Vol 30 No 07     11 Oct 2024

Class of 2024 Debutantes' Ball

The Class of 2024 took their final bow at the highly anticipated debutantes’ ball this week, though it is still difficult to believe that our recent Form 6 pupils have left us for good.  Dressed in all their finery, they looked absolutely stunning, radiating happiness for what would surely be a night to remember.

We hope the evening was filled with joy and laughter, creating lasting memories that will carry them through this next chapter of their lives.  Seeing them gathered together for the last time with parents, family and staff was a fitting way to mark the end of their journey with us.

To the Class of 2024, we wish you nothing but success and happiness in the future.  May you always look back on your days at The High School with fondness and know that you will forever remain a part of our school community.  Here's to new beginnings and bright futures ahead!

World Teachers' Day

Every teacher has their own unique story about how and why they became a teacher, each one as distinctive as their teaching style. Yet there is one thing we all share: every morning we walk through the school doors with the hope that today we will be the best teacher we can be.  On World Teachers' Day, it is good to reflect on our teaching story, to celebrate the work we do here at The High School, and to think: today could be the day that we make all the difference.

Gaisce Hike

In typical Irish fashion, it rained all day.  However, this did not dampen the spirits of our adventurous Form 4 pupils and their teachers as they set off on one of their series of hikes for An Gaisce, The President’s Award.  All were glad that they had heeded the warning to "Dress appropriately", and "Come prepared for all weathers".  All weathers was certainly what was in store on Djouce Mountain in Co Wicklow.  Despite the grey skies and steady rain, the group remained in high spirits, embracing the challenge with determination and good humour.  The hike not only tested their endurance but also provided an opportunity for the pupils to bond - sharing stories and laughter despite the challenging conditions.  We congratulate our cheerful, and slightly damp, explorers for completing this leg of their Gaisce journey with such resilience, positivity, and humour!  Well done to all involved.

Form 6 Politics and Society

On Friday 4 October the Form 6 Politics and Society class was treated to a visit from MEP Barry Andrews. He visited the school to discuss his experience working in Brussels at the European Parliament and to give pupils a glimpse of his everyday life. The meeting was arranged in order to gain an insight into the Leaving Certificate Project on the Citizens' Assembly and to engage with an experienced politician. Mr Andrews was very helpful in showing the class what years of political involvement can achieve at a European level. His long-standing career involving extensive public representation has made him a prominent figure in the politicial world and saw him top the EU election polls in Dublin this June.
Daniel Moane

Mary Elmes Prize 

We are very pleased to announce that this pupil has been awarded second place in the Mary Elmes Prize in Holocaust Studies in the Music category by Holocaust Education Ireland.  His entry was an original instrumental composition written to commemorate The Holocaust and performed on electric bass guitar.  Ewan has been invited to attend the forthcoming Holocaust Memorial Day commemoration which will take place on Sunday 26 January 2025.  This is a national event that will be attended by the Taoiseach, public representatives, and other dignitaries as well as over 600 people from all walks of Irish life.  The invitation to attend the event is also extended to any members of The High School community.

Form 5 Art and Design

Pupils in Form 5 showcased their creativity by crafting these stunning images using intricate repeat patterns. They were on display outside the Art Room on the C FLoor at the recent Bright Futures Open Evening event. Well done, everyone!

Rugby Success

Last week was an outstanding week for our girls’ rugby teams, with impressive victories across both junior and senior levels.  Firstly, congratulations to our Junior 7s team, who triumphed in a 7s Blitz at home. The Juniors likewise brilliantly represented the school in their League game in Naas.  Not to be outdone, our Senior team stole victory in the Leinster League Blitz, also held in Naas.  Their commitment to the game has led to this success, confirming once again that he future of girls’ rugby at The High School is certainly looking bright!
Mr Mc Dermott

Senior 1 League Win

The Senior 1 hockey team secured an impressive victory in their League match against Mount Sackville this week, showcasing their exceptional skills and teamwork on the field.  Well done, everyone!
Mr Fitzpatrick

Rathfarnham Parish 

Senior Play