St. Leo S CoLLege A YeAR In the LIfe AnnuAL RepoRt

Transcription

1 St. Leo s College A Year In The Life Annual Report

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3 Thinking Outside The Box

4 Contents Section 1 St. Leo s College and CEIST Mission Statement 5 Message From the Principal 7 Board of Management, Parents Advisory Council & Administrative Staff 8 Service Staff and Voluntary Staff 8 School Resources 10 Teaching Staff/Retirements 11 Head Girls, Prefects and Meitheal Team 12 Courses available to Students 13 Section 2 Guidance and Couselling 16 Home School Community Liaison 18 Leaving Certificate Applied Programme 19 Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme 22 Learning Support 24 Extra - Curricular Activites 28 Extra - Curricular Sporting Activities Transition Year 34 Academic Subjects Art 40 Business Studies 43 Civic, Social and Political Education 46 English 48 French 50 Gaeilge 51 Geography 53 German 56 History 59 Home Economics 61 Italian 64 Information Technology 66 Maths 68 Music 70 Physical Eductaion 73 Religious Education 77 Science 82 Technology 86 Awards

5 Mission Statement Inspired by the vision of Catherine McAuley, St. Leo s College is committed to the holistic development of each student. As a Catholic school, we pursue excellence in an inclusive, caring and respectful environment. Ceist St. Leo s College is under the trusteeshipship of CEIST, CEIST is the trustee body for the voluntary secondary schools of the Daughters of Charity, the Presentation Sisters, the Sisters of Mercy, the Sisters of Christian Retreat and the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart. The Vision of CEIST is to have a compassionate and just society inspired by the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. Their Mission is to provide a holistic education in the Catholic Tradition.

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7 Message From The Principal I am delighted to offer you our Annual Report for the Academic Year I hope that this gives each of you students, staff and parents an insight into the complex running of a school over an academic year. It is undoubtedly the blending of the academic with the extra-curricular that fully exposes and enriches the gifts of each student, and I am deeply grateful to the many members of staff who share their time and expertise with us to ensure that our students have the very best opportunities provided to them. Each of the subject departments offers a synopsis of the year s work. This provides an insight into the diversity and breadth of activity that takes place in each subject area. The many outcomes are a tribute to the very dedicated teachers who work so hard for each of the pupils. It is equally testament to the commitment of our students, and I sincerely thank each girl who has positively contributed to life in St. Leo s College. We have had several reasons to celebrate across many platforms choir, music, sport, enterprise, languages to name but a few. However, outside of all of these accolades, each of our students proudly represents the school each day and I say thank you to you, their parents for all of your support and assistance throughout the year. In September 2012 we underwent a Whole School Evaluation. Without exception, I am proud to affirm that the report was excellent with several citations of excellent practice. While we, as members of the school community acutely are aware of and appreciate the many strengths and facilities on offer, it is deeply appreciated when an independent panel verifies and endorses the work and the many initiatives undertaken by our school. This report is available for download at: Whilst we acknowledge achievements, I remember all those in our school community who suffered loss or bereavement throughout the year. We particularly remember parents, siblings, grandparents of our students and staff and wish them eternal peace. St. Leo s College is wholly committed to the holistic development of each of our students. We endeavour to cater for every students and celebrate individuality. This is what makes our school so special. I thank you the parents and guardians for your continued support. I thank each student for her unique and valuable contribution and I thank each member of staff Teaching, SNA, Administrative, Supervision, Caretaking and Hospitality for the huge commitment they so willing demonstrate to this great school. Ní neart go chur le chéile. Clare Ryan Principal

8 Board of Management Chairperson Trustee Nominee Parent Nominee Staff Nominee Secretary to Board of Management Justin Cody Michael Hosey Bob Jeffers Sr. Catherine O Hare Caroline Farrell John Brennan Alison Doyle Fergal Murphy Clare Ryan Secretarial Staff Clerical Officers Receptionist Payroll Administrator Clare Calvey Marian O Brien Denise McGrath Mary Kavanagh Helena McKenna Parents Council Chairperson Secretary Teacher Representatives JobBridge Anne Ahern Joe McGloin Lisa Bergin and Liz Kennedy During , we were fortunate to have 5 interns on staff through the Government JobBridge Scheme. Richard Craig IT Technician, Doreen Lundon Librarian, Nthabi Ndawo & Mary Faulkner Laboratory Technicians and Michelle Culleton Catering and Hospitality, all significantly enhanced our educational provision. We wish them well in their future careers and thank them most sincerely for their dedication and commitment to St. Leo s College. Service Staff & Voluntary Staff Caretakers/Maintenance Breakfast Club, Shop and Student Welfare Housekeeping Supervised Study Assisted Study Supervision Special Needs Assistants Derek Fagan Paul Ryan Lynda Fagan Lisa Kelly Murphy Contract Cleaners Mary Wheatley Oonagh Croad Sinead Kenny Claire Casey Caroline Brereton Mary Wheatley Sheila Gaffney Pauline Lacey Landy Long Zara Hurley St. Leo s College acknowledges the support and commitment that it receives on an ongoing basis from the following Sisters of Mercy:- Sr. Nora O Brien, Sr. Kathleen Kennedy, Sr. Áine Cullen, Sr. Maureen Keogh The hard work, dedication and commitment of the Sisters is very much appreciated. They are involved in many areas of school life including photocopying, retreats, training of our prefects and general activities. In School Management The in-school management teams consists of the Principal, 2 Deputy Principals. 9 Assistant Principals and 11 Special Duties teachers. Principal Deputy Principals Clare Ryan Helen Regan Patricia Gurhy

9 From Humble Beginnings Our major building programme is nearing completion. This project supported by the Department of Education and Skills replaces our temporary prefab accommodation by creating a permanent structure. In addition, we have been fortunate in securing additional funding which has allowed us to construct a standalone unit consisting of six classrooms, a new Technology Suite and Preparation Room, a Chemistry Laboratory, Chemical Store and state of the art Library. The project, which commenced last January, is ahead of schedule and at this stage we anticipate that it will be ready for the beginning of the new academic year. We are extremely grateful to the architectural team and our construction company who have worked so diligently to ensure the accommodation will be ready on time for the commencement of the new academic year. During the summer weeks, we also try every year to refurbish a number of rooms whilst cleaning, painting and general maintenance continues ensuring that the school is fresh and ready for a new year s work. This summer, we plan to refurbish our music room and physics lab so that our facilities here in St. Leo s College are second to none.

10 Introduction St. Leo s College is a Catholic Voluntary Secondary School for girls under the trusteeship of CEIST in the Mercy tradition, with an enrolment of 913 girls in the school year We operate an open enrolment system with the vast majority of students coming from the local primary schools. Students also travel from the surrounding hinterlands such as Bagenalstown, Athy, Stradbally, Ballon, Baltinglass, Hacketstown and Tullow. St. Leo s College is a school with an established tradition of excellence in all aspects of curricular and co-curricular performance. In September 2012 a Whole School Evaluation (WSE) was conducted, examining every sector of our school community. On publication we were delighted to note that the Inspectorate Report affirmed our reputation, citing many aspects of our school community as being outstanding. This report is published online by the Department of Education & Skills and is available to download and read at Publications/Inspection-Reports-Publications/ The school operates through a Board of Management comprising of Trustee nominees, Parent nominees and Staff nominees and it is this entity which brings together all the elements that form this vibrant school community. The Parent s Association is open to all parents/guardians of students in the school community. This group, chaired by Anne Ahern, works tirelessly throughout the year undertaking both fundraising and hospitality events and we are indebted to them for their invaluable assistance and co-operation. With an open intake of girls and a large school population we have a wide range of pupil abilities. We aim to cater for all levels of ability. In spite of such mixed ability we have an extremely high retention rate, and over 90% of our students proceed to third level further education. Resources Our policy statement on resources is to maximise and to use them as efficiently and as equitably as possible. St. Leo s College, Carlow is situated on a large site in the centre of Carlow Town. The main school building which comprises two large buildings linked by a corridor, an extensive sports hall, a hockey pitch with a surrounding running track and a grass football pitch. The school has 35 classrooms, 2 Art Rooms, Assembly Hall, Biology Laboratory, Chemistry Laboratory, Physics Laboratory, 2 Computer Rooms, 3 Home Economics Rooms, Craft Room, Geography Room, Language Laboratory, Library, Music Room, Photography Room, Technology Laboratory, Video Room, Resource Room, and Learning Support area. In September 2012 we were delighted to have been awarded authorisation to replace our temporary prefab accommodation, together with additional funding which has allowed us to construct a standalone unit consisting of six classrooms, a new Technology suite and Preparation Room, a Chemistry Laboratory, Chemical store and state of the art Library. This new suite will truly add to our already extensive facilities and provide our students with state of the art facilities which no doubt will be much appreciated. In addition to these rooms, we also have a Principal s Office, 2 Deputy Principals Offices, 2 Career Guidance Offices, a Prayer Room, a Staff room, a Secretarial Office, a Seminar room and a Supervision Room. There is a small kitchen within the staffroom and a large kitchen at the back of the refectory. In addition to the excellent sports facilities already mentioned, the school has the use of courts at the local tennis club, a Gaelic football pitch at the back of Dr. Cullen Park, all-weather pitches, a swimming pool in the town and the facilities of two of the town s fitness centres. The school sports hall also has two large changing rooms with showers and a large stage at the side of the hall. This provides the venue for our annual school Musical as wel as all parent teacher meetings and is an exam centre. The hall is also a resource for the community with a variety of groups, organisations and schools regularly using it. Junior Cycle Reform St. Leo s College is proud to have been selected in 2012 to be one of 46 Junior Cycle Network Schools which affords the opportunity to be well prepared in advance of the new Junior Certificate. The National Council for Curriculum and Assessment is working on various aspects of the reform with a view to exploring fully the opportunities and implications for schools of the reforms, as well as the nature of the supports schools will require. The network is also directly involved in contributing to curriculum and assessment development. In the process, it will generate examples of the new junior cycle in action, not only for schools within the network but for all schools. These examples will include approaches to getting started on planning for the new junior cycle, integrating key skills in teaching and learning and programme development. In St. Leo s College will witness a school community focus on embedding key skills in teaching and learning. This participation once again highlights St. Leo s College s commitment to innovation. We are also a pilot Equality of Challenge school which endeavours to support the exceptionally able student.

