. **** ****

Pupils fun eating Christmas dinner Pupils had funhad eating their their Christmas dinner atat school while wearing festive jumpers. school while wearing festive jumpers. Donations Donations on this day generated a total collected on this collected day generated a total of £315.45 of £315.45 for Save the Children. for Save the Children.

Alongside core numeracy and literacy, pupils began work on their new topics at home. We also challenged pupils to develop different life skills each week. These included setting the table, washing the car, making the bed and tidying around the house. Parents were very glad of the help!

ed bybythe cited the

Charlotte Ingram’s ‘Pain Free Power Pad’

Charlotte Ingram’s Free ‘PainPower Free Power Pad’ Charlotte Ingram’s design design was the‘Pain winning entry in her Pad’ category for design was the winning entry in her category for Irelandin her in category a Leaders’ Award was the Northern winning entry for Northern Northern Ireland in a Leaders’ Award competition arranged Primary Engineers. A Ireland in a Leaders’ Awardbycompetition arranged competition arranged by Primary Engineers. A fantastic achievement. by Primary Engineers. A fantastic achievement. fantastic achievement.

to a surge of Covid-19 cases, pupils once Due to aDue surge of Covid-19 cases, pupils once again returned to a stint of remote learning after to a stint of remote learning after Pupils had fun eating their Christmas dinner at again returned Christmas time. Despite the challenges Christmas time. the challenges involved, Despite Ben Madigan pupils involved, remained school while wearing festive jumpers. Ben Madigan pupils remained engaged in learning engaged in learning throughout this period and Donations collected on this day generated a total throughout this period and produced many produced many fabulous pieces of work. of £315.45 for Save the Children. fabulous pieces of work. JANUARY 2021

JANUARY 2021

traditional vember each traditional ute silence mber eachin

Alongside core numeracy and literacy, pupils began work on their new topics at home. We also ‘Scientific Sue’ an interactive online challenged pupils to delivered develop different life skills lesson for pupils in Preps 3-7. each week. These included setting the table,

e silence in

114

Due to a surge of Covid-19 cases, pupils once again returned to a stint of remote learning after Christmas time. Despite the challenges involved, Ben Madigan pupils remained engaged in learning throughout this period and produced many fabulous pieces of work.

Pupils had fun eating their Christmas dinner at school while 2021 wearing festive jumpers. JANUARY

‘Scienti lesson f

the house. Parents were very glad of the help!

scho pup clas

Ben Madigan Preparatory School

Remote learning continued throughout the month Remote learning continued throughout the of February. Pupils joined lessons online viaonline Zoom month of February. Pupils joined lessons alongside Seesaw activities and Seesaw paper via interactive Zoom alongside interactive learning packs.and paper learning packs. activities

MARCH 2021

inner at umpers. d a total

ils once ng after allenges emained iod and .

Prep 5 began studying birds as their topic.

FEBRUARY 2021

MARCH 2021

‘Scientific Sue’ delivered an interactive online ‘Scientific Sue’ delivered an interactive online for pupils in Preps lessonlesson for pupils in Preps 3-7.3-7.

MARCH 2021

Prep 5 began studying birds as their topic.

FEBRUARY 2021

5 began studying as their topic. PrepPrep 5 began birdsbirds as their topic. Prep 5studying began studying birds as their topic.

On 22 March Ben Madigan opened its doors to all MARCH 2021 pupils once again. To mark the occasion pupils were welcomed through a brilliant balloon archway before they later participated in a range of fun activities led by Activity NI. To top it all off a Morelli ice cream van arrived to deliver some delicious break-time treats. The return to school was a fun and joyous occasion, with pupils delighted to be reacquainted with their classmates again. On

22 March Ben Madigan opened its doors to all pupils once again. To mark the occasion pupils were welcomed through a brilliant balloon Remote learning continued throughout the archway before they later participated in a range month of February. Pupils joined lessons online of fun activities led by Activity NI. To top it all via Zoom alongside interactive Seesaw off a Morelli ice cream van arrived to deliver On activities and paper learning packs. some delicious break-time treats. The return to 22 March Ben Madigan opened its doors to all On school was a funtheand joyous occasion, with pupils 22 once again. To mark occasion pupils March Ben Madigan opened its doors to all pupils delighted be reacquainted were welcomed through to a brilliant balloon with their pupils onceagain. again. To mark the occasion pupils archwayclassmates before they later participated in a range

FEBRUARY 2021 FEBRUARY 2021 2021 FEBRUARY

were welcomed through a itbrilliant balloon of fun activities led by Activity NI. To top all archway they later to participated in a range off a Morelli ice before cream van arrived deliver some delicious break-time treats. The return to of fun activities led by Activity NI. To top it all wasaaMorelli fun and ice joyous occasion, with Remote learning continued throughout the school off cream van arrived to deliver pupils delighted to be reacquainted with their month of February. Pupils joined lessons online some delicious break-time treats. The return to classmates again. via Zoom alongside interactive activities and paper learning packs.

Seesaw

Remote learning continued throughout the month of February. Pupils joined lessons online via Zoom alongside interactive Seesaw

school was a fun and joyous occasion, with pupils delighted to be reacquainted with their classmates again.

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The Owl 2021

On 22 March Ben Madigan opened its doors to all pupils once again. To mark the occasion pupils were welcomed through a brilliant balloon archway before they later participated in a range of fun activities led by Activity NI. To top it all off a Morelli ice cream van arrived to deliver some delicious break-time treats. The return to school was a fun and joyous occasion, with pupils delighted to be reacquainted with their classmates again.

After the enforced break from school, pupils were delighted to enjoy the simple things at school such as time in the playground with their friends. The Spring term brought lots of sunny weather whichAPRIL meant2021pupils could enjoy the enforced from school, pupils After theAfter enforced break break fromoutdoors school, pupils were learning and playing as much as were delighted to enjoy the simple things delighted to enjoy the simple things at school atsuch possible. school such as time in the playground with their as time in the playground with their friends. The friends. The Spring term brought lots of sunny Spring term brought of sunny which weather whichlots meant pupilsweather could enjoy meant pupils could enjoy learning and playing learning and playing outdoors as much as outdoorspossible. as much as possible.

After the enforced break from school, pupils were delighted to enjoy the simple things at After the enforced break from school, pupils school such as time in the playground with their were delighted to enjoy the simple things at friends. The Spring term brought lots of sunny school such as time in the playground with their weather which meant pupils could enjoy friends. The Spring term brought lots of sunny learning and playing outdoors as much as weather which meant pupils could enjoy possible. learning and playing outdoors as much as possible.

****

**** Upon the return to school pupils were able to

receive praise and recognition for all their hard work throughout remote able learning. school pupils were to

Upon the return to receive praise and recognition for all their hard work throughout remote learning. ****

****

**** pupils were able to Upon the return to school

Upon thereceive returnpraise to school pupils were to andtorecognition for were allable their hard Upon the return school pupils able to receive praise and forfor allalltheir work throughout learning. receive praiserecognition andremote recognition theirhard hard work throughout remote learning. work throughout remote learning.

Inside the classroom quickly back Inside the classroom pupilspupils quickly got got back into into the routine of learning and working. Prep 2 the routine of learning and working. Prep 2 began began celebrating new life through their celebrating new life through their butterfly butterfly topic. The children enjoyed topic. the The children enjoyed the opportunity to touse school opportunity to use school art resources create Inside some the beautiful classroom pupils quickly got back art resources to createartwork. some beautiful artwork.

into the routine of learning and working. Prep 2 began celebrating new life through their butterfly topic. The children enjoyed the Inside the classroom quickly got opportunity topupils use school artback resources to create into thethe routine of learning working. Inside classroom pupilsand quickly got Prep back2 some beautiful began celebrating newartwork. lifeworking. throughPrep their into the routine of learning and 2

butterflycelebrating topic. The enjoyedtheir the began newchildren life through opportunity to useThe school art resources to create butterfly topic. children enjoyed the some beautiful artwork. opportunity to use school art resources to create some beautiful artwork. Four Prep 1 pupils reached the fantastic milestone of being able to recognise 300 High Frequency Words.

APRIL 2021

Four Prep 1 pupils reached the fantastic Four Prep 1reached pupils the 300 fantastic milestone of being able reached to recognise High Four Prep 1 pupils the fantastic milestone milestone of being able to recognise 300 High Prep 1 pupils reached the fantastic Words. of being Frequency able to recognise 300 High Frequency Frequency Words.

Four milestone of being able to recognise 300 High Words. APRIL 2021 APRIL 2021 Frequency Words. 116

APRIL 2021

Prep 2 created these beautiful butterflies.

