VHC Prospectus 2025

PROSPECTUS 2025

St. Colman’s College Violet Hill, 1823

Kindness Self-Discipline Knowledge

Celebrating over 200 years of educational excellence.

This prospectus has been created in line with the detailed requirements as set out in the Education (School Information and Prospectuses) Regulations (Northern Ireland) 2003.

Contents Welcome from the Principal

02

Who We Are

04

Our Values

06

Established in 1823

08

Our College Journey

10

Marking Our Bicentenary

12

Our Faith

14

Pastoral Care

20

Fostering a Community

24

Admissions

26

College Life

28

Award-Winning Digital Initiative

31

Our Curriculum

34

Careers Education

38

Preparing Pupils for the Future

39

Extra-Curricular

40

Music at St. Colman’s College

42

Sport at St. Colman’s College

46

Our Facilities

48

Achievements

50

School Uniform

52

Learning Support

54

Contact

56

Welcome

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I am very pleased to introduce St. Colman’s College to you. I hope that through our prospectus you will get a sense of the rich and diverse nature of College life.

Known throughout Ireland and beyond as Violet Hill College, St. Colman’s is a Catholic Voluntary Grammar School located in a magnificent 65-acre site close to the centre of Newry. It is a school that dates back over 200 years to 1823 when it was established as the Dromore Diocesan Seminary. In 2023 we celebrated our Bicentenary with a range of events and activities focused on our students and staff, past and present along with the role the College has in the community. In marking 200 years of Violet Hill, we are looking forward to how the College will continue to grow and innovate as we move into our third century.

St. Colman’s is characterised by excellent academic achievements and by the wide range of extra-curricular activities that its dedicated and hardworking staff provide for all our students, which include sport, music, drama and debating to name a few. We are very proud of the warm, caring and friendly atmosphere of the College; the opportunities for each student to reach his full academic and extracurricular potential and the magnificent facilities and surroundings for all who come to the school to enjoy.

St. Colman’s is a Christian community in which every member is valued and in which all staff are committed to ensuring that our pupils are empowered to reach their full potential. This is summarised by the motto “Bonitas, Disciplina, Scientia”, translated as “Kindness, SelfDiscipline and Knowledge”, the mainstay on which the work of the College is based. The school is committed to nurturing the personal, social, spiritual and moral development of each student in its care.

The students who attend the College are friendly, open and very proud of their school. There is a happy and

positive atmosphere which is a consequence of the excellent relationships that exist between staff, pupils and parents/ guardians. We are committed to working in partnership with our parents/guardians to ensure that their high expectations are met through excellent examination results, alongside diverse and high-quality extra-curricular activities. All that is provided in the College ensures that each student has every opportunity to meet his potential and realise his gifts and talents to the full in a supportive and caring environment.

We are an inclusive Christian community that cares for all its members. The Catholic Ethos of the College provides a strong foundation for the students throughout their school life and beyond. The supportive Pastoral Care system aims to develop students’ self-esteem to the full, and all who are associated with the College, including those who provide our excellent counselling services, work to ensure that students leave as fulfilled and mature young adults.

St. Colman’s is a community which celebrates the uniqueness of each of its members and in which each individual feels valued and respected. The College is proud of its links with other schools and colleges in the Newry and Mourne Area Learning Community. The co-operation and collaboration which occurs between the students and staff of all the schools in our ALC is enriching for everyone concerned.

I know that you will find our prospectus interesting and informative. Our hope is that it will assist you in making the important decisions which lie ahead.

You will be able to get further information by following us on Twitter @st_colmans, Facebook or through our website www.stcolmans.org.uk.

If you have any further questions, you can make contact through the school office (028) 3026 2451 or info@stcolmans.newry.ni.sch.uk Cormac McKinney Principal 2025 Prospectus | 3

Who we are

St. Colman’s College is a Catholic voluntary grammar school for boys, immersed in over 200 years of tradition and educational excellence.

