Vol 30 No 13     29 Nov 2024

Model United Nations

On Friday last we attended the RADMUN conference where we had an incredible experience.  For some of our Form 1 participants, it was their first-ever Model United Nations conference, and they thoroughly enjoyed it.  Our school proudly represented the Czech Republic and Sweden, engaging in debates on various global issues that could theoretically arise in the UN.

The atmosphere was exceptionally welcoming, with everyone being friendly and helpful, making us feel right at home.  The standard of debate was outstanding and it was a truly fantastic experience for all involved.
Charles Donovan

East Leinster League Success

Well done to the Senior Boys Basketball team for securing a spot in the semi-final of the U19 East Leinster League.  Their victory over Stepaside Educate Together with a score of 46-23 is truly impressive.  The semi-final fixture will be played on Friday 6 December at 10.00 am in the National Basketball Arena.  We wish the team every success in the upcoming games!
Ms Murdoch

Form 4 Geography

Form 4 Geography pupils attended the GLOBE Student Champions Event organized by An Taisce in partnership with NASA at the Dublin Civic Offices in Wood Quay. The trip was part of our Sustainability module and offered a unique opportunity to learn about eco-friendly water management and innovative environmental solutions. 

After some team building exercises, we listened to inspiring talks from leading experts who shared their insights on tackling global water management challenges. These thought-provoking sessions highlighted the importance of sustainable practices in combating the impacts of climate change.

In the afternoon we explored several real-world flood reduction projects across the city.  These site visits showcased innovative solutions including natural flood defenses and urban design strategies aimed at mitigating the effects of rising water levels.  Seeing these efforts in action was both fascinating and educational, providing pupils with practical examples of how communities can adapt to environmental challenges.
Aidan Finn

Equality Club

Stand-Up Week took place again this year from the 4-8 November.  This is a pupil-led initiative intended to promote awareness, inclusion and bullying prevention in relation to the LGBTQ+ community.  An important new initiative this year was the inaugural meeting of the The High School Equality Club. This club is is a supervised activity for all pupils and staff who are interested in equality and inclusion working together to ensure a welcoming and safe school environment for all.  They will also contribute to practical projects to promote equality and recently reviewed a survey to be issued to all pupils, staff, and parents over the coming weeks.  The teachers involved are very appreciative of all the support they have received. The club meets every Friday morning at 8.30 am in B21. Please remind your child of these details in case they are interested in joining.
Mr Tobin

Exam Time!

Last week Form 4 pupils showed great community spirit by creating and delivering encouraging good luck cards to Form 1 pupils ahead of their first examinations at The High School.  We hope that all pupils across Forms 1, 2, and 5 felt prepared and confident completing the Christmas examinations and that they are ready to enjoy a well-deserved break over the long weekend.  

A special thanks goes to our teachers and staff for their hard work in organising the examinations as well as completing assessment and reporting tasks so efficiently.  Your dedication is greatly appreciated!  Term reports will be uploaded to the HSD VSWare portal in the coming weeks.

HSD Sensory Pod

At this particularly busy time of the year, we wanted to remind you about the HSD Sensory Pod.  Situated on the C Floor, this area is specifically created to provide a peaceful and inviting space for pupils and teachers to relax, recentre, and alleviate stress.

The Sensory Pod is open to everyone and no booking is required.  Whether you are feeling overwhelmed by a busy day, seeking a quiet space to reflect, or simply in need of a mental break, this pod is here to support you. Inside the pod, pupils will find soothing lighting, relaxing sounds, and a selection of sensory-friendly materials.  These elements are designed to create a serene atmosphere that helps reduce stress and anxiety.  The space is ideal for moments of mindfulness, a short reset, or just some peaceful time alone.

Feedback from pupils who have already used the pod has been overwhelmingly positive.  We encourage all pupils and staff to take advantage of this fantastic resource whenever they feel the need by arrangement.  If you haven’t visited the pod yet, why not stop by and experience the calm for yourself?  Sometimes, a little moment of peace is all you need to reset and recharge.

Form 4 English

Pupils in Form 4 English have been studying a non-fiction text called On Tyranny by Timothy Snyder, Professor of History and Global Affairs at Yale University.  Published in 2017, Snyder presents the reader with twenty lessons from the 20th century, reminding us that “History does not repeat, but it does instruct.”  He begins with the first lesson: “Do Not Obey in Advance.” Anticipatory obedience, Snyder explains, occurs when enough people offer their services to a regime ahead of time, enabling autocracies to consolidate power more quickly than they otherwise could, while also teaching them what is possible.

The book continues to present all twenty lessons, presenting his arguments with examples from the last century up to the year of publication, drawing on events such as WWII, Brexit, American elections, terrorist attacks in Russia, and the war in Ukraine.  These examples are compelling and highly relevant.  Pupils were given one lesson to study in detail, then shared their research with their peers and created posters to accompany their work, which are now on display on the A floor.  Here is a small sample of their efforts.
Ms Burrowes

Community Events