MAY 2021 Ben Madigan Preparatory School

MAY 2021 MAY 2021

Prep 2 created these beautiful butterflies. ****

In early May Pre-Prep pupils went on a ‘Shape Hunt’ around Belfast Castle, where they looked out for as many shapes as possible around the Castle Grounds. They also made shapes using 2 created thesebutterflies. beautiful butterflies. Prep 2 createdPrep these beautiful branches and other natural materials, displaying **** Prep 2 created these **** beautiful butterflies. early May Pre-Prepatpupils went on age. a ‘Shape aIn great understanding such an early In early May Pre-Prep pupils went on a ‘Shape **** Hunt’ around Belfast Castle, where they looked **** Hunt’ around Belfast Castle, where they In early Mayout Pre-Prep went onasa possible ‘Shape around looked for as pupils many shapes the Hunt’ around Belfast Castle,shapes where out for as Grounds. many as looked possible around Castle They they also made shapes using the out for Castle as many shapes possible around the shapes branches andasother natural materials, displaying Grounds. They also made using Castle Grounds. They also made shapes using a greatand understanding at such an early age. branches other natural materials, displaying branches and other natural materials, displaying great understanding at such a great a understanding at such an early age. an early age. The Belfast Royal Academy’s Old Girls’ Association generously donated funds for a classroom set of high quality ukuleles. These were put into good use during the Spring term when RankinRoyal joinedAcademy’s us for whole TheMrBelfast Old class Girls’ lessons once a week. Pupils from Prep 3-7 really Association generously donated funds for a The Belfast Royalthese Academy’s enjoyed and Girls’ quite quickly classroom set lessons of high Old quality ukuleles. These Association generously donated forthea Spring displayed aninto aptitude the instrument. Some were put good for usefunds during Belfast Royal Academy’s Old Girls’ term The The Belfast Royal Academy’s Old Girls’ classroom set of high quality ukuleles. These teachers enjoyed joining in too! when Mr Rankin joined us for whole class Association generously donated funds for a weregenerously put into gooddonated use thePupils Spring Association funds for aterm lessons onceduring a week. from Prep 3-7 really when Mr Rankin joined us for whole class classroom of quality high these quality ukuleles. These enjoyed lessons and quite classroom set ofset high ukuleles. These were quickly lessons once good a week. Pupils from Prep 3-7 really were put into use during the Spring term displayed anSpring aptitudeterm for thewhen instrument. put into good use during the Mr Some enjoyed these lessons and quite quickly teachers enjoyed joining in too! when Mr Rankin joined us for whole class Rankin joined usanforaptitude wholeforclass lessons once displayed the instrument. Somea lessons once a week. Pupils from Prep 3-7 really week. Pupils from Prepjoining 3-7 really enjoyed these teachers enjoyed in too!

enjoyed these lessons and an quite quickly lessons and quite quickly displayed aptitude for displayed an aptitude for the instrument. Some the instrument. Some teachers enjoyed joining in too! teachers enjoyed joining in too!

MAY 2021 In early May Pre-Prep pupils went on a ‘Shape Hunt’ around Belfast Castle, where they looked out for as many shapes as possible around the Castle Grounds. They also made shapes using branches and other natural materials, displaying a great understanding at such an early age.

JUNE

After year, p to com crowd smilin the da

Throughout May and June, we held a planter Our P 117 competition in school. Each class was assigned activit

r d

e o

JUNE 2021

The Owl 2021

Throughout May and June, we held a planter Throughout May and June, we held a planter competition in school. EachEach classclass waswas assigned competition in school. assigned a planter which they had to carefully plan out out a planter which they had to carefully plan and prepare beforebefore bedding. The The planters were and prepare bedding. planters were then judged by Mr Gass and Mrs Clements, who then judged by Mr Gass and Mrs Clements, who decideddecided that Prep were the worthy winners. that 6 Prep 6 were the worthy winners.

After missing out on a Sports’ Day event last year, pupils were thrilled to have an opportunity to compete once of a Our Prep 7 Leavers wereagain. treatedDespite to a funthe dayabsence of activities at the Ardnavally Scouttheir Centre crowd pupils gave all, with with lots of Pathfinders NI. Activities included mountain smiling, sweaty faces on display by the end of biking, theshooting, day. a low ropes course, a bungee race and archery.

Throughout May and June, we held a planter Our Prep 7 Leavers were treated to a fun day of competition in school. Each class was assigned activities at Ardnavally Scout Centre with The weather was fantastic during the Prep 7 a planter which they had to carefully plan out The weather Pathfinders NI. Activities included mountain was fantastic during the by Prep activity day, which was enjoyed all.7 and prepare before bedding. The planters were activity biking, low ropes a bungee day, shooting, which wasa enjoyed by course, all. **** then judged by Mr Gass and Mrs Clements, who race and archery. **** decided that Prep 6 were the worthy winners. Over the course the lots yearoflots of pupils Over the course of the of year pupils hit hit amazing on Accelerated Reader. Here a amazing targetstargets on Accelerated Reader. Here JUNE 2021 Prep 6 pupil celebrates reaching the a Prep 6 pupil celebrates reaching the word word ‘multimillionaire’ status. Incredible! ‘multimillionaire’ status. Incredible!

After missing out on a Sports’ Day event last year, pupils wereJUNE thrilled to have an opportunity 2021 to compete Despite thelast absence of a After missing once out onagain. a Sports’ Day event crowd thewere pupils gave their all, with lots of year, pupils thrilled to have an opportunity to competesweaty once again. Despite the absence a end of smiling, faces on display by ofthe crowd the pupils gave their all, with lots of smiling, the day.

At the end of June, the time had come to say goodbye to our wonderful Prep 7 Leavers. Unlike last year, we were able to hold an enjoyable albeit emotional Leavers’ evening. Parents worked hard to arrange a memorable evening, complete with a BBQ, speeches, bouncy castles, videos and a very special cake. We wish each member of this wonderful class all the very best as they progress on to the next stage of their educational journey.

sweaty faces on display by the end of the day.

Over the course of the year lots of pupils hit amazing targets on Accelerated Reader. Here a Prep 6 pupil celebrates reaching the word ‘multimillionaire’ status. Incredible!

****

At the end of June, the time had come to say Our Prep 7 Leavers were treated to a fun day to our wonderful Prep 7 Leavers. Unlike Our Prep 7atLeavers were treated a fun day goodbye of of activities Ardnavally Scout Centre to with last year, we were able to hold an enjoyable albeit activities NI. at Activities Ardnavally Scout Centre with Pathfinders included mountain emotional Leavers’ evening. Parents worked hard biking, shooting, a low ropes course, a bungee race to arrange a memorable evening, complete with Pathfinders NI. Activities included mountain and archery. a BBQ, speeches, bouncy castles, videos and a

biking, shooting, a low ropes course, a bungee race and archery.

118

Parents worked hard to arrange a memorable evening, complete with a BBQ, speeches, bouncy castles, videos and a very special cake. We wish each member of this wonderful class all the very best as they progress on to the next stage of their journey. very special cake.educational We wish each member of this

Ben Madigan Preparatory School

wonderful class all the very best as they progress on to the next stage of their educational journey.

**** ****

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The Owl 2021

History Corner THE BARRING OUT, 1792 What came to be known as “The Barring Out” occurred in 1792 at a time of intellectual and revolutionary ferment across Europe and beyond. In August 1789 The Declaration of the Rights of Man had been published in France. Later that year the Bastille was stormed. 2 years later, Louis XVI and his queen, Marie Antoinette were captured trying to flee France. Both were to be executed. Also in 1791, Tom Paine wrote his highly influential treatise “The Rights of Man” in defence of the French Revolution. Events in France did not go unnoticed in Ireland. Labouring under various disabilities, both Presbyterians and Roman Catholics were encouraged in their attempts to attain the rights enjoyed by their Anglican fellow countrymen. On 14th July 1791, a large demonstration took place in Belfast to celebrate the second anniversary of the fall of the Bastille. The same year, Wolfe Tone, whose younger brother was to attend Belfast Academy, founded the Society of the United Irishmen, the body responsible for instigating rebellion in Ireland in 1798. Belfast Academy was founded and funded in 1785 by a number of prominent Belfast Presbyterians led by the Reverend Doctor James Crombie who was to become the new school’s first principal. Crombie was to die in 1790 after a short illness and was succeeded by another Presbyterian minister, William Bruce, described as “a tall, handsome man of striking appearance.” As is the case with most new school principals, Bruce quickly imposed his authority and made regulations governing the running of the school. Boys were to arrive in class with their hands and faces washed and their hair combed. Lying, swearing and fighting were strictly forbidden and pupils were not to have dogs or guns without the Principal’s permission! The final straw for many of the boys appears to have been the doing away with 120