We are proud to support and nurture our pupils to reach their academic and extra-curricular potential, and to build an effective partnership between parents, pupils, staff and the wider College community.

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Our Mission Our mission is to ensure every St. Colman’s College pupil is happy and fulfilled during their time at Violet Hill, as they grow to become independent and accomplished young adults.

By offering a broad range of subjects and extra-curricular activities, we inspire pupils to be fearless in their pursuit of knowledge and the development of their individual talents and interests.

Guided by our Catholic faith and values, we, as the College community, work together to foster a welcoming and transformative environment for all.

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Our

Values

We encourage pupils to live by our core values: Bonitas, Disciplina and Scientia, or Kindness, Self-Discipline and Knowledge in every aspect of their school lives.

This is the St. Colman’s Ethos.

BONITAS

KINDNESS Instilling Christian values, we teach our pupils to do the right thing, to be kind to themselves and to others, creating a community where everyone feels valued.

Treating each other with respect is an integral part of life at St. Colman’s College.

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DISCIPLINA

SELF-DISCIPLINE We champion the power of selfdiscipline for our pupils, instilling a healthy drive for excellence inside and outside of the classroom.

We deliver the highest standards of learning and teaching which guide our pupils to make informed choices, act with integrity, and fulfil their potential as Violet Hill pupils.

SCIENTIA

KNOWLEDGE We support our pupils to achieve their highest academic potential, and to grow as lifelong, independent learners beyond their time at St. Colman’s College.

We prepare each pupil to take their place in society and to become meaningful contributors to the world around them.

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Establish in 1823 Over 200 years of educational excellence leads the way at St. Colman’s College, with the highest standards of learning, teaching, and innovation to ensure pupils are truly supported and nurtured to reach their individual potential.

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VIOLET HILL

Also known throughout Ireland as Violet Hill College (or VHC), St. Colman’s College has occupied its magnificent rural setting since 1829, with parts of the present school building dating back as far as 1879.

When you visit our school, the corridor walls map the College’s journey to date, showcasing the school’s musical and sporting achievements over the years.

ed

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Our College Journey 1823

St. Colman’s College is founded

by Fr. J.S. Keenan on William Street, Newry as the Dromore Diocesan Seminary.

1829

St. Colman’s College moves to the magnificent rural setting of Violet Hill, Newry.

1923

St. Colman’s College begins its distinguished legacy in Gaelic football.

1938

The College opens its Chapel of Mary, the Immaculate Mother of God, with specially commissioned stained-glass windows and Stations of the Cross by Ireland’s renowned Harry Clarke Studios.

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1945

St. Colman’s College hosts its first musical event, with pupils performing the Pirates of Penzance.

2009 2020

St. Colman’s College unveils new college buildings and renovations, including 18 new classrooms, a new sports hall and the renovation of all classrooms, equipped with interactive whiteboards.

St. Colman’s College wins its record 20th MacRory Cup title, 71 years after the school’s first win.

2023

St. Colman’s College marks its bicentennial year, and a 200-year tradition of educational excellence.

2011

The College completes works on a new, state-of-the-art 3G Gaelic football pitch and a 6-lane floodlit running track.

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Marking our Bicentenary In May 2023, we marked 200 years of St. Colman’s College, with a whole school mass celebrated by Archbishop Martin in Newry Cathedral.

With a calendar of commemorative events across the academic year, we marked the foundation of our school: our pupils and the wider College community.

Celebrating over 200 years of educational excellence, this has been an opportunity to grow our Alumni group, build and nurture

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relationships with other local businesses and organisations, and look to the future as we strive to continue innovating and delivering the highest standards of learning.

If you would like to learn more about becoming a member of our Alumni group, or become a Patron of our Bicentenary, please contact the Principal’s Office via telephone (02830262451) or email (emullen505@c2ken.net).

