Rationale for Ashbourne Community School 30th Anniversary Logo Design
By Ava Dunne - Fifth Year Student
My first thought when designing a logo for the school’s thirtieth anniversary was how could I make the logo uniquely represent Ashbourne Community School? I thought the best way to do this was by incorporating the school crest inside the zero. I wrote the word ‘Anniversary’ on red ribbon because the ribbon represents a celebration which highlights the impressive achievement of reaching our thirtieth anniversary.
Each colour used to make the logo can be found on our own uniform. I thought it was important that the logo would speak to everyone involved with our school including students, parents and staff. I kept this idea in mind when drawing the string of people along the number three. The people morphing from small to big is a symbol of how our school community that is made up of children and adults, all of us growing and changing over the last thirty years, and all connected to each other through ACS.
Dear Parents/Guardians, students, teachers and members of our school community, I am delighted to write the Principal’s Preamble for the School Annual Report, a comprehensive reflection on the remarkable journey we undertook throughout the academic year 2024-2025.
September 2024 was a significant milestone for Ashbourne Community School as it marked the 30th anniversary of the opening of the school. Over the past three decades, our school has grown and evolved, fostering a nurturing environment where students thrive academically and personally. As we reflect on our journey, we look forward to continuing our tradition of excellence and innovation in education.
The pages that follow in this annual report encapsulate the vibrant activities, achievements, and developments that have defined our school’s spirit over the past year. Our curriculum, the bedrock of academic excellence, continues to evolve ensuring a dynamic and holistic learning experience for our students. As we delve into the various facets of our educational landscape, it is evident that the collective efforts of our dedicated teachers, enthusiastic students, and supportive parents have yielded a year of remarkable progress.
In the ensuing pages, each subject will provide a brief account of the achievements and developments within their domain, highlighting the commitment to intellectual growth and academic prowess that defines our school.
One of the year’s greatest highlights is our sporting achievements. We have had quite a few teams both boys and girls through to the later stages of their competitions. I am delighted with the high level of student participation in extracurricular activities. Our aim is to continue expanding the number of students involved. This is only made possible by the dedication of our teachers who generously give their time to mentor teams, fostering camaraderie and a vibrant school atmosphere.
Student voice and leadership is an essential aspect of our school. We remain committed to nurturing and encouraging student leadership. By listening to and supporting student voice we ensure a more engaging and enriching educational experience for all.
As we navigate through the triumphs and challenges documented in this report, it is essential to recognise the collaborative spirit that permeates every aspect of our school community. The unwavering support of parents, the hard work of our teaching and non-teaching staff, and the resilience of our students collectively contribute to the success story that is the School Annual Report of 2024-2025.
Alongside the many highs, we have also experienced emotional goodbyes. This year we bid farewell to three esteemed members of our school community. Ailish Kendall, John O’Leary, and Ciarán O Maitiu, all dedicated and long-serving teachers, retired over the course of the year. Together, the school lost a whopping eighty-five years of experience during the year. We wish all three great servants of ACS all the best in their well-deserved retirement. Additionally, we said goodbye to one of our Special Needs Assistants, Trudy Roxborough. Trudy who had been with us since August 2023 resigned her position to pursue a new line of work. We bid a fond farewell to a dedicated Special Needs Assistant who has served our school community with great care and commitment for the past year and a half. We are grateful for her contribution and wish her all the best in their future endeavours.
In conclusion, I extend my gratitude to everyone who has been an integral part of our journey this year. May this report serve as a testament to our shared commitment to excellence, growth, and the holistic development of each student under our care. Thank you for your continued support.
Pat Moriarty Principal
Celebrating Thirty Years of ACS
On Thursday 20th March, Ashbourne Community School celebrated its 30th anniversary with an evening of reflection entitled “Our Journey to 30”. Pupils and staff, past and present, local dignitaries, MEP Nina Carberry and Councillor Alan Tobin attended the event. MC for the night was past Principal, Ciarán Stewart, who hosted the evening with his characteristic wit and good humour.
Mr. Ciarán Flynn, Chairperson of the Board of Management and first Principal, discussed the origins of the school and its first ten years. A considerable campaign was launched by local people including David McCarthy Smyth, Ciarán Flynn, and the Second Level School Committee in the 1980s to provide a school in the town for the ever-growing community. At that time young people from Ashbourne were forced to travel long distances to receive an education. This committee supported by the Bishop of Meath and LMETB succeeded in their mission to provide education in the heart of the community also becoming the first Board of Management, on the foundation of the school in 1994. Ashbourne Community School was founded on the innovative principles of a diverse and dynamic curriculum, positive relationships and a strong pastoral care system. Partnership with the community, at the core of its mission was strengthened through a Parents Association and Community Education Programme. Both the PTA and Adult Education continue to thrive today .
First Leaving Cert Year Group 1998-99
Mr Moriarty and Nina Carberry MEP and Cllr Alan Tobin and Nina Carberry MEP
The Turning of the Sod May 1993
Ashbourne Community School
Ms Áine O’Sullivan, General Secretary of the Association of Community and Comprehensive Schools, and former Principal spoke about the growth of the school in the second decade. The core values of community and connection along with a strong leadership model saw the school grow from strength to strength. John Fanning and Liam Murphy were fondly remembered for the vital role they played as the school flourished. Ms. Susan Duffy, former Principal, reflected on the past ten years which saw the school successfully navigate some challenges such as curricular change and a pandemic. Ms. Duffy concluded the professionalism and “can do” mentality of school staff that made the impossible possible. The addition of two Special Classes ensures Ashbourne Community School continues its commitment to care and inclusion outlined in the school’s mission statement .
The Five Principals of ACS 1994-2025
Music on the night was provided by present and past pupils. The school choir kicked the evening off with a fantastic rendition of “Happy”. Singer Songwriter, Alan Kavanagh performed a song written for his own graduation and popular songs. Similarly, PHD student Fiona Gryson treated the audience to a wonderful harp performance. Traditional music was provided by the Dignam family along with Caitlínn Ní Gabhann, parents, teachers and students. Transition Year students performed an excerpt from the upcoming TY show and band Nitrogen also entertained the crowd.
Current Principal, Pat Moriarty, brought the evening to a close commending the commitment of the ancillary and teaching staff. Concurring with all speakers, Mr. Moriarty concluded by vowing to continue to serve the community with “pride, purpose and a shared commitment”. This sentiment was echoed by former students Kate Heffernan, Emily O’Doherty and Ailish Moriarty in attendance at the event who spoke of the inspirational education they received, and friendships made for life in Ashbourne Community School.
30 Years ACS 5 students from the first group of 6th years Class Ultan with Ms Ryan their tutor
Current Senior Management
Subject Departments
Art
The mural representing the students graduating in 2024 was designed and painted by the following students, William Cronin Fleming, Conor McCluskey, Katija Zarina, Marina Oliveria Boccuzzi, Alex Diana, Amber Finglas, Ella Farrell, Tony Newman, Kevin Osaretin Ugi-Ebiogbodin, Saoirse Murray and Emma Gallagher
The concept for the mural was directed by Mr. O’Shea. He wanted the mural to reflect the characteristics of his 2024 year group - the academic and sporting abilities, the diversity within the group, the journey from First to Sixth Year reflected in the river in the background, Mr. O’Shea’s signature striped scarf, the names of the tutor groups in the Olympic rings and the inspirational quote that Mr. O’Shea used to motivate and direct this group of students ‘be the best you can be’.
Leaving Cert Results
Congratulations to LC 2024 for fabulous results. They were very deserving as they were a hardworking and dedicated group of students who were always a pleasure to teach.
Junior Cycle Results
Congratulations to JC 2024. This was the second year that students in our school received results in JC Art. We had some exceptional work completed by our hardworking students.
In November, past pupil Eileen O’Sullivan came back to the Art Department and gave a talk about her artwork to our students. This included her current college and studio work. This was an invaluable experience for all of them but in particular for those interested in pursuing a career as a professional Visual artist.
First Year
A new group of First Years arrived in September and they settled in well. They began the year learning new drawing and design skills before creating clay coil pots based on the theme of “Nature”.
They entered the Credit Union Art Competition and we had some excellent entries. The theme was “The Joys of Life”. The following were the winners:
11-13 Category
First Place: Erica Lattimore (Second Year)
Third Place: Joshua Kelly (First Year)
14-17 Category
First Place: Ciarán Muldoon (Second Year)
Erica’s and Ciarán’s entries went on to the Chapter Competition and Ciarán came third in his category.
L to R Joshua Kelly, Erica Lattimore, Ciarán Muldoon. Second Photo is of Ciarán receiving his prize for third place in the chapter round in Trim.
Second Year
The year began with drawing and painting, developing skills in the use of a variety of media. They looked at shoes as their primary source and completed some excellent sketchbook pieces.
They completed their CBA 1 in Strand Craft: Lino Printing. This includes researching artists and completing a three colour Lino print.
Third Year
Third Year students were busy completing CBA 2 before Christmas and then began working on their chosen exam piece for assessment in June. These included Paintings and Sculpture.
Senior Cycle Art
Fifth Year Visual Art
Students completed some excellent Sketchbook work, Imaginative Composition, Still Life paintings and they rounded off the year by working on Lino Printing. Just after Christmas they visited the National Gallery and the National Museum in Dublin.
Sixth Year Visual Art
Sixth Years studied the Realist, Impressionist and Post-Impressionist movement in Visual Studies. They visited the National Gallery and the National Museum in December. They worked on their art project from December, completing one artwork in class and a second in a five-hour exam.
Fifth Year LCA
They completed their General Education Task with Ms. Maher and Ms. Matthews. They designed and built coil pots and wrote a report on the process. They also visited the workshop of Thomas Diem. They also learned how to use watercolour, acrylic paint and how to mix colour.
Sixth Year LCA
Sixth Year LCA looked at The Local Environment. They researched through photographs and studied the work of local artists.
Business
It has been a busy year for the Business Department for the academic year 2024-2025. Here are just a few of the highlights of another successful academic year.
Open Night
We held another very successful Open Evening where we welcomed incoming parents/guardians and students. Some of our young entrepreneurs set up a stall in RA4 and along the Red Area corridor. It was a great chance to showcase the practical benefits of our option subject, which we believe is essential to developing skills for the future. We had various games for our incoming First Years to play such as Guess the Entrepreneur and Name the Logo. A huge thanks to our young entrepreneurs who set up on the night, to our students who demonstrated the Limited Resources Game and to all department teachers for the preparation put into making it a success.
Mock Exams
The recent mock exam results were impressive, showcasing a strong standard of achievement among Junior and Senior Cycle students. This promising outcome sets a positive tone for their upcoming State Exams and highlights their potential for continued success. Keep up the fantastic work!
CBA
In March 2025, our Second Year students completed their CBA1. Students worked in groups to research and recommend a new family car. They also had to recommend a suitable source of finance and repayment plan for this purchase. The students worked very hard to get their task completed. Well done to all!
Looking Ahead to 2025-2026
The new Leaving Certificate Business programme, set to launch in 2025, introduces a modernised curriculum designed to reflect the evolving world of business. It aims to enhance students’ financial and business literacy, foster informed decision-making, and develop key competencies for the Irish and global economy. This updated programme emphasises practical understanding, preparing students to navigate and contribute effectively to the dynamic business environment.
Computer Science
This year, our Computer Science class has made significant strides, building on the strong foundation established last year. The 2024-2025 academic year has been particularly notable as we continued to refine our skills in programming, problem-solving, and computational thinking with a focus on preparing for the Leaving Certificate examination. Last year marked a milestone for our school as it was the first time our Leaving Cert students sat the Computer Science exam, and the results were impressive with very good grades across the board. The success of last year’s cohort has inspired us to aim even higher and we’re confident that our current students will yield equally outstanding results.
CSPE
CSPE students have been engaged in several areas of active citizenship this year. There are three Strands for each year of CSPE education - Strand One: Rights and Responsibilities, Strand Two: Global Citizenship, and Strand Three: Democracy.
First Year students made board games using disregarded paper/ plastic etc. that otherwise would have gone to waste, reinforcing our commitment to being a Green School. Their board games were centred around an aspect of the CSPE course. They had great fun doing this and learned a lot along the way.
Second Year students in Class Errigal and Mount St Helens completed research projects on the importance of Fairtrade and solidified their learning by hosting a Fairtrade Coffee Morning for teachers using only Fairtrade products - this went down a treat!
Third year students actively learned about the PR voting system used in Ireland by simulating an election using this method. They also created educational videos around basic Governmental departments in Ireland such as Dail Eireann and the Houses of the Oireachtas.
Overall, we have had a great year. Students across all years and Strands have had the chance to put their classroom learning to use and engage in practical activities that encourage students to develop a sense of active citizenship and a heightened awareness of the world around them.
Global Citizenship Education
Global Citizenship Education places an emphasis on understanding the unequal world around us and aims to empower learners to become active participants in creating a more peaceful, tolerant, and just world.
Students learned about issues such as poverty, the Sustainable Development Goals, gender inequality and global conflict. Students focused on their area of interest and took action to play their part in addressing the issue in a meaningful way.
Due to learning about migration and asylum issues, students were invited to attend a migrant day celebration in Ashbourne Library from Meath County Council. We listened to asylum seekers’ stories and struggles, and were also treated to displays of song and dance from different cultures. It was an impactful event which enabled students to develop a deeper understanding of the issues faced by asylum seekers and refugees in Ireland.
For their projects, students critically analysed media coverage on global conflicts and how narratives can help aid public perception. They produced a video to highlight the importance of responsible media consumption.
Another group created an advocacy campaign for women’s rights in Afghanistan. They produced posters and videos to raise awareness and engaged in peer learning with First Year groups. They also wrote to several Irish politicians urging action on this issue.
English
Throughout this academic year, our students have engaged with literary texts, films, and plays and have fostered a genuine enthusiasm for exploring the diverse worlds and narratives of their studied texts.
First Year
Our First Year students explored novels such as Girl Stolen by April Henry, Stone Cold by Robert Swindells, and Private Peaceful by Michael Morpurgo. They were also busy learning key skills such as book and film reviews, personal and formal letter writing as well as starting their appreciation of poetry and brushing up on their grammar skills.
Second and Third Year
Our Second Years developed key skills such as poetry analysis and speech writing whilst also analysing their Junior Cycle Shakespearean text The Merchant of Venice. They also underwent their Classroom-Based Assessments in March. This assessment requires students to research and present a topic of their choice to the class through means of interview, presentation, performance or a response to a stimulus material. Students were encouraged to choose a topic that interests them which resulted in a myriad of topics presented such as celebrities that inspire such as Roy Keane, Rory’s Stories, Johnny Sexton as well as holidays to Italy, taekwondo and many more! Before presenting, students studied famous speeches and brainstormed techniques for a successful presentation and used this to help them plan their speeches. This assessment taught students about the importance of maintaining eye contact with their audience, creating clear and well-planned speeches and how to incorporate the audience into their presentation to keep them engaged - skills they will carry forward into the future.