the Easter holiday. Inspired by the spirit of the times and fully imbued with the idealism of youth, a number of pupils decided that action must be taken so that their grievances might be addressed. At 6:30am on 12th April 1792, 7 boarders and 2 day pupils, one of whom was the son of James Crombie, the school’s first principal, determined to assert their rights by armed rebellion, took possession of the mathematical classroom which they renamed “Liberty Hall”. The only access to this room was through the writing room. The boys were well prepared, with 5 pistols, a large quantity of ammunition, 14 loaves and a sizeable amount of beef to sustain them. The lit a fire and made themselves comfortable and declared war on the Principal and Patrons of the school until such time as certain privileges were granted to them. Bruce determined to crush the revolt. Accompanied by his wife, he demanded of the boys that they surrender. They refused and instead fired at the couple. Bruce then sent men on to the roof of the building to pour water down the chimney on to the fire. He also commissioned a group of blacksmiths to break down the door of the room. The rebels responded by opening fire on the men, who promptly fled refusing to return. Bruce himself then took a crowbar and, again accompanied by his wife, forced his way into the writing room and advanced towards the mathematical room, under fire from a hole in the door of that room. One bullet narrowly missed Mrs Bruce’s head. Bruce was still determined to smash his way into the mathematical room. However, his fearful and perhaps more sensible wife persuaded him to retreat. As news of the revolt spread, the Sovereign, the chief executive officer of the town, who was also a magistrate, arrived at the school. He ordered the boys to lay down their arms and come out. The boys responded by threatening to part his wig with a bullet. Judiciously, he too fled. In early evening, for reasons which aren’t clear,

History Corner

the boys were persuaded to surrender. The school patrons decided that the rebels must be punished and what were described as “12 stripes” were administered to each boy. They were then brought to the Common Hall were, in front of a full school assembly, they were harangued by the Sovereign. The boys appear to have left the school shortly thereafter. Not surprisingly, Bruce was badly affected by the events and tendered his resignation to the Patrons. They however, recognising Bruce’s qualities, refused to accept the resignation. The Patrons had shown considerable foresight. Despite his inauspicious start, Bruce proved to be one of the Academy’s greatest Principals. He continued to lead the school, which was popularly known as “Bruce’s Academy”, until retiring in 1822, aged 65. Evidence of his high standing are the 2 silver salvers, presented to him by his pupils upon his retirement. Both are now on display in the school’s Heritage Room. Jim Carolan

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Alumni News ALUMNI – KEEP IN TOUCH! We are incredibly proud of all our former pupils and the impact they have had and continue to have both in Northern Ireland and around the world. Linked by a common educational heritage, our alumni can benefit the school and themselves by staying in touch. There are various ways to keep in touch with the school – by joining the Academy Alumni Association or through membership of the Old Boys’ and Old Girls’ Associations. You can join the Alumni Association online in the Alumni section of our new website www. belfastroyalacademy.com or by emailing alumni@ belfastroyalacademy.net Membership is free and open to all past pupils and former staff. Alumni members will receive regular email updates and newsletters and be eligible to attend any alumni events. Your contributions and news are always welcome. Please keep your contacts up to date and let us know of any changes to your details.

something that would not have been possible based solely upon Government funding. The School has plans for a range of future development projects as well as academic and cultural programmes which will enhance the school experience of pupils for many years to come. The new 1785 foundation will play a major role in the fulfilment of these plans. You can become a member of the 1785 Foundation by making a periodic contribution and all Foundation members will receive news and information about the school as well as recognition in the Foundation’s membership review. Donors who contribute at higher levels will receive additional benefits including invitations to an annual reception and selected school events. Plan

Contribution

Annual Total Contribution

Donation over 5 year period including gift aid

Bronze

£1.78 monthly

£21.42

£133.50

Silver

£1.78 weekly

£92.56

£587.50

Gold

£17.85 monthly

Platinum

£178.50 quarterly

THE 1785 FOUNDATION – OUR NEW ANNUAL FUND The 1785 Foundation is a new and important way in which you can support Belfast Royal Academy on a regular basis. The Foundation, named after the year the school was founded, is the new principal means by which the entire Belfast Royal Academy community can support the School’s programmes and activities. Your ongoing contributions, big or small, will allow the School to plan its finances predictably and successfully every year. The support of generations of alumni, parents, staff and friends has provided the basis upon which the School has been able to provide a level of education, facilities and activities that have enriched the education of all our pupils – 122

£1338.75

£714

£4462.50

Alumni News

UK taxpayers can Gift Aid their donations and increase its value to the school by 25% at no extra cost to them. The school will claim the basic rate tax paid on the value of your donation from HMRC. To find out more, visit the SUPPORT US section of the school website – www.belfastroyalacademy.com or contact the Development Office on 028 9074 0423 or email development@belfastroyalacademy. net J.E.H.

AMANDA MCCABE Amanda McCabe left Belfast Royal Academy in 1987, having been a school prefect and having obtained the prestigious Duke of Edinburgh’s Gold Award. She then attended Nottingham University to study Medicine. In 1997 she was Senior House Officer in Queen’s Medical Centre, Nottingham before taking up a research post in New York State University in Buffalo, New York. Amanda was, for 13 years, a consultant paediatric surgeon in Ninewells Hospital, Dundee and the Royal Hospital for Children and Young Adults, Edinburgh. She is an examiner for MRCS (UK and Overseas) and FRCS (Paediatrics) and chairs their questions’ writing group. Since 2018 she has been a member of the body which determines the SAC (Severity Assessment Code) rating for paediatric surgery to determine the prioritisation of clinical investigations for paediatric surgery. In September 2021 Amanda was elected to The Royal College of Surgeons’ Council in Edinburgh, to take up the position in November.

NIKITA MCCOUBREY Nikita McCoubrey is a former member of the Northern Ireland Sea Cadet Corps. In 2013 she was appointed by Her Majesty’s Lord Lieutenant to represent the City of Belfast in the position of Lord Lieutenant’s Cadet. She officially received the honour from Dame Mary Peters at a reception in Hillsborough Castle. Nikita graduated from Queen’s University Belfast with a BA in English and then completed her PGCE, again at Queen’s.

Nikita is now employed in The International School of Moscow, an English language school, where she teaches English and is Head of Year 8. Teachers in the school have recently established a Gaelic club, of which Nikita is a member. The club is named “The Seamus Heaney Gaelic Club”, permission to use his name having been granted by the family of the late poet. PAUL SEAWRIGHT Paul Seawright is the Executive Dean of the Faculty of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences at the University of Ulster. He was formerly Head of Belfast School of Art and he had been Dean of Art, Media and Design at the University of Wales, Newport. He also sits on the advisory boards of the Imperial War Museum and the British Council in London, having previously served as a board member of the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. He is best known for his early work from his home city of Belfast, particularly the series Sectarian Murder, 1988. More recently, he has made photographic studies of Urban Africa and America. Paul enjoys an international profile as an artist and researcher. His work is held in many museum collections, including the Irish Museum of Modern Art, the Tate, San Francisco Museum of Modern Art, the International Centre of Photography, New York and the Museum of Contemporary Art in Rome. In 2002, he was commissioned by the Imperial War Museum as War Artist for Afghanistan. His photographs of minefields and battle sites have been exhibited internationally and, in the same year, he was awarded the Irish Museum of Modern Art/Glen Dimplex award for a major contribution to Irish Art. Paul has a first class honours degree in Photography, Film and Television and was awarded a PhD by the University of Wales in 2007. He is a Fellow of the Royal Society of Art and the Royal Photographic Society, History Fellow of Cardiff Metropolitan University and former Vice President of the Royal Ulster Academy of Art. He has also held Visiting Professorships at Sheffield Hallam, the University of South Wales and the University of Porto. He is the author of numerous publications and, in 2003, was the subject of a 123