We would like to thank all our pupils, parents, staff members and the wider College community for their continued support.

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Our Faith Guided by our Catholic faith and values, we, as the College community, work together to foster a welcoming and transformative environment for all.

Spirituality is an integral part of school life at St. Colman’s College, where pupils are encouraged and supported to develop and nurture their own faith.

MORNING ASSEMBLIES & PRAYERS

CELEBRATION OF MASS FOR PUPILS & STAFF THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

REGULAR PRAYER SERVICES

ANNUAL WHOLE SCHOOL MASS

INDIVIDUAL CLASS MASSES

CLASS AND YEAR GROUP RETREATS

SUPPORT FROM OUR COLLEGE CHAPLAIN

FAITH IN ACTION THROUGH CHARITY & FUNDRAISING

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Our Patron, St. Colman Our patron saint, St. Colman was a 6th century scholar, educated at the monastic foundation at Nendrum, on the shores of Strangford Lough, where he eventually became Abbot circa 520 AD. As a disciple of Saint Caolán, Colman was revered by for performing miracles and visited monasteries across the island to learn their religious practices and forms of community life, alongside more extensive learning in Holy Scripture.

Later serving as the first abbot of Muckmore in Co. Antrim, Colman was persuaded to settle in Dromore, setting up a small Church and instilling a sense of discipline among his followers. He, along with St. Patrick, is a patron of the Diocese of Dromore, within which the College is situated.

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Our College Chapel St. Colman’s College has the renowned Chapel of Mary, the Immaculate Mother of God on the college grounds.

Serving as a quiet place of peace and reflection for our pupils during the busy school day, it is central to the history and tradition of faith at Violet Hill.

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Harry Clarke Stained Glass Our chapel is home to an outstanding collection of stained-glass windows by world-famous Harry Clarke Studios, first commissioned by St. Colman’s College in the 1930s.

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Pastoral Care

Creating a community where everyone feels valued and respected.

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Our Approach Our Pastoral Care programme permeates all aspects of school life, helping shape the development of our pupils academically, socially, morally and spiritually.

We prepare each pupil to take their place in society and to become meaningful contributors to the world around them.

Our staff are committed to promoting a positive, well-ordered environment to empower learning, with systems in place to help guide and support pupils as they encounter challenges throughout their time at Violet Hill.

The full Pastoral Care and Child Protection policies can be requested by email at info@stcolmans.newry.sch.uk

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POSITIVE BEHAVIOUR POLICY

PASTORAL CARE STRUCTURE

Our Positive Behaviour Policy guides all aspects of student life, whereby pupils are encouraged to contribute positively to their own personal development, and to wider school life at St. Colman’s College.

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Each year group is divided into form classes of approximately 25 students

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Students meet with their Form Teacher during Registration Class each morning

In line with our value, Disciplina (or self-discipline), we guide our pupils to make informed choices, act with integrity and respect for others, and to fulfil their potential as Violet Hill pupils.

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The whole year group meets for assembly at the College Chapel one morning each week

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The curriculum includes weekly timetabled Form Periods, for the delivery of the Pastoral Care programme

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Form Teachers have designed time for one-on-one contact with members of their Form Class

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The work of Form Teachers is overseen by a Year Head

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Each Key Stage within the school is led by a Senior Teacher

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The Pastoral Care programme is under the direction of the Vice Principal for Pastoral Care

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Our Student Health Assistant deals with all day-today health and wellbeing issues

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Regular contact is maintained between the school and parents, through the homework diary, telephone, the SIMS parents’ app, Groupcall text messaging system, email, school app, social media channels and the school website

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Weekly counselling sessions are also available for all students

The full Positive Behaviour Policy can be requested by email at info@stcolmans.newry.ni.sch.uk

PASTORAL CARE Pastoral Care is a central part of pupil welfare, requiring the full co-operation of pupils, and highest standards of teaching, tutoring and supervision from staff at St. Colman’s College.

