| Youthreach Trim Celebrates Another Successful Year! |
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Annual Awards Night June 2010
Youthreach Trim celebrated their annual awards night at the Castle Arch Hotel on Thursday the 10th of June. A great night was had by all and it seen all students being rewarded for their many academic and personal achievements over the last year. These achievements included FETAC Level three, four and five certificates, in-house awards for specific personal achievements, First Aid awards, FIT certificates, FAI Soccer Coaching certificates and recognition for their community involvement.
In addition the ceremony included a reflection given by Centre Co-ordinator Ms. Liz Lavery whereby she summarised the centre’s achievements for the academic year 2009-2010. Highlights of this reflection included the revamp of the building, the ‘Quality Centre of Education Declaration Day’ celebrated on the 5th of March, the centre’s appearance on RTE’s The Afternoon Show and the Children’s Act Advisory Board award presented to Youthreach Trim for ‘Effective practice in Education’.
Finally the ceremony came to a conclusion with Liz thanking students, staff, parents and the wider community for their valuable contribution towards Youthreach Trim throughout the year. A special word thanks also went to both Mr. Peter Kierans (CEO County Meath VEC), and Mr. Christy Duffy (AEO County Meath VEC) for their continuous support and encouragement.
Other guests at the ceremony included Mr. Trevor Golden (Chairperson Trim Town Council), Mr. Brian Curran (Chairperson of Youthreach Trim and Kells Board of Management), Mr. James O’Shea (Councillor) and Mr. Brian Heffernan (Trim Tidy Towns Committee).
Student of the Year Award is presented to student Stephen King by Mr. Peter Kierans (CEO County Meath VEC), Mr Brian Curran (Chairperson of Youthreach Trim and Kells BOM) and Centre Co-ordinator Ms. Liz Lavery.
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| Co Meath VEC Newsletter Issue 10 |
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Just in case you missed your quarterly newsletter packed full of informative and interesting news items from around the county, you can download the on-line version here.
Happy Reading!!!!
And don’t forget if you have any news items you want to share for the next edition , please contact Sinead Murphy on 046 90 68200 or Sinead.Murphy@meathvec.ie |
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| Young Historian of the Year 2010 |
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Minister for Education & Skills presents VEC Young Historian Awards
In one of her first VEC visits since becoming Minister, Tanaiste Mary Coughlan T.D. presented Young Historian awards to students from all the schools of Co. Meath VEC in the VEC Head Officer, Navan. This is the 5th year of this county-wide event and the winners from each school were present in Abbey Road for the judging of the exhibits and the presentation of prizes by the Minister.
The competition is organised by the history teachers in each school. Maria Brady from O’Carolan College Nobber was the main organiser. History students are invited to submit entries in the form of Models, Posters and for the senior entries an essay on a historical theme. The standard of entries in all categories was commented on by the Minister, who welcomed the opportunity to attend the presentation and to support the continued development of history in our schools. The Minister thanked the teachers present for their great work in promoting history in this way and she also complimented the many parents who were present on their support and involvement in the entries of their children.
The Oliver Coogan Perpetual Trophy (Presented by Noel Dempsey T.D.) was won by Eva Bannon of Dunshaughlin Community College. Eva was a student of Oliver Coogan in her first year in Dunshaughlin and is part of the last class now in Leaving Certificate to have been taught by the legendary Oliver. RIP
A Collection of photos taken by Sinead Murphy are available on our youTube Channel
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| Music Extravaganza 2010 !!!! |
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Meath VEC’s 3rd Musical Extravaganza
Over 250 young people from the schools and centres of Co. Meath VEC took part in the 3rd Musical Extravaganza in the Solstice Arts Centre on the 28th and 29th April 2010.
Mr William Carey (Meath County Council), Tommy Grimes (VEC Committee Chairman), Mary Wallace TD, Damian English TD, Dominic Hannigan, and inspectors from the Department of Education – Amanda Geary, Suzanne Dillan and Lilly O Donovan were in attendance, along with members of Meath VEC Committee, principals and former principals.
The talent on show included solo musical performances, National Irish Dancing Champions, orchestras and choirs as well as dramatic performances. The young people were rehearsing for weeks and sometimes months for this special performance.
Mr Peter Kierans, CEO of Meath VEC, gave credit to all the young people and their parents and said how proud he was of them. He summed up by quoting Beaufort College ‘Heal the world, make it a better place, for you and for me and the entire human race’. There was absolutely no doubt that every young person, teacher, parent and principal felt better after the best musical performance ever to be enjoyed in County Meath. This certainly was a night to remember for all the students, their teachers and their families.Click here to see more photos on youTube |
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| Beaufort College celebrates 25 years |
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By: Nicola Sheridan
Beaufort College recently celebrated its first 25 years on the Trim Road campus.
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Former teachers, principals, parents, students and civic leaders joined the present staff in a Prayer Ceremony of Thanksgiving at the college led by Fr Brendan Ludlow C.C. Click here to see Photos from the event. Principal John Condon welcomed all and outlined the changes in intake, in programmes and in plant during the last quarter century. He advised the school is a thriving school community dedicated to learning and was delighted to show visitors the new School Library. Also in attendance were Mayor Joe Reilly, Rev Clarke (Church of Ireland) Mr Peter Kierans CEO and past principals Brugh Mac Devitt and Michael Lavelle. The celebration concluded with a four course meal in the gymnasium. A commemorative book was also launched on the night which was presented from the current to the former principal of 25 years ago. The book, compiled by Janet Brooks and Karen Tobin with the assistance of Olivia Clinton and Niamh Morgan, reflects fondly upon the last 25 years and highlights the successes of all our students, both past and present. It also stands as a tribute to a college that is vibrant, embraces diversity and fosters an enduring love of life and learning. The Commemorative Committee would like to thank all who sponsored the event. |
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| St Peter's College: Parents Association and TY Fashion Show |
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By: Caroline Toole
St. Peter's College Parents Association with Transition Year students hosted a fund raising charity fashion show last Thursday 22nd of April in the Community Centre, Dunboyne.
Click here to see 6th years modelling debs dresses.
  
It was a night full of glamour and glitz as Ms Woolhead hosted this super event. Students from all years as well as some familiar faces from the staffroom walked the catwalk modelling this years current fashion trends.
Special thanks should go to former student and former Ms Ireland Sinead Noonan who attended the event. The Junior Glee club, Michael Jackson tribute and a number of musical acts entertained at various intervals throughout the night. Well done to everyone involved.
Click here to see students modelling Boys Fashion.
Click here to see teachers modelling clothes from local boutiques. |
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| BTEI: Over 200 adult learners celebrate success |
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By: Imelda Prunty
The Co Meath VEC Back to Education Initiative recently celebrated the achievements of their adult learners with a presentation of certificates in the Newgrange Hotel Navan.
Over 200 FETAC and ECDL certificates were presented including 12 Major Awards. There was a wide variety of subjects being awarded FETAC minor certificates at levels 3, 4 and 5. Subjects included Computer skills, Maths, DIY, Food and Cookery, Communication skills, Personal Development, Healthcare, First Aid, Hairdressing, Customer Service and Childcare.
The highlight of the day was ten learners dressed in Graduation caps and gowns receiving a FETAC Level 5 Major Award in Healthcare Support and two receiving a FETAC Level 5 Major Award in Hairdressing. This was the culmination of nearly two years part time study with eight modules being completed to achieve the full award. The awards were presented by Mr Peter Kierans CEO Co. Meath VEC.
The Back to Education Initiative offers a wide range of courses including Renewable Energy, Horticulture, Computer Skills, ECDL, General Office Skills, Introduction to Childcare, Pre Leaving Certificate English and Maths, Painting, Drawing, Home Repairs & Maintenance Skills, Healthcare, Childcare and PC Maintenance Skills and much more.
These courses are FREE to early school leavers regardless of whether you are working or not, so if you left school early and did not complete your education to Leaving certificate standard or got less than five D’s in the Leaving Certificate NOW is the time to avail of a second chance. Priority for all course places is given to early school leavers but you can also qualify if you have a specific social welfare payment or you are a dependant or you have a medical card.
Contact Imelda Prunty, BTEI Co-ordinator on 046 9068284, email btei@meathvec.ie or Hazel Leahy on 046 9068216,email hazel.leahy@meathvec.ie if you are interested in doing a course with the BTEI. Check out our website HERE |
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| Kells Youthreach: Rose of Tralee visits the Centre |
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By: Siobhan Finegan
The Rose of Tralee Charmaine Kenny visited Kells Youthreach recently.