Our Junior Cycle students had the opportunity to analyse films such as the animation Spider-Man: Into the Spider-Verse and Sing Street directed by John Carney. It is through the investigation of these films that lively class discussions and insightful analyses were formed, and students deepened their understanding of cinema and developed their critical thinking and communication skills. Third Year students actively engaged in their revision of their Shakespearean text The Merchant of Venice, as well as their novels of The Outsiders by S.E.Hinton and Steinbeck’s Of Mice and Men
Transition Year
TY students this year developed communication skills in classroom debates and quizzes. They also had the chance to create TY Podcasts and record Day in the life of TY vlogs as well as analyse their favourite songs as if they were poems. Some TYs also studied novels such as Uglies by Scott Westerfield and The Secret Life of Bees by Sue Monk Kidd and began to learn their comparative skills by comparing these novels with films using a theme.
Fifth and Sixth Year
Our Senior Cycle students had the chance to study film texts such as Ladybird and Barbie both directed by Greta Gerwig, Knives Out directed by Rian Johnson and The Shawshank Redemption directed by Frank Darabont as part of their Comparative Study. As well as this, they compared these texts with plays like J.B.Keane’s Sive and Artur Miller’s The Crucible
Drama studies continued with Fifth Years studying the dramatics of Macbeth and Sixth Year students had the opportunity to visit the Clasac Theatre in Clontarf for the Gaiety School of Acting’s production of King Lear in October 2024. Students thoroughly enjoyed seeing the play come to life and this was a great way for them to revise the text
Gaeilge
Seachtain na Gaeilge
Bhí seachtain iontach againn sa scoil arís i mbliana ag ceiliúradh Seachtain na Gaeilge le chéile. Ba ócáid lán scoile í. Bhí Gaeilge le cloisteáil in a lán seomraí ranga, timpeall na scoile agus ar an idirchum mar chuid de fhógraí an lae. Buíochas le Amelia Leydon as an séú bliain, léigh sí focal an lae agus seanfhocal an lae dúinn gach lá. Molaimid go mór na daoine a bhain agus a bhaineann úsáid as a gcuid Gaeilge fós.
Ghlac na daltaí ón gcéad, ón dara agus ón gcúigiú bliain taitneamh as imeachtaí ar nós Cé Atá Ann, Tráth na gCeist, Biongó agus Kahoot. Ba iontach an spraoi a bhí acu trí mheán na Gaeilge. Bhí go leor duaiseanna ar fáil freisin.
Táimid ag tnúth go mór le Seachtain na Gaeilge sa bhliain 2026.
Tháinig Barragh ó Choláiste na bhFiann isteach Déardaoin 13ú Márta freisin agus labhair sé le daltaí ón gcéad agus ón dara bliain faoin gcoláiste samhraidh i nDroim Rí. D’éist na daltaí go géar leis agus chuir siad roinnt ceisteannna air ag an deireadh. Bhí an ócáid eagraithe le Ms. Brady, míle buíochas. Fuair na daltaí a lán eolais faoi Choláiste na bhFiann agus conas a bhíonn gach lá i gcoláiste samhraidh!
MRBanna
Rinne na daltaí sa tríú bliain Measúnú Rang Bunaithe ina ranganna Gaeilge i mí Feabhra / Márta, nós atá ag tarlú le cupla bliain anuas. Rinne siad obair den scoth ag ullmhú don chur i láthair os comhair an ranga. Bhí roinnt daltaí neirbhíseach ach ghlac siad páirt in ainneoin sin. Táimid fíor-bhródúil astu.
Bréagscrúduithe Béil
Rinne na daltaí bréagscrúduithe béil i mí an Mhárta. Is fiú daichead faoin gcéad den scrúdú iomlán sa Ghaeilge é an scrúdú béil agus d’oibrigh na daltaí go dian ag ullmhú dóibh. Míle buíochas do na múinteoirí a rinne na bréagscrúduithe béil dúinn. Beidh na scrúduithe béil don ardteist ag tosú ag tús laethanta saoire na Cásca.
C Ó Maitiú ar scor
Chuaigh ball dílis den scoil ar scor i mí na Nollag. Guímid ádh mór oortt Uasal Ó Maitiú agus míle buíochas as gach rud a rinne tú thar na blianta sa scoil
Geography
Geography as a subject continues to go from strength to strength in Ashbourne Community School. 106 students have chosen to do Geography in Fifth Year this year making it the most popular subject choice for Leaving Cert students. The 2024 Leaving Cert results in Geography were once again fantastic with 87% of students having Geography in their top three Leaving Cert results.
In November of 2024 over 80 Sixth Year Geography students travelled to Bull Island, Clontarf to complete their Leaving Cert Geography Field Work which counts for 20% of their overall Leaving Cert mark. The day couldn’t have gone any better with fantastic weather, very well-behaved students and all tasks were completed to an exceptionally high standard. This year’s Sixth Years are the first cohort of Leaving Cert students to submit their Geography Field Work Projects in a digital format.
Junior Cycle students continue to perform very well in Geography. The CBAs were very well received by students, and it is a great opportunity for them to show their creative side. This year all Second Year classes completed the Geography in the News CBA with all students having to conduct their own research on an individual natural disaster before displaying their accounts and findings in a scrap book. The variety of different disciplines which are required for Geography: long questions, short questions, diagrams, drawing, pictures, graphs, mapwork, are some of the reasons that makes the subject popular with students.
Geography continues to be popular with TY classes in the school. Students complete two periods of Geography for half the year before switching with other subjects at Christmas time. TY Geography is an important preview of what Geography is like for students at Leaving Cert level.
Overall, Geography as a subject is performing fantastically well in Ashbourne Community School. Students are enjoying the subject and the way in which it is taught on the school which shows in many ways including the popularity of the subject for Leaving Cert students and the consistently exceptional Leaving Cert results in the subject over the past number of years.
Guidance
The past year has been another busy one for the Guidance Counselling Department. Each year group, each school term, and each transition bringing its own requirements and opportunities. In the Guidance Department we focus on eight groups: incoming students and outgoing students and First Years through to Sixth Years.
In September 2024 we were busy linking in with local feeder National Schools. We were very well received by the primary school students, teachers, and principals. In October 2024 we hosted a very successful Open Day where the school community displayed the work of students. Students were proud to welcome incoming students and their parents/guardians and gave tours and answered questions. The Head Students also discussed their experience of Ashbourne Community School and parents heard how our pastoral and academic system work.
The Guidance Department met all First Year groups to facilitate a workshop on Settling into Your New School during the Induction Week. Ability testing was conducted, and the results were posted on Compass to the Parents/ Guardians to give them an insight into their child’s learning styles and they were encouraged to contact us with any queries. High achieving students were linked with the CYTI DCU and are undertaking courses of interest. We also facilitated an Anxiety Management/Resilience workshop with selected First Years from October to November. On seeing the rise in student and parental reporting of anxiety and stress, the Guidance Department created An Anxiety Resource Pack to be delivered to First and Second Year classes in collaboration with the Wellbeing Co-ordinator.
The Guidance Department were available to inform and guide exiting Sixth Year students on the transition to the workplace, CFE and Third Level options following the Leaving Certificate and CAO offers. Guidance was given both in person and over the phone to students/parents/guardians. The Guidance Department compiled a ‘Final Destinations Profile’ of the class of 2024 which entailed contacting each Leaving Certificate student or parent/guardian. In most cases students were content with their offers and in other cases we were able to offer guidance and re-direction depending on the students’ requests.
This year access to Studyclix was organised for every student in the school. The staff had an induction session in August and the students were tutored by their teachers how to register and use this excellent study tool. Parents/ guardians were also informed about Studyclix and how to register. A Guide to Study was sent out to all parents/ guardians of First Years to help them to support their children to create good habits early on in their secondary school education.
In November, we participated in College Awareness Week (CAW) to create awareness around Third Level. Communication began in November with parents around Third Year EirQuest Interest and Aptitude Testing. Third Year students received lessons prior to testing to inform them about Senior Options and prepare them for this testing and explain its function. In December, Third Year students participated in the EirQuest Interest and Aptitude Testing. The results were immediate for students to see. These results inform and guide students around Senior Cycle subject options and course choices.
We welcomed the parents and guardians of our Incoming First Year cohort in February for an information evening detailing our subject options in ACS. We gave a clear overview of the expectations of Post-Primary education in ACS. Parents/guardians also had an opportunity to ask questions and receive links to further information.
During February and March, the focus was on Third and TY students transitioning into Senior Cycle and considerable time was spent in helping them make informed and wise decisions about their future choices. Each subject department gave their time and expertise to outline the subject details of each Leaving Certificate subject to all Third and TY students over a four-hour period. Drama, Film and Theatre Studies is a new Leaving Certificate subject for September 2025 and the students learned all about it from Mr Watsham and Mr Reilly. Students were encouraged to link in with the teachers to learn more about certain subjects and teachers were generous with their time and information. Students also met their Guidance Counsellors in small groups, and some sought one to one support with their decision making. There was positive feedback from our evening Senior Options session for parents/ guardian and students. All presentations, information documents and forms were uploaded onto the School Guidance website. Also in February, 46 Third and Fifth Years were invited to participate in PISA (Programme for International Student Assessment) where the focus was on Science and Learning in the Digital World.
Most Fifth Year students settled into their chosen subjects at Senior Cycle but there were several students who needed assistance and guidance around subject levels and subject changes. We worked closely with the Senior Leaders and teachers and have a clear process that works quite effectively ensuring that students find themselves with the right fit for them. Senior Cycle college and career classes began in the final term of Fifth Year as it serves
to focus and engage students. Many Fifth Year students participated in an in-house UCD college and career talk in late March and they also attended two local HEIs - Maynooth University and Dublin City University in early April. During this term, we organised and facilitated CareerFit testing which helped students to choose their top three career areas. CareerFit allowed students to build on their interests from Third year when they completed Eirquest. Students found this a very fulfilling and motivating experience. It also allowed for meaningful dialogue at home.
Communications and work with Sixth Year students are yearlong from group work to one-to-one work around CAO/ UCAS/PLC/Apprenticeship applications, facilitation and access to college Open Days and careers events. We made the Sixth Year annual college/careers trip to the RDS for the Higher Options conference in September. The PLC College trips included Coláiste íde, Drogheda CFE and Dunboyne College of Further Education. Alongside the cocurricular events, we invited University Admissions officers for feeder colleges/universities to give talks to Sixth Years including: Maynooth University, Trinity College, UCD, DCU and TU Dublin. As in previous years, we assisted students with additional access routes to college such as DARE/ HEAR applications. DARE applications became a focus in January and February, and we met students and parents and worked closely with the SEN Co-ordinator. Once the SUSI application cycle opened, we alerted relevant students and helped those who needed input. In October we welcomed Kevin Hollinsworth, current President of the Society of Chartered Surveyors Ireland and past student Luke McCarthy from Chartered property, land and construction surveyors SCSI to speak with students interested in the areas of Quantity Surveying, Construction and Engineering. This was a well-attended event and students were most engaged. Another special event took place in November in the State Laboratory in Celbridge where a group of keen Chemistry students had a presentation and tour and learned about careers within this sector. Aer Lingus provided an excellent information packed day in March about routes into various careers within Aer Lingus. Throughout the year we linked in with students on a one-to-one capacity to support them around their educational, vocational, and personal needs. We linked in with parents/guardians. We liaised with feeder schools, third level institutions and further education colleges. We worked with local authorities, businesses and services and supports.
History
In the academic year 2024-2025 the History Department of ACS yet again proved to be innovative and adaptive in our work practices to make sure it was a successful year for our students. Thanks to the collective teamwork of all the department members, we ensured that our students had a rewarding and enjoyable educational experience.
Our Second Year History students undertook their first Classroom-Based Assessment. This CBA was called The Past in My Place. Through this work students satisfied curiosities about their surroundings and connected with local history. A vast array of work was undertaken from planning, and researching, to site visits and report writing. Students with family connections further afield were also given the opportunity to connect with their heritage. Several students also chose the option to undertake a genealogy project researching a family member.
Some of our Junior Cycle classes took part in a Cookie Excavation to carefully remove chocolate chips from cookies using a toothpick to demonstrate how carefully an archaeologist must be in their line of work. Some other classes got to try on replicas of Roman Armor when learning about Ancient Rome. First Year classes recreated the Roman Army “testudo” tactic, donning shields and spears while trying to avoid missiles raining down on them. They also got to try on some Roman armour and really put themselves in the shoes of a Roman soldier.
Sixth Year students successfully completed their research projects in March 2025. The breadth of topics which were investigated and written about was amazing once again. The class tackled everything from Harry Boland to Malcol X, Margaret Skinnider and Gert Steiner. All the students engaged wholeheartedly with the research process and honed their investigative skills over the last few months.
Home Economics
First Year Cookery and Theory
First Year students began the year by making fruit salad to develop their skills before moving on to creating decorated sponge cakes before the Christmas holidays which incorporated aeration and putting their knowledge of raising agents into practice. After Christmas First Years also explored the different types of pastry and got to experience making some delicious sausage rolls using their own homemade shortcrust pastry.
They were also busy learning hygiene and safety practices in the kitchen as well as basic nutrition and balanced eating. In theory classes they have engaged with many active learning methodologies such as group work, individual research projects, mini whiteboards, reflection on Post-it notes throughout the year to help students to learn information in a manageable and student friendly manner.
Second Year Theory and Sewing
Active learning methodologies were also used by Second Year students by experiencing live samples when learning about cheese. They had mini cheeseboards to taste the different types of cheese before classifying them on a worksheet. They also analysed the differences between processed and natural cheese through examining cheese packaging. Before Christmas, Second Year students were also busy designing and completing their own Christmas decoration for their CBA1 – Creative Textiles. Students demonstrated a range of skills including embroidery, embellishing and hand stitching. Students used the design brief process from the beginning until the end of the project which involved researching possible designs, choosing their design as well as evaluating their finished design. Students had the opportunity to demonstrate their creative abilities as students chose to make snowmen, candy canes, Christmas trees and more.
Third Year Cookery Exams
Third Years prepared for the Junior Cycle Cookery exams by making various dishes throughout the year, including soup, flapjacks, berry crumble, Spaghetti Bolognese, homemade chicken goujons and wedges. In December students were assigned their cookery briefs where they then had to choose suitable dishes to make for their Junior Cycle Cooking Exam in April. The students put a huge amount of work into preparing for this exam which makes up 50% of their Junior Cycle grade. Their teachers were very proud of them all!
TY Life Skills
All Transition year students had the opportunity to do some cookery during Life Skills. Ms O’Dea took each base class for a few weeks where they made a variety of different dishes such as cookies, flapjacks, spice bags and pizzas. The students had great fun making and eating their delicious baked goods.
Fifth and Sixth Year
Fifth Year students worked hard throughout the year completing their Journal Tasks which are worth 20% of their overall grade for the Leaving Certificate exam. Students researched topics of Childhood Obesity, Vegetarianism and the Properties of Eggs. As a result, students cooked turkey meatballs, sweet potato and chickpea curry and lemon meringue pie. These dishes were suitable for their assigned briefs. After each practical class students typed up their research, implementation and evaluation for each task.
Sixth Year students have had an extremely busy year as they sent off their Journal Assignments in November 2024. As a department, we are extremely proud of the dedication of our Sixth Year students and their hard work over the last two years, and we wish them the very best with their exams and any future endeavours.
LCA
LCA students found and enjoyed work placements every Friday for the year in a variety of settings. Completing work placement is a valuable stepping stone into the workforce, helping students transition smoothly from education to employment or further training. Work experience is a key element of LCA, and completing it successfully contributes to credits.