It also requires effective leadership on the part of our Form Teachers, Year Heads, Heads of Departments, Senior Leaders, Vice Principals and the Principal.

Mr Mark Doran Senior Teacher with Responsibility for KS3

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PASTORAL INITIATIVES

THE SAFEGUARDING TEAM

Throughout the school year, each year group will take part in various pastoral initiatives, showing pupils how they can help make a positive contribution to their local community.

Designated Teacher (DT) for Child Protection Mr Kevin Franklin Vice Principal, Pastoral kfranklin940@c2ken.net

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Fundraising events, such as coffee mornings, sponsored walks and non-uniform days

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Community outreach programmes, engaging with Awareness Days and initiatives throughout the year

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Mentoring programmes, teaching our pupils invaluable life lessons about the world around them

Deputy Designated Teachers (DDTs) Mr Mark Doran Senior Teacher with Responsibility for KS3 mdoran503@c2ken.net Dr Patrick Collins Senior Teacher with Responsibility for KS4 pcollins050@c2ken.net Mr Ciaran O’Hare Senior Teacher with Responsibility for Post-16 cohare611@c2ken.net Mr JP O’Hare Associate Senior Teacher: SEN / Learning Support Co-ordinator Mrs Helen Doherty Vice Principal, Curriculum hdoherty561@c2ken.net Mr Cormac McKinney Principal cmckinney692@c2ken.net

Mr Kevin Franklin Designated Teacher (DT) for Child Protection Vice Principal, Pastoral Care

For any student who wishes to speak to the school counsellor, Mrs Nuala Woods (Familyworks), please contact any member of the Safeguarding team above, or email wellbeing@stcolmans.org.uk, with the word ’Counselling’ in the subject line.

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Fostering Communi In St.Colman’s we place a huge emphasis on pupils contributing to the school and wider community. As well as being encouraged to get involved in a range of extra-curricular activities, pupils contribute to a range of charities, they voice their opinion through the school council and volunteer alongside community groups in their local areas.

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Admissions We offer the highest standards of learning, teaching, and innovation to ensure pupils are truly supported and nurtured to reach their individual potential.

We look forward to welcoming our new pupils in the coming academic year and supporting them to be the best that they can be.

2025-2026 ADMISSIONS POLICY St Colman’s College, Newry is a voluntary Catholic grammar school for boys. We accept boys who are academically suited for the type of education it offers and whose parents/guardians agree with the aims and ethos of the College.

YEAR 8 Each year, the College admits 125 pupils into Year 8. Pupils are admitted in adherence with our Admissions Criteria and the application process administered by Transfer Office at the Education Authority.

In assessing academic ability, St Colman’s College will use the grade awarded to pupils completing the SEAG Entrance Assessment on Saturday 16 November 2024 and Saturday 23 November 2024 as specified by the College. Parents must upload a copy of the result slip which they receive on Saturday 25 January 2025 with the Transfer Application and the grade should also be entered on the Transfer Application.

YEARS 9 – 12

Total enrolment 860

Sometimes, a small number of places may become available in these year groups, depending on enrolment numbers at the start of the academic year.

We encourage prospective pupils to visit the College at one of our open days to meet with staff and pupils and learn more about life at Violet Hill.

The Board of Governors delegates the admission of pupils other than to Year 8 to the College Principal.

Annual admissions 125

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YEARS 13 & 14 We aim to ensure every individual pupil can reach their full potential, spiritually, morally, socially and academically.

While it is most common that pupils who enrol in St. Colman’s in years 8-12 will remain to study A-Levels, we welcome bright and accomplished pupils into Years 3 & 14 whose own academic achievements match those expected from a St. Colman’s College pupil.

If there are more applicants than places available in these year groups, applicants are ranked according to points score for GCSE subjects or equivalent according to the following scale, with the higherranking pupil(s) being offered a place.