She was welcomed by M.C. Mossie Canning. Who then invited Chairperson of Kells Youthreach and the town Council Brian Curran and AEO Christy Duffy to give a talk. Mossie then invited the students to one by one to give a red rose to Charmine. A proposal to to help fundraise for her favourite charity Suas a organisation that helps educate children in Calcutta was made by student Leanne Curran. This involved students making wood carvings and selling them during the Festival week in Kells. All proceeds would go towards Suas. The students than sang the Rose to her. The visit finished with tea/coffee and cakes made by the catering students. |
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| St Peter's College: Student Sarah Brazil visits Uganda with Self Help Africa |
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By: Caroline Toole
During the Easter holidays Sarah Brazil was given the amazing opportunity to go to Uganda with Self Help Africa. Click here to read all about this amazing trip.
This opportunity came from her involvement in publishing the book “Twenty Fifteen”. “Twenty Fifteen” was a joint school project between St. Peters College and Colaiste Bhride, Carnew, Co. Wicklow. The book is a composition of poems, artwork and stories based on Millennium Development Goal number 1 - The Eradication of Extreme Poverty.
Sarah met Johnson on her trip.
The project went on to win the Young Social Innovators competition last year and now this year, St Wolstan’s Secondary School in Celbridge has undertaken the sequel of our book. This time, its theme is on the improvement of education. These projects would have been impossible without the constant help and direction given to us by Self Help Africa. Self Help Africa is an organisation that works in many countries in Africa. They promote self reliance and independence and help people to help themselves. They focus on long term success and sustainment rather than just short term aid.
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| Co. Meath VEC to host 3rd Musical Extravaganza in the Solstice Arts Centre |
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By: Elma Mc Mahon
Co. Meath VEC are hosting two very special nights in the Solstice Arts Centre on Wednesday 28th April and Thursday 28th April to celebrate the musical talent in their schools and centres.
Tickets are available directly from the Solstice Arts Centre on 046 909 2300 and are priced at €12 and €9. CLICK HERE TO BOOK ONLINE
Schools from across the county are involved in this venture along with three Youthreach Centres. Schools involved are Ratoath College, Colaiste na hInse (Laytown), O Carolon College (Nobber), St Oliver’s Post Primary (Oldcastle), Coláiste Poball (Rath Cháirn), Beaufort College (Navan), St Peters College (Dunboyne), St Fintinas (Longwood) and Dunshaughlin Community College. Trim, Kells and Laytown Youthreach Centres are also involved.
There are 35 different acts on Wednesday and Thursday. The talent on show includs solo musical performances, National Irish Dancing Champions, orchestras and choirs as well as dramatic performances. Go both nights, there is virtually no overlap and both nights will be remembered for years to come. Those lucky enough to have seen some of the rehearsals have commented on the extraordinary abilities of our young people. There are almost two hundred young people involved in the production, the highest participation ever!
Acts on Wednesday are Dunshaughlin Community College’s Nathan Hoctor on classical guitar and Mary Fitzmaurice on classical piano. They will be joined by fellow Dunshaughlin students Junior Yuffuf and Veronica Barry who have devised a special dance fusion for the night and Zirkan who are a fantastic Rock Group. Straight from the beach to the Solstice are the Cór from Colaiste na hInse and the drama group from Laytown Youthreach. St Peter’s College in Dunboyne are represented by the Glee Club, Outside the Box, another fantastic rock group and the excellent Rent performers. Kells Youthreach will be represented by Leanne Curren and Mossie Canning who will perform ‘A Whole New World’ from Aladdin and Stephen King has wrote a special rap for the Musical Extravaganza for Trim Youthreach. Beaufort College have prepared a Michael Jackson Tribute with two classics from the King of Pop. O Carolan College in Oldcastle are proud to present Saffron Ennis singing On My Own and multi competition winning group – Alisha Fitzpatrick, Siobhan Boylan and Aoife Gibney. On Wednesday and Thursday night Colaiste Poball Rath Cairn will have a special collaboration of musical talent from their school.
Acts on Thursday are Shauna Beatty, Clodagh Greene and St Fintina’s Drama Group from Longwood. The Drama Group have prepared a special one off performance of the Well of the Saints. St Peter’s College in Dunboyne are represented by St Peters Choir and Orchestra. Beaufort College will showcase their Michael Jackson Tribute again. St Oliver College in Oldcastle are proud to present Jenny and Mairead Rourke along with John Clarke and Emma Higgins and Aine Finley. O Carolan College are celebrating their sell out performances of Grease in Ramor Theatre in Virginia with a collection of popular songs from Grease. Ratoath College are delighted to present Sadbh Kellet, Kiera Judge, Liam Hayes, Laura McCabe, Hope Courtney and Karen Donoghue. Ratoath Trad Group will also be entertaining the masses but very excitingly Ratoath College are coordinating a very special finale with all popular hits from the musical ‘Back to the 80’s’
This exciting project is the latest innovative education development initiative from Co Meath VEC. Music and performance are an important part of the social and emotional development of young people. It is a wonderful opportunity for them to develop their social and performance skills and of course perform in front of their parents, teachers, distinguished guests and friends.
Tickets are available directly from the Solstice Arts Centre on 046 909 2300 and are priced at €12 and €9. CLICK HERE TO BOOK ONLINE
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| NTEC Students Presented with FETAC Awards |
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By: Margaret Deegan
Minister Sean Haughey, Minister for Life Long Learning, presented students from NTEC with FETAC certificates on monday 19th April, in the Newgrange Hotel, Navan.
Seven students completed the FETAC level 2 modules through the Adult Literacy Services in 2009.
The students who were awarded certificates were Kathleen Donovan and Mary Hand, Navan. Lisa and Marie Collins, Cavan, and pictured above having received their awards are Winnie O'Donnell, with her daughters Marie and Teresa O'Donnell from Navan.
Congratulations to all on this happy event. |
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| Dunshaughlin Community College: Student Council Wins BOI North East Regional awards |
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By: Louise Carroll
Dunshaughlin Community College students were recently selected as North East regional winners of the Bank of Ireland Student Awards.
The students who were representing the D.C.C. Student Council were nominated for this award by their liaison teacher, Muireann Nic an Rí, and they won their award in the junior group category. The D.C.C. students attended an awards ceremony in the Crowne Plaza Hotel, Dundalk, to mark their fantastic achievement, where they received a framed certificate and €150 One-For-All Voucher. The nominated students were Naomi Danaher, Johanna Von Kietzell, Darren Rattigan, Lauren Smithers and Sorcha Jordan, and they received the award on behalf of the whole group. They now qualify for the last stage of the competition, where the judging panel will choose the final 12 national winners.
This is the 5th year of the national competition, in which the Bank of Ireland has recognised the talents of over 5,000 secondary across the country. Commenting on the award, Gerry Prizeman regional manager in the north east region with the Bank of Ireland, said "The National Student Awards have allowed the Bank of Ireland to recognise the outstanding work of our second level students in the areas of sport, art, academic, entrepreneurial spirit and as participants in community initiatives for the past five years. Previous winners have been an inspiration to all of us involved in these awards and these Dunshaughlin Community College students are testimony to that."
Pictured in the photo are the Student Council group members:
Back row L-R: Niamh Keane; Sorcha Jordan; Darren Rattigan; Shane O' Brien; Jordan O' Brien; Michael Kilfeather; Lee Laffan;Jack Ronayne
Front row L-R: Naomi Danaher; Gary Mc Elhinney; Rebecca Jones; Conor O' Reilly; Lauren Smithers
Students absent on the night were Dar'io Taveres Antunes and Johanna Von Kietzell. |
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| St Peter's College: Road Safety Week |
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By: Caroline Toole
This week is Road Safety Awareness Week in St Peter’s, and we are lucky enough to be one of the first secondary schools in the country to get the RSA Interactive Shuttle!
It is an exciting addition to Road Safety Awareness Week, with a huge range of activities on board!
Practice your driving skills on our simulators (car, motorbike), enjoy a fully interactive road safety educational experience, test your hazard perception skills, bike along the coast through ancient jungles and many other exotic places (even outer space!) on our bicycle simulator, test your break reaction time, practice the driver theory test on board.