11 Teaching Staff Most countries in the Republic of Ireland are represented on our staff. All teachers are college graduates and many have completed further studies or post-graduate courses and continually undertake inservice. There is a wide diversity of discipline within our teachers qualifications, which allows the school to offer an extensive range of subjects to the students. We currently have one staff member on secondment with the DES. The following is a list of all the teachers who taught in our school this year. Bergin Lisa Breen Mairead Broderick Niamh Buckeridge Anne Casey Claire Coady Sheila Connors Irene Corrigan Sandra Coyne Kathleen Cradock Cathy Cullen Willie Curran Ian Cussen Derbhla Deering Annie Delaney Aine Delaney Valerie Doyle Alison Doyle Veronica Dowling Laura Dwyer Emma Elliot Leah Farrell Fiona Farrell Margaret Fogarty Lillian Foley Jennifer Gooch Tara Gurhy Patricia Hynes Aine Kelly Caroline Kelly Vivienne Kennedy Elizabeth Kennedy Nuala Kenny Sinead Kirwan Angela Kyne Mary Larkin Sarah Macken Joyce Foley Maria Morrissey Patricia McAuliffe David McGrath Clare McHugh Mary McHugh Ruth Nolan Tom McManus Fiona Morley Imelda Murphy Fergal Nolan Marie Nolan Mary Redmond Kate O Connell Elma O Flaherty Sean O Keefe James O Riordan Anne O Shea Miriam O Sullivan Avril Redmond Mairead Regan Helen Rennick Anne Ryan Emer Ryan Karen Ryan Clare Scott Joan Sheridan Helena Shiels Aine Somers Anita Tully Anne Tully Anne Whitford Tanya Winters Anne Marie We also had a number of PGDE students and students undertaking teaching practice working on our staff for the year, Catherine Gardiner, Jennifer Skelton, Caroline O Donnell, Deirdre Delaney, Jillian Byrne, Ailbhe White, Paul Doyle, Aileen Langton and Nóirín Murphy. We thank them for their participation and wish them every success in their teaching careers. Retirements Throughout the last academic year we bade farewell to Mary Dillon and Annie Deering who both retired after many years of teaching in St. Leo s College. We would like to take this opportunity, on behalf of management, staff and pupils, both past & present to thank them both for their commitment, enthusiasm & support. Caroline Lambe has also relocated nearer to her home in Thurles. We wish each of them every happiness in their new endeavours.

12 Head Girls, Prefects and Meitheal Team Head Girls and Senior Prefects Students in St. Leo s College are given every encouragement and opportunity to undertake a range of Leadership Roles. Representatives are chosen in a democratic manner for all positions including Student Representative Council, Senior Prefects, Meitheal, Cairdeas, Young Mercy Leaders and Head Girls. At the beginning of each academic year training is given to participating students, which this year was facilitated by Dr. Brendan Byrne. Such leadership training proves invaluable and gives essential insights into working as part of a team, listening with empathy and organisation skills for effective management and mentoring. In addition to the invaluable work these mentors undertake with students from the junior school, they are also called upon to act as ambassadors at various events throughout the year at which they represent their school with enthusiasm and pride. Head Girls Rebecca Keegan Smithers, Nicole Hanley, Amanda McEvoy 6th Year Prefects Aisling Byrne, Sophie Holohan, Aisling Mahon, Gemma Nolan, Kate Phelan and Emily Fitzharris. 5th Year Prefects Rebecca Burke, Caitriona Farrell, Molly Keena, Izzy Matuschka, Shannen Nolan and Roisin Whelan. Head Girls Meitheal Team th Year Prefects Robyn Alcock, Claire Dunne, Avena Lennon, Amie McGuirk and Therese O Regan. Meitheal Rebecca Burke, Grainne Carley, Katie Foley, Bronwyn Hogan, Ailbhe Kehoe, Rachel Mulhall, Katie McGloin, Rebecca McDermott, Eva McArdle, Emma Nolan, Caoimhe O Grady and Roisín Whelan. Student Representative Council Leanne Ryan, Aine Tyrrell, Helena Dunne, Sarah Nolan, Caroline Glynn, Kate Dunne, Rachel Maher, Sinead McCaul, Gillian Brooks, Alana Crean, Amanda McEvoy, Nicole Hanley, Rebecca Keegan-Smithers. Teachers were meticulous in their organisation and preparation for lessons. Whole School Evaluation - March 2013 Senior Leadership Team Head Girls

13 Courses Available to Students in St. Leo s College Junior Certificate Cycle The Junior Certificate is a three year programme. In first year pupils take 12 academic subjects thus offering them a wide range of subjects. To ensure that adequate time is available to properly prepare for the Junior Certificate this number is reduced by two in second and third year. The following subjects are offered at Junior Certificate cycle:- Art Business Choral Singing Computer Studies CSPE English French Geography German Technology History Home Economics Irish Mathematics Musicianship Physical Education Religious Education Science SPHE Following the Junior Certificate pupils may opt for Transition Year or go straight into Fifth year to follow one of the Leaving Certificate programmes:- Leaving Certificate Applied Programme Traditional Leaving Certificate Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme Transition Year The Transition Year is a one-year programme which provides a bridge to enable students successfully make the transition from Junior to Senior cycle and offers students a broad and balanced curriculum. All core subjects are continued throughout the year, i.e. Irish, English, Maths and French In addition, a broad range of optional Leaving Certificate subjects are being offered to allow students experience the subject before making final subject choices for Leaving Certificate. In establishing its own distinctive programme content, the school takes into account the possibilities offered by local community interests. A wide variety of activities are on offer to all students including Work Experience & Career Guidance, ICT, Enterprise Education Mini Company, Physical Education & Coaching Programmes, Art & Crafts, Development Education, Self Defence, Italian, Young Social Innovators, Money Advice Budgeting Service, Social Skills, Knowledge, Awareness & Safety Programme, Outdoor Pursuits & Educational Outings, First Aid, Public Speaking, Philosophy and Local, Regional & National Competitions. In September 2013 we will introduce Digital Media and Mandarin Chinese as two new subjects which our students can experience. Assessment in all subjects are carried out during the year. Two school reports are sent out annually and an annual P/T meeting and display of student work is held in May. Leaving Certificate Cycle The Leaving Certificate Cycle Programme is a two year cycle offered to students. Over the two years the subjects on offer include:- Accounting Agricultural Science Applied Maths Art Biology Business Career Guidance Chemistry Choir Computer Science Economics English French Geography German History

14 Home Economics Irish Mathematics Musicianship Physical Education Physics Religion Science SPHE Technology All Leaving Certificate subjects are offered higher, ordinary and Foundation levels where applicable. In general students study seven academic subjects for their Leaving Certificate examinations. Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme The LCVP is an enhanced Leaving Certificate Programme. Students who have specified subject combinations (as laid down by the DES) qualify to take the link modules. Enterprise Education, Preparation for work and work experience. These students are advantaged because LCVP combines the traditional Leaving Certificate with the link modules. Active Learning Methodologies are the key to the success of this programme. It benefits students when entering third level and the world of work. A Distinction in this programme is the equivalent of a grade C on a higher level paper and is therefore very valuable. Leaving Certificate Applied LCA is a modular based on Leaving Certificate incorporating a high proportion of Work Experience. It is a very popular route for students who might be more vocationally orientated. For the forthcoming academic year and in response to our student preferences, we are introducing a Hair and Beauty module instead of Office Administration. This programme is an ideal route to PLC courses and is highly regarded in the world of employment.