A* (9) = 5 points A (8,7) = 4 points B (6) = 3 points C* (5) = 2 points C (4) = 1 point All admissions are managed by the Education Authority, and further information can be found in the EA Post-Primary Admissions Guide.

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College Life Our aim is to ensure students feel supported throughout their time at Violet Hill, providing a safe and nurturing educational environment for all.

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THE SCHOOL DAY The College opens at 8am each morning, and our school day begins promptly at 9.00am with form class registration. In academic year 2024-25, our pupils had an average attendance rate of 95.7%.

There are 10 35-minute school periods, and the school day finishes at 3.30pm, with the school closing at 5.30pm.

STUDENT COUNCIL We encourage our pupils to engage with all aspects of school life, and we’re proud to have a very active Student Council, elected by our students at the beginning of each school year.

The council comes together for meetings on a regular basis and has representatives across all ages and from all year groups, to discuss issues concerning

the student body, ensuring their views are heard at management level and that they have an input into decisions that affect them.

THE LIBRARY The Library enjoys a central location in the College building, offering a large, bright and comfortable space to support purposeful study and leisure reading.

Alongside a comprehensive selection of fiction and nonfiction materials, the Library catalogue is also available digitally, and pupils have access to curriculum-based project work via the internet.

EVENING STUDY We have evening study facilities open for all pupils, offering supervised homework and study each evening from 3.40 - 5.20pm, including work in the Library and use of ICT facilities.

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STUDENT HEALTH ASSISTANT The Student Health Assistant (SHA) has the responsibility for the health and wellbeing of pupils while they are at school.

The nurse is a member of the pastoral team within the College, regularly meeting with Year heads, Head of Pastoral Care and the Special Educational Coordinator (SENCO).

All protocols and policies regarding health issues, medicines and First Aid are on the St. Colman’s College website and are updated and reviewed annually.

VHC CANTEEN & CAFÉ Our dining hall has a 5/5 Food Standard Agency rating and offers high-quality, nutritious breakfast and lunch options for our pupils in a relaxed and comfortable space.

With fresh fruit and salads also prepared each day, we encourage pupils to make good choices at lunchtime.

Our innovative contactless eMoney payments network means pupils and staff do not require money on their person to pay for snacks and lunch.

SCHOOL FEES We request a voluntary annual contribution of £60 per pupil, which goes toward supporting and maintaining the high-quality education and facilities at St. Colman’s College.

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AwardWinning Digital Initiative

DIGITAL SAFETY We recognise the importance of educating our pupils about online safety and the potential pitfalls surrounding its misuse.

We regularly hold information sessions for both parents and pupils, making our students aware of their online profile and ‘digital footprint’ to instil a mature and responsible attitude toward the use of technology in everyday life.

The full Safe and Acceptable Use of Digital Technologies policy and Acceptable Use of Device Policy can be requested by email at info@stcolmans.newry.sch.uk

We continue to innovate and lead in the provision of digital excellence, empowering and preparing our pupils for the world of work. We use technology in the classroom to enhance learning and teaching and deliver an inclusive and accessible curriculum.

Pupils in Year 8 are equipped with their own Microsoft Surface Go 3 device, a protective case and a range of educational apps. Pupils in Years 13 and 14 also have the option of bringing their own device (tablet or laptop) to school to enhance their studies and independent learning.

Having introduced this initiative over 14 years ago, digital learning is now part of the fabric of everyday school life at the College. In March 2023, St. Colman’s College was awarded the Capita NI Schools ICT Excellence award in the Post-Primary category.

Scan the QR link below to hear from our school Principal, staff and pupils on their experience of using Digital Technology at St. Colman’s.

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“

St. Colman’s College is a wonderful school, where young boys enter and young men leave with confidence, independence and wealth of knowledge to use in the world.

PARENT OF ST. COLMAN’S PUPIL

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Our Curriculum Our extensive curriculum offers students a balanced, exciting educational experience.