We also have the Bus Eireann Safety Road show, and a visit from the Garda Traffic Corps who will be showing us how to use speed guns, Garda motorbikes, breathalysers and lots more!!
Road Safety Week is an effort to raise awareness of the importance of staying safe on the roads. It is an opportunity for us to examine our behaviour on the roads and how it affects others. Ask yourself, what can I do to make the roads safer? A little change will make a big difference. |
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| Dunshaughlin Community College: Curraithe Diospoireachta an Chontae. |
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Le: Róisín Ní Dhúshláine
I dtraidisiún láidir díospóireachta Choláiste Pobail Dhomhnach Seachnaill, d’éirigh thar cionn arís i mbliana le foireann díospóireachta sóisear na scoile. Ar an bhfoireann bhí Cillian Collier, Danielle Patchell agus Johanna Von Kietzel.
Róisín Ní Dhúshláine a bhí mar mhúinteoir acu. Fuaireadar an lámh in uachtar sa chéad dá bhabhta réigiúnach agus thógadar leo an craobh réigiúnach a bhí ar siúl sa Mhuileann gCearr níos luaithe i mbliana. “Is fearr a bheith i’d fhear” an rún a bhí acu an lá sin. Thugadar ansin faoi Chraobh na hÉireann agus cé gur thugadar an-taispeántas ar an oíche, ní raibh leo faraor. Comhghairdeachas mór leo mar sin féin agus guímid gach rath ar a gcuid díospóireachta don bhliain amach rompu! |
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| St Peter's College: Celebrate after a fantastic run of the Musical Rent |
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By: Padraic Rowan
Well, what a week it was! After one of St. Peter's most successful musicals ever, the students and teachers involved are still on a high following the five performances last month!
Click here to check out a Video with a collection of photos from the show!
The cast, crew and band were all outstanding, giving a show worthy of a West End stage!
Click here to check out the pictures in the 'Photos' section of the College site! And stay tuned for the DVD which will be available to purchase soon! |
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| Co Meath VEC Latest Adult Course News for Adult Learners |
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Applications are currently being accepted for courses
Click Here to find out more and to see the range of courses available; including
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From Seed to Table
A new course in Horticulture |
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Introduction to Childcare |
Pre-Leaving Certificate: Maths/English |
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Manual & Computerised Accounts |
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Design Skills for the Office |
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Office Administration Skills |
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| Ratoath College: Congratulations!! Irish Teachers Triumph at the European Innovative Educators Forum in Berlin. |
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Congratulations to our teachers Ursula Hynes & David Walsh from Ratoath College on their amazing win at the finals of the European Innovative Teaching competition with their project MyStudyMate. Ursula presented the project at the event on behalf of the Ratoath College TY students and the teachers involved. The finals took place in Berlin this week (22nd-26th March). 
The project is coordinated by Ursula & David and it is an innovative method of teaching where students develop online revision content on various subjects for the Junior and Leaving Certificate using video recordings. Ursula did an amazing job at the final presenting the project to a panel of international judges and last night it was announced that she won 2nd place in Europe for content, meaning that this project has now been selected to represent Ireland and Europe at the World Finals taking place next November in Capetown, South Africa. 
Click here to see the website for the project. It is an excellent learning tool for all second level students. If you want to read more on the project, you can click here to read an article from the Irish Independent on 24th March.
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| O'Carolan College: Ski Trip to Austria |
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By: Aileen Brady. The senior school tour was a ski trip to Austria this year with 37 students and 3 teachers attending.
The trip was hugely successful with every student from beginners to advanced learning a lot and more importantly having a lot of fun doing it! Every day the students skied from 9am - 4.30 pm and did a variety of activities in the evening including curling and ice skating. The atmosphere amongst the group was fantastic and I know this will be a trip they will never forget! |
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| Tráth na gCeist do Sheachtain na Gaeilge |
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Tráth na gCeist do Sheachtain na Gaeilge
By Helen Brodigan
Comhghairdeas ag dul do fhoireann Tráth na gCeist Coláiste Naomh Peadar,
a tháinig sa tríú háit i dTráth na gCeist Choiste Ghairmoideachais Chontae na Mí ar an 19ú Márta 2010.
Tá moladh mór le tabhairt do Brendan Rowan, Emily Glynn, Aoife Dunne agus Seán Keany.
Bhí an iomaíocht an-ghéar idir scoileanna ó Dhomhnaill Seachnaill, Rath Tó, An Uaimh agus scoileanna eile ar fud an chontae. Eagraíodh an Tráth na gCeist seo mar chuid d'imeachtaí Sheachtain na Gaeilge. B
a é seo an chéad uair riamh a eagraíodh Tráth na gCeist Ghaeilge idir-scoileanna agus táimid ag súil leis an gcéad
ceann eile an bhliain seo chugainn. Comhghairdeas mhór do na daltaí go léir! |
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| Ratoath College: Calling all budding YouTube teachers! |
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A new exam tips website created by a group of Co Meath Transition Year pupils has won the backing of Microsoft. Produced by a TY class at Ratoath College, www.mystudymate.ie offers free advice to Junior and Leaving Cert pupils.
Uniquely the video tutorials, offering tips on everything from algebra to Romeo and Juliet, is created by the pupils themselves. The TY pupils encouraged contributions from pupils in all years in the Meath school, and the students filmed the videos on site at the school.
The project is representing Ireland at the Microsoft European Innovative Teaching Conference in Berlin this week. Teacher Ursula Hynes will be presenting the project to international judges at the conference.
Now that the website has been launched nationally, the site's managers hope to receive contributions from all over the country. David Walsh, Transition Year teacher at Ratoath College, said: "It is hoped that the website will encourage other students and schools to submit their own learning videos in order to create a freely accessible resource for all students facing exams.''
So students who fancy themselves as budding teachers and YouTube megastars can make their bids for fame at mystudymate.ie.
Irish Independent 24th March 2010 |
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| O'Carolan College: Grease is the Word!! |
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By Brian Murray: Tickets for the school production of Grease go on sale Monday 22nd March for shows from the 11th to the 13th April in the Ramor Theatre, Virginia.  Adults €15 / Students €12. Limited seats so get your tickets now! It’s going to be a great show. We wish everyone well with the performances. |
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| Seachtain na Gaeilge in Iarbhunscoil Oiliféir Naofa |
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By Elaine Smith. St Oliver Post Primary in Oldcastle always gives a great effort into making Seachtain na Gaeilge bigger and better each year. They try their best to make it fun and memorable for their students.
This year a Tráth na gCeist was organised by their Transition Year students. The quiz was held on Friday, March 12th. James Lydon, Stephen Browne, Karl Kiernan, Daithí O’Reilly and Padraig Plunkett were the winning team and will represent the school in the Meath VEC County Quiz on Friday, March 19th in the Newgrange Hotel, Navan.
Cluichí le Eimear was held also. Eimear Purcell visited and played lots of fun cluichí Gaeilge with the first year students.
Each year the school holds a Céilí Mór with the students learning the ‘Seige of Ennis’ and ‘The Walls of Limerick’. On the night Mr O’Sullivan, a teacher from the school performed a ‘brush dance’, some of our talented musicians in our school played traditional music and there was great display of Irish dancing. The money raised on the Céilí went towards two €400 scholarships for the Gaeltacht.
A Cómórtas Ealaíne for first and second year students was also held. The array of talent in the competition made it difficult to judge. Congratulations must be extended to Natasha Clarke and Margaret Cullen who were the winners of the competition. |
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| St Fintina's PP School: RTE "ICE" Programme visits the School! |
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By: Sinead Purcell. RTE "ICE" visited St Fintinas for the Friday Disco Fever segment. Rob Ross from the Programme and the pupils from St. Fintina's danced to 'Upside Down' by Paloma Faith. 
Click here to watch the programme in RTE Player. Slide the timer over to 18:30 when the page opens. |
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| Youthreach Trim receives a National Award from the Childrens Acts Advisory Board |
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Youthreach Trim is delighted to announce that they have recently received a National Award for Services to Children and Young People 2010 for Effective Practice in Education.
This was awarded by the Children’s Acts Advisory Board and presented by Minister Barry Andrews at a special ceremony which took place in Dublin Castle on the 9th of March 2010. Both Co-ordinator Liz Lavery and student Sam Millen presented the 'Quality School Model' to an audience of approximately 150 people. During their presentation they explained what the ‘Quality School’ model is and how it operates here in Youthreach Trim. The centre was supported by County Meath VEC and both staff and students attended the ceremony. |
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| Youthreach Trim Centre of Education ‘Quality Centre Declaration Day’ |
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Youthreach Trim proudly declared itself as the first Quality centre in Ireland and only the second in Europe.