The BRA OBA Annual General Meeting was The Owl 2021 held on 13th April 2021, via a Zoom call due to the Covid19 pandemic. The Senior VicePresident, Sturgess was elected BBC4 documentary by Fintan O’Toole. “Voiceover Mr Man”Trevor was published, an entertaining and well-received insight into world of show and thanked his the predecessor, Moore Paul Seawright was appointed Officer of the Order President business and into some of the famous characters he of the British Empire (OBE) in the 2020 Queen’s Dickson, for remaining in office for a second has met with. Birthday Honours for services to higher education year due to the pandemic. The Junior Viceand the arts. OLD President, Mr BOYS’ Bobby ASSOCIATION Gray was elected Senior Vice-President and Mr Philip McKenna was PETER DICKSON The BRA OBA Annual General Meeting was held elected Vice-President. on 13thJunior April 2021, via a Zoom call due to the Peter Dickson was, more likely than not, the first Covid19 pandemic. The Senior Vice-President, Mr BRA pupil to make a career as a voice-over artist. Trevor Sturgess wasLetter elected President thanked President’s providesandan annual Certainly he was the most successful, becoming the The his predecessor, Moore Dickson, for remaining in voice for popular television programmes such as update of the BRA Old Boys’ Association office for a second year due to the pandemic. The “The X Factor,” “Britain’s Got Talent,” “The Price activities and is sentMr(by postGray or was email) to all Junior Vice-President, Bobby elected is Right” and “Family Fortunes.” Seniormembers. Vice-President and Mr Philip McKenna wasare OBA However, many emails After leaving the Academy, Peter was a student at elected Junior Vice-President. rejected (possibly because a member had moved Queen’s University, Belfast, graduating with a BA The President’s provides an annual update have and quiteLetter a large number of records Hons degree in Psychology. He then began a career jobs), of the BRA Old Boys’ Association activities and in broadcasting as a reporter, journalist and later nois email address. As postage charges continue sent (by post or email) to all OBA members. presenter with BBC Radio Ulster, becoming the to rise, andmany we have noare membership fees coming However, emails rejected (possibly BBC’s youngest ever newsreader. However, he was a member hadreduce moved the jobs), and quite in,because we really need to number ofaletters to depart news journalism and moved into show number of records have no email address. business, disillusioned at reporting the murder and tolarge bepostage posted. Please update yourand email address As charges continue to rise, we have mayhem of the Northern Ireland Troubles. tonoalumni@belfastroyalacademy.net. membership fees coming in, we really need Thank National television and radio producers quickly to reduce the number of letters to be posted. you. became aware of Peter’s distinctive voice and Please update your email address to alumni@ versatility. In the 1980s and 90s he was to work belfastroyalacademy.net. Thank you. alongside the popular disc jockey Steve Wright on his Radio 1 afternoon and morning shows. He later expanded his repertoire and had acting roles in the BBC’s “Holby City” as well as writing the comedy series “Play Your Cards Right” for ITV. Since 1998 he has narrated over 250 documentaries for the Discovery Channel. His was to be the voice of over 200 TV series and the brand voice for something in excess of 60 TV channels He was also the voiceover for many TV advertising campaigns for companies such as KFC and Schweppes. Undoubtedly his success has had much to do with his versatility and adaptability. He is adept in the pronunciation of many accents and was able to adapt and capitalise on the development of new forms of popular entertainment. His voice has featured in over 30 computer game titles and many video games. Peter went on to found Gravyforthebrain.com, the world’s biggest online voiceover training school and mentoring resource for established and aspiring voice talent. In 2020 his book 124

MONTHLY LUNCHEON CLUB The monthly lunches attract between 40 and 50 members – mostly retired members of the Association. The attached photo is from the previous lunch at the Royal Belfast Golf Club. Robin Reid initiated and coordinated these lunches for many years, with the help of local hosts. The Old Boys’ Association greatly appreciates Robin’s efforts, and we are grateful to Robb Fletcher for stepping in to organise this programme. Due to

Alumni News

an the the

THE BRA FORMER PUPILS’ the pandemic, the lunches were suspended. These lunches have restarted & with the summer lunch at LONDON EDINBURGH Royal Portrush GC on 19th August, DINNERS and the first monthly lunch was held at Bangor Golf Club on the 15th Sep, 2021. LUNCHEON CLUB MONTHLY

was e to ceted ore ond cenior was

The BRA Former Pupils’ London Dinner was & EDINBURGH held at LONDON the R.A.F. Club on Friday 13th March DINNERS 2020. Shortly after that Dinner, the first COVID-19 lockdown was implemented. The situation early in 2021 led to the 2021 London The BRA Former Pupils’ Dinner being cancelled. TheLondon London Dinner Dinner was for th th held at the R.A.F. Club on Friday 13 March 2022 is scheduled for Friday 11 , March 2022 nd 2020. Shortly after thatis scheduled Dinner, the first and the Edinburgh Dinner for 22 COVID-19 April, 2022. lockdown was implemented. The situation early in 2021 led to the 2021 London Dinner being cancelled. The London Dinner for BUSINESS BREAKFASTS THEis BRA OBA ANNUAL 2022 scheduled Friday 11thDINNER , March The monthly lunchesfor attract between 40 and2022 50 and the Edinburgh Dinner is scheduled for 22nd members – mostly the The BRA OBA Annual retired Dinner, members held at TheofEuropa April, 2022. These are aimed at former Association. The annual attached photo is pupils from who the Hotel, is breakfasts our major function. Unfortunately,

ual ion all are ved ave nue ing ters ess ank

THE BRA FORMER PUPILS’

are to still and who would like to Club. widen it previous had beworking cancelled inRoyal 2020, but it is booked for lunch at the Belfast Golf Saturday 27th November 2021. It will be hosted their business contacts. Some current BRA Robin Reid initiated and coordinated these BUSINESS BREAKFASTS bylunches the BRA OBA President, Trevor Sturgess. If pupils have also attended. These have for many years, with thebreakfasts help of local you have not previously and like had between 20 and 50attended attendees andwould aregreatly usually hosts. The Old Boys’ Association to held be keptatbreakfasts informed, please email Iain Knox at who These aimed atHotel. former pupils the Tenare Square are appreciates Robin’s efforts, and we areThey grateful iainknox@cd-group.com or the Alumni Office at are still working and who would like to widen due tofor COVID-19, will tosuspended Robb Fletcher stepping inbut to hopefully organise this alumni@belfastroyalacademy.net. their business contacts. Some current BRA be re-instated thistoyear. emailthe thelunches Alumni programme. Due the Please pandemic, pupils have also attended. These breakfasts have Office at alumni@belfastroyalacademy.net if were suspended. These lunches have restarted THE BRA FORMER PUPILS’ LONhad between 20 and 50 attendees and are usually you the would like lunch to be at added toPortrush the notification with summer Royal GC on DON & EDINBURGH DINNERS th held at the Ten Square Hotel. They list. August, and the first monthly lunch wasare 19 suspended dueGolf to COVID-19, will held at Bangor Club on thebut 15thhopefully Sep, 2021. ThebeBRA Former Pupils’ London Dinner was held re-instated this year. Please email the Alumni at the R.A.F. ClubDONATIONS on Friday 13th March 2020. OfficeBRA at alumni@belfastroyalacademy.net THE OBA ANNUAL DINNER if Shortly after that Dinner, the first COVID-19 you would like to be added the notification lockdown was implemented. Thetosituation The BRA President for 2019-2021, The OBA Annual Dinner, held atMoore The list. early in 2021 led to the 2021 London Dinner Dickson, on behalf of the BRA Old Boys’ Europa Hotel, is our major annual function. being cancelled. The London Dinner for 2022 is Association, cheque the Unfortunately, itpresented had to be acancelled in to2020, scheduled for Friday 11th, March 2022 and the DONATIONS Principal for £4,250Saturday for various items, which but it is booked 27th November Edinburgh Dinner isfor scheduled for 22nd April, included physics apparatus equip 2021. It will be hosted by the toBRA OBAa 2022. The President for 2019-2021, Moore laboratoryTrevor to commemorate President, Sturgess. IfProfessor you haveJames not Dickson, on behalf of the BRA Old Boys’ Stirling, part funding of thelike hockey previously attended and would to be video kept BUSINESS BREAKFASTS Association, presented a cheque to the tower, moving Honours informed, pleasethe email IainBoards Knox the at Principal forRoad £4,250 items, which Cliftonville siteforand some frames for These breakfasts are aimed atvarious former pupils who iainknox@cd-group.com or the Alumni Office included physics apparatus to equip drama and posters. The apparatus in thea are still working who would like to widen atschool alumni@belfastroyalacademy.net. laboratory to commemorate Professor James James Stirling Physics now their business contacts. SomeLaboratory current BRAispupils Stirling, partoperational. funding of the hockey have also attended. These breakfasts have hadvideo installed and between and 50 attendees and areBoards usuallytoheld tower,20moving the Honours the Cliftonville Road site and some frames for school drama posters. The apparatus in the James Stirling Physics Laboratory is now

at the Ten Square Hotel. They are suspended due to COVID-19, but hopefully will be re-instated this year. Please email the Alumni Office at alumni@ belfastroyalacademy.net if you would like to be added to the notification list.