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16 Guidance and Counselling Department Members: Avril O Sullivan and David McAuliffe. The aim of the Guidance and Counselling programme in the school is to help students to develop an awareness and acceptance of their talents and abilities; to explore possibilities and opportunities; to grow in independence and to take responsibility for themselves; to make informed choices about their lives and to follow through on those choices. The programme also aims to respond to significant changes in the economic and social structures in this country which have important implications for all students. We recognise the importance of guidance and counselling in enabling each student to gain maximum benefit from the education system and its preventative role in helping disadvantaged young students to remain in the formal education system. Guidance and Counselling Provision Guidance and Counselling is provided within formal and informal structures to all classes in the school. All senior classes are timetabled for one class each week and have access to individual career and personal counselling through an appointment/referral system. Guidance and Counselling Provision 1st Year Introduction days are designed to provide a welcome to our incoming first year students. Topics include: Transition and orientation to a new school Health Education Friendship Clubs and Societies Organisation and study management The role of the guidance counsellor, the various support systems and methods of referral are explained to the new students through class visits by the guidance counsellor during the first term. First Year Parents Open Night took place in September with a short presentation to parents on school transition; the role of the guidance counsellor, the pastoral support teams in the school and the importance of organised study and time management. The Guidance and Counselling programme in the school offers individual counselling to all students in first year when needed. S.P.H.E class is timetabled for all first year classes each week. Relationship and Sexuality Education delivered to each class. Care Team meetings with Guidance Counsellors and the Learning Support teacher are held on a weekly basis to review the guidance and support for students in need of assistance. Resources: S.P.H.E book Minding Me Part 2 2nd Year Guidance and support is delivered through various S.P.H.E modules. Topics include study and motivation; Influences and Decisions; Coping with Change; Friendship, Relations and Sexuality Education. Counselling as required Resources: S.P.H.E book Minding Me Part 2 3rd Year Aptitude tests are administered in September and results discussed individually with students and parents/ guardians. Class work and individual guidance on Options after Junior Certificate Third Year Information Night for students and parents on Options after Junior Certificate took place in November. Professional Study Skills Seminar run by Learn 2 Learn for 3rd Year Students took place in November.. Interviews with students opting to take fifth year. Special needs students were assessed for state exam concessions. Guidance in S.P.H.E included modules in Decision Making, Relationships, substance Abuse, Healthy Living and Relationship and Sexuality Education Resources: S.P.H.E book Minding Me Part 3, Career Stuff Part 1 4th Year Guidance in 4th Year is timetabled for one class per week. Topics include: Work experience preparation, planning and evaluation The Be Real Game Job search and Interview Skills

17 Work Experience portfolio Student s safety in the work place. Dolmen Day Careers Exhibition (3rd level colleges, PLC s, Garda, Army, Beauticians etc. represented) St Patrick s College Open Day Guest speaker for DIT Architecture as a career Module on Subject Choice and Third Level Options Careers Portal and Qualifax research Individual appointments with students to discuss career and subject options for senior cycle. Counselling as required. Resources: The Be Real Game 5th Year Guidance in 5th year is timetabled for one class period per week. The class aims: 1. To ensure each student is knowledgeable about 3rd level options and other post Leaving Certificate opportunities. 2. To guide each student in their decision making process. The guidance programme includes: Occupational and interest tests. Information on CAO, UCAS, PLC courses, Apprenticeships and training courses. Study skills Module on C.V preparation, application letters, cover letters, interview technique. Guest Speaker, Paul McDonald, on Engineering, Law and Science Guest Speakers from University of Limerick, Dublin City University, University of Galway Individual meetings with students as requested. Individual counselling when needed. 6th Year Guidance in 6th Year is timetabled for one class period per week. The class aims: 1. To ensure that each student is knowledgeable about 3rd Level options and other post Leaving Certificate opportunities to help finalise career/college choices. 2. To guide each student in their decisionmaking process to help them cope with the demands and stresses of Leaving Certificate year. The guidance programme included: Occupational and Interest tests. Information on CAO, UCAS, PLC courses, Apprenticeships and training courses. Students attended Open Days at St. Patrick s College Carlow, Carlow Institute of Further Education and the Careers Information Day in the Dolmen Hotel where most 3rd level Colleges were represented. Modules on UCAS application Module on CAO application Study Skills and Exam Technique Seminar run by professional company Learn 2 Learn Individual meetings with each student as requested. Guest Speakers from University of Limerick, Dublin City University, and University of Galway Counselling when needed. Resources: Career Choice, Careers Portal, Qualifax, CAO and UCAS websites Resources: Career Choice; Careers Portal, Qualifax, CAO and UCAS websites. Christmas Tree in School Library

18 Home School Community Liaison The Home School Community Liaison Co-ordinator works closely with parents, teachers and community agencies in order to support students in benefiting as fully as possible from their education. Provision in the school Contact is made with parents through meetings in school, telephone calls, s, text messages and most importantly, through home visits. Staff The co-ordinator attended weekly meetings with the Principal. In addition weekly meetings of the Care team, Senior and Junior Year Heads as well as LCA meetings were also attended. Regular contact was maintained with class teachers, Class Heads, the Learning Support Teachers and Guidance Counsellors. Staff contact, both formal and informal was invaluable throughout the year. Community Links Links with both voluntary and statutory community agencies continue to strengthen. In addition to day to day contact with agencies our co-ordinator is currently a member of: CANDO Carlow County Council s Social Inclusion Measures Task Group The Carlow Teen-Parent Support Project Steering Committee Family Support Sub Committee Family Health and Support Sub Committee The majority of students surveyed reported that they participate in the school s extra-curricular programmes. This high level of participation is indicative of the very important role these activities play in school life. Pride in the work and achievements of students are evident in the photographic displays on notice boards, corridors, school website and publications. Whole School Evaluation - March 2013

19 LEAVING CERTIFICATE APPLIED Department Members: Niamh Broderick, Janice Cunningham, Julie Egan, Margaret Farrell, Maria Foley, Tara Gooch, Mary Kyne, Joyce Macken, David McAuliffe, Fiona McManus, Patricia Morrissey, Anne Rennick, Emer Ryan, Anita Somers, Ann Tully. Department Coordinator: Niamh Broderick Provision of the Programme in the School: Having completed Year 1 of the programme last year, our Leaving Certificate Applied students continued into Year 2 this year. The subjects taught and number of classes per week for each were as follows: SUBJECT English and Communication Vocational Preparation & Guidance Mathematical Applications Social Education Introduction to ICT Visual Art Italian Leisure and Recreation Vocational Specialism 1: Hotel, Catering and Tourism Vocational Specialism 2: Office Administration and Customer Care Elective Module 1: Religious Education Elective Module 2: Science NUMBER OF CLASSES PER WEEK 4 single classes 4 single classes 3 single classes 1 double class, 2 single classes 1 double class 1 double class 3 single classes 3 single classes 1 single class, 1 triple class 4 single classes 1 double class 1 double class All subjects were compulsory Students attended classes from Monday to Thursday and spent every Friday on Work Experience. They had two placements during the year. The level of ability in the group was mixed. Sheila Gaffney, Special Needs Assistant, was present for most classes. We had a specialist LCA classroom containing student lockers, a noticeboard, the LCA Co-ordinator s storage press and a press for resources, course materials and stationery. Key Assignments, completed tasks and official course material were stored in the LCA Co-ordinator s press. Planning and Preparation The plan for the LCA Programme is very clearly laid out by the Department of Education & Skills. The St. Leo s College Leaving Certificate Applied Programme Plan is stored in the Co-Ordinator s folder and contains general information on the programme and individual subject plans. These subject plans are reviewed annually by subject teachers. All aspects of the programme we deliver in St. Leo s College are under constant review. All teachers and students in the programme completed an evaluation form at the end of this year, the results of which will be compiled by the Co-Ordinator. It is hoped that suggestions and ideas might arise from these which will enhance next year s programme. The Co-Ordinator is a member of the National Co-Ordinator s Association which assists members in implementing the latest strategies for the programme. A full department meeting took place at the start of the year. From then on, a weekly timetabled meeting took place involving 4 team members. The class prefect, Emily Fitzharris, attended several meetings during the year and gave feedback from the students in the class. The minutes of each meeting were subsequently ed to the Principal, Deputy Principal, Year Head and to all team members. The agenda and minutes for each meeting were also displayed on the LCA noticeboard in the staffroom. This ensured that the entire team was acutely aware of what was happening across the department at all times. The timetable, programme calendar and record of visits in/out were also displayed on this noticeboard. There is a noticeboard for students in the main corridor of the school which was used to display photographs of student activities and information on the programme. Mary Kyne promoted the programme to parents and third year students during Senior Options Evening. Niamh Broderick, Mary Kyne and three students from the class promoted the programme during Open Evening.