Youthreach Centre of Education in Trim recognised that our students needed a different approach to education if they were to fully engage in learning. They needed an environment where they would be cared for, nurtured, educated, respected, encouraged and above all loved. Following rigorous evaluation over the last two years we were delighted to announce that Youthreach Trim is now deemed a Quality Centre of Education.
The Declaration ceremony took place on Friday 5th March 2010 in the Castle Arch Hotel, Trim Co Meath. The opening address was given by Minister for Transport Mr. Noel Dempsey, who kindly paid a special tribute to both the students and staff for such an achievement for Trim and County Meath. Other guests of honour included; Mr. Peter Kierans (Chief Executive Office of County Meath VEC), Mr. Tommy Grimes (Chairperson of County Meath VEC) Mr. Brian Lennon (Director of the WGII National Executive), Dr. Dermot Stokes (National Co-ordinator of Youthreach), Ms. Patricia Masterson (Chairperson of the WGII) and Mr. Christy Duffy (Adult Education Officer of County Meath VEC).
During the ceremony a presentation of Youthreach Trim’s Declaration scroll was made to both County Meath VEC and the William Glasser Institute of Ireland. In addition both past and present students spoke of their own unique experiences at the centre and the ceremony concluded with a personalised piece of rap by current student Stephen King.
To end this historical event a lunch was held in the newly renovated Youthreach centre after the ceremony and a great day was had by all. Immediately following lunch both Centre Co-ordinator Liz Lavery and student Stephen King made the trip to RTE studios for a live interview on RTE’s The Afternoon Show. |
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| Centre for European Schooling: La Semaine de la Francophonie |
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La Semaine de la Francophonie will be taking place in the CES from 20th March untill 27th March.
Lots of fun activities are planned for this week. |
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| Beaufort College: St.Lukes Hospital Used Clothing Appeal |
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 March is a great time to do a spring clean on your wardrobe! So the Green Schools Committee in Beaufort College are organising a used clothing collection in aid of St. Luke’s cancer hospital in Dublin. They are looking for any old clean clothes (adults or children) that you no longer need or use. If you would like to support this excellent cause, Please put any unwanted clothes in a bag and leave them for Ms. Sheridan in the College.
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| Colaiste na hInse: Helena Geoghegan- First winner from outside Dublin to win the prestigious Junior Debating Competition |
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 On Tuesday, March 9th, Coláiste na hInse student Helena Geoghegan became the first winner from outside Dublin to win the prestigious Junior Debating title – the largest debating competition of its kind in Europe. Having stormed her way into the final, overcoming two former finalists, a former winner and a litany of well established schools in the process, Helena had high expectations following her. However with students from Loreto St. Stephen’s Green, Belvedere College, Alexandra College, St. Conleth’s College and the top ranked secondary school in the country, Gonzaga College, all still to beat, the odds seemed to be stacked against her. It wasn’t just the pedigree of the schools that was daunting but also the debating tradition in each school. St. Conleths College Debating Society celebrates its 70th Anniversary this year, while Belvedere and Gonzaga are the top two ranked schools in the country based on continued success at national and international level. The Coláiste’s Debating Society, by comparison, is in its inaugural year. Despite all of these difficult circumstances, Helena delivered an entertaining and compelling speech to emerge victorious after two hours of high standard debate. Speaking afterwards, chief adjudicator David Kenny (A graduate of Trinity College Dublin and Harvard University, as well as a former Irish representative at the World University Debating Championship) commented, “The individual winner was a unanimous decision based on a speech of the highest standard.” With 50 Coláiste students in attendance along with members of staff, the night in UCD’s Astra Hall proved a tremendous success and a further endorsement of the high standards already being set by The Coláiste in the humble surroundings of the Neptune Hotel in Bettystown, Co. Meath
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| Youthreach Trim: Centre Coordinator Liz Lavery and student Stephen are guests on RTE's "The Afternoon Show" to explain how they are a Quality Centre |
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CLICK HERE to watch Centre Coordinator Liz Lavery and one of the students explaining what this means on last Friday’s The Afternoon Show on RTE1. Once the window opens, move the slide timer over to 1:10 to watch the interview
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| St Fintina's PP School: Success at the Co Meath Enterprise Awards |
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1st Year students Dylan Keating and Kieran Cleaver came First in the Junior category of the Co. Meath Enterprise Awards. Well done to all the students that participated. For more information see the Extra Curricular page.
Dylan and Kieran produced wooden tea light holders with a battery powered tea light insert. They are now going to represent Meath at the National Finals.
2nd Year students Chloe Flynn, Louise Dunne and Megan Connolly came Second in the Intermediate category with their handmade cards, gift tags and gift bags. Well done to all the students that participated. |
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| St. Peter's School Musical: Rent |
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St. Peter's College is proud to present:
March 10th - 13th
8pm Nightly
Dunboyne Community Centre
Tickets €12
Tickets can be purchased in advance from the School or on the door |
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| St. Peter's College Orchestra at the National Concert Hall |
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On Saturday, February 13th, St. Peter's College Orchestra performed at the IAYO Festival of Youth Orchestras event at the National Concert Hall.
This landmark event for the orchestra culminated in a fantastic performance by all musicians in front of a packed audience.
Rehearsals began at 11am onstage:
The orchestra then performed at the 3pm event:
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| St Oliver Post Primary French Skiing Tour 2010 |
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33 senior students have just returned from an exhilarating cultural and skiing tour in Boí Taűll Resort in the Catalonian Pyrenées. The tour comprised of 1 night in Carcassonne in the South West of France and 6 nights in Boí Taűll, with 5 days spent skiing on some of Europe's best ski slopes. |
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| Adult Basic Education: Celebrate Learning – The AONTAS STAR Awards - Showcasing Teamwork, Awarding Recognition |
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Co. Meath VEC Adult Basic Education Service blended Learning Project received a Highly Commended award at the STAR Awards Ceremony on Monday, 22 February 2010 in Dublin.
In total there were 110 projects nominated of which 39 were short-listed. Thirteen winning projects received their STAR Awards. The STAR Awards have been awarded for outstanding, learner centred adult and community education projects which demonstrate high levels of collaboration amongst participant groups. The learning involved has included learning for personal fulfilment, social change, active citizenship, skills development, community development and other related fields. The awards have highlighted and supported the collaborative learning approach which is vital to developing healthy and vibrant communities.
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| Coláiste Dhomhnach Seachnaill: Foireann Diospoireachta; Comhghairdeas! |
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 I dtradaisiún láidir díospóireachta Dhomhnach Seachnaill d'eirigh le Cillian Collier, Danielle Patchell agus Johanna Von Kietzel áit a shlánú dóibh féin i gcrobh na hÉireann de chomórtas an Phiarsaigh, comórtas lán-Ghaeilge díospóireachta Ghael Linn. Fuair siad an lámh in uachtar ar scoileanna ó Dhún Dealgan, ó Ros Comáin agus ó Chontae na Gaillimhe. Is í Róisín Ní Dhúshláine an múinteoir atá acu. Go n-eirí go geal leo sa chraobh a bheidh ar siúl in óstán an Gresham ar Shráid Uí Chonaill, Déardaoin 25ú Márta ag 5.30
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| St Peter's College Orchestra Photoshoot at Dublin Airport |
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| Leinster Champions: Senior Football |
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The Co Meath VEC Senior Football Team have won the Leinster title for the fourth year in a row beating Wicklow on 6th February in Parnell Park.
They beat Offaly in Round 1 and Longford in the semi-final. Well done to all concerned. Pat Kenny Dunshaughlin, Peter McCormack Nobber, Joe Gibney Ashbourne Community School and Ultan Fitzpatrick retired teacher from Oldcastle are the mentors. |
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| Ground-breaking new VEC Primary School for Navan |
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Co Meath VEC is to become the second county in the country to be responsible for running a primary school when a new facility opens in Navan in September.
Planning is expected to be lodged soon for a new primary school on a site in Johnstown. It will be the first primary school in Meath to be run under the patronage of the VEC, outside Dublin.
VEC CEO Peter Kierans said a lot or work had to be done between now and September when it is due to open in a temporary premises, including finalising patronage, a site and planning permission.