In September 2024, students from Fifth Year LCA Class Poolbeg took part in a two-hour team building workshop with TYs with the company Teamworks. Students completed many different team bonding activities such as a water relay race and Crack the Code game to help them bond. This was a great workshop full of a variety of activities that helped improved trust, energised the group, encouraged collaboration, and increased productivity and creative thinking. Big thanks to the group leaders from @team_ works20, who had a wealth of experience and charisma and delivered a positive day for everyone involved. Fifth Year Class Poolbeg also took part in a @mobilemusicschool Drumming Workshop in September which was a great workshop for improving listening, communication, and teamwork skills. In addition, Fifth Year LCA Class Poolbeg attended a talk with representatives from Specsavers Ashbourne with TYs and completed a Colour Blind Test.
A big thanks to Thomas Diem of Diem Pottery for facilitating the visit of Fifth Year LCA Class Poolbeg to his workshop and shop in Ashbourne in October. This visit was part of the research section of their first task report for their Art module. Students created coil pots in Art with Ms Maher. The students prepared and asked relevant questions about his business, his work, the impact of Brexit and Covid, his online presence and the processes he follows to make his pottery. The Art task report was completed in ICT with Ms Mathews. This task was the first of six task interviews with an external examiner for these students. This prepares them for the world of work.
Sixth Year LCA Class O’Riordan also visited Mountjoy Prison in October organised by their RE teacher, Ms McNamee, and accompanied and Ms McCarthy. It was a very enlightening and informative trip for all to see how the prison is run, and to see how the prisoners are helped to reform themselves and gain qualifications while serving time.
In November Lizzie McGhee visited LCAs for a Barbering and Hairdressing workshop. Students were taught multiple skills and tricks about barbering and hairdressing. They learned about hair loss, psoriasis, and head lice. Lizzie taught the students how to use hairdressing scissors, blades, and razors, and at the end of the workshop they practised cutting each other’s hair which was great fun. Lizzie has a wealth of experience in the industry and her workshop was hands on. She busted myths to guide students into a career in hair. Both LCA classes also attended the Tony O’Reilly Gambling Talk with TYs in November. Tony explained how he went from being a Post Office manager to stealing over €1.75 million to fund his gambling addiction, leading to imprisonment. He also discussed how gambling can spiral out of control, especially with online betting. Tony explained the toll his gambling and imprisonment had on his family life and relationships, and how as part of his recovery he tells his story, so others avoid the trap of gambling.
In December LCA Fifth Year Class Poolbeg completed an Introduction to Barista Workshop with the Dublin Barista School. Content covered included understanding the espresso equipment, espresso technique, understanding the coffee grinder, milk chemistry and milk texturing techniques and understanding the coffee menu. All students got to make a speciality coffee.
In January both LCA classes joined TYs at a talk with Paula Duggan from Balance Nutrition. Students reviewed the benefits of each food group, and their suggested daily portions. The talk covered the importance of a healthy diet as well as looking at portion sizes, sugar content, and nutritional value. Paula explained some common nutrition trends, myths and inaccuracies in relation to carbohydrates, dairy, and meat-free diets. Sports nutrition, the importance of hydration, fuelling and recovery, as well as pre-match and post-match snacks and meals were also covered. Paula talked about wellbeing and having a positive attitude towards food. "There are bad diets not bad foods". She explained that exercise is not just for sporty individuals.
Well done to our Sixth Year LCA Class O’Riordan who completed their final task interview with their ICT Task Interview and their Practical Achievement Task Interview in January. They have all come so far in the last year and a half. Beaming with confidence and ready for the world of work, apprenticeships, and college. This task is where students in session three in the first half of Sixth Year learn a practical skill, develop a product, or provide a service over six to eight weeks. This must be completed outside of school time, and it is all about challenging the students. Personal training sessions, boxing classes, MMA lessons, driving lessons, nail technician and eye lash courses, and sewing classes were some of the tasks undertaken. Thanks to Ms Mongey who anchored the practical achievement task with the class in Vocational Preparation. For their ICT Specialism Task Interview in January, Sixth Year Class O’Riordan created a product, an audio book using Bookcreator. This task helped them develop technical, creative, and organisational skills while integrating digital tools. Students also created a PowerPoint presentation on how they made the audio book and presented this to their examiner along with a task report. Thanks to Ms Mathews who anchored this task.
In April Fifth Year Class Poolbeg had three task deadlines – to see the task work and products produced by these hardworking, enthusiastic, and creative students, between midterm and Easter was wonderful. One of the interviews was based on their task report for their Career Investigation Task. Thanks to Mr O’Shea for anchoring the Career Investigation Task in Vocational Preparation. Students also did interviews on their product and task report for their Engineering Specialism Task. Thanks to Mr Galvin for anchoring the making of the working clocks in Engineering, and Ms Mathews for anchoring the task report in ICT. Fifth Year Class Poolbeg have advanced so many life skills over the last few months, all of which they can apply to future projects and their working life. Once these task interviews were completed, it was back to class to complete the Personal Reflection Task with Ms Duffy which was submitted in early May. Students who study Irish completed their Oral Irish Exam in May and sat their Irish Exam in June during the State Exams. Thanks to Ms Ní Fhlatharta for preparing the students for the Irish oral and written exam. Fifth Year Class Poolbeg will all study a Modern Foreign language next year.
In ICT students complete a Mandatory ICT element in Fifth Year covering the modules of Introduction to the Computer and Word Processing, as well as Introduction to other Software Packages and Applications. In the Specialism ICT course covered across the four sessions of Fifth and Sixth Year where they enjoyed learning about new ways to present their work, research, and presentations on applications such as MS Word, MS Spreadsheets, MS Sway, MS Forms, Canva, and Book Creator.
LCA students visited several Further Education Colleges including Drogheda Institute of Further Education, Coláiste Íde and Dunboyne College of Further Education with the Guidance Department this year. Students learned about many interesting Post Leaving Certificate (PLC) Courses at QQI level 5 and 6 and at Higher National Diploma in a wide range of disciplines. Most of the courses lead to entry to Universities and Institutes of Technology with some courses gaining entry to second year. Thanks to Ms Rahilly and Ms O’Neill for organising these educational trips.
We are so proud of both LCA classes – Fifth Year Class Poolbeg and Sixth Year Class O’Riordan. For all LCA students, a 90% attendance rule is applied to get credits for key assignments. It is a valuable life lesson about the world of work – if you do not attend work, you do not get paid. Thanks to all the LCA teaching team and our wonderful SNAs for their support. They say it takes a village... we are lucky to have a fantastic staff to support these students prepare for college, apprenticeships and working life. I wish to thank the dedicated Senior Management team, teaching staff and office staff, who supported me with both LCA classes this year. Huge thank you to Ms Scannell and Ms Hogan, Year Heads for Sixth and Fifth Years respectively, and Ms Kelly, Deputy Principal for Senior Students, and the Tutors, Ms McCabe for Sixth Year Class O’Riordan and Mr Reddan for Fifth Year Class Poolbeg. The LCA programme in ACS is an excellent programme that requires the full support of the school and its stakeholders to thrive. A programme like LCA is essential to cater to students' diverse needs. It is specifically designed for those who may not fit into the traditional exam-focused system. LCA is ideal for students who may not have found success in the Junior Cycle but wish to stay in school to earn a qualification. It suits those who excel in practical, hands-on learning and benefit from a system that recognises and rewards their skills.
This programme is particularly beneficial for students aiming to enter the workforce directly or pursue job training after school. LCA provides a structured, work-related learning experience, preparing students for real-world employment opportunities.
The Leaving Certificate Applied Programme is more practical in nature and linked to real life situations in the workplace and wider community. There are terminal exams at the end of the two-year cycle, as well as a credit and task system where students bank credits throughout the programme.
LCVP
The Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP) Link Modules is a practical and engaging programme designed for students who enjoy hands-on learning and want real preparation for the world of work. 60% of the final grade is based on the portfolio submitted in early March in Sixth Year. The main aim of LCVP Link Modules is to equip young people with the skills and knowledge needed for adult life. It ensures they receive a well-rounded education, enabling them to adapt and succeed in an ever-changing world.
On the last day of April in 2025, Sixth Year LCVP students successfully completed their LCVP Link Modules as part of their established Leaving Certificate and they also sat their written exam in April following the submission of their portfolios in early March. As part of their portfolio requirements, students completed a recorded interview in November which served as their final optional portfolio item. The remaining five typed portfolio items were primarily completed during Fifth Year, including the compulsory work placement, a key component of the Link Modules programme.
We are optimistic about outstanding results from this Sixth Year LCVP group. The portfolios, which account for 60% of the final grade, were submitted at an exceptionally high standard. Significant emphasis was placed on preparing for the written exam (40% of the final mark) from Fifth Year, as students often assume that LCVP is solely about the portfolio. LCVP results will be highly beneficial for many students, not only in terms of CAO points but also in preparing them for college, work, and adult life. The programme equips students with valuable skills for both their careers and active participation in their communities, now and in the future. While LCVP is suitable for students of all abilities, it is especially valuable for those who find written exams challenging.
In September Ms Mathews’ Fifth Year LCVP class began the iDEA online course. This is an inspiring Digital Enterprise Award, which is internationally recognised, that helps students develop digital, enterprise and employability skills for free. Through a series of online challenges, the students can win career-enhancing badges, unlock new opportunities and ultimately, gain industry-recognised awards that help students stand out from the crowd. Students are working on their Bronze Award and will continue this into Sixth Year. Ms Mathews’ Sixth Year LCVP class started this online certificate course in 2023 and have continued working on it right through to May 2025 – there are three levels of award: Bronze, Silver and Gold.
LCVP students have used several different digital media to create assignments including Canva and Sway. Students started by adding their text and pictures and searched for and imported relevant content from other sources. They finished off their work with appealing design templates to make the assignments more appealing to look at and learn from. The LCVP Link Modules cover Preparation for the World of Work and Enterprise Education, as well as developing life skills and ICT skills.
Over several weeks in November and December Ms Mathews’ Fifth Year LCVP class organised the St. Vincent de Paul Ashbourne Voucher, Food and Toy Appeal as their LCVP enterprise group task. In total forty large cardboard boxes of food and gifts, €130 worth of vouchers, two pre-made hampers and €2838 was donated to St. Vincent de Paul in Ashbourne. The €2838 was a combination of the money raised from the Christmas Jumper Non-Uniform Day (€1255), the Christmas Concert (€1283), the Second Year Christmas Market organised by Ms McNamee’s Second Year class (€300). We also donated twenty by €20 SuperValu vouchers to Ann Moore of the Senior Citizens Group in Ashbourne. We are very proud of and thankful to all who donated. Everyone has the power to make a difference in the lives of others. Students at ACS will always value the strong connection our school shares with SVP, and we hope this partnership continues for many years. As part of the LCVP course, students explore the importance of
Voluntary Organisations and gain practical experience through An Enterprise Activity, helping them develop key skills in community engagement and entrepreneurship.
LCVP students completed work experience in Fifth Year from Wednesday 12th to Friday 14th February 2025. Students completed their Work Experience Diary, on return to school in late February and into March. This is one of the optional portfolio items for their LCVP portfolio.
A huge thank you to past pupil Mark Donnelly from HUH (How’s Your Head) Clothing for visiting our Fifth Year Link Modules classes and TY students in April 2025. HUH Clothing combines stylish and comfortable fashion with a mission to raise awareness and funds for mental health support. During his visit, Mark shared insights into entrepreneurship, discussing key topics such as business risks, product and service development, finance, marketing, ICT and social media, self-employment, supports for businesses, the SEM, and Brexit. His talk provided students with valuable knowledge to apply in their LCVP and Business exam answers. We are fortunate to have such supportive local businesses in Ashbourne offering guest talks, workplace visits, and placements. We truly appreciate their generosity and involvement!
In May our Fifth Year LCVP groups attended a visit out to Butlers Chocolate Factory. A visit out to a local business is a requirement of LCVP Link Modules. Students learned about the history of the cocoa bean and the history of Butlers Chocolates in the Butlers Chocolate cinema and museum. There was a guided tour of the glass-panelled walkway over the factory floor. Students learned how to make the chocolates through an interactive chocolate demonstration and to decorate their own chocolate to bring home.
LCVP Link Modules could be taken in Fifth Year instead of a language or as an extra subject instead of non-exam PE. This will change from August 2025 where all students nationally will be required to do non-exam PE so our students will not have the option to do LCVP as an extra subject. Although there are huge benefits to compulsory non-exam PE, it is disappointing to lose LCVP as an extra subject. 56% of our students in 2024 achieved a Distinction Grade which is equivalent in CAO points to a H4 grade. All students who completed LCVP in 2024 achieved a Merit or Distinction (65% or higher) and used it in their top six Leaving Certificate results. Hopefully LCVP will return as an extra subject in the future. Students in 2025 will still be able to do LCVP on the language line, or as one of their seven Leaving Certificate subjects.
As part of the broader redevelopment of Senior Cycle, the revised Link Modules for Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme (LCVP) will be introduced in schools from September 2026. Community, Life and Work Studies aims to support students to develop an understanding of their personal strengths, abilities, interests and achievements; build career and workplace foundations in order to support more informed decision-making for their future educational journey and career path; appreciate their role in the local community and as national citizens; develop and demonstrate an entrepreneurial mindset and adapt better to the challenges and opportunities of the modern world.
Mathematics
Maths Week
Maths week took place from Monday 14th to Friday 18th October. Maths Week TV was used in classes where students really enjoyed tackling the challenging tasks.
All Transition Year students took part in the competition, Peter’s Problem, which the IMTA (Irish Maths Teachers Association) organised in conjunction with Engineers Ireland. It aims to promote STEM subjects (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) and show the connection between “real-life” problems and engineering. The problemsolving competition is named in honour of the late Peter Tiernan, a long-standing member of the IMTA. Thanks to all the TY Maths teachers for involving many students in this event.
Classroom Based Assessment
Second Year Maths student completed their CBA 1 over three weeks. The CBA was based on Mathematical Investigation. Students got involved in a problem-solving cycle, in which they had to define a problem, deconstruct it into manageable steps, engage with the problem and solve it, if possible. This was a great opportunity for students to have a real-life practical experience. Many students became experts at booking holidays for families or planning decoration of their bedrooms.
Maths Amigos - Where Numbers Meet Fun and Success!
This year marked the thrilling launch of Maths Amigo’s, a brand-new Maths club designed exclusively for First Year students! Our mission? To ignite a passion for Maths, foster teamwork, and prepare students to compete in the prestigious National Maths Competition, hosted by the Irish Maths Teachers Association (IMTA).
Over the course of six weeks, 24 eager students led by Mr Glennon embarked on a dynamic, Maths adventure— solving challenging problems, sharpening their skills, and forming lasting friendships. The excitement was palpable as they prepared to represent their school on a national stage. The competition was intense with a staggering 14,067 entries from 216 schools across the country. Only six students nationwide achieved a perfect score, and just 50 students scored over 90%, earning an exclusive IMTA engraved trophy.
We are beyond proud to celebrate our very own Xavier Bialowas, who scored an incredible 95%, placing him in the top 1% of all participants in Ireland! A massive congratulations to Xavier on this outstanding achievement!
Maths Amigo’s has proven to be an exciting, rewarding, and inspiring experience for all involved. We can’t wait to see what next year brings.