20 Teaching and Learning The entire curriculum is available to download on The primary learning carried out in LCA is practical in nature. All subjects cover material that is useful for everyday life. The following are some examples: how to prepare and cook a family meal on a budget, how to word process a CV, how to check you are paying the correct amount of tax, how to deal with a friend or family member who is taking drugs, how to book accommodation in an Italian hotel, how to create a personal prayer. Our students availed of the many specialist rooms in the school during the year. They spent a substantial amount of time in the computer room. Apart from their double class of ICT every week, most other subjects required time in the computer room, whether it was to word process a report or to carry out research for a key assignment or task. The school Librarian, Doreen Lundon, assisted students with book, newspaper and internet research which proved extremely beneficial, especially around task time. All of the team, with the exception of maternity leave substitute teachers, have been involved in inservice training for the programme in the past. This year Margaret Farrell, Religious Education teacher, attended an inservice on the Personal Reflection Task. Niamh Broderick, LCA Co-Ordinator, attended an inservice facilitated by Harry Freeman (PDST Regional Advisor) entitled Evaluating the LCA Programme. A number of our teachers have been involved in the examination of both tasks and practical subjects in the programme. This offers teachers huge insight into how marks are allocated and how we can apply best practice. A whole-school evaluation of management, leadership and learning (WSE-MLL) was undertaken in St. Leo s College in September A review of the arrangements for LCA Work Experience was recommended. This year our students attended a Third Level College Exhibition in the Dolmen Hotel and a PLC Open Day in the Carlow Institute of Further Education. They did a walking tour of Carlow, visited the Carlow County Council Offices, made regular trips to the local library, attended a Fair Trade Information Session in Carlow IT and visited St. Fiacc s House in Graiguecullen. They completed a study of Ecumenism which included a visit to various churches in Carlow. Their retreat was held in Castletown in December. Garda Ralph Holmes gave a presentation to the class on drugs and the law. Michael Brown SIPTU Representative spoke to the class about the work of trade unions. Two youth workers from Carlow Regional Youth Services informed all sixth year students about a new LGBT Group established at the Vault Youth Project. Recovering drug and alcohol addicts from Cuan Mhuire also addressed all sixth year students. As part of their Hotel, Catering and Tourism Task, students prepared an ethnic lunch for Principal Clare Ryan and some of their teachers in October. As part of their Contemporary Issue Task, they presented leaflets they had prepared on their chosen issues to the Principal, Margaret Farrell, Niamh Broderick and their classmates. Students participated in zumba and dance classes, fitness monitoring including beep tests and tennis lessons. They celebrated the end of year with a trip to Castlecomer Discovery Park. Some students completed the 140m Tree Top Adventure Walk, 10m above the ground, climbed a 7m pole, balanced on a platform and took the Leap of Faith. Some LCA students participated in the Graduation Mass at the end of May. Assessment and Achievement All of our students were assessed according to the guidelines outlined by the Department of Education and Science. They had to satisfy the 90% attendance requirement in each subject and complete all key assignments in order to earn full credits in each of their subjects. Students were assessed at the end of each module. Some subjects covered one module over the year while others covered two or three modules. Niamh Broderick and Margaret Farrell recorded attendance during assembly every morning. Every teacher was responsible for recording attendance in the teacher diary for their own classes and for inputting attendance into the school s Eportal system. Every teacher was responsible for calculating attendance and recording completion of Key Assignments. This information was communicated to the coordinator prior to the official capturing of credits. The results were compiled by the Co-Ordinator and sent twice during the year to the State Examinations Commission using the on-line service. Students were also assessed this year on three tasks: Contemporary Issue, Hotel Catering & Tourism and Practical Achievement. All students produced written task reports and were interviewed on the content of each. Task interviews and oral examinations were held in the Seminar Room and in Learning Centre 2. The third statement of results was received in Session 4 and the task results were excellent. Students completed Part 2 of the Personal Reflection task and the results of this and their final examinations will be included in the final statement of results in August. Students were tested periodically during the year. They had class tests at Christmas, task interviews in early February and sat six mock examinations in March. In May they had Practical Performance Tests in Hotel, Catering and Tourism and Office Administration & Customer Care. Oral Examinations in English & Communication and Italian took place in May also. Terminal examinations in the following subjects were held in June: Mathematical Applications; English & Communication; Social Education; Hotel, Catering & Tourism; Office Administration & Customer Care and Italian. A report on their performance in every subject was sent to each student s home at Christmas and mock examination report was sent in April. The entire LCA teaching team was available to meet with parents at the Sixth Year parent-teacher meeting. Parents were contacted by the Co-Ordinator if any issues arose during the year.

21 Students progress was carefully monitored throughout the year. Subject teachers acted as Progress Monitors for individual students and checked in with them on a weekly basis. The Co-Ordinator met regularly with students to discuss their attendance, performance and credit totals. Students were encouraged to reflect on their own learning throughout the year and during Session 3 Niamh Broderick and Nuala Kennedy, Year Head met with each student to discuss their assessment of their own progress. Glory Asonsere and Aoife Shannon received awards for their excellent attendance at our Awards Day. The class prefect, Emily Fitzharris was thanked for her work. Students who expressed an interest in following the LCA programme next year completed a formal application form and interview. The interview panel was convened by Helen Regan, Deputy Principal and Niamh Broderick. The LCA curriculum was reviewed this year. Hair & Beauty will replace Office Administration & Customer Care next year. We wish all of our students every success in the future. Finally, on behalf of the LCA teaching team, I would like to express sincere thanks to Principal Clare Ryan, Deputy Principal Helen Regan and Sixth Year Head Nuala Kennedy for their support and encouragement during this academic year. Hannah Brennan became a household name on results day as she graced the front cover of the Irish Times and was and was interviewed on Morning Ireland and KCLR - What a wonderful achievement. Hannah Brennan

22 Leaving Certificate Vocational Programme This is a Senior Cycle subject offered to all fifth and Leaving Certificate students who study the qualifying Leaving Certificate subjects. The programme is a twoyear programme and students gain a very valuable insight into the world of work and enterprise education. Students can use the results achieved in their Leaving Certificate in their CAO College/University application. TEACHERS Jennifer Foley, Sean O Flaherty, Clare Mc Grath and Mary Kyne. PROGRAMME CO-ORDINATON: Mary Kyne PROVISION OF THE SUBJECT IN THE SCHOOL The programme is offered to all fifth and Leaving Certificate students who do the qualifying leaving certificate subjects. The teachers in the programme believe LCVP should be offered to all Leaving Certificate students as it provides a very valuable insight into the world of work, career paths and report writing. To qualify students must also do a modern language. The Leaving Certificate portfolio was collected on Wednesday 6th March and the written examination took place on Wednesday 1st May TIMETABLE There are presently two fifth and one Leaving Certificate class periods timetabled weekly. There are three fifth year and four Leaving Certificate classes. Classes are synchronised in both Leaving Certificate and fifth year. This allows for team teaching and facilitates class visits. In fifth year teachers specialise on the core elements of the portfolio. The class groups in fifth year are organised alphabetically. From student evaluations we divide the Leaving Certificate students according to their subject choice. The Business teachers teach the nonbusiness students. The computer room is available for LCVP classes. This resource is essential as students must research information and all portfolio items must be word-processed. There was no timetabled weekly team meeting this year. These meetings facilitated interaction, cross-curricular integration and collaborative planning. The Programme Co-ordinator prepared revision handouts and liaised with team teachers on a regular basis. PLANNING AND DEVELOPMENT Initial meetings are held annually in August. The purpose of these meetings are to allocate classes in both fifth and Leaving Certificate, planning the fifth year programme and the induction of new teachers to the programme. There were no weekly planning meetings. Team members attend inservice training and attend evening network meetings in Kilkenny and Kildare Education Centres. Resource material continues to expand and the department has been responsible for the comprehensive revision notes devised for students. Links have been developed with local business and community organisations in the area. TEACHING AND LEARNING A practical teaching approach is applied. Students are encouraged to complete their portfolio items in fifth year. Summary Reports, Career Investigation, Enterprise Action Plans and the Curriculum Vitae are the essential core elements of the portfolio. Recorded interviews are also completed in fifth year. Students also do a three-day work experience placement. Students participated in each of the following: 1. Local area investigations. Students investigate the major employers in their area, the major tourist facilities and the voluntary and recreational facilities in their area. 2. Students attend college open days, research information on the Internet and link closely with their Career Guidance teachers. 3. Students must also participate in a work experience module. 4. We as a department decided to organise a mock interview for all fifth year students. Recorded interviews took place in May ASSESSMENT The portfolio accounts for 60% of the final examination and teachers spend considerable time amending these. Teachers attend local LCVP in-service where relevant information on marking schemes are distributed to students. Students also sit a mock examination every year. The final written examination took place on Wednesday 1st May. A Distinction in the Leaving Certificate equates to 70 points, the equivalent of a C grade in a Leaving Certificate honours subject. Naturally, LCVP is highly appreciated in August. We would like to congratulate our Leaving Certificate 2012 class on their excellent results. Again the results in St. Leo s College were higher than the national average.

23 INFORMATION TO PARENTS AND STUDENTS The programme is promoted to parents and students at the school Open Evening and the Senior Options Evening attended by third year students and parents. Information sessions and qualifying subject lists are distributed to all fourth year students before they select their Leaving Certificate subjects in fifth year. Teachers of the programme attend both the fifth year and Leaving Certificate parent teacher meetings. Student progress is also recorded twice yearly on the official school reports at Christmas and June. All relevant information from the Department of Education and Skills, LCVP network meetings and LCVP newsletters are copied and distributed to students. Leaving Certificate parents are informed of department examination details and dates of mock and final examinations at the parent teacher meeting. Information on the programme is also on the school newsletter. Comprehensive notes are now available on St. Leo s College Moodle Web Page. RESOURCES DEVELOPED Comprehensive revision notes have been developed by the department members and are distributed to all Leaving Certificate students. These notes are now available on St. Leo s Moodle Web Page. The department has a hard disk camcorder to do the recorded interviews. All Leaving Certificate books published are available to staff members. St. Leo s College is an open and inclusive school, which values and promotes the principles of respect, personal growth and achievement. Whole School Evaluation - March 2013