DONATIONS The President for 2019-2021, Moore Dickson, on behalf of the BRA Old Boys’ Association, presented a cheque to the Principal for £4,250 for various items, which included physics apparatus to equip a laboratory to commemorate Professor James Stirling, part funding of the hockey video tower, moving the Honours Boards to the Cliftonville Road site and some frames for school drama posters. The apparatus in the James Stirling Physics Laboratory is now installed and operational. 125

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BRA OBA NEWS

BRA NEWS Congratulations to OBA Professor Henry Halliday, Emeritus Professor of Neonatology, on being Congratulations to Professor Henry Halliday, awarded the 2021 James Spence Medal. Emeritus Professor of Neonatology, on being awarded the 2021 James Spence Medal.

telephone randomisation in Belfast, has undertaken systematic reviews and was clinician scientist. From his first paper in 1974 to co-ordinator of 66 theof his Cochrane 2019European he has published 438 full papers. Neonatal Group. papers have been cited more than 100 times, 3

more than 1000 times and 1 more than 3000. He has an H index of 76isand index 216monitoring which Less obvious his i10 work on of data of is outstanding for a clinician. His papers have been international trials and ethics research. He is an cited 28703 times. He remains highly regarded excellent, caring, innovative clinician and a true across Europe and the world for his outstanding clinician scientist. From his first paper in 1974 research.

to 2019 he has published 438 full papers. 66 of

The citation from Henry’s presentation was as follows:

The citation from Henry’s presentation was as “Henry Halliday is an outstanding neonatologist follows: who has made contributions to the care of new-

born babies throughout the world. Following “Henry Halliday is an he outstanding neonatologist qualification in Belfast trained there and in three US centres, returning to establish a who has made contributions to the carenetwork of newof neonatal care for Northern Ireland. He was a born babies throughout the world. Following pioneer of surfactant therapy, helping to develop qualification in Belfast he trained there and in a natural product with colleagues in Stockholm. three US centres, returning to which establish a He designed and ran the clinical trials network neonatal care Ireland. proved itsofeffectiveness and for it isNorthern now the standard of treatment worldwide. He is a firm advocate of He was a pioneer of surfactant therapy, helping evidence based medicine and carried out his first in to develop a natural product with colleagues randomised controlled trial in 1973. He has led and Stockholm. He designed and ran the clinical been involved in many Cochrane collaborations trials proved settingwhich the standard of its careeffectiveness for new-borns.and His it is now the standard of treatment worldwide. He is research interests have included acute neonatal disorders and surfactant arespiratory firm advocate of evidence basedreplacement; medicine and postnatal steroids (inhaled and systemic) to prevent carried out his first randomised controlled trial chronic lung disease (CLD); pathogenesis of CLD in 1973. He has led and been involved in many and inflammation; iron metabolism in the foetus Cochrane collaborations theofstandard and neonate and long term setting follow-up survivorsof care for new-borns. Hiscoordinated research interests have of CLD. He successfully two of the included acute multicentre neonatal respiratory disorders largest neonatal trials with 24-hour telephone randomisation in Belfast, has undertaken and surfactant replacement; postnatal steroids systematic reviews and was European co-ordinator (inhaled and systemic) to prevent chronic lung of the Cochrane Neonatal Group.

disease (CLD); pathogenesis of CLD and Less obvious is iron his work on data monitoring of and inflammation; metabolism in the foetus international trials and ethics research. He is an neonate and long term follow-up of survivors of excellent, caring, innovative clinician and a true CLD. He successfully coordinated two of the largest neonatal multicentre trials with 24-hour 126

In 2004 he became joint founding editor of his papers have been cited more thanand 100 times, Biology of the Neonate (now Neonatology) 3 more times and 1Hemore remains very than active1000 in this position. is in than 3000. hugeHe demand forHguest andofnamed lectures on of 216 has an index 76 and i10 index a regular and ongoing basis all over the world which is outstanding for a clinician. His papers and as a grant reviewer for major charities and have been cited 28703 times. He remains highly Government Departments. He is a member of across Europe the world for his manyregarded international societies andand has been President research. of theoutstanding European Society for Paediatric Research and the Irish and American Paediatric Society. He has inspired generation know that In 2004a younger he became joint who founding editor of his work has been done solely to improve the care Biology of the Neonate (now Neonatology) and of babies and he has demonstrated that absolute remains very active in this position. He is in scientific rigour and humanity can go together.

huge demand for guest and named lectures on a

His international profile, awards and scientific regular and ongoing basis all over the world and achievements have not altered his modest, kindly as a affect. grant He reviewer for majorfrom charities and and gentle led the transition Government is a to member neonatal care beingDepartments. something of aHe novelty being of an established evidence-based discipline. There many international societies and hascanbeen be few international in neonatology do President of thefigures European Society forwho Paediatric not know of his contribution.

Research and the Irish and American Paediatric

ThereSociety. has never James Spence medal generation Hebeen hasainspired a younger winner from Northern Ireland.

who know that his work has been done solely to Paulimprove Terringtonthe awarded care CBE of babies and he has Congratulations to Paul Terrington who was demonstrated that absolute scientific rigour and awarded a CBE in the Queen’s New Year’s humanity can go together. Honours. Michael Black awarded BEM His international profile, awards and scientific Congratulations Michael Black who was awarded a have Year’s not Honours. altered his modest, BEMachievements in the Queen’s New

kindly and gentle affect. He led the transition

Paul Seawright appointed Deputy Vice from neonatal care being something of a novelty Chancellor of the Ulster University to being to an established evidence-based Congratulations Paul Seawright on his appointment as Deputy the discipline. ThereVice canChancellor be few ofinternational Ulster University. figures in neonatology who do not know of his Stephen Baillie awarded BEM contribution. Congratulations to Stephen Baillie who received his BEM 14thnever September for services to medal Thereonhas been2021 a James Spence education and the community during Covid19.

winner from Northern Ireland.

his BEM on 14 September 2021 for ations received to Barry McAuley who messages and reminiscences from former BRA has a proud history of participation th education and the community during services is BEM on 14to September 2021 for pupils. success in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Covid19. disability sport in Northern Ireland. Alumni News

Barry McAuley awarded BEM erson Congratulations captain of Ireland toured to & Barry McAuley who Barry McAuley awarded BEM th ritish received & Irish Lions his BEM on McAuley 14 September 2021 for Congratulations to Barry who received ations to Iain Henderson (pictured) on services sport2021 in Northern his BEM to on disability 14th September for servicesIreland. to

Irelanddisability duringsport the in2021 SixIreland. Nations Northern Iain Henderson captain of Ireland & toured nament, and on his selection for his Iain Henderson captain of Ireland with the British & Irish Lions& toured ur withCongratulations the the British Irish Lions – (pictured) on with Britishand &toIrish Lions Iain Henderson o Southcaptaining Africa. Iain had the honour of SixonNations Congratulations to Iain Henderson (pictured) Ireland during the 2021 captaining Ireland during theon2021 Nations for his the Lions intournament, their match against the rugby and hisSix selection

following the sad passing of the Duk Edinburgh, John Reilly received OBITUARIES messages and reminiscences from fo OBITUARIES pupils.

OBITUARIES

rugby tournament, his selection his Lions – second tour withand theonBritish and for Irish second tour with the British and Irish Lions – this time to South Africa. Iain had the honour of this time to South Africa. Iain had the honour of captaining theLions Lions in their the captaining the in their matchmatch against against the Sharks. Sharks. IAN CAMPBELL

Denis Wilson Ian Campbell was born in Bangor, IAN CAMPBELL Co Down on 27th November 1925 and was educated at Belfast Royal Academy. Ianwas then born in Denis Wilson Ian Campbell followed in the footsteps ofIAN his older brother Noel, CAMPBELL th Bangor, Co Down on 27 November 1925 and both of whom studied architecture at the Belfast Wilson Ian Campbell was ofDenis Art at andBelfast both were Royal articled toAcademy. John was College educated Ianbo th MacGeagh, architectCo of the muchon admired and Bangor, Down 27 November 192 thentimeless followed Whitla in Hall.the footsteps of his older

was educated at Belfast Royal Academy

brother Noel, of of whom studied architecture He was madeboth a fellow the Royal Institute of then followed in the footsteps He was made a fellow of the Royal Institute of of his (A m British Architects in 1968, aoffellow ofand the Royal at the Belfast College Art both were brother Noel, both of whom studied archite British of Architects in of 1968, a fellow of the Alum Institute Architects Ireland in 1974 andRoyal was Tom McKibbin has commenced his career as a articled to John MacGeagh, architect of the President Royal Society of Ulster Architects BRA Instituteof ofthe Architects of Ireland in of 1974 andand both at the Belfast College Art professional golfer his career as ibbin has commenced from 1971 to ’73. was President of timeless the ofHall. Ulster much admired and Whitla Congratulations to Tom McKibbin on his decision articled to Royal John Society MacGeagh, architect o we look forward to hearing about his onal golfer Architects fromVice 1971President to ’73. of the BRA Old to become a professional golfer, and we his lookcareer as Tom McKibbin has commenced Ian was an Hon.

was experiences in the future. forward to hearinggolfer about his experiences in the a professional ar’s ations future. to Tom McKibbin on his

much admired and timeless Whitla Hall.