Modern Foreign Languages
French
The students at both Senior Cycle and Junior Cycle enjoy learning French through various methodologies, including Quizlet, Kahoot, Blooket and the more traditional games such as Dominoes, Snap, Snakes and Ladders, and Bingo. Active engagement is encouraged, and the French students have made real progress this year. The MFL laptops where successfully used by many students to aid in active learning. Students in TY and First Year were also introduced to traditional games outside like boules.
Second Year students worked hard in the second half of the year to complete their CBA 1 – the Oral Communication task. This was a great experience for all students to enhance their oral practice and interaction. It also gave students the opportunity to practice a range of skills from research to acting. Many also learned something new about different Francophone cultures.
The Sixth Year students had the opportunity to demonstrate their learning and knowledge of French as they sat their Oral Exam for their Leaving Certificate examination during the Easter holidays. Huge work was put in by all students in the run up to their exams to ensure their success on the day. Sixth Year students got to enjoy a French breakfast at the end of the year to celebrate their hard work throughout the year.
German
This year the German Department implemented various initiatives to enhance language learning and promote cultural awareness. Students sang songs by well-known German groups such as Die Prinzen, Rammstein, and Nena, to name just a few. Das Fliegerlied once again proved to be a particularly popular choice among students.
Modern film classics like Goodbye Lenin, Run Lola Run, and The Lives of Others were enthusiastically received by Senior Cycle students while Junior Cycle students enjoyed films such as Windstorm (Ostwind) and The Crocodiles (Vorstadtkrokodile). Additionally, the German Department organized a traditional German breakfast, where students sampled a variety of meats, cheeses, and savoury treats to introduce them to German food culture.
Students at both Senior and Junior Cycle learn German through a variety of methodologies, including Quizlet, Wordwall, Kahoot, Blooket, as well as traditional games like Dominoes, Snap, Snakes and Ladders, Bingo, and Battleships. Active engagement is encouraged, and German students have made remarkable progress this year.
Second Year students successfully completed their Classroom-Based Assessments in April, demonstrating a commitment to improvement and increased learner autonomy. Sixth Year students had the opportunity to showcase their learning and language skills during their Oral Leaving Certificate examination which took place over the Easter holidays.
A particular highlight this year was the introduction of German into the local primary school. Sixth Class pupils were given the opportunity to gain their first insights into the German language and get a taste of German culture. This initiative aims to spark interest in the German language from an early age and ease the transition into secondary school.
Japanese
The ongoing pen pal programme has become well-established this year. At the beginning of the year, Sixth Year students had face-to-face conversations with their Japanese pen pals via the internet which has helped to maintain relationships that had begun through email over the previous year. Due to an eight or nine-hour time difference, these conversations took place early in the morning in Ireland and in the evening in Japan.
One of the main objectives of the pen pal programme was to prepare students for the oral of the Leaving Certificate Examination. During the online conversations, the Japanese pen pals posed questions like those encountered in the LC Oral Interview and we hope this connection with Japanese students continues even after graduation. In addition, ten Transition Year students also started pen pal exchanges and we hope our relationship with Yamada High School will continue for a long time.
Ashbourne Community School
In the Junior Cycle curriculum there is typically a course dedicated to Japanese cooking. This year students engaged in the preparation of Karaage, which is a type of fried chicken originating from Japan, as well as Maki-Sushi and Mochi ice cream. Furthermore, students explored how traditional Japanese cuisine has been influenced and transformed by foreign cultural elements.
Each year there is a programme called the JET Programme operated by the Japanese Embassy, who send native English speakers to teach English in schools across Japan. Two graduates from ACS who have studied Japanese are in the process of applying for this programme. We sincerely hope that their applications are successful and that they will have the opportunity to work in Japan as this would be a fantastic opportunity for them to experience other cultures while developing their language competences.
Spanish
Throughout the year Spanish teachers used a range of teaching methodologies and activities to help our students in their learning of the language, with a particular emphasis on digital technology.
The Spanish Department began the year by celebrating European Language Day on the 26th of September with a selection of fun activities and interactive quizzes.
Language students were timetabled classes using the brand new MFL Laptop Trolley each fortnight. This gave them the opportunity to consolidate the vocabulary and grammar topics learned in class with online activities. Students also had the opportunity to create cultural projects about Spanish speaking countries. Having this experience with the laptops was beneficial when it came to submitting homework and assignments during the year through Teams.
The academic year of 2024-2025 saw all Second Year students complete CBA1, an oral language presentation in the target language. Students chose from doing roleplays with their partner based on topics that we had covered over the previous two years, individual presentations about themselves, or an interview-style format like the Leaving Certificate oral exam.
During the summer term, the Second Years enjoyed a taste of Spanish culture by sampling some Spanish traditional food. Our Spanish Breakfasts went down a treat as students sampled meats, cheeses and other goodies.
Junior students also compiled pieces for their language portfolios, and we have seen great examples of work from comic strips, blogs, podcasts, to TikTok videos and letters and emails.
Sixth Year students had the opportunity to demonstrate their learning and knowledge of Spanish as they sat their Oral Exam for their Leaving Certificate examination during the Easter holidays. Huge work was put in by all students in the run up to their exams to ensure their success on the day.
Music
“Music is the tool to express life –and all that makes a difference”
- Herbie Hancock
Music plays a very big part in the lives of students both in and outside the school. There is always music being played throughout the school whether it’s an informal lunchtime jam or one of the many concerts that we put on every year.
Learning an Instrument
We always encourage Music students to learn instruments. Ukulele, Guitar, Bass Guitar, Keyboard and Drums were all tried out by students with some great results and a lot of fun.
Composing
Students were given the opportunity to try to make sense of their circumstances through the creative process of writing Music. We covered many different styles, everything from Rap to Ballads, Pop to Advertisements. We also included Instrumentals. We allowed students the flexibility to compose what they wanted to, and the results were incredible. Ashbourne has some amazingly talented students. The Second Years used these as part of their Composing portfolio for their CBA.
The Use of Music Technology
The students had great fun using GarageBand to help them with their composing. The Second Years would have used this software to help them with the CBA1 in Composition. TYs also used Garageband. This was a very popular class with the students.
Lunchtime Gigs and Christmas Carols in the Library
There were a few pop-up lunchtime gigs throughout the year and the Choir and School band played music for the Ashbourne Music Appreciation Club in the Library.
The Christmas Concert
The Choir and School band put on a concert of Christmas songs and Carols in aid of the St Vincent de Paul. The GP was packed, and it was an enormous success.
The 30th Anniversary Celebration Night
We were delighted to welcome back some past students who performed alongside our present students for this wonderful celebration of the 30th anniversary of our school.
Seachtain na Gaeilge
The Irish Musicians played for some of our very young members of the community! It is great to get out into the community to play music.
The TY Show
This year the TYs, directed by the brilliant Grainne Kennedy, had their show in April in the Sports Hall. It featured music from well-known shows including Barbie and All Shook Up. It was a memorable night with many amazing performances by the students.
A sincere word of thanks to all students who took part in any of the events during the year. Thank you for giving up your time and sharing your immense talent.
Physical Education
The PE Department aims to provide students with a broad and balanced experience in a wide variety of activity areas. These activities are shaped by the specifications laid out at both Junior Cycle and Senior Cycle PE with the aim to develop students Physical Literacy, alongside with their knowledge and understanding of Physical activity and Education.
Junior Cycle Programme
Some of the activity areas delivered over the three years of Junior Cycle that our First and Second Years experienced included Athletics, Gymnastics, Volleyball, HRA (Health-Related Activities), Basketball, and Dance. Third Years participated in Athletics (Running/Jumping/Throwing), Sport Education Model, Teaching Games for Understanding through an invasion game, Badminton and Volleyball, and HRA circuits with CBA style Assessment.
Five-week blocks were used, and progressions and regressions were used depending on the skill level of the groups. Junior students worked on skill development and learning the specifics of each game/activity.
Transition Year Programme
In 2023-2024 it was agreed that the TY modules would contain Health Related Activities (HRA), Leaving Cert PE link module, Tag rugby, Games (Invasion), Table Tennis, (Net Games) Badminton, Volleyball and Striking and Fielding. HRA allowed the students to learn how to monitor and assess fitness components as well as holistically evaluate and learn the benefits of a healthy and active lifestyle.
A LCPE link module was also set up to try and bridge the gap of knowledge for students making their subject choices and interested in LCPE as an exam subject. A variety of practical and theory-based classes were completed over the course of a five-week module. The students also experienced modules in Badminton, Volleyball, Table tennis, Basketball and Rounders delivered by PE staff.
Senior Cycle PE
Senior Cycle students had a high skill level and knowledge of the games/activities, so the focus switched to several curriculum models. A variety of activities were taught through a variety of curriculum models. Students practiced a range of skills in a variety of ‘live’ play scenarios through a variety of sports. The curriculum for Senior Cycle aims to extend beyond just teaching skills and sport-specific aspects, it is also envisaged that the curriculum teaches several key skills such as information processing, being personally effective, communicating, critical and creative thinking, and working with others.
SCPE participated in an 8-week season of Sport Education. Students were given roles and points for refereeing, sportsmanship, participation, inclusion, conducting a warm-up and cool-down, teamwork and leadership. SCPE also participated in a hillwalking event in the Dublin mountains to promote a healthy lifestyle and lifelong participation. It also was aimed at promoting wellbeing among the Senior Cycle students.
All blocks for all year groups were assessed via an end of block reflection, a task/assignment or an in-person question and answer session.
Leaving Certificate Physical Education
LCPE has been received very well by the students in ACS with a large number picking it for their Leaving Certificate. This academic year we had two Sixth Year classes and two classes of Fifth Years. Students engaged in topics such as Skill Acquisition, Biomechanics, Stages of Learning, Psychology of Performance, Diet and Nutrition, Health and Fitness, Training Programme Design, Target Setting, Analysis of Performance. The specification is vast and has promoted student learning in many areas of Physical Education and Sport.
There are three elements to the course which students successfully navigated. Sixth Year students completed the Physical Activity Project (PAP) which was submitted late December 2024, and the Performance Assessment (PA) which was submitted late March 2025. These projects make up 50% of the marks with the other 50% coming from the written paper in June.
Fifth LCA and Sixth LCA: Leisure and Recreation
To successfully complete the Leisure and Recreation course, students are required to complete two modules over the two-year course. Module One: Physical Activity for Performance, Module Two: Physical Activity for Health and Fitness Module Three: Physical Activity for Recreation. Both Fifth and Sixth Years engaged well with the course and the modules to complete the course to a high standard to gain the necessary credits.
Outside Facilitators and Facilities
We were fortunate to secure the services of outside facilitators and facilities for some activities to further enhance students’ experiences of the PE curriculum in ACS. We secured use of the tennis courts that are a two-minute walk next door to the school for many classes across the year. Each group was led by their PE teacher who ensured the net game module ran smoothly and the facilities were utilised to their full potential.
Additional Initiatives
First Year PE students completed the Athletics Ireland ‘iRunForFun’ programme. This was organised and run by the PE Department. First Year PE also took part in Fyffes Ireland’s Fittest School programme. The PE department also ran Wellness Afternoons for First, Second, Third, and Sixth Year students to promote physical activity and wellness in the school. A variety of sports, activities, and wellness initiatives were offered.
Politics and Society
The Politics and Society department had yet again another busy, innovative, and successful year. Students will sit the Leaving Cert in this subject for the eight time this summer and the numbers taking the subject are growing each year.
This year has been a very engaging and eventful year for our Fifth and Sixth Year students with plenty of fantastic classroom debates, discussions, and research into a wide range of topics that were relevant to the world they live in. From the conflict in Israel and Gaza, The Irish local and General Elections, beginning of the Trump presidency to civil disobedience, to human rights and gender quality to identity politics.
This group of students had a wide-ranging, and at times a conflicting set of views that they were able to express and discuss in what were some remarkably interesting classes. Students lived through and learned about challenges effecting the world from global warming, gender politics, homelessness and the Cost-of-Living crisis.
Our Leaving Certificate class completed their citizenship projects, worth 20% of their exam, which challenged them to play an active role in several issues in their society. They investigated how power can be exercised by young people today, investigated the climate crisis and researched how AI is a threat or opportunity in society today.
Throughout the year, the Politics and Society class has allowed students the chance to think critically and be challenged in their thoughts and opinions. It is fantastic to know that several students have since gone on to Third Level where they are studying some courses that include elements of either Politics or Sociology.
Religious Education
In Religious Education classes at Ashbourne Community School, students explore a wide range of topics related to different religions, cultures, and celebrations. Throughout the year, we engage in discussions about important events such as Ramadan, Christmas, Easter Holi, Eid, St. Bridget’s Day, and St. Patrick’s Day to name a few, learning about the significance of these celebrations and the diverse beliefs that shape them.
Beyond academic learning, the classes also take part in meaningful community initiatives. For example, during Breast Cancer Awareness Month, Sixth Year Class, Hansard, organised a fundraising event selling scrunchies and raised an impressive €600 for Breast Cancer Ireland. Second Year class, Carrauntoohil, organised a Christmas market and the raised €300 for SVP. These initiatives not only highlighted the importance of awareness but also demonstrated the commitment of our students to supporting important causes and making a difference in the wider Ashbourne community. Religious Education at Ashbourne Community School is not just about learning; it's about fostering empathy, understanding, and social responsibility.
Chaplaincy
“Love
one another with mutual affection; outdo one another in showing honour.” (Romans 12:10)
This year began as busy as ever and as always, the school year began with an opening prayer for both staff and students. Once First Years had some had some time to settle into their new surroundings, they took part in in-house retreats facilitated by the school Chaplain as part of the ‘First Year Induction Programme’ into ACS. This proved to be a great opportunity for the students to bond with each other and begin to forge friendships.
Another major highlight this year was the refurbishment of the Memorial Garden at the rear of the school. The Chaplain, along with students, particularly from Transition Year, as well as with help from staff and caretakers, undertook this immense job. This included draining and relining the pond, adding a new fountain, placing a new membrane and fresh stone throughout, and repainting and decorating the garden. It was a huge success, helped greatly by a donation of stone from Murtagh’s Hardware. Fr. Stephen from the parish facilitated a lovely Service of Remembrance for both staff and students who have died along the school’s thirty-year journey. This service was attended by staff, parents and students as well as members of the Board of Management.
The school also had a visit from the Most Reverend Tom Deenihan, Bishop of Meath. It was a great opportunity for members of the Board of Management, Senior Management, the school Chaplain and Fr. Stephen to get together.
Throughout the year, the school has celebrated many key aspects from the Church’s liturgical calendar. These included: ‘In November We Remember,’ Advent, Christmas, St. Bridget’s Day, Ash Wednesday, St. Patrick’s Day, and Easter, incorporating students from across all year groups to help, and participate in these celebrations. To convey the liturgical message throughout the year, a variety of prayers and reflections were communicated to the school community via the intercom and assembly. Various visual exhibits were also created with students from different year groups and displayed around the school to communicate the gospel message.
Furthermore, the Chaplain worked closely with the local Ashbourne St. Vincent de Paul in the run up to Christmas. It provided a great opportunity to involve students giving back to their local community, as well as highlighting the need for charity for those less fortunate.
As well as working towards the major liturgical events throughout the year, the Chaplain was part of several committees such as the Child Safeguarding Committee, Bí Cineálta, the Needs and Priorities Committee, the Critical Incident Management Team and the 30 Year Anniversary Committee. The Chaplain also attended bi-weekly meetings as part of SST (Student Support Team) to identify and support the most vulnerable of our students. Again, this year saw a rise in the number of students seeking support related to anxiety, general wellness, or bereavement.