24 Learning Support Professional Membership ILSA Irish Learning Support Association Learning Support Team Sinéad Kenny, Valerie Delaney, Claire Casey, Pauline Lacey, Sheila Gaffney, Landy Long, Tanya Whitford, Aine Delaney, Claire McGrath, Ruth McHugh, Cathy Cradock, Dearbhla Cussen, Irene Connors, Sandra Corrigan, Miriam O Shea, Laura Dowling, Mairéad Breen (Sarah Larkin), Kathleen Coyne, Emma Dwyer, Margaret Farrell, Jenny Foley, Aine Hynes (Alex Jolie), Liz Kennedy, Joyce Macken, Fiona McManus, Elma O Connell, Anita Somers, Ann Marie Winters, Lillian Fogarty, Caroline Kelly and Karen Ryan. Provision of the Subject in the School Although Learning Support occurs in centres throughout the school, it most frequently takes place in The Learning Centre Suite, adjacent to classrooms on the first floor of the Junior building, easily accessed by the students. This room is equipped with two computers, two printers and software. Laptops are available for students if required. After Easter this year, an extra learning support room was set up called the Resource Room. It is located at the top floor of the junior building. Emphasis is placed on consolidating literacy and numeracy skills. When necessary, learning support is provided for a number of pupils in additional subjects, as required. In 2012/13 work continued in areas such as T.E.F.L., in addition to the traditional subjects of English, Mathematics, French, Geography, Home Economics, Science, Biology, Technology, Irish and History. Generally teachers were timetabled to work with one class, a small group or one individual, but occasionally individual learning support teachers supported colleagues and pupils, through team teaching. Planning and Preparation Following collaboration with parents, pupils and other staff members the S.E.N. policy was sanctioned by the Board of Management of St. Leo s College, in September The review of the S.E.N. Policy was ratified in October One class period was timetabled weekly, to accommodate department planning. This enabled us to identify which areas and pupils require support. On-going evaluation ensures provision of resources to pupils as the need arises. Some intervention is short term as pupil s needs are met. Informal meetings are a regular occurrence. Every effort is made to identify the changing needs of our pupils and provide the appropriate supports either within the school or by a relevant body. The following information concerning incoming First Year pupils was sought from Home School Community Liaison Co-ordinator (H.S.C.L.) Valerie Delaney; Students receiving learning support in primary schools Students allocated resource hours in primary schools Students with Irish exemptions and/or assessed by educational psychologists. When in possession of this information, department members commenced work on the following:- Entrance tests of first years were studied in March This year we introduced the new CAT III testing. All the above information was collated and a cohort of students identified requiring learning support. The NRIT (non reader s intelligence test) was administered to all first year pupils in September. This test helps us identify pupils who may have learning difficulties but do not have an educational psychological assessment. The Access Reading and Mathematics Test were administered to all first years in January This was done to fulfil the requirement of the National Strategy to Improve Literacy and Numeracy among Children and Young People Parents/guardians of each pupil were contacted and the provision of learning support was discussed with them. Parents were happy to give permission for additional support. Information concerning second years was collated, utilising the following sources; entrance tests, teacher comments and concerns, summer reports, educational psychological assessments and information from primary schools. A cohort of second year pupils requiring learning support was identified and allocated time. Information concerning third year pupils was collated, enabling teachers to identify and allocate time to those students requiring learning support. Emphasis was placed on exam preparation and technique. Senior cycle students requiring learning support were also identified and allocated time. Learning Support Co-ordinators drew up provisional timetables to provide learning support at the most appropriate times for the students. Assisted study was put in place. The Learning Support Co-ordinator addressed parents at the First Year Parents Evening, held in September 2012.

25 Resources Budget allocation for 2012/2013 was spent during the year on the following: English - Reading schemes and texts to build up literacy skills. Mathematics Equipment, games/materials to consolidate mathematical skills. Stationary. Teaching and Learning As members of this department we support pupils and colleagues alike. Subject content is determined by: specific requirements of the individual or group being supported consultation with subject teachers and number of periods available per week Assisted Study Every effort is made to facilitate and promote teaching and learning, both during and after school. To this end, Assisted Study was organised. Due to pressure on existing resources, it could only be offered to pupils in the junior section of the school. Assisted Study was timetabled four days each week, Monday to Thursday, p.m. A centre was provided, catering for the needs of each year in the junior school. First, second and third year pupils were offered this facility. It involved providing an environment to improve study skills for those who participated, with their parent s written consent. A qualified teacher was present providing guidance if and when required. Assisted Study ran from September to May. Again this year, 4th year students acted as mentors in Assisted Study. The students had to apply in writing for the position of mentor. There were 50 applications in total all of whom met with Ms Ryan and Ms. S Kenny. All applicants were successful and they were split into 2 groups Group 1 assisted from 17th Sept.- 30th Jan. 2012; Group 2 assisted from 4th Feb. 23rd May Such was its success that the school hopes to be in a position to offer it again next year, resources permitting. All 4th years who participated were presented with a certificate of Participation on T.Y. evening. International Students The Home School Community Liaison Co-ordinator forwarded information about each international student to the learning support teachers. It was decided on an individual basis, whether or not learning support was required. The most appropriate intervention was offered. Some required individual support, while other pupils required curriculum materials adapted. All were offered assisted study. A Referral Form has been designed, to be completed when in the event of a midyear enrolment. This contains information pertinent to the Learning Support Department. Assessment and Achievement Throughout the school year, pupils involved in learning support receive positive reinforcement. A wide variety of materials produced by pupils are displayed on the walls of the learning centre. All available work was on display during Open Evening. Positive comment school cards were sent home, when appropriate. Prizes were presented at the annual school Awards Ceremony to a number of pupils for their work relating, 1. Participation in Who Wants to be a Word Millionaire Project. 2. Positive comment postcards were distributed at the end of term. 3. Poster competition. Parental Involvement Parents have been involved in the learning support department throughout the year. From their initial contact with learning support teachers, often on Open Evening, through communication on the phone or at meetings throughout the year to discuss their daughter s progress, their support and co-operation is always welcome. Testing Testing occurs throughout the year in both formal and informal settings, as the need arises. Entrance Assessments In March 2013, entrance assessments were carried out on the incoming first years for the 2013/2014 academic year. Members of the Learning Support department, Career Guidance teachers and other members of staff were involved in administering, marking and collating results. Entrance assessment results, were combined with the following; Information received from feeder primary schools visited by our Home School Community Liaison Coordinator/ Learning Support Coordinator. Information conveyed to school at time of registration. Psychological reports which were furnished by parents/guardians. The above information has enabled the learning support teachers to process the needs and identify pupils who may require or be entitled to additional learning support when they enter St. Leo s College. It also ensures that we are in a position to plan our time and resources for next year. Throughout the school year a number of teachers expressed concerns about specific students, who they considered could require learning support or educational assessment. Learning Support teachers

26 met with each student and administered diagnostic tests (N.R.I.T. and N.A.R.A.), and decided if learning support would be of benefit. Some students required short-term intervention while others required long term learning support and/or an educational assessment. Individual Educational Plans Individual Education Plans (I.E.P.s) have been drawn up for each pupil who has been assessed by an educational psychologist. Each plan is based on recommendations made by the psychologist. From these recommendations, schemes of work are devised appropriate to the needs of individual pupils. The duration of the intervention will vary according to the identified needs of each individual. Special Education Needs Officer With effect from January 2005, the National Council for Special Education (NCSE) took over key functions in relation to special education provision. Since that date all applications for supports for children with special educational needs, have been processed by this body through local Special Educational Needs Organiser (SENO). In 2008, Loraine Fleming Farrell was appointed SENO for the Carlow region. She is responsible for processing the school s applications for Resource teaching hours Special Needs Assistants School transport Assistive technology National Education Psychological Service The school works closely with the National Education Psychological Service. In January 2011, Dr Anita Purcell was appointed as our new school psychologist. Anita has carried out four educational psychological assessments since her appointment. Care Team Members of the Care Team consisted of management, Learning Support teachers, Guidance Counsellors and Home School Community Liaison Co-ordinator. Time-tabled to meet weekly, this group attempted to identify and target pupils who may have required additional support to that which is available to all pupils. A pastoral approach was adopted in this process. The Guidance Policy is in progress. Professional Development and In-service Learning support teachers attended a number of courses throughout the year. These were organised by a number of organisation outside of school hours. Thanks Despite being a relatively small department, the nature of our work involves the learning support team working closely with numerous departments within the school. Without the support and assistance of our colleagues our task would be much more difficult. At various times throughout the year, the Department of Education and Science/ N.C.S.E. allocated resources to the school, to provide additional support to pupils who would benefit from it. The dedication, enthusiasm and commitment displayed by staff members who supported learning in a variety of ways is commendable. Their involvement greatly enhanced the educational opportunities available to pupils in both the senior and junior sections of the school. The school aspires to provide an equally high level of learning support in 2013/2014. This however will be dependent upon the provision of resources by the N.C.S.E. We would like to thank all members of management and staff who have been so co-operative and supportive. Visiting Teachers At present there are three visiting teachers working with the school. These are: Visiting Teacher for the Visually Impaired - Carmel Fardy. Visiting Teacher for the Hearing Impaired Annabelle Hillman.