KEY STAGE 3 (YEARS 8 – 10)

Our dynamic approach goes beyond traditional learning, fostering critical thinking, creativity and adaptability to prepare students for the challenges of the future.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Offering a wide range of subjects, we inspire pupils to be fearless in their pursuit of knowledge and the development of their individual talents and interests.

Focused on broadening pupils’ minds and providing varied learning experiences and opportunities, we teach the following subjects at Key Stage 3: Art & Design Digital Skills (ICT) Drama Employability English Geography History Home Economics French Irish Mathematics Music Physical Education PSHE (Personal, Social, Health & Economic) Education • Religious Education • Science • Spanish (Years 9 & 10) • Technology & Design Digital Skills (ICT) not only integrates seamlessly across all subject areas but is delivered as a discrete subject in Year 8, Year 9 and Year 10.

Mrs Helen Doherty Vice Principal, Curriculum

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Pupils follow a coordinated sequence of activity-based lessons on Education for Employability (EfE).

Pupils learn about Personal Career Planning, Enterprise, Entrepreneurship and working in a Local and Global Economy.

KEY STAGE 4 (YEARS 11 – 12) Inspiring our pupils to meet their individual potential and explore their future career options, we offer a variety of subjects at Key Stage 4, alongside the subjects available at Key Stage 3.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Business Studies Biology Chemistry Computer Science Construction Digital Technology Double Award Science Drama English Literature Food & Nutrition Further Mathematics Learning for Life & Work Motor Vehicle & Road User Studies Music Physical Education Exam Physics

A minimum of ten GCSE subjects is taken by all pupils, alongside Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) and PE. Science is studied either as the separate disciplines of Physics, Chemistry and Biology or Double Award Science.

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SIXTH FORM (YEARS 13 & 14) Further encouraging our pupils to grow as lifelong, independent learners, the sixth form curriculum is designed to provide intensive academic specialised studies across a range of subjects.

We encourage sixth form pupils to have a keen interest in chosen subjects, with GCSE results playing a vital role in any final decision.

All sixth form pupils follow courses in Religious Education, Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG), and Microsoft Office leading to certification in PowerPoint, Excel and Word.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Art and Design Accounting Biology Business Studies Chemistry Drama & Theatre English Literature Environmental Technology French Further Mathematics Geography Government & Politics Health & Social Care History Irish Mathematics Moving Image Arts

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• • • • • • • • •

Music Nutrition & Food Science Physics Religious Studies Sociology Software Systems Development Spanish Sports Science & the Active Leisure Industry Technology & Design

BTEC LEVEL 3 NATIONAL EXTENDED CERTIFICATE (EQUIVALENT TO 1 A LEVEL) • Information Technology • Construction & the Built Environment • Sport

BTEC LEVEL 3 NATIONAL DIPLOMA (EQUIVALENT TO 2 A LEVELS) • Construction & the Built Environment • Sport Each A-Level pupil is expected to study three or four subjects to AS Level and continue with three to A2 standard, though some will study more.

Pupils taking vocational subjects (BTEC) are expected to supplement their studies with the appropriate number of A-Level subjects for the university course of their choice.

Our dynamic approach goes beyond traditional learning, fostering critical thinking, creativity and adaptability to prepare students for the challenges of the future.

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Careers Education Education for Employability and Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) is embedded in the school curriculum from Years 8 - 14.

We strive to provide effective careers education for our pupils, preparing them for the world of work in the local and global economy, and enabling them to develop the skills necessary to make informed decisions about their future.

Years 8 – 10 begin preparing for the future in their weekly Form class programme of study. In years 11 – 14, formal Careers classes are timetabled weekly,

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and Year 12 pupils receive Careers Guidance from the Careers Service NI. From Year 13, pupils undertake guidance interviews, a week-long work experience, mock interviews, university visits and the opportunity to link with local universities, businesses and industries.