Boys’ Association for some years. Ian was an Hon. Vice President of the BRA Old more detailed summary was included in the o become a professional and Congratulations to golfer, Tom McKibbin on his(ABoys’ for someavailable years. on the BRA Alumni Association Newsletter Jun/2021 decision to become a professional golfer, and (A more detailed summary was included in the OBA Website). was Alumni Newsletter Jun/2021 available on the ar’s Christopher Campbell BRA OBA Website). Christopher Campbell ROGER MONCKTON DAVIES ROGER MONCKTON DAVIES

Vice his the

who for ring

who for nd.

ured

Duke of Edinburgh’s Award BRA has a proud history of participation and Duke of Edinburgh’s Award success in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, BRA has a proud history of participation and and following the sad passing of the Duke of success in The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, and Edinburgh, receivedof many followingJohn the Reilly sad passing themessages Duke of and reminiscences from Reilly former pupils. Edinburgh, John received many messages and reminiscences from former pupils.

Roger Monckton Davies (aka ‘Taffy’) died peacefully on 11th March 2021, aged 75 years, at 127 his home in Pasadena, California, after a short

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Roger Monckton Davies (aka ‘Taffy’) died peacefully on 11th March 2021, aged 75 years, at his home in Pasadena, California, after a short illness. Roger was born in Neath, Wales. Just after his first birthday, his parents, who were both teachers, moved to Belfast, Northern Ireland. Always full of adventure and daring, he had a happy childhood, and he was devoted to sport. He played rugby during his school days at Belfast Royal Academy, where his father, Harry, taught languages. Roger, ‘Taffy’ to those close to him, featured prominently for the BRA 1st XV in three tied Ulster Schools’ Cup Finals, and for the Ulster Schools’ XV. Roger (A morein detailed summary was included in the played various positions in the school pack and Alumni Jun/2021Senior available was best Newsletter known as a formidable Leagueon the prop for the Website). Academy Club in his later playing BRA OBA Career. (A more detailed summary was included in the Jimmy Alumni Newsletter Jun/2021 available on the Marks BRA OBA Website). Jimmy Marks

MEMORIES OF MY FATHER: FRANK E. MEMORIES OF MY FATHER: DALZELL FRANK E. DALZELL

The Firm of Dalzell & Company - 39/43 Donegall Street (1946 to 1990 - 44 years) Following his service, Frank Dalzell started the firm of Dalzell & Company at 39/43 Donegall Street in 1946. My dad made Jack Darragh from Carrickfergus his manager and dad took charge of the salaries, wages, and clients’ accounts. Our business in Donegall Street was devastated by a car bomb in 1972 which killed six people and many were injured. That incident eventually caused the Belfast Office to be wound (School Captain) – they down. formed the Committee which started the Academy Rugby Club in 1945 My father was involved in other activities. Along and my father became President in 1955. with (for example) Jack Kyle, Walter Stirling, Matt My father was also Hon. Secretary of the Belfast Mulholland and Stanley Nash (School Captain) Royal Academy Grammar School Old Boys’ – they formed the Association forCommittee twenty-sixwhich years,started whichthewas Academy Rugbyto Club in 1945 and my father advantageous his business interests as well as became President in 1955. My father was also Hon. social. Secretary of the Belfast Royal Academy Grammar School twenty-sixofyears, LaterOld dadBoys’ was Association elected as for a Governor the which was advantageous to his business interests School and served on the Board for twenty-four as well social. yearsas((1965-89) and Warden in 1976. He helped to raise £80,000 for a ofnew school Later dad was elected as a Governor the School andswimming served onpool. the Board for twenty-four years ((1965-89) and Warden in 1976. He helped to raise Davidfor M.aDalzell £80,000 new school swimming pool. BRA 1949-1961 BRA (A more detailed (A 1949-1961 more detailed summary wassummary included was in the included in the Alumni Newsletter Jun/2021 Alumni Newsletter Jun/2021 available on the available on the BRA OBA Website). BRA OBA Website). David M. Dalzell

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My father, Frank Edgar Dalzell, attended Belfast Royal Academy from 1923 to 1928 and later My father, Frank Dalzell, attended served in the 8th BelfastEdgar Heavy Anti-Aircraft Belfast Royal from (Supplementary 1923 to 1928 and Regiment RoyalAcademy Artillery (1940) th later served in Belfast the 8Auxiliary Belfast Reserve) and the FireHeavy Service AntiAircraft Royal Artillery (1940) during the Regiment German air-raids on Harland & Wolff in 1941. (Supplementary Reserve) and the Belfast

The OB Golf Society plans to hold two golf The OB hold two golf outings eachGolf year.Society The firstplans outingtowas played on outings17th eachJune year.2021, The at first outingGolf wasClub. played Thursday Malone on Thursday 17thturnout June 2021, at Malone There was a record of 56 players who Golf Club. There was a record turnout of 56 players Auxiliary Fire Service during the German airwho enjoyed great weather, great course and a 128 raids on Harland & Wolff in 1941. very pleasant meal and chat afterwards. The

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on Friday 10th September 2021.and There enjoyed great weather, great course a verywas a strong turnout of chat 32 players who The enjoyed a great pleasant meal and afterwards. Picken Cup presented by this year’s captain, Paul day’swas golf (even with a shower mid-afternoon), Scoffield, to the 2021 winner, Ray McClelland. and an excellent meal and catch-up afterwards

on Friday 10th September 2021. There was a The second outing was Paulthe Scoffield’s Captain’s Paul Scoffield Captain’s Prize to strong turnoutpresented of 32 players who enjoyed a great Day, held at Royal Belfast Golf Club on Friday Andrew Magee forwith top score on the day, and the day’s golf (even a shower mid-afternoon), 10th September 2021. There was a strong turnout Ferguson Trophy meal to Gary Martin afterwards for best and an excellent and catch-up of 32 players who enjoyed a great day’s golf (even combined scores across the two Anyto with mid-afternoon), and anoutings. excellent Paula shower Scoffield presented the Captain’s Prize former interested inPaul playing in and these meal and pupil catch-up afterwards Andrew Magee for top score onScoffield the day, the presented the Captain’s Prize to Andrew Magee for competitions should contact Ken Knox at Ferguson Trophy to Gary Martin for best top score on the day, and the Ferguson Trophy to ken@cd-group.com. combined scores thescores two across outings. Gary Martin for best across combined theAny former pupil interested playingin in these two outings. Any former pupilininterested playing incompetitions these competitions should contact Ken Ken Knox should contact Knoxat at ken@cd-group.com. ken@cd-group.com.

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Alumni News of “BRA was strongly linked to the introduction golf in Ireland. In 1881 Thomas Sinclair, who for many years was a member of the school's Golf Club – the oldest golf club in Ireland. board of governors, called on Dr W. F Collier, a “BRA was strongly to theofintroduction of Scotsman, who waslinked Principal the Academy. golf in Ireland. In 1881 Thomas Sinclair, who for Sinclair had recently returned from holiday at St many years was a member of the school’s board of Andrews and had been much taken with the governors, called on Dr W. F Collier, a Scotsman, gamewas of golf. Collier in turn introduced Sinclair who Principal of the Academy. Sinclair had to Mr G. L. Bailie, another Scotsman, known as recently returned from holiday at St Andrews and a skilled golfer andwith Head of the school's had been much taken the game of golf. Collier Commercial Department. They about in turn introduced Sinclair to Mr G. L.set Bailie, another Scotsman, known as a skilled establishing the Belfast Golf Club, golfer later and the Head of the school’s Commercial Department. Royal Belfast Golf Club. Sinclair became the They about establishing the Belfast Golf Club, Club'ssetfirst captain. The noted architect Robert later the an Royal Belfastold Golf Club. became Young, Academy boy, lent Sinclair his support to the Club’s first captain. The noted architect Robert the enterprise. He became club captain in 1904.” Young, an Academy old boy, lent his support to the enterprise. He became club captain in 1904.” CRICKET