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28 Extra-Curricular Activities German Scholarships For the second year running St. Leo s College had the immense honour of five students being awarded the opportunity to celebrate their exceptional results in the Junior Certificate German exams. Following the publication of results, these students were selected by the Goethe Institute and invited to interview for valuable residential scholarships to Austria and Germany. Following interviews held at the institute in Dublin, Kate O Rourke, Kate Rowe and Carol Healy were awarded the opportunity to visit Germany for a number of weeks during the summer of German Scholarships Public Speaking Three Junior students represented St. Leo s College reaching the finals of the UCD Women Graduates Public Speaking competition. The team comprising Victoria Byrne, Clodagh Brophy and Caroline Halpin performed superbly and were unfortunate not to take first place. Sincere thanks to their mentors Alison Doyle and Sean O Flaherty who worked extremely hard preparing the girls for this prestigious event. There is no doubt that these three orators will rise again next year. Pope John Paul II Awards This year an incredible 13 students from St. Leo s College undertook and were conferred with the Pope John Paul II Award. This award enables young people to become more actively involved in the life of their local parishes and communities. This non-competitive, flexible and voluntary award encourages an understanding that faith informs the way in which we live our lives and that Social Awareness & Justice need to be an intrinsic part of our society. The awards ceremony included schools from all over the dioceses and was extra special in that our Chamber Choir performed on the night. Public Speaking Pope John Paul II Awards

29 Seachtain na Gaeilge 2013 Once again Seachtain na Gaeilge was celebrated with a range of events. From among the many events on offer for the students to participate in, bhí Bricfeasta as Gaeilge gach maidin sa bhialann/ sa cheaintín while Ciorcal Comhrá and Céilí Mór do gach duine was arranged at lunch time. 36 students were presented with their Fáinne whilst a number were interviewd on KCLR. To promote the Irish language and encourage the girls to speak Irish as often as possible students also took part in the Labhair Gaeilge initiative during the last term. St. Leo s College Educational Tours Once again we were so pleased to be in a position to offer our students the opportunity to undertake education outside of the classroom environment. A number of trips, extremely beneficial to the students, took place over the last year. These included: March weekend: A History Trip to Berlin led by Tom Nolan and Kate Redmond Easter Break: The TY trip to London led by David McAuliffe, Karen Ryan, Caroline Kelly, Seán O Flaherty, Gillian Tierney & Janice Cunningham Easter Break: 2nd Year Trip to Paris led by Fiona McManus, Veronica Doyle, Angela Kirwan, Jim O Keeffe and Mary Nolan. February Mid-Term Break: Ski Trip to Italy led by Anne Rennick & Helena Sheridan May weekend 5th Year Geography trip to Dublin (which included tickets to The Lion King) led by Sandra Corrigan and Caroline Kelly All the trips proved hugely enjoyable for all participants and as expected proceeded without incident, due in no small part to the exemplary behaviour of all travelling. Thanks to all members of staff who so generously gave of their time to facilitate these trips and of course to parents for making it all possible. Seachtain Na Gaeilge Student Enterprise Awards Student Enterprise Awards Student Enterprise Awards Once again the entrepreneurial flair of St Leo s College students was acclaimed at the County Carlow Enterprise Board awards. Three St. Leo s College students, Niamh Fahy, Ella McHugh and Cliona O Grady, took the much coveted first prize with their Wise Owl Discount Card, an initiative which gives card holders significant discount while also promoting shopping locally in order to sustain local jobs, local entrepreneurs and local businesses. On the night a second St. Leo s College team walked away with Best Display. African Film Success Congratulations to the Transition Year film making team of Kate Rowe, Niamh Fahy, Kate O Rourke and Trisha Sloyan who assisted 6th and 3rd year students in their production of a short film titled Africa: Land of Colour and Culture. The film, edited by TY student Niamh Smith, documented African culture from the perspective of the students of St. Leo s College. Their short film won first prize in the Post-Primary section of the Carlow African film festival. A very special mention to Naomi Okigbo, Karimat Olukoya, Zoe Oviawe, Chiamaka Okigbo, Lauren Pawley, and Valeidia Afrifra who featured in the film and to Edel Horan and Sean O Flaherty for their assistance. The prize was 500 to the school and a 53 Television which will take pride of place in our new building. The prize money will go towards a film scholarship which will be established in the new academic year. Another innovation for St. Leo s College Transition Year will be the inclusion of a module in Digital Media from September.

30 Extra-Curricular Sporting Department Members Sandra Corrigan, Dearbhla Cussen, Veronica Doyle, Fiona Farrell, Vivienne Kelly, Nuala Kennedy, Angela Kirwan, Clare McGrath. Anne Rennick, Maria Ryan, Helena Sheridan and Jennifer Skelton Department Coordinator Anne Rennick St. Leo s College fielded teams in eleven different sports - Athletics, Badminton, Basketball, Camogie, Equestrian Events, Gaelic Football, Golf, Hockey, Rounders, Soccer and Volleyball. St Leo s College also ran a very successful ski trip during the year. Rounders and badminton teams played within the school while all others competed in leagues outside of school. Athletics Cross Country This year, St Leo s College competed in the Carlow schools cross country league with teams at all levels and also in the South Leinster schools cross country. Siobhra O Flaherty won the South Leinsters, the Leinsters and All-Ireland Junior cross country championships and she was then selected to compete as part of the Irish schools team in Cardiff in March, where she finished in the top 10. Track and Field St. Leo s College was well represented at the South Leinster track and field competition in Kilkenny with several successes. Bronagh Walsh (1styr) was second in the hurdles and Lorna Drea (1st yr.) was second in the shot putt, At junior level Nicole Kehoe Dowling broke the South Leinster Discus record winning gold and Mikayla Kelly won silver. Nicole won silver in the javelin and Mikayla was second in the shot. Claire Delaney won silver in the pole vault and Molly Travers was third. Siobhra O Flaherty won the 1500m and in so doing broke the South Leinster record by 17 seconds! At U16, the U16 4 x 300m relay won. The team was Chloe Murphy, Wumni Olajide. Oyinlade Ogbonmide and Rachel Fennelly. In the pole vault Kerrie Doyle won gold. At U17 Rachel Doyle was 2nd in the 200m. Alanna Rowen won silver in the shot and Chiamka Okigbo won bronze, Kate Rowe won bronze in the high Jump. The U17 relay of Rachel Doyle, Lauren Dwyer, Vera Fadel and Lisa O Toole won silver. At senior level the relay team won silver the team was Evelyn Deane, Michaela Nolan, Jade Geoghegan, Lisa Hayden and Kerri Doyle. All these athletes qualified for the Leinster finals which were held in Santry. Leinster Finals In the Leinster finals Bronagh Walsh won silver in Hurdles, Mikayla Kelly won bronze in the discus and Nicole Kehoe Dowling won silver in the discus and bronze in the javelin. Siobhra O Flaherty won the 1500m. Nicole Kehoe Dowling won Bronze in Javelin and silver in the discus, Mikayla Kelly won bronze in the discus. Claire Delaney won the Junior pole vault and Kerrie Doyle was third in the U17 Pole Vault. Rachel Doyle won silver in the 200m. All these athletes qualified for the All-Ireland finals that were held on June 1st in Tullamore. All Irelands At the All-Irelands Siobhra O Flaherty won the junior 1500m in a fantastic time of 4 mins and 21 secs, Claire Delaney was second in the junior pole vault and Kerrie Doyle was third in the inter pole vault. Nicole Keogh Dowling was second in the junior discus. Badminton A group of 30 third year students attended training every Tuesday at lunchtime. We held in - school tournaments at Christmas and Easter. Students played matches and officiated at both tournaments. Basketball A group of 30 first year students attended training twice weekly. The group attended two coaching sessions with an outside coach in April and May. They also played in a tournament in the Gaelcholaiste in March and a tournament was held in St Leo s in May with 4 local schools attending. Camogie St. Leo s College ran a camogie club this year for students. They trained once a week and played against several other school teams.

31 Equestrian Club This year has been a very successful year for the Equestrian Club. Earlier in the year the Novice Team of Carla Hennessy, Ciara Hennessy, Sarah Cosgrave and Emma Wall, came first and second in two events. Katie Hurley has been placed in individual competitions, and Jane Hosey finished fourth with an Ursuline Waterford team. Katie will be heading to Germany on the U-16 Irish Dressage Team and Romy Bolger has represented Ireland at international one day events. The team of Evelyn Moore, Ciara Kelly, Niamh Kennedy and Taylor Deane are the All-Ireland Inter Schools Champions and will travel to Hickshead, England to represent St. Leo s in the equivalent competition there in August. The girls won a training bursary of 1,500 and 500 to spend, all sponsored by Horse Sport Ireland. Gaelic Football This year St Leo s College had 5 teams entered in competitions, 1 senior team, 2 junior teams (A and E) and 2 U14 teams (A and E). The Junior A Gaelic Football team had wins early in the school year, away to Scoil Mhuire, Trim and Coláiste Íosagáin, Stillorgan and also at home to St. Mary s, Edenderry. This set up an eagerly awaited Leinster final against old opposition in the form of St. Mary s, Edenderry. In early December both teams travelled to Mountmellick in the hope of winning the Leinster A title. An emphatic 1st half display from the Carlow girls ensured the game was out of reach of the Offaly outfit and St. Leo s retained their title on a scoreline of 7-7 to 3-4. Lauren Dwyer was awarded player of the match. A long wait followed until their next competitive match in March in the All-Ireland semi-final. Unfortunately the St. Leo s girls came up against a very formidable side from Glenamaddy Community School in Galway in the All - Ireland semi-final in Birr and were defeated on the day by the eventual All Ireland champions. The Junior E competition was 11 a side. St Leo s College had wins over Duiske College, Graiguenamanagh, Equestrian Team Sports Awards TY Tennis Meanscoil Gharman and Johnstown VS Kilkenny in the group stages of the competition. They lost to St Paul s Monasterevin in the Leinster quarter final. The U14 A team was also training from early in the school year but didn t see competitive action until February. Coláiste Íosagáin, Stillorgan defeated them in their first match. St. Leo s then travelled to Moate C.S to play a Leinster semi-final against a fancied Moate side. The St. Leo s girls showed great determination and team work to make little of the opposition and qualify for another Leinster Final. In early May they travelled to Blessington to try and avenge a previous beating this year by Coláiste Íosagáin. A great performance by all the team on the day turned a 9 point deficit into a 2 point lead late in the 2nd half but unfortunately we were not able to continue our dominance as Coláiste Íosagáin pushed home to win the u14 A title. The U14 E team had a 1 day blitz in Tinryland in February. They played two games but didn t progress to the next round. Lauren Dwyer, Junior Captain Victoria Byrne, U14 Captain The Junior players were: Ella Lacey, Kayleigh Elgar, Ashleigh Farrell, Anna O Neill, Roisin Byrne, Niamh Byrne, Karen Nolan, Maeve Phelan, Áine Dunne, Aoife Ramsbottom, Audrey Murphy, Aisling Lacey, Stephanie Dunne, Aoife Brennan, Lauren Walsh, Megan Grufferty, Emily Moore, Siobhfra O Flaherty, Jenny Smith, Christine Middleton, Emily Horgan, Hannah Kavanagh, Emma Brophy, Roisin Brennan, Rachel Mulholland, Nicole Kehoe Dowling, Alannah Elgar, Amy Mc Donald, Kate McDonald, Amy Monahan, Ciara Langton, Ciara Nolan, Bronagh Walsh, Emma O Neill, Aoife Nolan, Ciara Hickey, Eve McCanny, Annie Smith, Zoe Jackson & Eimear Glynn. The Senior Football team were unfortunate this year and suffered early defeats to Loreto Wexford eventual Leinster Champions, and Coláiste Íosagáin, Stillorgan- Leinster Runner-ups which ended their seven year run as Leinster Champions. Orlagh Moran, 6th year was given the honour and privilege of representing Leinster at the Inter Provincial