Transport Minister Noel Dempsey stated: "I am delighted that my colleague Minister Batt O'Keeffe has today approved a new primary school in Navan and has also extended the community national school pilot to Navan. This is very good news and an invaluable announcement to the people of Navan. So many new families have moved to Navan and with recent birth rates increasing, I know what a difference this new primary will have to the local area."
The Department of Education and Science announced that nationally 52 school building projects as part of the €579 million plan, creating 23.500 places in 20 new schools and 32 extensions. Also seven new primary schools will be created in rapidly developing areas. Nationally over 14,500 pupils at primary level will get permanent school places, 1,900 pupils at post-primary level will get permanent schools accommodation in three new school buildings while a further 7,400 pupils will benefit from major extension and refurbishment projects. In the next few weeks the Department of Education and Science will announce school projects under the Summer Works Scheme.
Chairman of the VEC, Cllr Tommy Grimes, and Navan councillor Tommy Reilly also welcomed the announcement.
Going to tender and construction in Meath is Scoil Naomh Mhuire, Moynalty, where a new school building has been given the go-ahead to go to tender and construction as part of the School Building Programme for County Meath.
Deputy Byrne said: 'I am delighted that the Minister for Education has given the go-ahead for a new school building for Scoil Mhuire, Moynalty to go to tender and construction. This follows strong representation I made to the minister on behalf of the school community of Scoil Mhuire asking for a new school and meetings I and my colleague, Deputy Johnny Brady, previously arranged between the school community and the Department of Education. The minister informs me that officials from the Department of Education will be in contact with Scoil Mhuire shortly." |
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| St. Peter's College Fundraise for Haiti |
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€2450 raised for Haiti
We would like to say a BIG THANK YOU and well done to all students and staff that got involved in the fundraising for Haiti during the week before mid term break.
Transition years students organised a first year disco on Wednesday the 10th of February where €850 was raised.
Mr McCarrick and Mr Payne organised a table quiz in the GAA clubhouse on Thursday 11th of February.
It was very well attended and we would like to extend our thanks to Myles Fahey for allowing us to use the premises and also for providing sandwiches during the quiz.
The table quiz raised €1600 for the Haiti appeal. So overall St. Peter’s College raised €2450.
Also to note we are organising a charity cycle for Haiti on our return from mid-term. Could all students interested in participating in the cycle please ensure their bicycles are in proper working order and they have helmets. Details will be announced on return to school. |
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| Aontas Adult Learners Festival |
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If you are interested in returning to Adult Education then why not visit
Aontas Adult Learners Festival
22nd-26th February 2010
This festival for people living and working in County Meath, it will have events and speakers including:
- Information morning in Co Meath VEC
- Open day at Dunboyne College of Further Education
- Talk by Mature Student Officers from NUI Maynooth, Trinity and DCU
- Grow your Own Ireland
- Meath Food Affair
- Meath Volunteer Centre
- Kells Swimming Pool - Free Lifeguard Class
- Quick Win Marketing - Business talk
- Lismullin Hospitality Training Centre
- And Many More
For more information on this great event and to view the timetable
Contact:
Eilís - 046 9068249
for updates |
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| Winners Announced: Western Europe Innovative Education Forum Awards |
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The Winners of this year’s Ireland Innovative Teachers Competition are:
David Walsh & Ursula Hynes
“My Study Mate”
Ratoath College
Their project entails both teachers and students learning how to build and develop a website which shares learning experiences and which provides students with innovative revision material. It creates a new online community based on shared learning and it challenges students to present lessons and so take ownership of their own learning.
The winning Teachers (1 from each school) have won free travel to and accommodation in Berlin, Germany from March 22nd until March 26th. They will compete against Teachers from across Western Europe to win a place at this year’s Worldwide Innovative Education Forum in Capetown South Africa!!
David and Ursula have a busy few weeks ahead of them in order to prepare for this year's European Educators Forum where their award winning project will be presented to an audience of European Educators.
The Runners-up in this year’s competition are:
- Áine Ní Bhrolcháin: Ratoath College. “Fón Project”
- Michéal Scully : St Peter's College, Dunboyne. “Student/Teacher Websites”
- Corinne Martinez: Centre for European Schooling, Dunshaughlin. “Voicethread at the CES: Beyond the Classroom Walls ”
- Caroline Aoust: Centre for European Schooling, Dunshaughlin. “Producing and Presenting the News”
- Sharon Maher Bordalo: Youthreach Progression, Navan. “Changing Faces”
- Rosemary McCabe & Carmel Carey. O'Carolan College, Nobber. “Log on and Learn for the Older Person”
Congratulations to all of this year’s entries and good luck to the winners in Berlin!!
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| St Fintina's Post Primary School: First Green Flag awarded |
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Congratulations to all involved in the Green Schools Programme in the School.
The School will be awarded their First Green Flag for our work on the litter and waste theme carried out in the School. The Flag will be awarded in a ceremony in Croke Park Dublin on the 2nd of March. |
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| Dunshaughlin Community College: Hour of Hope for Haiti |
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Congratulations to everyone in DCC who organised an Hour of Hope for Haiti last week, organised by the Student Council. They raised over €1,400
Click here to see a Video showing images of the event. Any of you who passed through the assembly area on the day, will have witnessed the fantastic achievement of the college, as students laid out a massive amount of coins in a spiral, symbolising hope and never ending concern for the victims of the Haiti earthquake. We eventually ran out of space........... but we definitely did not run out of coins!!!!
Thanks to everyone who participated in any way, especially those of you who helped with supervision in the area, and of course the team of students who made posters, and gave up their lunchtime to assist with the creation of the spiral. It was lovely to see so many students from 1st to 6th year, working so well together for such a good cause. Many of you gave very generously and we really appreciate every cent we collected. Please pass on my thanks to many of your parents and neighbours who donated money to the cause. Well done to Ms. Murray's 2nd year Geography (2A2) class who made a great contribution. Even Mrs. Deegan's tin full of money found its way over to us from her new location in Navan! Special thanks to Ms. Curran's daughter who donated her piggy bank full of coins......how cute!
Finally, the biggest thanks of all to Naomi Dannaher 2nd yr, whose concern for Haiti instigated the collection in the first place. |
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| Coláiste na hInse: Raises Money for Haiti |
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A recent Jersey Day held in Coláiste na hInse has raised €200 for the disaster fund. Congratulations to everyone invloved.
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| Beaufort College: For One Night Only |
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For One Night Only - The Beaufort College Musical will take place in the Solstice Theatre on Wednesday February 3rd at 8pm.
Don't miss a fantastic night of musical theatre. Tickets on sale now from the College: €10 student, €12 adult, €40 family |
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| St. Peter's Finest Young Musicians Head To The National Concert Hall |
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Some of Meath’s finest young musicians will be heading to the National Concert Hall in Dublin to take part in the Irish Aviation Authority 15th Annual Festival of Youth Orchestras, which takes place on Saturday February 13th 2010. The St Peter's College Orchestra, Dunboyne will represent Co.
Meath.
Featuring musicians from eight youth orchestras, the festival is a showcase of the finest in young orchestral talent. The programme, which ranges from well-known classics to modern medleys, is a must for anyone with any interest in music. There are two concerts, one in the afternoon and one at night.
St Peter’s College Orchestra was founded by Cathy Desmond who directed the orchestra until she moved to Ennis, County Clare. The orchestra rehearses once weekly after school and is open to all students at the school, regardless of ability. In 2005 St Peter's College Orchestra was very proud to be selected for an IAYO Youth Orchestra Achievement Award for the 'development of the orchestra in the community'. The judges particularly commended the First Year Violin Programme, a scheme in which free group tuition and instruments were provided for all first year music students. Pat Morris and her colleague and co-director of the orchestra, Paul Strachan, have worked tirelessly in providing repertoire that challenges and promotes a new understanding of the power of music and the joy that team playing brings. The orchestra has headlined the Meath VEC Schools 'Musical Extravaganza' at the Solstice Arts Theatre, Navan for the last two years. They perform at all school functions including the Annual Prize giving Ceremony and last year were lucky enough to play for the Taoiseach, Mr Brian
Cowen.
In addition to St Peter's College, this year¹s participating orchestras are: Wexford Youth Orchestra; County Tipperary Ryan Youth Orchestra; County Donegal Youth Orchestra; Dublin Youth Symphony Orchestra; Galway Youth Orchestra; Kylemore College Orchestra, Dublin and The National Youth Orchestra of Ireland Chamber Orchestra.