St. Colman’s also has strong links with universities and colleges, and senior pupils pursuing thirdlevel education are guided and assisted with UCAS applications and personal statements.

Preparing Pupils for the Future We prepare each pupil to take their place in society and to become meaningful contributors to the world around them, providing the opportunity for pupils to choose a wide range of enrichment activities alongside their main studies. This includes First Aid, Study Skills and physical activity in our Fitness Suite.

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ExtraCurricula By offering a broad range of subjects and extra-curricular activities, we inspire pupils to be fearless in their pursuit of knowledge and the development of their individual talents and interests.

EXCELLENCE INSIDE AND OUTSIDE THE CLASSROOM

We know that participating in extra-curricular activities helps to enhance pupils’ self-esteem, enable them to build strong friendships and grow to become accomplished young adults.

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Many pupils at the College enjoy a very active extra-curricular life, with activities including music and drama, sports, outdoor education and other social societies and clubs.

• Agricultural Club

• Drama Club

• Mini-Enterprise

• Arkwright Scholarships

• Eco Club

• Music

• Fitness Club (Years 13 & 14)

• Musicals

• Athletics • Basketball

• Football

• BT Young Scientist

• Golf

• Campa Chormaic

• Gael Linn Quiz

• Sentinus Young Innovators

• Chess Club

• Handball

• Spanish Club

• Coding Club

• Hurling

• Swimming

• Cross Country

• Minecraft Club

• Technology Club

• Science Club • Science Olympiads

ar

SCHOOL TRIPS Across our curriculum, and as part of our wider extra-curricular offering, we regularly organise school trips for our pupils both locally and abroad.

Our most recent trips include an athletic trip to Spain, a Geography trip to Italy and a Business Studies trip to Prague.

Notably, we organise a biennial European ski trip for our sixth form pupils, as well as a chance to experience the winter sport, our pupils are encouraged to appreciate and experience the culture of another country.

CHARITY & FUNDRAISING Guided by our Catholic faith and values, we encourage pupils to foster an understanding and awareness of, and respect for, other people and cultures.

Fundraising is an important aspect of College life, with pupils taking ownership of fundraising events and making a valuable contribution to those who are less fortunate than themselves.

Our pupils are currently supporting a number of causes including the Southern Area Hospice, Trocáire, Friends of the Cancer Centre.

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Music at St. Colman’ College Our vibrant music tradition fosters creativity and collaboration among our pupils, offering a broad experience spanning orchestral, choral and traditional Irish music.

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’s

Our Music department boasts state-of-the-art equipment, complete with a wide range of quality instruments, an iMac production suite, software and recording studio. Our chapel is also home to a twomanual Kenneth Jones pipe organ.

A full range of orchestral instruments is taught in partnership with EA Southern Regional Music Service, along with private tuition for guitar, organ and voice, and our renowned school orchestra and choir perform to the highest standards.

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Sport at St. Colman’ College St. Colman’s College has a proud tradition of sport, instilling a healthy drive for excellence beyond academic studies.

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’s

Leading the way in Gaelic football with 20 MacRory Cup titles, the College holds an esteemed place in Ulster and All-Ireland competitions, serving as an important Football nursery for county teams in Down, Armagh and further afield.

There is a breadth of sporting activity on offer at the College and our boys regularly represent Violet Hill in Gaelic Football, Hurling, Handball, Cross Country, Track and Field, Swimming, Basketball and many individual sports.

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Our Facilities Our modern Sports Complex is extremely popular among our pupils. Developed in partnership with Sport NI, Newry and Mourne District Council, the Department of Social Development and Down GAA County Board, the complex includes a full-size floodlit 3G Gaelic pitch, a six-lane running track, athletic facilities and a sports pavilion.