32 Championship in January. She was one of only 24 students picked from over 150 schools in Leinster. TY GAA Two groups of students completed their TY GAA coaching course this year. Some of the students coached in local primary schools and some coached our own first year students. The Transition Years organised a 10 a side tournament for first year students in October. They organised the matches, coached and refereed. Golf This year, Jill Jennings competed in the annual schools competition. Gymnastics Some of our first year gymnasts completed the Gymnastics Ireland Gym Start Awards scheme at a variety of levels in gymnastics on Monday evenings. Aisling Brophy Level 9, Georgia Fox, Tara Byrne, Phoebe Lawler, Aislinn Flood all level 4. Kate Rowe, Trisha Sloyan, Shannon Geoghegan and Roisin O Donohue participated in a Gymnastics Ireland Level coaching course held in St Leo s this year and received their first Gymnastics coaching qualifications. They used these qualifications in helping to coach other students this year, Congratulations to some of our gymnasts who won medals at the All - Ireland Acrobatic Gymnastics final held in Galway in May; To Aisling Brophy who won silver at Grade 1 and Crea Hickson and Tara Woods who won Bronze at Grade 1. Shannon Geoghegan won bronze at Grade 3 and Trisha Sloyan who won gold and who also made the qualifying score for the European Acro Gymnastics championships which will be held in Lisbon in October. Athletics Hockey This year we entered seven teams in the league and two teams in the cup. The inter A team reached the semi-final of the cup while the Junior 1 team were runners up in the junior South East league. The junior team included: Audrey Murphy, Maeve Phelan, Aine Dunne, Sophie O Shea, Ellen Holohan, Ailish Osborne, Sophie Anthony, Ciara Nolan, Karen Nolan, Katie Quinn, Jill Jennings, Maria Hegarty, Erica Robinson, and Clare Colgan. The Inter A team reached the semi-final of the cup but were defeated by FCJ Bunclody. Junior A Leinster Football Champs

33 Interprovincial Hockey Players Aisling Byrne (6th year) and Niamh Smith (5th Year) were selected onto the South East U18 interprovincial team. Rounders Due to poor weather conditions this year, only the junior school competed in competition. Thanks to all the 4th and 5th year students who assisted in refereeing the competition. Winners 1st Year: 2nd Year: 3rd Year: Soccer J3 2C 3G Students from first year took part in an indoor soccer competition that was held in Bagenalstown. The team played very well and won the tournament to advance into the Leinster finals. This second tournament was held in Gormanstown and the first year team played some super soccer and eventually emerged in second place, narrowly beaten by the eventual winners. Aoife Nolan in 1st year excelled in both tournaments. Ski Trip St. Leo s College travelled to Sestriere, Italy during the February mid-term break. The students attended four hours of Ski lessons for each of the six days and had time to practice in between lessons, by the end of the week the students had skied a variety of blue and red slopes. Each girl received an awards card from their ski instructor indicating the level of skills they had achieved. They also participated in a wide variety of après ski activities. A fabulous time was had by all both on and off the piste. Volleyball This year, St Leo s College had ten teams compete in league volleyball competition, one in cup competition and sixteen teams in spike ball competition. All of the teams competed very well with the Senior Cup team reaching quarter final stage and a second year team reaching semi-final stage. 15 Transition year students took part in coaching spike ball and spent the year coaching various 1st and 2nd year spike ball teams. Awards Carlow Sports Awards Chloe Lawlor for Archery Lauren Dwyer for Soccer The Nationalist Quarterly Awards Siobhra O Flaherty for Athletics Chloe Lawlor for Archery Ciara Kelly for Equestrian Lauren Dwyer for Soccer Management structures and strategic leadership are of a high quality and are effective in promoting high standards of engagement, achievement and quality improvement. Ski Trip Volleyball Whole School Evaluation - March 2013 Captain Lauren Dwyer Chloe Lawlor - Archer

34 TRANSITION YEAR Transition Year Co-ordinators Ms Angela Kirwan & Ms Helena Sheridan Programme Co-ordinator Mrs. Mary Kyne It is with great pleasure that we present our Transition Year Report for this academic year. We must firstly thank the teaching staff, Ms Clare Ryan, Ms Helen Regan and Ms Patricia Gurhy for their assistance in providing our students with a huge range of exciting projects, modules and courses. We would also like to thank Ms Vivienne Kelly, Year Head of Transition Year for her enormous contribution during this academic year. This ensured a busy, fulfilling and enjoyable year for those who availed of the many opportunities presented to them. One hundred and thirty students undertook the TY programme during this academic year. Many subjects, modules and programmes were available to all students during the year. Samples of Leaving Certificate subjects were available to assist students in subject choice. Students also had the opportunity of participating in Religion, Heritage, Social Skills, Mini Company, PE, Development Education and Italian. It was a year to enter competitions including the Young Social Innovators, BT Young Scientist and Mini Company. TY provided students with a year to develop IT skills, team building skills and social skills. Sport leadership programmes in GAA and Spikeball were also available to all our TY students. Modules in Philosophy, Public Speaking, International Cookery, Psychology, Tourism Awareness and Road Safety were also on offer. St. Leo s College has developed very valuable links with local organisations including Carlow Youth Services, County Carlow Enterprise Board, Carlow and South Leinster Rape Crisis Centre and Carlow IT. We would also like to thank Carlow Town Council for organising the French Exchange Programme for our Transition Year students. The following students participated in the French Exchange Programme during this academic year: Vera Fadel, Aine Carey, Katherine Byrne, Teresa Farrell, Shaina Hoy, Emma Graham, Maria Lawler, Aoife Mannion, Carol Healy, Katie Dunne, Katie Webb, Leah Holohan and Orla Heffernan. The following students were involved in the Assisted Study Mentoring Programme where they assisted students with their homework after school. Carol Healy, Niamh Farrell, Teresa Farrell, Ciara O Brien, Ashleigh Farrell, Jessica Hutton, Rebecca Kinsella, Lisa O Toole, Kate Bolger, Shona Hennessy, Niamh Brophy, Rachel Delaney, Rebecca Loughman, Aoife Mannion, Aoife Byrne, Maria Lawler, Cliona O Grady, Claire Dunne, Megan Fitzpatrick, Georgia Hughes, Chantelle Coakley, Roisin Byrne, Sarah O Neill, Eimear Kelly, Megan Ormond, Orla Heffernan, Nuala Murphy, Caroline Glynn, Chanipa Kelly, Jenna Dempsey, Aine Carey, Laura Brennan, Avena Lennon, Ella Mc Hugh, Shauna Hoy, Ashley Larkin, Shannon Farrell, Rebecca Byrne, Rebecca Fitzpatrick, Kate Dunne, Amy Collins, Amy Mc Gurik, Emma Graham, Trisha Sloyan, Jazia Akenzua, Lauren Comerford, Niamh Fahy, Maria Cullinan, Marian Walsh and Sarah Aylsbury. Transition year students also participated in a two-week work experience module. Three class groups went on work experience in November with the remaining two class groups in January. We would like to thank our two career Guidance teachers for co-ordinating this and the teaching staff who monitor students in their work placements. We would like to thank all the employers who facilitate our work experience module. Work experience provides students with a time to grow in confidence and maturity. We would also like to acknowledge the very valuable work placements secured during this academic year by Ms Mairead Redmond. Four student placements were secured in the Mini Med Programme, two at Vision Independent Productions and two at Screen Time Productions. Two students also went on a special Transition Year work placement in St. Patricks Hospital, Dublin. St. Leo s College was fortunate to secure these placements and both Nuala Murphy and Sarah O Neill attended a graduation ceremony on Friday 17th May Both students were congratulated for their fundraising campaign Walk in my Shoes. All students participated in the Young Entrepreneurs Programme organised by the County Carlow Enterprise Board. Six mini enterprises represented St. Leo s College at the County Final held in Carlow Institute of Technology on Wednesday evening 6th March. Cookie and Crisp Mini Company won the best display award and congratulations to company members Chanipa Kelly, Avena Lennon, Alicia Tobin and Joanne Layton. Wise Owl Discount Cards won the school award and were the overall winners of the competition. Team members included Ella Mc Hugh, Cliona O Grady and Niamh Fahy. Their teacher was Ms Anne Marie Winters. These students represented St. Leo s College at the National Finals in Croke Park on Wednesday 17th April. The Social Skills teachers organised presentations including the KAS (Knowledge, Awareness and Safety) Programme facilitated by the Carlow and South Leinster Rape Crisis Centre and Beat the Blues Workshops facilitated by Stephen Dargan from AWARE. The Religion teachers organised a retreat for all our Transition Year students during the academic year and the 4A class group also had the opportunity of participating in the Volunteering Module. The students liaised with Ms Ashling Kellett from the Carlow branch of Volunteering Ireland and on awards evening the students were presented with certificates. Ms Vivienne Kelly, presented the Sports Awards to the Transition Year students. The Sports Prefects were thanked for their contribution to the sports department during the year and received certification. They included: Katherine Byrne 4A, Kate Bolger 4A, Rupali Ashashan 4A, Niamh Fahy 4B, Vera Fadel 4B, Ashleigh Farrell 4B, Katie Fitzpatrick 4B, Caroline Glynn 4B, Carol Healy 4C, Orla Heffernan 4C, Ella McHugh