The orchestras will present a variety of original works for orchestra and arrangements by Bizet, Stravinsky, Tchaikovsky and others along with a performance of a selection from Tangos and Dances by Fionnuala Hunt. Four
orchestras take part in each performance.
The concerts will be followed by the presentation of the Irish Aviation Authority Achievement Awards. The aim of the awards is to acknowledge particular achievements by IAYO youth orchestras during the calendar year 2009 which have contributed significantly to the development of these
orchestras.
The IAYO was founded in the mid 90s to foster and encourage the development of Youth Orchestras and now has more than 5,000 members, playing in 108 orchestras, countrywide. Visit http://www.iayo.ie for more information.
Tickets for the Irish Aviation Authority 15th Annual Festival of Youth Orchestras are available from the National Concert Hall Box Office - 01 417 0000 http://www.nch.ie, group discounts are available, also from the NCH Box Office.
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| Dunshaughlin Community College: Junior Spider Awards -Best Website design & functionality to Daniel Flynn |
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Daniel Flynn, a young man from Dunshaughlin, has been making a name for himself on the world wide web.
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| Back to the 80's Musical in Ratoath College |
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Rataoth College Presents "Back to the 80s!!! The Totally Awesome Musical" in the school hall from Wed 24th to Fri 26th Feb 2010.
Tickets are available at the College It should be a fantastic night out for all the family! |
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| St Fintina's Students are Doodling for Google! |
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Congratulations to Emma Lodge 6th Year and Natalie Doolan 5th Year who are now Regional Finalists in the "Doodle 4 Google" Art Competition.
The top picture is by Natalie and the one below is Emma's.
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| St. Peter's College and The Tubridy Show |
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'The School' visit RTE!!!
by Jonathan Harte
Click here to see students and teachers at The Ryan Tubridy Radio show.
Click here to listen back to the Show
St. Peter's College has been launched into the media spotlight lately as a result of the recent observational documentary aptly named “The School”. Our school has attracted attention from both local and national press but the school has also attracted the attention of the well-known presenter of “The Late Late Show”, Mr Ryan Tubridy. Ryan invited St. Peter's College onto his weekly radio show to discuss the impact the documentary has had on the school and to ask all the questions viewers wanted to ask about St. Peter's.
With the familiar Republic of Loose preforming live in studio the show got off to a great start but it soon became apparent that Tubridy was not afraid to ask the hard questions, quizzing the individuality of the uniform and noting that not all teachers could be as devoted and committed as they are portrayed through the programme.
Listeners then got the opportunity to catch up with Claire, Niamh, James and Adam who featured in the show but this year have moved on to higher education. Ryan engaged with the students and was interested to see how their time in school had paved a road ahead of them for the future.
After the show Tubridy signed autographs and took photos all of which can be seen in the youtube video attached. The students and teachers were lucky enough get a tour of the set of Fair City during their time at RTÉ thanks to actor Pat Nolan who plays Barry O’Hanlon on the show.
We would like to thank Mr Tubridy and all his team for inviting us into Radio 1 for the morning. |
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| Co Meath VEC Students Excel at the BT Young Scientist Competition 2010 |
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Well done to all our Young Scientists who represented Co Meath VEC at the BT Young Scientist Exhibition last week at the RDS.
This year saw a number of students represent Co Meath VEC schools, they are all to be commended for their hard work and dilligence in preparing for the competition, but special comngrautlations go out to those who won awards at the competition.
From O'Carolan College in Nobber: Jamie Raleigh and Jack Carey won 1st Place in their category.
From St Peter's College in Dunboyne:
Eoin O' Reilly who came 3rd in the Junior Mathematical and Chemical category with his project entitled 'Forensics: The investigation of blood splatter'. His project even caught the eye of RTE presenter Ryan Tubridy who invited Eoin to The Late Late Show directly after the prize-giving ceremony.
Eoin travelled to RTE studios with the winner of the BT Young Scientist competition and demonstrated his project in front of the live audience. Well done also to Jack Carolan and Sinead Cornyn who got highly commended for their project on the Application of mushroom waste as a potential bio resource.
Beaufort College in Navan was well represented by Sybilla Krula and Daria Dlubala. Their science project was entitled “The Study of Absorbency of disposable nappies versus cloth nappies”. Their project was one of 520 projects shortlisted from a total of 1588 entries. |
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| Adult Education Courses - Spring 2010: Now Enrolling Online! |
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With courses taking place in 9 schools and education centres in locations across Co Meath; from St Oliver Post Primary School in Oldcastle to St Peter's College in Dunboyne, there is a venue near to you where you can enhance your skills or learn a hobby in 2010.
Co Meath VEC has a strong reputation for providing excellent educational services, and are committed to providing additional learning opportunities for all adults whatever their stage in life.
The County Meath VEC website is the perfect way to find the course you want to take up this year.
Click on the College or Centre below to Browse Courses & also to
Co Meath VEC offers a continuously developing range of Adult Education day and evening courses and programmes throughout the county.
Each of the 9 VEC schools and centres offer both traditional and innovative evening classes which endeavour to meet the educational needs of adults in contemporary Irish society.
These include the following examples:
Work-related courses:
Starting and Succeeding in Self-employment
Accounting Technicians Ireland qualification
FETAC Childcare Level 5 and 6
Certificated courses:
NUIM certificated course in Counselling Skills
News Journalism; certificated by the Irish Academy of Public Relations
First Aid Certificate (Red Cross)
Leaving Certificate English and Maths
IT courses:
Computers for Beginners
PC Repair and Maintenance
Introduction to Digital Photography and Photo editing
Recreational courses:
Flower craft
Creative Writing
Guitar for beginners
Wholesome Comfort Food and Home Baking
Personal Development:
Change Management
Self-healing through Meditation
Health Issues Workshops
Increase Energy, Reduce Stress
Languages:
Spanish for Beginners and Improvers
French conversation
EFL and ESL
Irish for Parents |
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| St. Peter's College,Dunboyne subject of ground-breaking RTE series |
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RTE television in the new year will screen 'The School', a new three-part documentary series following the students and teachers of St Peter's College, Dunboyne, over one academic year.
Maureen Murray, deputy principal, and Eamon Gaffney, principal, St Peter's College, Dunboyne
Click here to watch the first episode: available until 25th January.
Click here to watch the second episode: available until 1st February
Never before has an Irish school given such unlimited access to film-makers, allowing camera crews to document every aspect of school life.
Principal Eamon Gaffney was initially reluctant to open the doors of the school he built up from nothing 15 years ago. But he felt his staff had nothing to hide. Quite the opposite, in fact; here was a great school, producing great students, ready to make a contribution to Irish society.
He knew it was important for parents to see the commitment his staff gave to all of the students, to highlight the role they play in shaping well-rounded individuals. And even though sometimes they are tough, they are always fair.
Over 10 months, series directors Liam McGrath and Paula Rouse, accompanied by producer Tony Deegan, began documenting every aspect of school life at St Peter's. But in order to capture the vitality of the school, they needed to take a unique approach, so they set up diary rooms inviting students and teachers to speak their minds to unmanned cameras.
They trained the students to use the equipment, encouraging them to record school life through their own eyes. And all the while the students filmed themselves, the series directors filmed the students. And together, they have created an insightful, touching series, capturing a year in the life of the school.
The three-part series is spread across the three school terms. Episode one begins in September and follows the students until December. Episode two picks up in January until March and episode three records school life from April until June 2009.
A number of students reappear across the series, giving viewers the opportunity to follow the ups and downs of their school year. Band members like Adam and Donal, who just seem hell-bent on stretching every rule in the book for their last year of school life. Or fifth year Conor, whose months of rehearsals are jeopardised by illness on the eve of the school musical, or the pressure felt by sixth year students, including Claire and Niamh, who are about to confront one life-changing exam.
Other stories include students coping with dyslexia and behavioural problems, a school break-in, parent-teacher meetings and a constant stream of students who refuse to follow a strict uniform code.
But the series also reveals another side of school life, the men and women who share the responsibility of teaching these young students. From dedicated young teachers like Caroline O'Toole to veterans like Robert Gannon, a teacher with 30 years of service, to deputy principal Maureen Murray and the important work of school counsellors like Jimmy O'Connell.