Ken thanked Alan Andrews, who is this year’s captain of Royal Belfast Golf Club, for playing th Ken thanked is thisOld year’s on the day. Alan AlanAndrews, is the 6who BRA Boy to captain of Royal Belfast Golf Club, for playing on captain Royal Alan Belfast GC in the 30 years Ken wholast this year’s the day.thanked Alan is the 6thAndrews, BRA Old Boy toiscaptain following Robert Pollin (1990), Roy Connolly Royal Belfast GC inBelfast the last Golf 30 years following captain of Royal Club, for playing (2000), Graham Crothers (2009), David Bestto th Robert Pollin (1990), Roy Connolly (2000), on the day. Alan is the 6 BRA Old Boy Graham (2009), David (2012), and Norman Beggs captainCrothers Royal Belfast GC(2017). inBest the(2012), last 30and years

The annual cricket match between the BRA Old Boysannual and the BRAmatch 1st XI was not scheduled this The cricket between the BRA Old year. and the BRA 1st XI was not scheduled this Boys year. Promotion joy joy for forCliftonville Cliftonville Academy Academy Cricket Cricket Promotion Club. Just Justthree three league seasons Club. full full league seasons since since amalgamating,Cliftonville CliftonvilleAcademy Academy Cricket amalgamating, Cricket Club Club are celebrating promotion the Robinson are celebrating promotion to the to Robinson Services Premier afterLeague they wereafter crowned ServicesLeague Premier theySection were One champions. praise to Max Burton who crowned SectionSpecial One champions. Special praise was leading run scorer. to Max Burton who was leading run scorer.

BRAOBA OBAWEBSITE WEBSITE BRA

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following Robert Pollin (1990), Roy Connolly (2000), Graham Crothers (2009), David Best (2012), and Norman Beggs (2017).

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My thanks to Jim Carolan (Alumni Officer) for providing this background to the Royal Belfast

My thanks to Jim Carolan (Alumni Officer) for providing this background to the Royal Belfast Golf Club – the oldest golf club in Ireland.

The BRA OBA website is at www.braoba.com which has had a major revision and provides news and archive documents. 129

The Owl 2021

FUTURE DATES Annual Dinner: Saturday 27th November, 2021 at The Europa Hotel. London Dinner: Friday 11th March, 2022. Edinburgh Dinner: Friday 22nd April, 2022 Golf: Picken Cup Thursday 16th June, 2022 at Malone Golf Club. Golf, Captain’s Day: Friday 9th September, 2022 at Royal Belfast Golf Club.

CONTACTING THE BRA OBA The Membership fee is currently suspended. New members are always welcome! Please notify the Alumni Office at alumni@belfastroyalacademy. net to register with the Association, or to notify changes to email address, or contact details. Notification of reunions is very welcome.

members from around the world, as well as many local ladies still living in Northern Ireland and other parts of the UK and Ireland! We are always keen to welcome new members. Our aim is to support pupils of the Belfast Royal parts of the UK Ireland!ofWe are always keen Academy withand all aspects school life. We also to welcome new members. Our aim is to support aim to provide an opportunity for our Members pupils of the Belfast Royal Academy with all to network, socialise andalso helpaim raise foran the aspects of school life. We to funds provide School. for our Members to network, socialise opportunity

and help raise funds for the School. Unfortunately, due to global pandemic we were Unfortunately, due to global pandemic we were unable to hold our normal events for this unable to hold our normal events for this year. year. However, wemuch are looking very much looking However, we are very forward to forward to -reconnecting with our Members at -reconnecting with our Members at events in 2022. events in 2022. These will include: These will include: Annual Hockey Match Annual Hockey Match Autumn Afternoon Autumn Afternoon teatea MVI Christmas Coffee Morning MVI Christmas Coffee Morning

CONNECTING WITH WITH PUPILS CONNECTING PUPILS

Please inform the Alumni Office at alumni@ belfastroyalacademy.net of any items of news for inclusion in The Owl and the Old Boys’ Association website. Any notification of births/ marriages/ deaths or career developments etc will be very welcome and of considerable interest to other Old Boys. Michael McDowell promotes the Association on Social Media through the Old Boys’ Twitter account @TheBRAoldboys. OLD ASSOCIATION Jim Carolan is GIRLS’ the Alumni Officer, and will liaise between the Association and the school. Welcome Thank you. to the 2020/21 update from the Old Girls’ Association. We would like to extend a Philip McKenna, warm welcome to our new Members, who we BRA OBA Hon. Secretary look forward to meeting at one of our future philmac49@gmail.com events.

In December we gave the MVI girls a selection In each, December gave the MVIthem girls aaMerry selection box just aswe a token to wish Christmas, as we were unable to host the box each,asjust a token to to wish a Merry Christmas, weas were unable hostthem the Christmas Christmas Coffee Morning. Coffee Morning.

OLD GIRLS’ ASSOCIATION

The Old Girls’ Association is open to all former female pupils and female WeOldhave Welcome to the 2020/21 update staff. from the members from around the like world, as well Girls’ Association. We would to extend a as warm to our Members, whoIreland we look manywelcome local ladies stillnew living in Northern forward to meeting ourIreland! future events. and other parts of at theone UKofand We are always keen to welcome isnew Our The Old Girls’ Association openmembers. to all former aim ispupils to support pupilsstaff. of the Royal female and female We Belfast have members from aroundwith theall world, as well as many Academy aspects of school life.local We also ladies livingan in opportunity Northern Ireland and other aim tostill provide for our Members to network, socialise and help raise funds for the 130School.

The MVI girls were invited to a brief talk about the Old Girls’ Association at the end of their term. We The MVI girls were invited to aallbrief would like to wish all these girls the talk veryabout best inthe the Old next Girls’ stages Association of their livesatand thelook endforward of their term. We would like to wish all these girls all the very best in the next stages of their lives and look forward to hearing all your exciting news

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the Old Girls’ Association at the end of their term. We would like to wish all these girls all the very best in the next stages of their lives and look forward to hearing all your exciting news and updates. We were delighted that the girls to were hearing all to your news and updates. We keen joinexciting and look forward to keeping were delighted that the girls were keen to join and in touch with the Class of 2021. look forward to keeping in touch with the Class of 2021. FUNDRAISING

FUNDRAISING

This2020 year we orders for Wreaths In we took launched ourChristmas Wine Club, in as a fundraiser. The response was amazing, and This year we took ChristmasMill Wreaths association with orders a localforcompany, Girls’ we would like to thank all those who ordered asCloud. a fundraiser. The response was amazing, We have created a ‘Crombie 1880’and wine webox, would like to thank all those who ordered and and helped to raise funds for the School. which can be ordered at Menu | Mill Girls helped to raise funds for the School. Cloud (storekit.com). We hope you enjoy tasting the high-quality wines that have been selected.

Alumni News

In May we held our third hanging basket and planter sale, which was another great success with over 100 items sold. Hanging baskets were once again provided by Dundonald Nurseries. Our thanks go again to all those who placed orders and supported this event.

In 2020 we launched our Wine Club, in association with a local company, Mill Girls’ Please get in touch you have any ideas 1880’ for wine Cloud.if We have created a ‘Crombie box, which can be ordered at Menu | Mill Girls future fundraising initiatives. Cloud (storekit.com). We hope you enjoy tasting the high-quality wines that have been shopping sites such as Amazon, Currys Marks The Old Girls’ Association is also registered selected.

andEasyfundraising, Spencer, amongst hundreds of others. with which is an easy way to us raise funds at no additional cost to you. The Association earns commissions from online purchases made ouras members on popular shopping sitesby such Amazon, Currys Marks and Spencer, amongst hundreds ofCurrys others. Marks and shopping sites such as Amazon, Spencer, amongst hundreds of others.

in touch if you have any ideas forhelp partnered Please with agetvery talented Old Girl future fundraising initiatives.

We also partnered with a very talented Old The Girl to We sell also bespoke hand printed Christmas cards. 2020 we launched our Wine Club, in designs beautiful! to In sellwere bespoke hand printed Christmas cards. association with a local company, Mill Girls’ were beautiful! InThe 2020designs we launched our Wine Club, in association Cloud. We have created a ‘Crombie 1880’ wine

with box, a local company, Mill Girls’ Cloud. which can be ordered at Menu | Mill We Girlshave created a ‘Crombie 1880’ wine box, which can be Cloud (storekit.com). We hope you enjoy ordered at Menu | Mill Girls Cloud tasting the high-quality wines that(storekit.com). have been We hope you enjoy tasting the high-quality wines selected. that have been selected. Please get in touch if you have any ideas for

Please get in touch if you have any ideas for future future fundraising initiatives. fundraising initiatives. shopping sites such as Amazon, Currys Marks and Spencer, amongst hundreds of others.