Regular meetings were also held throughout the year between the school Chaplain and Fr. Stephen. The school have been delighted to have had regular visits and support from him, with his willingness to meet various year groups, as well as both management and staff being greatly appreciated. We look forward to further school – parish collaborations in the future.
The year closed with our usual farewell to our Sixth Year class of 2025 with their graduation. This year it was themed ‘Courage to Dream’. It is an important rite of passage and celebration for our students marking their time spent in the school.
Overall, it has proven to be a very fruitful year, filled with many high points to look back on.
Science
TY BT Young Scientist
Dickens vs. Skynet: How Large is an LLM?
Students: Adam McMahon and Alexander Douglas
The project explored the differences between human-written and large language model (LLM)-generated texts. The students analysed vocabulary, sentence structure, and variability to identify patterns unique to each text source. Their research highlights that LLMs produce more formulaic and less variable outputs than humans, which could help develop improved methods for detecting AI-generated content. Their findings contribute to ongoing discussions about AI’s role in society, especially regarding originality.
This project was awarded a Highly Commended in the Technology category.
Adam and Alexander had four great days out in the RDS where they spoke with members of the public, the judges and numerous local TDs such as Darren O Rourke and Nina Carberry. They were interviewed by RTE news Technology correspondent Brian O Donovan and they briefly spoke about their project on the Six One News on Wednesday 8th January. Thanks to Ms. Ward for the support and guidance with the project.
TY Trip to Dublin Zoo
On 10th April 2025, our Transition Year students visited Dublin Zoo. Upon arrival, the students participated in a workshop, where they learned about biodiversity, conservation efforts, and the vital role zoos play in protecting endangered species. After the workshop, students explored the zoo, observing a variety of animals in habitats designed to mimic their natural environments.
Overall, the day was a huge success, leaving students with lasting memories and a greater appreciation for the natural world. Many thanks to the teachers who organised the trip and to the staff at Dublin Zoo for an enriching and inspiring experience.
Sixth Year Physics Trip to DCU – Leaving Cert Experiment Day
On 20th January 2025, our Sixth Year Physics students attended an Experiment Workshop at Dublin City University. This hands-on experience provided them with a valuable chance to reinforce their understanding of key experiments in preparation for the Leaving Cert exam.
Working in fully equipped university labs, the students carried out experiments on topics such as mechanics, electricity, and waves, gaining practical insights into concepts they had previously studied in class. The use of highquality lab equipment and real-time data collection made the experiments even more engaging and precise.
Overall, the trip provided students with a deeper appreciation for experimental physics and helped build confidence ahead of their exams. A big thank you to the DCU staff for their time and expertise, and to the teachers who organised this fantastic learning experience!
Senior Cycle Chemistry Trip to the State Laboratory
On 20th November 2024, our Senior Cycle Chemistry students visited the State Laboratory, where they got a firsthand look at how chemistry is used in forensic analysis, food safety, and environmental monitoring.
Students were introduced the work carried out at the State Laboratory, including its role in ensuring public safety and regulatory compliance. They then participated in a series of demonstrations showcasing advanced analytical techniques such as chromatography, spectroscopy, and mass spectrometry—methods they had studied as part of their Leaving Cert course. Seeing these techniques applied in real-life scenarios helped bridge the gap between theory and practice. The trip was a valuable and inspiring experience, reinforcing key concepts from the curriculum while also broadening students’ understanding of Chemistry beyond the classroom.
Leaving Cert Biology Trip
On 19th September 2024, our Sixth Year Biology students conducted an ecological field study of a grassland ecosystem at Emerald Park. Students measured abiotic factors such as wind speed, soil temperature, and light intensity. They used animal collection devices to examine the invertebrate species present in the grassland and attended a biodiversity lecture delivered by the Education Officer at Emerald Park. Using the data collected, students constructed food chains and food webs to illustrate the relationships between plants and animals in the ecosystem.
After a busy and insightful day of scientific exploration, students had the chance to experience the rollercoasters of Emerald Park. A big thank you to the Sixth Year Biology teachers and Emerald Park staff who helped ensure the smooth running of the trip.
Certified Angus Beef Competition
In October 2024, two groups of TY students entered the Certified Irish Angus Producer Group Schools Competition. Cáit Delany, Grace O’Donoghue, Emma Feeney, and Grainne Donnelly’s project explored bovine tuberculosis (bTB) transmission, its effects on farmers, and potential solutions to reduce its spread in Ireland. Inspired by personal experiences, they highlighted the mental and financial toll on affected farmers and designed a three-pronged fitness programme to support physical health, mental well-being, and farm management.
Ava Cleary, Carly Parson, Hannah Lumley, and Ava McGillivray’s group explored the environmental and nutritional benefits of eating angus beef and promoted this to children in primary school age 5-12. Within their project, they made a very creative board game called "Field Frenzy", a story book called “From Farm to Fork", and designed leaflets for parents. Both teams reached the final showcase round of the competition at Croke Park on 7th March 2025.
Agricultural Science Trip to UCD Lyons Farm
On 12th March, our Fifth Year Agricultural Science students attended a farm walk and talk at UCD Lyons Farm in Celbridge, Co Kildare. They received a guided tour of the modern research facilities. Topics discussed included machinery, multi-species grassland swards, dairy production, lamb production and equine science. The students will have gained valuable experience that will guide them on their Ag. Science projects in the coming months.
Farewell Ms. Kendall
This year, Ashbourne Community School bid a fond farewell to Ms. Ailish Kendall, who retired after nearly 30 years of dedicated service. As a Biology and Science teacher, Ms. Kendall inspired generations of students with her passion for the natural world and her commitment to education. Her warmth, expertise, and unwavering support for both students and colleagues will be greatly missed. We wish her a happy and fulfilling retirement.
SEN
SEN Department
Again, this year the SEN Department has been busy. There have been changes to the team with the departure of Trudy Roxburgh, and the arrival of Bridie Wogan to the SNA Team joining Niamh Connolly, Kerrie Coughlan, Michael Deegan, Maureen Flanagan, Carmel Mc Connell, Nuala Mc Donnell, and Lisa Smith. They join the SEN team of Miriam Boylan, Dorothy Butterly, Stephen Dunning, Áine Jacob, Miriam Meade and Aoife Oates. The continued presence of Alfie, the golden retriever, is most welcome. He continues to bring warm smiles everywhere he goes.
We continue to work closely with our colleagues in Chaplaincy, Career Guidance and Counselling, Wellbeing and Subject Departments to deliver support to students. The SEN Department continues to provide programmes of support for students in the areas of literacy, numeracy, emotional literacy and social skills to name but a few. The supports offered are student focused and aim to support learning for students within our school community based in the Continuum of Support whereby those with the greatest need receive the greatest support.
All the usual activities in the SEN Department continue and includes linking with our feeder primary schools, meeting with parents and planning supports in relation to Support Plans and ensuring that students develop a sense of belonging to school and an engagement with school. This inevitably involves testing, providing evidence-based support and then reviewing that support to establish should it continue or stop.
The SEN Department continues to link with the many outside agencies that may be involved in the care of students within our school community. These include: the National Educational Psychological Services, Education Welfare Officers, Túsla Education Support Service, Child and Adolescent Mental Health Services, Child Development Network Teams, Speech and Language Services, Occupational Therapy Services and the National Council for Special Education who work with to support our students.
SPHE
SPHE continues to be an important part of student life here in ACS. Our theme going into the year was ‘the importance of resilience’. We wanted all students to focus on their strengths and ability to come back from tough times. We practised gratitude and made note of even the smallest things in our life that bring us joy.
In our classrooms we worked on building positive relationships and caring for our personal health and wellbeing. We continued to bring awareness to issues such as road safety, internet safety and the importance of healthy eating and exercise.
Our TYs helped to keep our Awareness Weeks and Key Dates at the forefront of our mind via a noticeboard in reception. On our Awareness Week Calendar, we included quality time to spend on topics such as anti-bullying, LGBTQ+ rights and mental health.
We are fortunate in ACS to have a fantastic Relationships and Sexuality Education programme (RSE). Each year group receives lessons created with the most up to date specifications in mind. The TYs engaged in many workshops. This is an ever-changing area where we continue to try to be ahead of the pack and encourage healthy conversations around this topic. We strive for inclusion, engagement and enjoyment in our SPHE classes.
Technology
Engineering
Retirement
This academic year, our esteemed colleague John O’Leary took his welldeserved retirement. He was an innovative teacher who consistently pushed himself to try something new, to help his students reach their full potential in the world of Engineering. He will be missed, and we all wish him a long and happy retirement and thank him for his tireless dedication to our school!
Junior Cycle
This academic year, all Engineering groups at Junior Cycle were busy either beginning their journey or honing their skills and raising standards. First years were introduced to Engineering and learnt about the pillar drill as well as materials such as aluminium and acrylic. They utilised their knowledge in creating keyrings, desk tidies and phone holders by using the various tools, machines and materials in the Engineering classroom.
Second Years built upon their skills by introducing electronics into the model plane project they manufactured and explored the concept of design to create a stand for their plane. Third Year students began their Junior Cycle project, which is a ‘Forklift’ this year, which allows them to demonstrate skills learned from their previous two years studying the subject. All students at Junior Cycle have been working very well this year and have built upon their knowledge of Engineering.
Transition Year
TY Engineering allows students to try something new and gain new skills. Both teachers began by tasking students to create a Pac-Man keyring to ensure all students had the basic skills of the subject. Students then created a copper bowl by utilising the brazing hearth to heat up the metal before practicing some beaten metalwork to create the bowl shape. Students got into the Christmas spirit by manufacturing a snowman which brought in electronics to create a light-up nose for the snowman. After Christmas, the students were challenged to create a more complicated project with numerous pieces. The ‘Robot with a Wheelbarrow’ project ensured students were practicing the skills they had developed since the beginning of the year and showed the students a different aspect of engineering.
Senior Cycle
All students began the year very positively in either beginning their Senior Cycle Engineering journey or preparing for their terminal project work to begin. The LCA group began learning some Engineering skills while linking in the theory aspects through the practical work. The group produced clocks for their task which was accompanied by a portfolio. Students completed an interview at the end of the task with an external examiner which all students participated well in.
Two Fifth Year class groups started strong and have studied many of the main theory topics in preparation for next year. They also built and gained Engineering skills by completing a practical mechanism project before manufacturing a model truck with an individual design element also. Students were tasked with designing and manufacturing the rear section of their truck to give it a specific purpose which gave many interesting models created.
Our Sixth Year students were also busy working on their model ‘eVTOL (electronic Vertical Take Off and Landing) vehicle’ for the higher-level students and a model ‘Off-Road Sand Car’ at Ordinary Level. All students made a great start to their project and portfolio work with some great designs, which they prototyped and manufactured to be assessed for their final grade. They showed great dedication to complete their projects before beginning preparation to sit their six-hour practical exam in early May. We wish them all the best of luck in their final exam in June.
Graphics/DCG
Graphics/DCG has had a very good year with students exploring Graphics in September where they mainly worked with two dimensional shapes learning how to construct them accurately and exploring where they appear in everyday life. They were introduced to the CAD program of OnShape where they are creating 3D objects to help with the visualisation of their drawings.
The Third Year cohort completed their CBA 2 on ‘The Geometry of Desk Items’ which directly informed their Junior Cycle project on a similar theme ‘Carry out a graphical investigation of a desk tidy’. Students used their research from their CBA 2 to sketch and accurately draft several common desk tidies, while studying the basic geometry that makes up the desk tidy. Students put in excellent effort to completing their projects to a high standard.
The Sixth Year DCG students began the year by completing their Leaving Certificate projects, which is worth 40% of their overall grade in the subject. Students worked diligently since September on the theme of a ‘Microphone’ at Higher Level where research was carried out on existing microphones before sketches and CAD models had to be completed. Students then created their own concept designs for the lamps which were all excellent and displayed very well within their portfolios.
Transition Year students were offered a flavour of DCG this year as they were given the chance to complete a CAD module. This module consisted of using the computer software SolidWorks where they were tasked with completing a slimmed down version of the DCG project. This was a great learning experience for the TYs who chose this option as it gave them an insight to DCG as a subject and kickstarted those who may pick the subject for Fifth Year.
Overall, we have had a good year with Graphics/DCG, and we wish all our students best of luck in their exams.
Wood Technology/Construction Studies
This year has been a very busy year within the Wood Technology/Construction subject department. Students have gained many different skills at different stages throughout the year. From beginners learning how to use many hand tools by marking out their pieces, being able to read working drawings and learning the different techniques on how to process pieces by cutting out, drilling, sanding, varnishing etc. to fine crafts people, creating their own unique and creative designs for projects and using these techniques they have learned over the years to bring their projects to life.
Third Year students completed their CBA 2 and then began exploring the different themes for their Junior Cycle projects. The themes for this year's projects were centred around decorative artefacts to display personal appearance and presentation items, how your community are enriched through positive communication and equipment and a book holder with a handcrafted light. Students put in a great effort into designing and manufacturing their projects to their chosen theme.
TY students were working hard this past year learning new skills as well as helping the community. As this was some students first time completing the subject, they got the opportunity to learn new skills such as marking out their pieces while using a working drawing but also manufacturing joints and processes to make the drawings come to life. Students also got involved in chopping up scrap pieces of timber into firewood for SVP which helped many people throughout the community.
Sixth Year students were busy throughout the year working on their Leaving Certificate projects and portfolios. They have all worked very hard to create projects to a high standard that they all should be proud of. The main types of projects created have been coffee tables, bedside lockers, side tables, models of a passive standard house and models showing all the different technologies that can be added to their homes to make them energy efficient so have it will have a positive effect on the environment. All types of projects were great learning curves for the students which will aid them in their upcoming exams in June but also in the future if creating their own homes.
Overall, this year has been successful for the Wood Technology/Construction Studies subject, and we wish all the students the best of luck in their exam in June.
Transition Year
Overview
The journey for the TY group of 2024-25 journey began in September 2024 with an email or two, and five tutor groups called after GAA All-Stars – Clifford, Giles, Fenton, Lynch, and Shefflin. Our TY theme for the year was Every Day Counts. It encourages TY students to recognise the importance of their time in school and outside of it, urging them to actively engage in learning, personal growth, and new experiences every day. TY is a fantastic opportunity to try something new, opening doors to fresh opportunities and empowering students. This year we focused on the importance of maintaining a positive mindset throughout TY. Every TY student, whether working independently or as part of a team, found solutions, made a difference, played an active role, and had a positive impact on their own lives - at home, in school, and in the community - and on the lives of others. TY is all about developing new skills, thinking creatively, and focusing on solutions rather than dwelling on problems.
The TY Class of 2025 had a fantastic year with lots of workshops, activities, guest speakers, projects, events, achievements, online courses, TY programmes and work placements. There have been many highlights, Dublin Zoo, GoQuest, LeisurePlex Bowling, Airport Driving School, TeamWorks Teambuilding Day, Medicore First Aid Certificate Course, Drumming Workshop, Movie Magic Workshop, Skipping Workshop, GAA Future Leaders, TY Journalists, BT Young Scientist Competition, Certified Angus Beef Schools Competition, Relay Marathon in aid of Daffodil Day, Foróige Leadership for Life Programme, Green Schools, Rubbish Film Festival Team, and our TY show, Dance The Night!