'The School' begins on RTE One on Monday 4th January at 9.30pm. |
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| Dunshaughlin Community College: 52 Christmas Hampers made for St Vincent de Paul |
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The Student Council members in D.C.C. had a terrific response to their recent food hamper collection for St Vincent de Paul.
Under the guidance of their liaison teacher Ms Nic an Rí, students spent the past few weeks collecting food donations from staff and students. This effort resulted in 52 hampers being assembled! An amazing achievement, well done to all involved. Particular thanks to Rita Walsh in the school pantry who kindly donated home cooked mince pies and cookies to each of the hampers, and also to Rose's Florist, Drumree who donated the wrapping for the hampers. Many thanks also to D.C.C. Craft Club who designed beautiful Christmas cards for the hampers.
The hampers were collected yesterday and will be delivered to local families in the next few days.In these recessionary times, it is great to see that the spirit of generosity and of kindness is still very much alive.
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| NTEC: Santa Visit to Little Nemos Creche |
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On Tuesday Morning 15th December Santa decided to make an early practice run to check out the delivery times to the creche in NTEC.
He arrived full of good cheer and with a large sackful of presents for the children who attend the creche and are under the care of Patricia and Denise. To Santa's great relief there was not a single tear in sight amongst the children and and they all enjoyed the visit greatly.
Patricia and Denise even took the opportunity to tell Santa what was on their list for Christmas. |
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| Navan Adult Basic Education Services : One Author One Community |
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Navan Adult Basic Education Services hosted the One Author One Community event in Co. Meath VEC head offices in Abbey Road, Navan on December 9th.
The idea for the event was initiated by Maria Flynn, School Completion Officer with Beaufort College. It was collaboration between schools, further education and the local library in Navan.
Learners from Navan Youthreach Foundation and Navan ABES chose to read the book Mad Weekend, written by Roddy Doyle. Navan ABES was delighted to have Roddy Doyle vist the centre, where he read an extract from his book and took part in a questions and answers session with the learners. The book also formed the basis for letters and book reviews written by learners, which they then presented to Roddy on the day.
It was a great day enjoyed by all, inspiring many to pick up books again and get back into reading. Navan ABES plans to organise similar events in 2010 so watch this space for updates! |
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| St Fintina's PP School: RTE News visit to experience Irelands first Virtual Classroom |
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RTE visited the School to experience the first Virtual Classroom in Ireland. With cutbacks the school could not afford a Chemistry teacher so video conferencing overcame this. This technology allows a wide range of subjects to be offered.
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| VTOS: Former VTOS student graduates with Bachelor of Arts Degree from NUI Maynooth. |
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Congratulations to former VTOS student Dolores Cernigliago as she is conferred with a Bachelor of Arts Degree from NUI Maynooth.
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| St Peter's College, Dunboyne: St.Peter's Live rocked Dunboyne! |
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Last Wednesday the 9th of December saw an impressive crowd attend the now annual St. Peter's Live Concert held in the Community Centre.
Groups, bands and dance acts from all Year Groups took part in the event showcasing their talents. Parents,past pupils, current students and teachers attended the show and were impressed with the range of performing abilities among the acts. |
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| Christmas Village created in Ratoath College by TY Students |
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Ho Ho Ho! Ratoath College has been transformed into a Winter Wonderland. Click here to see a short video clip of the Village here
Over 600 national school students from St. Paul's National School in Ratoath and Ratoath Junior School are visiting Ratoath College over two days to take part in christmas activities including: singing, meeting with the Christmas Grinch, Card Making, Letter Writing, Christmas Bakery, Puzzle Factory, Sweet Factory and of course a visit to our TY Santa Claus!
This great activity is a mini-company project ran as part of the Business Week Programme for TY students. Click here to find out more. |
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| Dunshaughlin Community College: Fundraising on Concern Day |
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Congratulations to al the Staff and Students who took part in the recent fundraising Concern Day in Dunshaughlin Community College.
This annual fundraising activity is a major event in the school year. Well done to everybody who was involved in Concern Day, it was a terrific success. A full day of events and activities took place culminating in a fabulous concert showcasing the talents of the students and staff.
To see photos of the day and to find out more click here |
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| "Irish Independent" recognises Longwood leading hi-tech revolution in education |
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| Colaiste na hInse: Fundraise for Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin |
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On Friday 27th November all 180 daltai and 14 muinteoiri of Coláiste na hInse Bettystown took part in a 3km Charity run on the beach in aid of Our Lady's Hospital for Sick Children, Crumlin.
All daltai had been training for the run over the last month in P.E and at home, they also worked very hard to raise this huge sum of money for such a fantastic cause. Well done to all students and teachers for taking part in a fantastic afternoon of exercise, craic and fun. |
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| Navan Traveller Education Centre Students win National Art Prizes |
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Huge congratulations to Mary Joyce and Ann-Marie Reilly (Ward) who were awarded 1st and 3rd places respectively in the 18+ Age Category of the National Travellers' Art Competition run by The National Association of Travellers Centres.
Mary's work, entitled 'Cottage Collage@ also won the Overall Winners Prize. Mary, Ann- Marie and their art teacher Paul McCann have been invited to attend the awards ceremony on Wednesday 2nd Dec. in the Civic Offices Athlone. The competition is open to all Travellers in Ireland, and collaborative projects from settled and Traveller groups. The judges were very impressed with the high standard this year, and the winning entries will be exhibited at both regional and national exhibitions. |
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| St. Peter's College, Dunboyne welcomes soccer legend Pele. |
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Last Thursday the 26th of November saw Brazilian soccer legend Pele visit the village of Dunboyne, where he called to Dunboyne AFC and met students from St. Peter’s College.
His visit was prompted by students from the school who have supported the footballer's 'Goals for Life' campaign.
They collected money for the charity at the recent Republic of Ireland Soccer International against Italy, where they all wore yellow bibs with Peles picture on the front. The Dunboyne students also organised a soccer marathon for first and second year students as part of their fundraising for Pelé's charity. He personally presented a set of unique medals to the students for their fundraising efforts in the Goal for Life campaign. These unique medals were produced by the Brazilian mint and are currently valued at €1,800.The money will be divided between Our Lady's Hospital in Crumlin and the Pele Little Prince Children's Hospital in Brazil.
Pelé's visit to Ireland was organised by the author, Don Mullan. He is the European ambassador to the Little Prince's Hospital and the Goal for Life campaign. Pele arrived by helicopter to Dunboyne around 12 noon for a 35 minute visit to Dunboyne AFC, the FAI Aviva club of the year. A festive atmosphere prevailed on the soccer grounds with a Brazilian samba band kicking off festivities.
A Brazilian themed party was held in Dunboyne Castle Hotel on Saturday 28 November for all of the teams, the highlight of which will be the presentation of trophies etc. won by the club during season |
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| Peer Coaching Course Commencement: The best of luck to the class of 2009/2010! |
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This week saw the commencement of Co Meath VEC Post Graduate Certificate course in Peer Coaching/Digital Literacy in conjunction with St Patrick's College, Drumcondra.
The Peer Coaching Course is designed to help schools and centres implement a professional development model of CPD by assisting teachers to offer their students engaging, technology rich, learning activities. Over the course of this school year, the Peer Coaching Course will develop teacher leaders to become peer mentors for their colleagues.
Pictured here are our Peer Coaches: Back Row: Micheal Scully, St Peters College, Dunboyne; Caitriona Feeney, Youthreach Trim; John Metcalfe, St Peters College, Dunboyne; James Cumiskey, Dunshaughlin Community College; Rachel Noonan, Coláiste na hInse; Barry O’Higgins, O’Carolan College, Nobber. Front Row: Ger Murphy, Beaufort College; Áine Ní Bhrolcháin, Ratoath College; Shirley Mc Donagh, St Fintina’s Post Primary School, Longwood; Caroline Toole, St Peters College, Dunboyne; Jennifer Bowser, Beaufort College; Deirdre Butler, St Patrick’s College, Drumcondra. Missing from photo: Bernie Mc Kevitt, ALS, Lifelong Learning.
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| Meath Adult Learners First to Achieve New Online FETAC Award |
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Co. Meath VEC Adult Basic Education Service (in conjunction with NALA), helped pilot a Blended Learning project , which for the first time provided the opportunity for learners to achieve FETAC Level 2 accreditation through on-line assessment using the new Writeon.ie website. Click here for more news about this |
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| St Oliver Post Primary School:Oldcastle Official Opening and Blessing of the School Extension |
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Minister Noel Dempsey was in attendance recently for the official opening and blessing of the school extension on October 24th.
