Vol 31 No 17    23 Jan  2026

Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition

On 9 January, all pupils from Form 1 and fifteen pupils from Forms 2 to 5 travelled from HSD to the RDS to attend the 62nd Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition. It was a highly enjoyable day and provided a valuable experience for all participants.

The trip was particularly thrilling because Abby McGrath and Ava Allen represented The High School at Stand 2419. This marked a significant achievement as it was the school’s first participation in the exhibition since 2014. The event showcased numerous intriguing projects across five distinct categories: Biological and Ecological Sciences, Chemical, Physical, and Mathematical Sciences, Social and Behavioural Sciences, Technology, as well as Health and Wellbeing.

Abby and Ava presented their project titled “Phone Pouches in Irish Schools – Hygiene Hazard or Healthy Habit?” which competed in the Social and Wellbeing category. During our time at the exhibition, we explored various halls viewing projects from over 550 competitors. Additionally, we engaged in entertaining exhibitor competitions and attended hourly shows like the Drop Science Bubble Show, 3D Space Exploration demonstrations, drumming workshops, along with Mark the Science Guy's presentations.

As we spent the entire day there, we had ample time to visit the Exhibitors Hall where we collected various freebies. Some notable highlights included attempting to gather colorful hats, pens, pencils, stress balls, reflective armbands among others. We even tried butter churning at the Kerrygold stand receiving samples of crisp sandwiches as rewards.

At 2.45 pm, we regrouped at the entrance before boarding buses back to HSD. Despite feeling tired by then everyone returned with bags full of goodies brimming with excitement inspired by this memorable day eagerly anticipating further success at next year's Young Scientist Exhibition.
Daniel Stephens 

Form 4 Galway Excursion

On 20 January, Form 4 pupils travelled to Galway for an educational visit to the University of Galway and several well-known landmarks in the city. We met at Heuston Station at 7.00 am and boarded the train at 7.35 am.

On arrival at the University of Galway, we were given a guided tour of the campus by a pupil named William. Afterwards, we were allowed time to explore the campus and surrounding areas.

During the day, we visited a number of famous sites, including Galway Cathedral, Galway Rowing Club, Lynch’s Castle, the Spanish Arch, St Augustine’s Holy Well, and the Connacht Rugby Dexcom Stadium. We took photographs and later returned to our meeting point as planned.

We would like to thank the Guidance Counsellors, Ms Whelan and Mr O'Sullivan, for organising the trip, as well as Ms Garland, Mr Malin, Mr Milofsky, and Mr Langrell for accompanying us and ensuring our safety throughout the day.
Eva Lei

Mock Examination Advice

In the coming weeks, the mock examinations will commence for pupils in Form 3 and Form 6. This is a good chance to experience what it is like to do a state examination and can help prepare you for the real thing. Although this can be a stressful time for many it’s important to remember that these are just a practice run and are meant to be a learning experience. Use them to know which areas you need to focus your attention on and know where your strengths and weaknesses lie. It is still important to look after your self during this time. Make sure to prioritise your sleep, eat well, and exercise regularly to ensure you are at your best. We wish everyone the best of luck and hope it all goes well!
Matthew Whyte (Head Boy) and Alex-Anne Kennedy (Head Girl)

World Religion Day

World Religion Day takes place each January, aiming to promote understanding and peace between all religions as well as mutual understanding and tolerance between peoples from different backgrounds. This year 'World Religion Day'  took place on Sunday 18 January. 

At Senior Assembly Form 5 pupils presented on the six major world religions of Hinduism, Judaism, Buddhism, Christianity, Islam, and Sikhism. They explained the main beliefs of these religions, spoke on pilgrimage sites, writings, rituals, and the number of followers worldwide. They also spoke about how celebrating world religions is important because it encourages people to embrace diversity and promotes a sense of community worldwide. At Junior Assembly pupils from Form 1 spoke about each of the major world religions, they showed their symbols, the number of followers in Ireland, and then read a prayer from each one. 

At both Assemblies pupils showed a short video on the Golden Rule and how it is something that all major world religions share. The following is the Tao version of this rule : Regard your neighbour’s gain as your gain, and your neighbour’s loss as your own loss. The Golden Rule is something that is encouraged at The High School as it teaches pupils to treat others as they would like to be treated and encourages empathy and kindness. It was great to celebrate world religions this week: well done to all the pupils on a wonderful presentation. 
Ms Hutchinson Edgar

Irish Cancer Society

Last month, a Form 3 class showed that generosity doesn’t have to come gift-wrapped. Instead of taking part in a traditional Secret Santa, the group made the thoughtful decision to swap shop-bought presents for homemade treats, lovingly prepared and shared among classmates. What made the initiative even more special was their choice to donate the money that would normally have been spent on gifts to charity. Led by the class organisers, the pupils selected the Irish Cancer Society, a charity that works tirelessly to support cancer patients and their families across Ireland.

The Irish Cancer Society funds vital cancer research, provides support services such as free counselling and transport to treatment, and offers trusted information and advocacy for those affected by cancer. Their work touches the lives of thousands of people every year. Through their creativity, teamwork, and generosity, the class successfully raised an impressive €200, all of which has now been donated to support ongoing cancer research.

This initiative is a wonderful example of community spirit in action and a reminder that small changes can make a big difference. Well done to all involved — a truly heart-warming achievement and something the whole school can be proud of.
Mr Miller

Dublin City Council Award

The High School has received a Special Merit award in the Schools Category of the South East Area City Neighbourhoods Competition administered by Dublin City Council.  The awarding criteria included upkeep of the grounds and property, specifically, landscaping, biodiversity, and the absence of litter and graffiti; waste management and recycling initiatives; water conservation and energy efficiency initiatives; and special environmental projects.  Congratulations to all those involved with the process of securing this award for The High School.

Indoor Girls Hockey 

The Senior Girls finished as runners-up against the Institute of Education in this week's Leinster Schoolgirls Indoor Hockey Tournament.  What a fantastic achievement. Well done, girls!
Ms Jones

Form 6 Design and Computer Graphics

This year pupils studying Design and Computer Graphics (DCG) took on the challenge of designing and modelling a soap dispenser as part of their Leaving Certificate Examination process. The standard of work produced has been outstanding. Pupils worked through the full design process, beginning with detailed research and analysis, followed by idea generation, sketching, and design development. Using SolidWorks, they then created accurate and well-considered 3D models that demonstrated both creativity and strong technical skill.

The project required persistence, problem-solving and attention to detail, and the pupils rose to the challenge at every stage. Their hard work is clearly reflected in the high-quality designs produced, and they should be extremely proud of the effort and commitment shown throughout the project.
Ms O'Sullivan 

Mock Timetable 2026