It has been an absolute pleasure to work with the TY class of 2025! Watching them grow, develop their skills, and step outside their comfort zones has been incredibly rewarding. Over the year, they have not only gained new abilities and confidence but have also forged lasting friendships and embraced challenges with enthusiasm. It has been amazing to see them evolve into even more capable, self-assured individuals.
Huge thank you to the TY students, parents/guardians, teachers, support staff, and management of ACS for their unwavering support and contributions throughout the year. My job was made so much easier thanks to the dedication of the TY Tutors: Ms McNamee, Ms Mongey, Ms Leyden, Mr MacDonncha, and Mr Landy. A special shout-out to the entire Senior Management Team, particularly Ms O’Connell and Ms Kelly, whose constant support and guidance helped bring every project, initiative, and idea to life this year. I must also extend my gratitude to Ms. Casey, who worked tirelessly behind the scenes, ensuring that over sixty workshops, trips, and initiatives were accommodated with seamless room changes and cover. Thank you all for making this year such a success!
Graduation Day took place once again in our incredible Sports Hall on Tuesday 20th May 2025 – and what a whirlwind of emotions it was for our TY students and their families! It has been a year of growth, challenges, and unforgettable moments – one they will cherish for years to come.
I wish the TY Class of 2025 the very best of luck as they transition into Fifth Year. I hope that the confidence, knowledge, and new friendships they have gained throughout the year will continue to motivate and inspire them towards success. Of course, I hope they won’t miss my emails too much! They’ve taught me so much, and I will truly miss them, holding them all in fond memory. I am incredibly proud of them all.
As TYs step into Fifth Year, remember this is the time to dream big, push boundaries, and unlock their full potential. They are not just preparing for Leaving Certificate exams; they will be shaping their future. Every challenge they face
is an opportunity to grow, and every lesson learned is a step towards the person they are becoming. Students should not let fear hold them back. Instead, they should use it as fuel to chase after their passions and take bold steps toward your goals. Success isn’t about perfection; it’s about persistence. So, I encourage the TY Class of 2025 to step forward with confidence, with their heads high. Remember—the best is yet to come.
Congrats to the TY Award Winners for 2025. There were many students in the running to win awards. So well done to all.
Ms Caroline Mathews, TY Co-ordinator
Online courses completed in TY included:
• IACT Computer Skills, Career Skills, Driving Skills, Hospitality, Citizenship and Wellbeing
• Health and Safety Authority Get Safe – Work Safe: Health and Safety in the Workplace for Students Starting Work Placement
• Concussion Coach
• Climate Changers
• HSA Safety at Work
• Alzheimer Society of Ireland Dementia Awareness
• How To Land Your First Job in Hospitality
Trips, workshops and talks in TY included:
• Causey Farm Team Building Day
• CreateSchool Podcasting Workshop
• Rubbish Film Festival Workshop
• Dublin Barista Workshop
• Performing Arts Workshop with George McMahon (Fair City)
• School of Life Etiquette Workshop
• Airport Driving Skills Workshop
• SKIPnROPE Skipping Workshop
• Mobile Music School Drumming Workshop
• PALS Positive and Assertive Life Skills Programme Workshop
• Medicore First Aid Course
• The Fundamentals TY Workshop (personal development, leadership, team building and goal setting)
• Movie Magic Workshop
• Balance Nutrition Workshop with Paula Duggan
• Dublin Zoo Conservation Workshop
• Team-Works Team Building Workshop
• Circus Skills Workshop
• GoQuest Teamwork Activity
• Relationships and Sexuality Workshop
• Tony O’Reilly Gambling Awareness Talk
• Lizzie McGhee Barbering and Hairdressing Workshop
• Grainne Kennedy Dance Workshops
• Sports Psychology Workshop with Anthony Sheriff
• FitFor45 Fitness Workshops
• Inspire Ireland TY Poetry Slam Workshop
• Mark Donnelly HUH Clothing Talk
Programmes and initiatives undertaken throughout the year included:
• Foróige Leadership for Life Programme
• FAI Kickstart 1 Soccer Coaching Course
• DNG Real Estate TY Programme
• Houses of the Oireachtas TY Programme
• TEFL Programme
• STEPS Engineering Your Future Programme
• DkIT Computers Week
• Camino and Gaisce Walk
• Lollipop Day Collection
• Special Olympics Collection
• St Francis Hospice Bake Sale
• Lots of Socks Day for Down Syndrome Ireland
• St Francis Hospice Coffee Morning in Ashbourne House Hotel
• Irish Cancer Society Daffodil Day TY Relay Marathon Challenge
• TY Show Dance The Night!
• Certified Angus Beef Schools Competition
• Jigsaw One Good School Programme
• Foróige Leadership for Life
• Gaisce
• TY Journalists
• Young Social Innovators
• GAA Future Leaders
• Climate Ambassadors
Foróige Leadership for Life Programme
In TY three groups of students, got the opportunity to complete Module One of the Foróige Leadership for Life Programme. Ms McLoughlin, Ms Mathews, Ms Mongey, Ms Scannell and Ms Hogan are trained facilitators for the programme. This year Ms Mathews and Ms Mongey facilitated the course with 78 TY students. The programme empowers young people with leadership capabilities to reach their full potential and have a positive impact on the world around them. Module One is a fifteen-week leadership programme to help students to become a good leader by building different skills like confidence, communication, teamwork, and self-esteem. Students did different teamwork activities to help them interact with others and to get familiar with their peers in the classroom. The workbook completed during each session helps students to assess their progress including reflections. Each student finished the programme by completing a two-minute presentation on their leadership goal to their class. Some of the topics covered included: Definitions of Leadership, Leadership Qualities, Communication Skills, Problem Solving, SelfAwareness, Values, Community Leadership, Philanthropy and Global Leadership, Goal Setting and Presentation Skills.
Gaisce
Gaisce is a personal challenge from the President of Ireland for young people aged fourteen to twenty-five years. It provides an opportunity for young people to explore their passions, get active, and make a positive impact in their communities. Gaisce encourages individuals to push their boundaries, build confidence, meet new people, form friendships, and embrace fresh experiences. It also helps students develop their interests, discover new opportunities, and grow personally. The Gaisce Awards are a valuable addition to any student's CV. Each year in ACS, Transition Year (TY) students have the chance to sign up for the Gaisce Bronze Award. It is a fantastic opportunity to take on the four key challenges and broaden their horizons.
1. Community Involvement
2. Personal Skill
3. Physical Activity
4. Adventure Journey
Students were presented with their award and certificate at their graduation ceremony at the end of the year. Ms Cassidy is the PAL (Presidents’ Award Leader) in ACS who guides and supports students throughout their Bronze Award. Students can continue their Gaisce experience by moving forward with the Silver and Gold Award .
TY Journalism
TY Journalism is an initiative that has been running for several years now. It works on an application basis where students apply to become a journalist and work outside of the classroom to create articles. Students are encouraged to become independent journalists who look for stories worth telling from our day-to-day life here in Ashbourne Community School while learning the skills and discipline of being a journalist. Their articles are displayed on the school’s social media platforms for all to read.
Snapshot of TY Journalist Articles from this School Year
Aoibheann's Pink Tie Sale
Written by Ellen Spratt, TY Journalist
On Wednesday 16th of October 2024, Ella Carroll, Carolina Tudorache and I, held a bake sale in aid of Aoibheann's Pink Tie as part of our TY Business Enterprise Task. The charity was set up in 2010 by Mick Rochford and Jimmy Norman after the death of Jimmy's daughter Aoibheann from a rare type of cancer. Aoibheann's Pink Tie is a national Children's Cancer Charity whose mission is to provide practical and financial support available to children suffering from cancer in Ireland and their families. The charity is well known in St John's Ward in Crumlin Children's Hospital where these children receive amazing care. Thank you to everyone who brought in their cash to support an amazing charity. We managed to raise €250. Another group of TY girls raised €120 at a bake sale on Open Evening for St John's Ward so that's a combined total of €370. Your generosity doesn't go unnoticed. We really appreciate it, as does the charity. In school, at home and from members of our community, we learn about the power of doing good for others - volunteering to do something to help others really has far reaching benefits for everyone involved.
We would also like to say a huge thank you to Jimmy Norman for taking the time to attend our bake sale - it was a lovely surprise. We truly admire the work you and the charity do. We also had a very successful Toy Appeal at Christmas time in 2024 for the children who attend St John's Ward - it was a massive success again. my sister Amy ran this Toy Appeal in 2023 while in Sixth Year and we hope to continue the tradition into the future. Amy has raised a lot of money for children's cancer charities over the years to give back and I have continued this tradition this year in ACS. Amy was one of the first children Aoibheann's Pink Tie supported and her photo is still on their collection boxes. ACS has formed a great bond with Aoibheann's Pink Tie which we hope to continue into the future .
The Other Side of Life
Article written by Lucy Myers, TY
Journalist
@conorharris_
@theothersideoflife___
On Wednesday 23rd of October 2024, TYs and LCA students attended a talk in the GP with Conor Harris for his The Other Side of Life Drugs and Addiction Awareness Talk. Conor’s aim for the Other Side of Life talk is to spread awareness about the dangers of getting into drugs at an early age, and to show other young people that drugs are not the answer to any problems you may be having.
He is a talented Gaelic football player who played with Kildare underage. Conor shared the heartbreaking story of how at as young as 14 years old, he was introduced to the world of drugs. He shared how he at first declined but then gradually gave into trying the drugs offered to him. Conor shares how the drugs he tried gave him the confidence he wanted to have, which is how he got dragged into the addiction. He also communicated with us that the further you go with addiction, the more you lose the person you are.
Conor told the story of how the more drugs he was taking, the more money he was spending, the more he was losing his sense of self, until he did not truly know who he was. He had lost a lot of emotion due to drugs. Many times, Conor tried to quit, but drug addiction does not just stop like that. Conor ended up enrolling in a 5-month rehab programme in his late teens, which he says was the best decision he had ever made in his life. Conor told us how he hopes that by coming to schools and talking to young people about the dangers of drug use that the amount of people in rehab centres will drop, and that the number of teenagers using hard drugs every day will drop.
Conor’s story is inspiring to all who may be currently struggling with something they have not told anybody yet, as well as to anybody currently struggling with any form of addiction. It shows people how life does get better, and drug addiction is not something you are stuck with forever. You can recover, and you are not alone in the problems you face. It does get easier, but you need to take the steps to make it easier. Conor described how much he hated using drugs, but he just could not stop himself. He urged everybody who is in the same situation he once was in to open up and tell somebody about it. If you are currently struggling with something and you think Conor’s story is like yours, please tell somebody you trust. Whether it be a friend, a parent, a teacher, whoever that person is; a problem shared is a problem halved. You are not alone. Please reach out, because if you do, things can get better.
Thank you so much to Conor for coming to visit ACS and possibly inspiring people to avoid drugs, or start a recovery journey. Conor is now living his best life and is five years sober. Conor, who also works as a carpenter, is in Maynooth University studying Addiction Studies, as well as doing club and school talks. He is on the Maynooth University Sigerson Cup Team - he hopes to one day soon line out for the Kildare Senior Team. We wish Conor the best in his future .
Wellbeing
The objective of the Wellbeing Programme is to deliver a spec-made Wellbeing Programme that is responsive to the needs of our students in ACS. To build connectivity with the Class Tutor and encourage the One Good Adult model as we are a Jigsaw school.
The Wellbeing programme encourages accountability, agency and responsibility in the student body and affords everyone an opportunity to become a ‘gatekeeper’ of the characteristic spirit of the school. It echoes OECD research in 2017 that revealed “When students feel that they are a part of a school community, they are more likely to perform better academically and are more motivated to learn.” The topics explored by base groups varied from weekly to monthly check-ins, financial and digital literacy, road safety awareness, lessons on empathy, and breathing exercises. It is an extensive list. The goal is to create a climate of connection and responsibility in our Junior Cycle cohort.
Clann Ash and Clann Oak
The academic year 2024-2025 saw the opening of the second Autism Special Class in ACS. It is hoped that Clann Oak will be settled in the newly refurbished room by the end of the academic year. It has been a long wait for the room to be completed. Students from both Clann Ash and Clann Oak have been on several trips this year to Ashbourne, to the Sensory Space in the Library, to a horse-riding centre and the end of year trip to Emerald Park was a wonderful day for all. The students from each class follow a Student-Centred Programme that is suited to their individual needs. There is an emphasis on skill building and coping skills to support students with daily living skills and to manage the busy school environment. There are plans for future additional Special Classes to be opened. As our mission statement conveys, as an inclusive school we strive every day to ensure that students have the opportunity to experience as broad a curriculum as possible while still meeting their individual needs.
ACS Summer Programme 2024
The Summer Programme 2024 was a very worthwhile endeavour with students engaging in many wonderful activities and opportunities to connect and build their skills set. The Summer Programme affords students with complex needs an opportunity to further engage with school prior to returning to school after the summer break.
Staff who taught on the programme engaged learners actively and reflectively. There were opportunities for Senior Students to take on leadership roles throughout the two weeks. Staff took curricular leads in areas such as the mural, healthy eating, literacy, numeracy, IT, the newsletter, orienteering, and organising a trip to the cinema - all reflecting the theme of building confidence and connections. The programme offered was diverse and allowed for students to work at many levels thus catering for the needs of all. There was a lot of planning and preparation undertaken for the Summer Programme but there was also room for flexibility and student choice. The support of our SNAs was invaluable throughout, ensuring that all were able to participate and engage with the content of the Summer Programme.
Again, this year the afternoons were activity based with basketball, Irish Dancing, orienteering and board games. We finished the two weeks with a celebration of the work completed, friendships made and a chance to share the activities with parents and guardians. Students were presented with a Certificate of Participation. We look forward to the Summer Programme 2025 to which incoming First Year students are be invited.
Student Voice
Head Students
The Head Students of 20242025 Sarah-Jane Behan, Aoife Derwin, Kirsten Fennell and Devin Maher worked tirelessly over the course of the academic year to enhance life for the student community and beyond. They played a key part during the year to help our incoming First Year students to settle into secondary school life by making their presence known to this cohort through tutorials and assemblies.
They also visited assemblies across all other year groups, and took on the important task of promoting and facilitating the running of Guth Na nDaltaí to help enhance the student experience in our school. The Head Students took part and assisted in the 30 Year Celebrations of our school and helped students to set up prayer rooms for students to worship. Huge care and attention was taken by the Head Students with regards the organisation of the Sixth Year Graduation before signing off their posts by giving their Head Student speeches at the Sixth Year Graduation in May.
Senior Prefects
Throughout the 2024-2025 school year the Senior Prefects offered a helping hand to whoever needs it. The key role for Senior Prefects is helping the First Year students along the way to ensure that they complete the incoming transition into secondary school smoothly. Another important role the Senior Prefects took part in this year was assisting at the Parent Teacher meetings and several other events throughout the year including the Memorial Night in November as well as partaking in the 30 Years Celebration on the evening on the 20th of March 2025. With a new school year just around the corner, it's time for the current Senior Prefects to prepare to hand over the role to the newly selected Senior Prefects so that they’re ready for their new positions this coming September.