In May we held our third hanging basket and

In May we heldplanter our third hanging basketgreat andsuccess sale, which was another with over items sold. Hanging baskets were planter sale, which was100 another great success once again provided by Dundonald Nurseries. with over 100 items sold. Hanging baskets were So when next shopping online you you are are next shopping onlinesimply simply Our thanks go again to all those who placedSo when click: : www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/bra once again provided by Dundonald Nurseries. click: : www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/braol orders and supported this event. oldgirlsassoc/?q=bra&cat=causeSo when you are next shopping online simply dgirlsassoc/?q=bra&cat=cause-autosuggest then Our thanks go again to all those who placed autosuggest then shop as normal. A donation click: : www.easyfundraising.org.uk/causes/bra shop as made to The orders and supported this event. willnormal. be madeAtodonation The Old will Girls’be Association oldgirlsassoc/?q=bra&cat=causeOld Girls’ Association based on a percentage of based on a percentage of what you spend online, The Old Girls’ Association is also registered at no spend extra cost to you! autosuggest then shopat as normal. you online, no extra costAtodonation you! with Easyfundraising, which is an easy way towhat help us raise funds at no additional cost to you. will be made to The Old Girls’ Association FINANCIAL SUPPORT The Association earns commissions from online based on a percentage of what you spend online, The Old Girls’ purchases Association is also registered made by our members on popular at no extra cost to you! with Easyfundraising, which is an easy way to In May we held our third hanging basket and sale,funds whichatwas greatcost success helpplanter us raise no another additional to you.

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included fundraising, mem for the forthcoming year. W The Owl 2021 out and it was lovely to w The Old Girls’ Association are delighted to report FINANCIAL that we have funded a full class set of Our AGM wasfaces, held via Zoom on the 18th new memb SUPPORT The Old Girls’ Association are delighted to including Ukulele’s for Ben Madigan. This will support February 2021. Agenda items discussed included report that we have funded a full class set of the development of musicare with the Preparatory Our AGM was fundraising, membership, and events for theheld via The Old Girls’ Association delighted to report Ukulele’s for Ben Madigan. This will support Department. We had a good turn out and it we funded a full class Ukulele’s the have development of music withsettheofPreparatory e alsothatfunded Chromebooks forfortheforthcoming year. February 2021. was lovely to welcome some new faces, including Ben Madigan. This will support the development Department. Our AGM was held via Zoom onAgenda the as18f Our committee remains of staff. Department. These allow thenew membersincluded of music with the Preparatorywill Department. fundraising, memb February 2021. Nikki Agenda items discusse Johns Caroline Di nt greater access to technology to Our committee remains as follows: for the forthcoming year. W included fundraising, membership, and event earning for all pupils. out it onwas Our AGM was held and via Zoom the 18lovely to w for the forthcoming year. We had a good tur February 2021. Agenda items discussed Our AGM was held viaincluding Zoom on the 18new membe faces, membership, and events some new out and itincluded wasfundraising, lovely to items welcome February 2021. Agenda discussed th th

for the forthcoming year. We had a good turn included fundraising, membership, and events out and it was lovely to welcome some new for the forthcoming year. We had a good turn faces, including new members of staff. out and it was lovely to welcome some new faces, including new members of staff. Our committee remains as follows: Nikki Johns Caroline Dillon Our committee remains as follows: Nikki Johns Caroline Dillon

faces, new members of staff. also funded Chromebooks for including the Our committee remains as fo Department. will allow We were These also funded Chromebooks for the the hromebooks We were alsofor fundedthe Chromebooks the English Nikki Johns Caroline Dill English Department. These willforallow the Our committee remains as follows: We were also funded Chromebooks for the Department. These will allow the department nt greater access to technology to department greater to technology to ese will allow theaccess English Department. These will allow the for greater access to technology to support learning support learning for all pupils. Nikki Caroline Dillon department greater access to technology to Johns earning for all pupils. Nikki Johns pupils. s to alltechnology to support learning for all pupils. Chairperson Chairperson Vice Chai pils.

The Listening Service, which was provided The Listening Service, which was providedbyby Old Girl Rebecca Burns, operated from November Old Girl Rebecca Burns, operated from The Listening Service, which was provided by to June. We provided the funding to ensure this November to June. We provided the funding to Old Girl Rebecca Burns, operated from important was available pupils that to ensureservice this important service to was available November to June. We provided the funding to needed support a variety issues. pupils that with needed supportofwith a variety of

Chairperson

Vice Chairperson

Chairperson

Vice Chairperson

Chairperson

Caroline Dillon Johanna RichardsonVice Claire McGovern Chairperson

Vice Chair

ening Service, which was provided by Chairperson Vice Chairperson Johanna Richardson Claire McGovern Hon. Secretary l Rebecca Burns, operated fromHon. Treasurer ensure this important service was available to issues. Hon. Treasurer Johanna Hon. Secretary Richardson pupils that provided needed support with a funding variety of STAY CONNECTED er to June. We the to ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING issues. STAY CONNECTED from all our Old Girls, so hisofto important service was available toWe love hearing ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING please get in touch if youTreasurer have some news to Hon. We love hearing from all our Old Girls, so port ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING at needed support with a variety ofshare. If you are not already a Member of the please get in touch if you have some news to

ory

Old Girls’ Association and would like to offer share. If you are not already a Member of the Old Girls’ Association and would like to offer

Clair

Hon

ning Service, which was provided by STAY CONNE Johanna Richardson lichRebecca Burns, was provided by operated from Hon. Treasurer Johanna Richardson Claire rns,to June. We provided the funding to We love hearing from all operated from MEETING NUAL GENERAL Johanna to Richardson Claire is important service was available please get McGovern in touch if you ovided theAGM funding Our was heldto via Zoom on the 18 Hon. Treasurer Hon. 132February 2021. Agenda items discussed at needed support with a variety of share. If you are not alread ice was available to th

rson

Vice Chairperson

Richardson

Alumni News

Claire McGovern Hon. Secretary

Claire McGovern STAY CONNECTED

We love hearingHon. from all our Old Girls, so please easurer Secretary get in touch if you have some news to share. If you are not already a Member of the Old Girls’ Association and would like to offer

STAY CONNECTED your support, please do get in touch. Annual

membership is just £5 and those who are previous life members can also subscribe to the annual fee. All fees contribute to any financial contribution we are able to give the School.

e hearing from all our Old Girls, so et in touch if you have Get in touch: some news to braoldgirls@outlook.com you email are –not already a Member of the twitter – @braoldgirls Facebook – BRAformergirls ls’ Association and would like to offer We can also be contacted via the Alumni section on the School website.

133

The Owl 2021

Births, Deaths and Marriages BIRTHS MAGEE: 9th August 2021, to Suzanne (nee O’Neill) and Chris, a daughter Scarlett Elba MURPHY: 10th February 2021, to Stuart and Kerry, a daughter Poppy Elizabeth POTTS: 22nd September 2021, to Emma and Connor, a daughter Annie Amaya

DEATHS CAMPBELL: CAMPBELL: DAVIES: GOODING: GOODING: GRAY: JOHNSTON: MCILWAINE: MCKINSTRY: SKILLING: SOMERVILLE: THOMPSON: TORRENS: WALSH: WILSON:

17th November 2021, Anne 11th June 2020, Ian 11th March 2021, Roger “Taffy” 20th November 2020, David Stanley Mulhern 9th May 2020, Roger Mulhern 30th July 2021, Peter Stanley 29th March 2021, Alec July 2021, David 9th September 2021, Tom January 2021, Tommy January 2021, Dr William (“Billy”) January 2021, Blain June 2021, Bob 8th October 2021, Claire (nee Fitzsimmons) 7th August 2021, Graham (“J.G.”)

MARRIAGES GORMLEY-THORNTON: McAVOY – SPENCE: MCCOMBE-CARSON: McKINSTRY - WILSON: 2 McKINSTRY - JOHNSTON:

134

7th August 2021, Emma Gormley and Johnny Thornton 9th October 2020, Katie McAvoy and Conor Spence 14th July 2021, John McCombe and Vivienne Carson 8th July 2020, Hannah McKinstry and Ben Wilson 7th July 2021, Rebecca McKinstry and Peter Johnston

Notes

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Notes

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Articles inside

Births, Marriages and Deaths

Alumni News

History Corner

Ben Madigan Preparatory School

School Societies

The COVID Chronicles

Trips and Events

Literary Contributions

School Games

Obituaries

Music in School

Valete