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Achievements A RECORD 20 MACRORY CUP TITLES

8 HOGAN CUP WINS

5 ULSTER HURLING TITLES

8 ALL IRELAND CROSS COUNTRY TITLES

2016 JUNIOR GOLF ULSTER SCHOOLS COMPETITION

REGULARLY COMPETE ABROAD AT INTERNATIONAL CROSS COUNTRY EVENTS

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School Uniform The well-recognised St. Colman’s College uniform brings with it a reputation for educational excellence.

We encourage our pupils to wear their school uniform with pride, especially on the journey to and from school, and outside or school grounds.

All pupils are required to wear the full school uniform each day at Violet Hill: • A Single-breasted blue St. Colman’s College blazer • A St. Colman’s College school tie (junior or senior) • Plain long-sleeved blue shirt, buttoned to the neck.

• Plain light grey trousers • Plain grey v-neck pullover jumper • Grey socks • Plain, flat black shoes St. Colman’s College school uniform can be purchased from a range of suppliers in the greater Newry area.

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Junior Uniform

PE UNIFORM All regulation PE uniform should be purchased from O’Neills. O’Neills is the supplier of all St. Colman’s sportswear, including football jerseys, sweatshirts, half-zips, shorts and tracksuit bottoms.

Note, PE sweatshirts are not part of the official school uniform.

UNIFORM SUPPORT SCHEME Each year, we aim to run a Uniform Support Scheme, with a stock of uniform items that have been donated to the school in good condition.

If you wish to avail of this scheme, please email Mr Franklin (kfranklin940@c2ken.net) or Mrs J McGrath (jmcgrath229@c2ken.net).

If you wish to donate any items (particularly blazers, trousers and PE kit), items can be left with the school reception.

Senior Uniform

PE Uniform 2025 Prospectus | 53

Mr JP O’Hare Associate Senior Teacher: SEN / Learning Support Co-ordinator

54 | St. Colman’s College, Violet Hill

Learning Support We offer the highest standards of learning, teaching, and innovation to ensure pupils are truly supported and nurtured to reach their individual potential.

At St. Colman’s, we want to make sure all pupils with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND) are supported, with the right policies and practice in place, as guided by our Learning Support Co-ordinator (SENCo) and team of Classroom Assistants.

All pupils on the SEN register are monitored to ensure their educational needs are being met, with teaching staff helping to development their individual learning plans and targets.

Acting as an additional level of pastoral care, our Learning Support team allows us to empower each pupil to be the best they can be.

2025 Prospectus | 55

Alumni

Support Us

In our over 200 year history, we’re proud to have welcomed so many pupils who have gone on to become accomplished adults on their chosen paths.

Our school is generously supported by generations of alumni, parents, staff and friends, to allow us to continue delivering the highest standards of education.

The College community extends beyond its current pupils, carrying the values of kindness, knowledge and self-discipline around the world, and setting a positive example for our current pupils.

For details on how to donate to St. Colman’s College, please contact the school at info@stcolmans.newry.ni.sch.uk

Policies

Contact

Pleases contact the school to access any of the documents or policies listed below:

If you have any questions, or wish to speak to a member of staff, please contact the school office.

• Board of Governors Curriculum Policy Statement

Address St. Colman’s College Violet Hill 46 Armagh Road Newry BT35 6PP

• Teaching & Learning • Curriculum • Assessment • Data Protection • Positive Behaviour • Bullying • Child Protection • Pastoral Care • Acceptable use of iPad • Safe and Acceptable Use of Digital Technologies • Admissions • Careers

Tel: (028) 3026 2451 Fax: 028 3026 7422 Email: info@stcolmans.newry.ni.sch.uk Principal Mr Cormac McKinney Chairman of the Board of Governors Dr. Damian Scullion

• Drugs • Mobile Devices

@st_colmans

• Numeracy • Literacy • CDG Policy 2021 • QMS Privacy Notice • Handling Complaints

56 | St. Colman’s College, Violet Hill

facebook.com/stcolmanscollegenewry