Ashbourne Community School
Student Council
Throughout the school year of 2024-2025 the Ashbourne Community School Student Council engaged in many endeavours. We evaluated applicants who wished to join the Student Council before holding a series of interviews to ultimately decide who would be awarded membership. We strived to gather voices from a range of voices across all year groups of the school as the Student Council plays a vital role in fostering communication between students and staff, ensuring that the concerns, ideas, and needs of the student body are addressed.
Consisting of students from First to Sixth Year, we met every Monday during lunch in RA09 with Ms. Lennon where we discussed any issues raised throughout the week, ranging from school events to student welfare. Our discussions aimed to find solutions, make decisions, and plan initiatives that enhance the overall school experience.
After each meeting, we compiled the minutes and sent them to Ms. Casey to keep the wider school community informed and to ensure a follow-up on any actions required.
The Student Council is committed to being a proactive, responsible, and approachable group, always striving to make a positive impact on our school environment. As members of the Student Council, we would like to thank you for taking the time to read our annual productivity report and sincerely hope that you will continue to support us in our attempts to improve school life for all
Guth Na nDaltaí
Guth Na nDaltaí is an initiative to allow all students within our school to voice their opinions and concerns for positive change to happen. Meetings are usually held once a term during lunchtime, to allow for full student participation. These meetings are organised and chaired by the Head Students with a teacher aiding in the facilitation of the meetings.
This year the Head Students held several meetings during lunchtimes to gain the views of students and to allow students to help bring about positive change for the whole school community. The Head Students undertook the task of aiming to reach as many voices as possible.
The Guth Na nDaltaí meetings were very well attended this year but the aim for next year is to build upon this again. The Head Students discussed issues with students in small groups to gain a dialogue and to get to the root of issues in order to get a good insight into the wishes of students. This worked very positively and allowed all students who attended to voice their opinions.
The Head Students have completed some positive work through their tenure and we, as a school community, would like to thank them for their work.
Student Wellbeing
Forbairt
In a post-covid world, Ashbourne Community School recognised a disconnect between students and learning. They endeavoured to create a Wellbeing Programme to encourage accountability, agency and responsibility within the student body and afford everyone an opportunity to become a gate keeper of the characteristic spirit of ACS. It echoes OECD research in 2017 that revealed “When students feel that they are a part of a school community, they are more likely to perform better academically and are more motivated to learn.” This was the catalyst to join Forbairt 2023-2024.
The Forbairt team of Ms Kelly, Ms Hanahoe, and Ms McLoughlin set about investigating how this disconnect might be addressed. The solution was in a spec made Wellbeing Programme that addressed the current needs of students in ACS. The first steps involved consultation and investigation with stakeholders; students, year heads, guidance Dept and Deputy Principals. The objective was to unearth and identify what the most prevalent issues were for students in their school context.
Working with Oide and partaking in the Forbairt programme allowed the ACS team to tease through challenges and reflect on chosen strategies. It offered an opportunity to network with other schools and share ideas and suggestions. The value of professional dialogue and expertise cannot be underestimated.
What has resulted is a spec made in-house Wellbeing Programme that addresses the needs of students particular to ACS. A variety of topics are explored in this programme, from digital literacy and empathy education to the history of the school crest, as the school gets set to celebrate its 30th year. The wellbeing programme is taught to all First, Second and Third Year students and reflects the Wellbeing Guidelines as set out by the NCCA, whilst actively responding to the needs of students in Ashbourne Community school.
Active Wellness Days
Irish Olympian and past pupil Jennifer Lehane launched our Active Wellness Day for First Years in September. Jennifer spoke about the importance of staying fit for our physical and mental wellbeing. The Active Wellness Days facilitated by the PE Dept for all year Groups were designed to encourage students to become and stay active in their lives.
Humourfit
Mike Sullivan visited ACS in October to speak to First and Second Years about the dangers of bullying behaviour. The messaging was delivered in a creative way and told through a powerful narrative. It is crucial that students recognise and understand the importance of calling out bullying and reporting it.
Community Support
In October our local Garda Feargal along with High Street managers Niamh and Rachel spoke to Fifth Year students about anti-social behaviour taking place in the local community. The upset and distress that is caused to local residents and businesses was highlighted. Students are aware that this behaviour is not acceptable or fair and were encouraged to take an active stance against it. Communities working together!
Journal January
In January 2025, ACS students pressed the ‘reset button’ and refocused on the value and importance of using the school journal to reflect their efforts in school each day. The initiative ran throughout the month and students who met the expectations set were rewarded with a certificate, a cookie voucher and put in a raffle to win a 25 Euro voucher that was donated by the school. 105 students - Senior and Junior were acknowledged for their efforts.
Peer Education in Wellbeing
The Seán and Shona Peer Education programmes encourage TY students to lead the learning. The Peer education teams created and curated their own in-house content to encourage healthy and safe conversations on the challenges First Year students face. It is a difficult time for students to figure out where they fit into today’s world with so many challenges; body image, mental health, exam stress, relationships, bullying and sometimes feeling we don’t fit in.
The Seán team addressed these issues with male First Year students and the Shona team with female First Year students. The teams linked in the students and Head of First Year, Mr O Shea to ensure that topics and content delivered in the workshop were relevant and of value. Well done to all.
Building Connections Programme
In its second year the Building Connections programme fosters a sense of belonging and healthy relationships through a common interest. This year that interest was birding. The students created in house displays, learned about local birds and went on a day out to Bull Island to observe wildlife in its natural environment. Bull island is one of the most important bird watching locations in Ireland. On the 27th of March students along with Year Head Ms Ryan, and Wellbeing Coordinator Ms Hanahoe worked with birder Cian Cardiff. They witnessed in person the many birds that live on the island; Kestrels, gulls, Peregrines to name a few.
School Ambassadors
Green Schools
The Green Schools committee have had another busy year saving the planet! As always students have shown immense commitment meeting every Tuesday at lunchtime to discuss issues and get plans into action.
This year was significant as we achieved the highly coveted tenth Green Flag! This is equivalent to twenty years of Green Schools’ work in the school. We are the only post primary school in Meath to achieve this, and one of a handful from the entire country. Our tenth Green Flag was based around Global Citizenship Food and Biodiversity. This included growing our own crops and erecting a PolyTunnel for the growth of crops by various classes.
As we attained our tenth flag in May 2024, we were not restricted to any particular theme, as there are currently no new green flags available. We adopted a ‘back to basics’ approach, reiterating our commitment to being a single use plastic free school and reminding students that single use plastic is prohibited. Any single use plastic bottles brought in by students are being collected by TY students and recycled at ALDI using the deposit scheme. ALDI vouchers will be donated to SVP at the end of the term. This was communicated through assemblies, tutors, social media and interactive noticeboards within the school.
We also did some planting with First Year Class Reps. As First Year classes are named after herbs, each base class planted herbs in correlation with their name; e.g. chive, fennel etc. Each class is minding their own plant, and the best plant will receive a prize at the end of the year!
We have had a great year and are looking forward to getting stuck into the next theme and working towards the next Green Flag when it’s released in September.
Jigsaw
Having received the Gold One Good School award in 2023, we are continuing to promote and embed Jigsaw in ACS. Six TYs were selected as this year’s Peer Mentors: Ellen Spratt, Claudia Boyle, Maya Thornton, Clara Davey, Charlie Conlon, and Jack Price.
During Wellbeing week, the Peer Mentors ran a poster competition for all First Year students. They had to design a poster raising awareness about mental health. Well done to the competition winners: Grace Farrell, Grace McGrane, Saoirse O’Neill and Eva Donnelly.
After Easter the Peer Mentors delivered a forty-minute lesson on mental health to First Year classes. The First Year students engaged well and really enjoyed the lesson .
Clubs Nature Club
Lunchtime Junior Nature club held several meetings this year. They learned about many species such as the long-eared owl, common frog and peregrine falcon. Though it is small in numbers, it is steadily growing in popularity among the students with a trip planned for the natural history museum before the years’ end.
SOLACE
As another year passes the SOLACE group located in Red Area continues to provide a safe and inclusive space for members of the LGBTQ+ and their allies. This year during StandUp week the SOLACE group organised a small party in the school with cake and tea. As another year comes to a close, the SOLACE group plans on continuing to provide a safe and inclusive place for anyone who needs it .
School Trips
Camino
On the 14th of April ten TY students and two teachers met up at Terminal 2 to embark on our 2025 Camino trip. This year we were returned to the Camino Francés route – Sarria to Santiago.
Our first day of walking began after a vital SSS session (Shea’s Stretching Session) and our daily mantra “Head good, heart good, feet good, all good”.
Along the way, students and teachers chatted, laughed, and listened to music. Students found their own pace very quickly and settled into a rhythm that was comfortable for them even though they experienced difficult weather conditions. Teachers worked through the group and engaged with students along the route. Generally, we arrived at our destination each day around 3pm. Students took time to relax and recover after the day of walking each evening before dinner. Afterwards students and teachers enjoyed some board games, table quizzes and general chat before hitting the hay at about 10.30pm.
We walked a total of 100km over five days passing through some of the most beautiful countryside and small villages along the route. The group got on well and there was a good sense humour and the comradery among the students and teachers was a real highlight. Before the trip I explained to the students that this journey was more than just a walk and so it proved to be. Students ran the full gamut of emotions from excitement, happiness, sadness and at times reflection. It was great to hear from students along the way about the various reasons they were walking. In some cases, they were walking on behalf of someone or in memory of someone. Others looked forward to the physical challenge and the sense of achievement they would feel upon completion of “The Way”.
Along the route, students collected stamps or “sellos” in their Camino passports and chatted to many people from across the globe and many also took the opportunity to practice their Spanish.
The final day of walking saw us enter the city of Santiago in epic fashion to the sounds of Amhrán na bhFiann and walking behind the school flag - the locals certainly knew the Irish had arrived in town. Arriving at our destination, the Cathedral of St James, it was hard to hold back the tears as students and teachers hugged and congratulated each other on completing the Camino and achieving something very special. The following day students collected their certificates “Compostela” and enjoyed a tour of the cathedral and some free time to enjoy the city of Santiago
I would like to pay tribute to Emma Lynch without whom this trip would not have been as successful as it was. A huge amount of time went into organising this trip from September last year and the trip simply would not have happened without their considerable dedication and hard work. The care and attention given to students throughout was second to none and it was a pleasure to walk and work with her on this trip. It takes a lot of hard work, dedication, humour and a little “madness” to head off with a group of thirty students for a week. The students themselves were great ambassadors for the school and Ashbourne town. It was a pleasure and a privilege to walk with them and share in the experience of “The Way ”. Mr O’Shea.
Manchester
The Manchester trip this year took place in November amid several storms to hit the country in 2024. For the first time we had two buses of Second Year students (87 students in total) travelling by ferry to Holyhead. Despite delays, rough seas and some sick stomachs, the students were in good spirits and looking forward to the 5.30pm kick off of Manchester City v Spurs at the Etihad Stadium.
Despite the late start time and delay, we just managed to make it for kick off and we had excellent seats right behind the goal.
In a very entertaining and surprising match for the City fans, the score finished 4-0 to Spurs, a hammering for City in their own stadium. After the game there was a shorter journey to The Trafford Centre in Manchester where the students were able to get dinner and do some shopping. Later in the evening, we headed to our hotel where the students were able to unwind and try get some sleep after the long day!
Before heading back to the ferry the next morning, students got to stop off for a tour of Anfield Stadium, home of Liverpool FC. The group got to see the pitch, the dressing rooms, and the press room among other parts of the stadium.
The students were a credit to themselves, the school and their parents as they were exceptionally well behaved over the entire weekend. A huge thanks to the teachers who gave up their time to allow the trip to happen: Mr. Howlin, Mr. Leahy, Ms. McLoughlin, Ms. O’Connell, Ms. Cassidy, Ms. McBride, Ms. White, Mr. Bannon, Ms.McCabe, Mr. Glennon, Mr. Mac Donncha and Mr. Reilly.
Paris
In December 2024 a group of nineteen Fifth and Sixth year students accompanied by two teachers travelled to Paris on a three-day trip to take in all the sites, culture and practice their language skills. Day one saw us take in l'Arc de Triomph with a trip to the top and views over Paris, after we headed down the Champs Elysée and ended up in l'hôtel de la Marine. On to day two we all gathered for breakfast in the morning and took the Metro to Galeries Lafayette to have a look at the designer shops and see the Christmas tree and Christmas display. We then made our way down to the Louvre Museum. After taking time for dinner, we got a chance to take in the view of the Eiffel Tower in the dark and to witness the famous light shows. Finally to round off the day, we took a cruise down the River Seine and managed to get a glance at the reopened Notre Dame Cathedral.
On our final day in Paris, we took a guided tour of Montmartre and visited the Sacré Coeur Cathedral. This was followed by a traditional meal. The trip was a huge success and was enjoyed by everyone. A huge thank you to the teachers who gave up their time to take the students on the trip: Ms McKenna and Mr O’Donoghue .
Ski Trip
During the February Midterm, a group of seventy enthusiastic students and seven dedicated teachers embarked on our annual ski adventure to Andorra. We stayed at the Hotel Diplomat in Andorra de Vella and spent five days on the slopes of Grau Roig in Grandvalira.
Immersed in four hours of daily ski lessons, our students exhibited remarkable determination and commitment, progressing to conquer the challenging blue and red ski trails by the trip's end. Their impressive achievements filled us with great pride, and their exemplary behaviour did not go unnoticed - they were a true testament to the values of our school.
Amidst the thrill of skiing, we took an excursion to the nearby town, indulging in some retail therapy. Additionally, we were fortunate to enjoy a rejuvenating experience of Caldea Spa, adding an extra layer of relaxation to our adventure.
It was undoubtably unforgettable week for students, brimming with laughter and cherished moments, and many incredible memories were created together.
Annual ACS Golf Classic“Let them Play, Not play!”
On Friday April 4th under a clear blue sky, the Ashbourne community, and friends from near and far came together for our annual ACS Golf Classic, a truly unforgettable and hugely successful fundraising event for the school.
This year’s Golf Classic saw record participation with the vibrant spirit of ACS on full display. Black and red balloons along with bunting lined the path from the entrance to the clubhouse transforming Ashbourne Golf Club into an extension of our school for the day - the atmosphere was electric and full of camaraderie.
Thanks to the incredible support from over 70 local businesses, our generous donors of raffle and auction prizes, and of course all our amazing players as we raised significant funds that will have a real and lasting impact for our school community. These funds will help ensure that every ACS student can participate in extracurricular events without families needing to worry about the cost of transport. We hope this will ease the burden on parents and open up opportunities for all our students.
Ashbourne Golf Club lived up to its reputation as one of the most welcoming clubs around. From the very first planning meeting to the final putt of the day, the club's staff went above and beyond to help us create something truly special.
A big congratulations to our overall winners, four talented young golfers three of whom are current ACS student, JJ McManus, Conor Dwyer, Darragh Dwyer and future ACS student Sam McManus who proudly shared the €800 prize. Of course, the fun didn’t end with the final hole! DJ Dermie kept the celebration going and our lively karaoke crew made sure the clubhouse echoed with laughter and song late into the evening.
A heartfelt thank you to our sponsors, players, parents, students, the ACS Golf Committee, the Ashbourne Golf Club staff, and every single person who contributed to making this year’s ACS Golf Classic such a success. We are beyond grateful for your support and generosity .