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| St Peter's College Dunboyne:Winners of Young Social Innovators 2009 meet President Mary McAleese. |
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Winners of Young Social Innovators 2009 meet President Mary McAleese.
Fifth year students from St Peter’s College Dunboyne and Colaiste Bhride Carnew Co.Wicklow were honoured today to have an audience with President Mary McAleese in Aras an Uachtaran.
Winners of the prestigious title of Young Social Innovators for 2009,the students presented the President of Ireland with a copy of their book ‘Twenty Fifteen’ as well as a copy of their ‘Poverty Week’ Resource which earned them the title of Young Social Innovators in May of this year.
The students wish to thank Rachel Collier, Cathy Roche from YSI and Sister Stanislaus Kennedy for organising this once in a lifetime opportunity to spend time with President McAleese and tell her about the aim of their YSI project-to raise awareness about Millennium Development Goal Number 1-the Eradication of Extreme Poverty. |
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| St Fintina's Post Primary School, Longwood welcomes Minister Noel Dempsey |
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Minister for Transport Noel Dempsey TD visited the School on Friday 23rd October to view the School's Laptop Initiative.
During the visit by the Minister, the VEC formally signed the Deed of Transfer for the purchase of the 10 acre site for the new school, giving full ownership to the VEC. Click Here to read the full Story.
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| Dunshaughlin Community College marks the end of the first 2 years of the Microsoft Innovative Schools Program |
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Dunshaughlin Community College hosted a film production team last Friday, 9th October, to mark the end of the first 2 years of the Microsoft Innovative Schools Program.
Janice Corrigan (Deputy Principal) was interviewed giving her feedback and experiences of the ISP project to date. Other perspectives were obtained by interviewing Dr. Kevin Marshall (Education Lead, Microsoft Ireland) and Dr. Deirdre Butler (Senior Lecturer, Education Department, St Patrick's College Drumcondra).
The crew also filmed three classes in action using a range of digital technologies for teaching and learning: Muireann Nic an Rí using Web quests “as Gaeilge” which had been designed by Transition Year students specially for use with 1st year students, Ruth Smith using distance learning to teach chemistry to 5th year students in Dunshaughlin Community College and St Fintina’s School in Longwood simultaneously and Bláithín Fitzgerald film studies class with Transition Year. A CPD staff session with Rose Lawlor was also highlighted. |
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| Centre for European Schooling: European Inspectors Visit |
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On Wednesday 07 October, St. Seachnall's and the Centre for European Schooling welcomed a group of forty school Inspectors from several European Countries.
The group which included Chief Inspectors from the Departments of Education of six countries as well as officials from Ministries of Education from several countries, were in Ireland to attend an annual conference, attended a presentation on the CES given by Director Una Barton and visited classrooms where they met teachers and pupils. The inspectors also visited classrooms in St. Seachnall's and attended a whole school Assembly where they enjoyed a brief presentation on the history of Dunshaughlin. The children also sang the Irish National Anthem Amhrán na bhFiann and the European Anthem Ode To Joy.
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| St Peters College students meet UN General Secretary Ban Ki Moon |
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Two students from St Peters College had the opportunity of meeting General Secretary for the UN , Mr Ban Ki Moon on his short visit to Ireland during the summer.
They presented him with a copy of 'Twenty Fifteen' a students response to the Millenium Development Goals: The Eradication of Poverty. This book is a collection of poems, prose, artwork and songs from authors ranging from students to scientists to politicians to acclaimed literary greats including Sebastian Barry, Seamus Heaney, Anne Enright and Joseph O' Connor. Launched in May of this year, all proceeds for the book will go to Self Help Africa. Twenty Fifteen may be purchased from www.Selfhelpafrica.net |
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| Ratoath College Welcome a team of European School Inspectors |
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On Wednesday 7th October Ratoath College welcomed a team of European School Inspectors for a conference meeting.
Click here to see a short Video created by the Transition Year Media Studies Students from Ratoath College which shows the arrival of the group.
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| O'Carolan College, Nobber. Minister Batt O'Keefe Meets a Delegation from the school. |
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A delegation from the school had a meeting with The Minister for Education and Science last week in relation to the provision of the extension to the school. Thomas Byrne TD, who arranged the meeting, was also in attendance. Deputy Byrne has been a very strong supporter of the school and has been actively engaged in trying to speed up the final push on the granting of the extension.
The delegation explained to the Minister that the school had been originally built for 230 students and was now accommodating 460 students. Minister O'Keefe engaged with the delegation and explained that he did not know the final figures on his capital budget for next year, but that when he did get those figures he would be in a better position to assess the progression of the O'Carolan College extension. We are very hopeful that we will have some very good news before Christmas.
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| Official Opening of Ratoath College |
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The big moment finally arrived on 30th September. Minister Batt O'Keeffe arrived at Ratoath College to cut the ribbon symbolising our official opening.
The Minister and our invites guests took a tour of the school and spoke with students who showcased both our facilities and the wonderful work they are doing.
After the ribbon cutting ceremony and blessing of the school we had speeches and musical entertainment provided by the students.
It was a fantastic day and one that will be remembered forever in the history of Ratoath College, as Ms. NíBhróithe said; a day like this only happens once in a school! |
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| Leaving Cert Applied Students in Ratoath College receive their Laptops. |
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Rang Qualter were delighted to receive their colourful school laptops this week! Mr Peter Kierans our CEO, attended the official presentation of the laptops to the students in the school on Monday morning. The students are now well acquainted with their laptops, the touch screen technology is a big hit! They are really looking forward to using them in their classes. |
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| Beaufort College Wall Mural/Creative Engagement Multicultural Project |
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Visitors are welcome to view our mural which was designed and painted by our students |
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| Gaisce Bronze and Silver Award Presentation Ceremony for Kells Youthreach Students |
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Students from Kells Youthreach will receive their bronze award from RTEs presenter Sean Gallagher of Dragon's Den. They will be accompanied by their Gaisce leaders Siobhan Finegan and Ben Nolan. Congratulations to everyone |
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| VTOS PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION |
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VTOS PHOTOGRAPHY EXHIBITION
'PERSONAL VISION'
WE ARE PLEASED TO INVITE YOU TO THE OPENING OF OUR
EXHIBITION
IN THE HERITAGE CENTRE KELLS
ON THURSDAY JULY 2ND 2009 AT 7PM. |
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| Europe Day 2009 in the Centre for European Schooling |
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The students of the Centre for European Schooling celebrated Europe Day on Thursday 7th and Friday 8th May. The primary school pupils hosted an Assembly in St. Seachnall's N.S. There was a presentation during which the children presented well known as well as some very interesting less well known facts about each of the countries of the European Union. At the end of the presentation al of the children listened to Beethoven's Ode To Joy, the anthem of the EU.
Students prepared displays in St. Seachnall's and in Dunshauhglin Community College representing the countries of the EU and students, teachers and parents prepared food which visitors to the displays were invited to sample. |
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| New School Site for St Fintina's Post Primary School, Longwood |
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On Thursday 14th May 2009 Co Meath VEC was given permission to proceed with the purchase of the greenfield site for the new 500-student Post Primary School in Longwood. This is very welcome news for this area especially in these economically challenging times. The site is adjacent to the new primary school. This much needed and long awaited facility will give the young people of South Meath and North Kildare the opportunity to be educated in state of the art accommodation in their own community. |
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| Co Meath Youthreach Soccer Tournament - Thursday 21st May 2009 |
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Foundation Youthreach Navan are proud to organise and host the now annual soccer tournament for all youthreach centres in County Meath. This event will take place at the Aura Leisure Link in Navan. Due to the tremendous turnout last year and the dedicated participation by all centres it was decided by both David O'Connor (Foundation Coordinator) and Paolo Dias (Foundation Sports Tutor) that this opportunity should become an annual event. |
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| Young Historian Awards |
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On Monday, 12th May at 2.00pm the Young Historian Awards were presented by Minister for Transport, Mr. Noel Dempsey in the County Library on Railway Street, Navan. |
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| Welcome to Meath VEC Education Gateway |
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Welcome to our new facility for Meath VEC learners and staff. Here you can see news and information from all our schools and services, mantained by the staff and learners themselves. If you are a VEC staff member or student you will be able to login to our intranet where you will be able to access more learning and collaboration services. Contact your local IT cordinator for your username and password. |
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