List of Sponsors for the Golf Classic
Ariosa Coffee Derreen Development HSM Chartered Accountants Specsavers
3E Fire & Security (Paul Teeling) DG Stoves and Fireplaces John Dwyer Golf Pro SuperValu
Adrian Dunne Pharmacy DNG Tormey Lee John Ryan Auctioneers Swans Curragha
Ashbourne Credit Union EBS
Jonathan Carr Accountant Tadg Riordan Motors
Ashwood Carpentry Ltd ExamCraft McManus McCabe Accountants TC Hamilton
A-Signs FAH Accountants Murray and Sons Coaches The Island Golf Course
Aspect Homes Flynn Construction Olive Education Tiny Tots
Bellinter House Gazz Hickey Fitness Outsource Support Travel Counsellor Sinead Daly
Book Haven Goulding Soil Nutrition Peak Learning Uniform World
Brangan's Butchers Grimes Pillo Hotel Xpress Dry Cleaners
Claire O'Connell Racing GymPlus Presleyblue.ie Colornet High Street Ashbourne Ratoath Eye Care DEB Hotels Properties Sherry FitzGerald Geraghty
Extra Curricular
Basketball Boys
The Boys Basketball teams at Ashbourne Community School may not have won any championships or titles, but the overall experience was still highly enjoyable for the staff and students involved. Our U19 Boys team landed in Regional Semi-Final this year, ending their season on close games while Second Years just missed out on a semi-final. The team members developed strong bonds with each other and had a lot of fun while also improving their skills on the court. Special thanks to the Fifth and Sixth Year students who helped train and manage Junior Teams, all of which bodes well for the success of the program in the years to come .
Crea Byrne took part in the Individuals championship 90/95cm class representing ACS. This competition is open to students representing their schools with many travelling from across Meath and Dublin areas. The competition was spread out over seven competing Sundays which commenced in September 2024 and concluded in February 2025.
The competition started out with 24 strong individual competitors. Crea and her twelve-year-old grey Connemara gelding, Legends Mate (also known by his stable name Finn) placed consistently in the top three across the competition.
There are two rounds in the competition. In round one you need to jump clear across fences one to eight and then you can proceed to round two, a speed round. It is timed and involves sharp technical turns - this was no bother to our pair!
It wasn’t all plain sailing! Challenging gusts in the aftermath of storm Eowyn made conditions hard to ride in. This week wasn’t to be with an elimination after the first round due to having a pole down. The winter weather meant cold early mornings starts to get Finn clean and on the road!
The final took place on the 2nd of February 2025 with 16 strong competitors. Crea and Finn rode to win joint first place .
GAA Football
First Year Boys
The First Year Boys were unlucky to lose out after a slow start against Boyne Community School left them with too much to do in the second half in their first group game. They followed this game with a huge improvement and a win against St. Joseph’s the following week, meaning they went through to the Shield Semi-Final. St. Mary’s from Edenderry were the opponents and the boys put in a huge shift against a very strong side but in the end St. Mary’s were more clinical and were the better team on the day. Lots of talent on display in the training games that took place on Fridays after school. Plenty of promise for the future with this group of lads and we look forward to next year.
Second Year Boys
The Second Year Boys made it to the Shield Final this year. The good numbers at training sessions and previous games really paid off as the boys won by a margin of nine points. There were strong performances from all to overcome a strong Rochfortbridge side. Congratulations to the lads on a great win and for all their hard work throughout the course of the year.
Under 14 Girls
We had brilliant numbers for the under 14 Girls football team this year. 36 girls showed up to the first training and nearly 50 girls signed up overall. Unfortunately, we had to cut numbers down to 30 for matches. We topped the group stage because of a comprehensive win over Scoil Uí Mhuirí, Dunleer and being awarded the points from Coláiste na hInse. Unfortunately, we lost the quarter final to a strong O Carolan College outfit but there are definitely some super footballers here for the future in ACS .
Senior Boys
The Senior Boys had a tough year in the A championship, losing to Marist College Athlone, Knockbeg College, Carlow and Ardscoil na Tríonóide, Kildare in the group stages.
The lads overcame Portmarnock Community School and Coláiste Íosagáin in the group stages of the league. The lads went through to the Senior (B) League Final after beating St. Peter’s College Dunboyne on a scoreline of 4-9 to 1-9 in their Semi-Final match. The lads played Rathangan Secondary School from Kildare in the League Final at home on May 8th but unfortunately it was not to be their day as they lost to a strong Kildare side.
Senior Ladies
The Senior Ladies have had a fantastic year. The girls finished top of their group, winning all three games against O’Carolan College, Oldcastle and Ratoath.
A preliminary knock-out against Clane was hard fought with the girls coming out victorious once again.
A quarter final was then arranged against Dominican College Wicklow. Terrible weather conditions and fantastic performances led to a dramatic win for the Ashbourne girls.
On the 28th of February 2025 the Semi Final was played against Creagh College, Gorey. It was a tight game, but Ashbourne kept their nerve and lead throughout.
In the final, the girls fought a hard battle against Oldcastle. Unfortunately, they were not successful on the day. We are incredibly proud of the girls and their achievements this year. Roll on 2025-2026!
Hurling
Junior
The Junior Hurlers kicked off their year with probably one of the most exciting games of the year away against Dunshaughlin. Goals were the flavour of the day with a total of nine goals been scored between both teams, the game ended in a draw in the dying seconds with Ashbourne scoring 4-17 against Dunshauglin’s 5-14. Gallant displays across the field from Rob Kelly, Louis McIvor, Luke Heron and Adam Boatman kept Ashbourne CS in the game right up to the final whistle.
The Junior Hurlers’ second game was a much more one-sided affair against a young Kilbeggan side. Ashbourne were far too strong physically and showed their class in an impressive score line of 9-25 to Kilbeggan’s 2-6. A very strong whole team performance was shown for the home crowd along with superb scores from Dara Naughton, Conor Beggy, Joe Concannon and excellent leadership from the defence through Pádraig Gaughan gave the ACS supporters something to cheer about!
The last win saw the hurlers through to the Semi-Final against Gallen CS. The game was played in wet conditions, but the ACS boys saw it through scoring a total of 2-16 to Gallen CS 3-9.
A strong display in the backs from Conor Ryan and Pádraig Gaughan once again along with excellent fielding from Oisin Breatnach, Rob Kelly, Donnacha Paget and Louis McIvor saw ACS make it to a North Leinster Junior Final!
ACS faced old opponents Kilbeggan in the North Leinster Final which was played on the astro turf pitch in the Meath GAA Centre of Excellence. With an early goal let in the first few minutes of the first half, it was a nervous start into the game for ACS. Strong leadership was shown in key areas to steady the ship and ACS pulled off some excellent teamwork and scores from Niall Lawless, Louis McIvor and Oisin Breathnach. ACS repeated the same mistake again from the first half letting in an early Kilbeggan goal and were now facing an uphill battle to win the game. Changes were made in very challenging conditions as the weather turned, ACS took full advantage of the new players coming in as Reuben Clancy O’Looney’s introduction set up some excellent and well worked scores. Conor Ryan running the field from corner back to score a goal before Louis McIvor’s last score of the game saw ACS over the line to win by three and crowned the new North Leinster Champions of 2025.
Senior
The Senior Hurling team faced a challenging but ultimately encouraging season. The year began with a tough 10-point defeat to Mullingar, a game where the side was missing a few key players. Despite this setback, the team regrouped and put in a strong performance in their next outing against Dunboyne, narrowly losing by just 5 points in what was a tightly contested encounter.
While results didn’t always go their way, the year was largely positive for a young and developing panel. Having moved up a division, the team adapted well to the higher level of competition and showed great promise throughout the season. Standout performances came from Darragh Meagher, Conor Jones, Sean Ward, and Dylan Gannon, who each had strong campaigns and were key contributors throughout the year.
With only five players not returning next season, the future looks bright. The team can take confidence from their progress this year and will be aiming to build on that momentum in the season ahead.
Rugby
Junior Boys Rugby
In December the Junior Boys team capped off a perfect winning streak with their win against East Glendalough to clinch the Pat Rossiter Cup. The team started off their campaign with a Qualifying Blitz in Dundalk which saw them win all six matches and progress on to the cup. The cup saw the boys take on teams from Newbridge and Edenderry to progress into the final, which was played in Donnybrook stadium. After a hard-fought battle which looked like it could go either way, Robert Moran stepped up with a last-minute kick to win it. A massive thanks to Naoise Smyth (Leinster Development/Ashbourne Rugby Club) and Paul Finglas (Ashbourne Rugby Club) for the time and effort they put into helping to prepare the team. The whole school is very proud of the team and their great win.
Soccer
First Year Boys
The First Year Boys Soccer team had a good start to their first experience of football at ACS. Competing in the Northeast A Division One, they had some tough games in the group stage but came out on top of the group to set up a quarter final tie with Ardgillan CC. The lads unfortunately lost out after a tough game. In the Leinster A Cup the lads got to the last sixteen of the competition eventually going out to Colaiste Pobail Setanta despite dominating the game. In what is a very good team the lads have the potential to push on further next year and fight for some silverware.
Under 15 Boys
The U15 Boys had an unlucky season this year as they narrowly lost to Colaiste Na hInse after a last minute goal and then drew against Dunshauglin which was not enough to qualify from their group.
Ashbourne Community School
Under 15 Girls
Our U15 Girls had a good group stage this season. Their first match was against Ratoath in the group stage which they narrowly lost. They had a comprehensive win in their second game winning 7 – 2. Great performances from First Years Erin Kavanagh and Jaeda Hiraldo. Their third league game was a walkover unfortunately as the opposition couldn’t field a team.
The girls then came up against Drogheda Grammer in the knockout stages. The girls were in control in the first half with Evie Duff playing really well. However, Drogheda Grammer came back into the game and equalised in the last minute to bring the game into extra time. Unfortunately, we lost the game, but girls were fantastic. Looking forward to next year with this developing team.
U17 Girls
The U17 Girls Soccer team showed exceptional skill and determination throughout their season, drawing one match and winning the remaining games that they played. Their consistent performance placed them as strong contenders for the league title, with Jessica Merry being an exceptional captain. Unfortunately, due to unforeseen circumstances beyond their control, the team was forced to withdraw from the competition. Despite this setback, their achievements on the pitch reflected their talent, teamwork, and dedication to the sport.
Under 17 Boys
The U17 squad had a fantastic season winning the Northeast A Division 1 League for the first time in the school’s history. A fantastic 6-3 win in the final which included a hat trick from Cillian Ryan saw the lads lift the cup. In another first for the school, the team reached the final of the Leinster A Cup only to lose out to eventual All-Ireland winners Wexford CBS. Nonetheless it can be classed as a very successful season and the lads will hope to continue the success at U19 level next year.
Under 19 Boys
This year saw many of this group play their final game for ACS. A good league campaign saw the lads qualify from their group in the Northeast Division 1 League and then beat Colaiste Na Mí Navan in the Quarter Final. The lads were then cruelly robbed of a final place in the Semi Final going out 1-0 to Dundalk Grammar School.
Past Student Achievement
DCU Scholarship Awards
We are very proud of two of our former ACS students, Tadhg Leonard and Ryan Donohue, who received Scholarship Awards for outstanding achievement in the Leaving Certificate. The awards ceremony was hosted by DCU at the Helix on Wednesday 27th November 2024 . Pictured Mr O’Shea, Tadhg Leonard and Ryan Donohue.
Entrance Exhibition Award
Well done to our former student Matthew Feane who received an Entrance Exhibition Award from Trinity College for outstanding academic achievement. The award was presented at a ceremony in Trinity College on Tuesday evening 21st January 2025. Pictured Professor Vincent Wade, President of Trinity Dr. Linda Ward, Mr O’Shea and Matthew Feane (Class of 2024 ).
Feargal Quinn Award
Massive congrats to past pupil Martin Fox who was presented with a Feargal Quinn Award at the LCA National Conference on Saturday 25th January 2025. Martin achieved an incredible 100% overall result - Distinction in LCA 2024. The LCANA Feargal Quinn Awards are presented to students who obtain the top credits in the LCA. The awards are named after the late Senator Feargal Quinn, who was the first Chairman of the steering LCA Committee and oversaw the rolling out of the LCA and its continuing development. Thanks to all the staff who worked with Martin over his six years in ACS, and particularly the LCA team. This is not the first time the Fox family have been honoured by the LCANA. In 2019 Martin’s brother, James Fox, was also awarded a Feargal Quinn Award for his outstanding LCA resultsa 98% overall average.
Junior Cycle Results for 2024
Congratulations to the Junior Cycle Class of 2024 on your excellent results after three years of hard work and dedication. Thanks to all the staff and your families who supported you along the way. The results are a milestone on your own amazing journey. Well done to all and we are all very proud of you and your efforts .
Sixth Year Graduation
Retirements
Ailish Kendall
In October we bade a farewell to Ailish Kendall. Ailish joined ACS in 1997 and was a stalwart of the Science Department during her years here. Her innovative approach coupled with her exceptional mentoring abilities inspired many budding scientists.
Ailish was a pioneer in the area of Student Voice, ably overseeing the growth of various student bodies and groupings. She organised the annual Student Awards ceremonies, which are undoubtedly a highlight in the ACS calendar. The success and sense of occasion on these evenings were in no small part down to her meticulous planning and polished compering.
An exemplary professional with a great sense of humour, Ailish will be missed by all at ACS .
John O’Leary
Our colleague and fond friend John retired last October from a long and illustrious teaching career with us at Ashbourne Community School and is greatly missed.
In addition to teaching and preparing the hundreds of students who passed through the door of his workshop/metalwork classroom for their exams, John was also active in many other areas of school life during his career with us. He was always very generous with his attention to students and colleagues alike and spent a considerable amount of time mentoring the Student Council Members as well as going on numerous school trips at home or abroad. Whether it was exploring the galleries of Paris or the glaciers of Iceland, he was an invaluable person to have on our staff team. Always willing to participate in staff outings and extra-curricular endeavours he was a founding member of the Teachers’ Band who performed to (almost!) universal acclaim in several school concerts!
John’s contribution to our school has been immense and he is greatly missed. His retirement is well earned, and we wish him all the best in his next adventure!
Ciarán Ó Maitiú
Ba mhaith linn ár mbuíochas a ghabháil do Ciarán as an méid oibre a rinne sé anseo thar na blianta. Is cuid sárluachmhar é de na ranna Gaeilge agus Stair. Tá a thacaíocht, a scileanna múinteoireachta, a eolas faoin topaic, a phaisean agus a ghrá don teanga ríthábhachtach d’fhoghlaim Gaeilge na ndaltaí anseo i bPobalscoil Chill Dhéagláin. Bhí sé mar phribhéid dúinn mar roinn an deis a fháil oibriú in éineacht leis agus beidh buataistí móra le líonadh ag an gcéad duine eile a thagann go dtí an scoil chun an Ghaeilge a mhúineadh ina áit. Míle buíochas a Chiaráin, guímid go mbeidh scor sláintiúil agus suaimhneach agat. Tá sé tuillte agat. We would like to express our gratitude to Ciarán for the work that he has done here over the years. He was an invaluable part of the Irish and History departments. His support, teaching skills, his knowledge about the topic, his passion and his love for the language was incredibly important to the student’s learning of Irish here in Ashbourne Community School. It has been a privilege for us as a department to have the opportunity to work alongside him and the next person who comes to teach Irish in this school in his place will have big boots to fill. Thank you so much Ciarán, we hope you have a healthy and restful retirement. You deserve it.
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