35 4D, Amie McGuirk 4D, Nuala Murphy 4D, Ciara O Brien 4D, Cliona O Grady 4D, Trisha Sloyan 4E, Kate Rowe 4E, and Marian Walsh 4E. The following students received their GAA Coaching Certificates: Maria Lawler, Chloe Sheehan, Roisin Byrne, Lauren Callinan, Jessica Nolan, Teresa Farrell, Aoife Maddock, Lauren Dwyer, Anna O Neill, Laura Brennan, Rebecca Loughman, Kate Dunne, Niamh Power, Rebecca Byrne, Rachael Brophy, Kate Bolger, Niamh Brophy, Shannon Farrell, Chantel Coakley, Ashleigh Farrell, Caroline Farrell, Clare Dunne, Lauren Comerford, Katie Fitzpatrick, Anna Julien, Brid Keogh, Aoife Maddock, Joanne Langton, Georgina Hughes, Ashleigh Larkin, Deirbhile Holland, Shona Hennessy, Maria O Dwyer, Nuala Murphy, Kate Rowe, Therese O Regan and Lisa O Toole. Spikeball Refeering Certificates were presented to Amie McGuirk, Ella McHugh, Katie Fitzpatrick, Katie Harding, Trisha Sloyan, Kate Rowe, Catherine Buckley, Caroline Glynn, Sarah O Neill, Aoife Byrne, Niamh Fahy, Niamh O Donoghue, Kate Bolger and Maria O Dwyer. On Transition Year evening the following students were acknowledged for their contribution as Technology Assistants during this academic year. Shanice Walker, Rachel Whelan, Alicia Tobin, Ciara O Brien, Anna O Neill, Erika O Connor, Rebecca Loughman, Aoife Byrne and Maria O Dwyer. Ciara O Brien, Erika O Connor and Nicole O Hara were acknowledged for their contribution as Home Economics Assistants during this academic year. Ms Ruth McHugh and Nuala Murphy spoke of their involvement in the Gaisce programme in St. Leo s College. Fifty eight students participated in this prestigious award which included a weekend away in Glendalough. Special thanks to Ms Ruth Mc Hugh for organising and monitoring the certification of the award and to the staff who gave of their time and went to Glendalough for the weekend. TY Tennis YSI The highlight of the year had to be Mamma Mia our Transition Year musical. Our production involving all Transition Year students went on stage to packed audiences on Thursday and Friday 14th and 15th March. Special thanks to Ms Gillian Tierney, Ms Anne Buckeridge, Ms Aine Shiels, staff and members of the Parents Council for their enormous contribution. Every Wednesday transition year students were involved in the activities programme organised by Gaisce Ms Angela Kirwan, Mr Jim O Keeffe and Ms Helena Sheridan. The activities varied from self-defence, yoga, first aid to etiquette and make up lessons. Students went on trips to Mount Leinster, Dunmore Caves, Castlecomer Discovery Park, The Chocolate Factory, Kilkenny Castle, Altamount Gardens, Baltinglass Outdoor Centre and the Zoo. Over fifty students went on the annual Transition Year tour to London. The highlight of the tour was a trip to the West End to enjoy a spectacular production of Mama Mia. We thank Mr McAuliffe for organising the tour. Young Social Innovator s Project; You can t have a rainbow without a little rain was also presented at Transition Year evening. Ms Sheila Coady and her YSI class presented their project on teenage depression. The students selected this issue because it is very prominent in today s society, yet people are still struggling to talk about it. The YSI team wanted teenagers to feel more comfortable with the issue and to have a better understanding of how to cope with some of the underlying causes of depression such as excessive stress. Basically they wanted to find ways of building positive mental health and managing stress in their lives. They participated in workshops which really helped them to deepen their understanding of mental health in general. Some of the workshops they participated in were: AWARE s Beat the Blues workshop facilitated by Stephen Dargan. Building Resilience facilitated by Linda Thorpe, Mental Health Ireland in the Rainbow Cafe during Mental Health week. Positive Mental Health a talk given by Ms Avril O Sullivan, Career Guidance Counsellor gave the team a very good insight into understanding positive mental health. Raising Awareness of Mental Health a workshop facilitated by Mairead Maddock, Carlow Children s and Young People s Committee which helped the team identify their goals and the actions they wanted to take in responding to teenage depression. The team was in regular contact with Leanne Sweeney, Carlow Regional Youth Services who supported team members with ideas about how CRYS works with young people and how its personnel could support the project. All of these speakers and workshops helped the team deepen their knowledge and so they decided the best way to respond to the issue of depression was to focus on ways to manage stress in their lives and ways of building positive mental

36 health. They undertook the following actions with the help of their teachers and support from Ms Ryan and all staff. They organised Zumba dance classes for all third year students before their pre Junior Certificate examinations. They hoped it would help them to manage their stress levels before the exams. The team organised a movie afternoon for all Transition Year students because taking time out to relax and going to see a film is a good way to cope with stressful situations. The money raised from the event was used to make a small contribution to the work of Carlow Regional Youth Services. Having experienced the benefits of the Beat the Blues workshop they liaised with Ms. Sheridan and with her help organised Stephen Dargan to return to deliver the workshop to all Transition Year students. A positive mental health notice board was created on the sixth year corridor. It is brightly decorated and has a variety of positive quotations and images. The team wrote and performed a silent drama at the YSI Speak Out and performed it again at the Transition Year Parents Evening. The message behind the drama was don t suffer in silence, talk about your problems. This year, Ms Cussen s YSI class focussed on the issue of drug prevention. Their project title was: Don t be led astray, keep drugs away. Having consulted with Carlow Youth Services in October 2012, they were extremely fortunate to have had workshops regarding the issue of drug prevention, guided by Angela Keogh. As part of their innovative response the YSI class designed a leaflet, including information about clubs and societies in St. Leo s College and in Carlow. This was then distributed to second year students after having hosted an activities afternoon in the Assembly Hall in February. Some students from the class demonstrated some of the activities on offer in the Carlow area, including Martial Arts, swimming and dancing. It s Mamma Mia Time The two YSI classes organised fund-raisers which included bake-sales for the Carlow Youth Services. A cheque was presented to Angela Keogh, for the Carlow Youth Services at the Transition Year Evening. The YSI classes were very grateful for her guidance and good-will during the year. Three Transition Year students were also acknowledged for their initiative to enter The Gathering Film Competition sponsored by Bank of Ireland. Grace Murphy, Sarah O Neill and Cliona O Grady not only represented St. Leo s College but represented the Carlow and the south east region at an award ceremony in Kilkenny. Grace has really got the film bug and was presented with another national award in RTE recently. It s Mamma Mia Time

37 Our BT Young Scientist Award winners were also welcomed on stage. Ella Mc Hugh, Niamh O Donoghue and Cliona O Grady represented St. Leo s College and were awarded two prestigious awards at this national competition last January. The girls were awarded the Marie Keating Foundation prize for cancer awareness and also received 3rd prize in the Intermediate Social and Behavioural Sciences Category. Special acknowledgement to their teachers Ms Fiona Mc Manus and Ms Ruth Mc Hugh. Following the introduction of a film production module as part of Transition Year last year, this year saw the completion of two film productions, one of which won an award in the secondary school short film category of the Carlow African Film Festival. A group of Transition Year students from across a range of our five TY classes formed to work on the Transition Year Film The film, called Change, is a story of a coin with a magical origin that travels from one character to another, bringing luck to all who find it, until it is returned to its rightful owner. The film, shown to parents, students and staff on Transition Year evening, was entertaining, humorous and enjoyed by all. The students loved working on the production, both in terms of learning how to operate equipment, storyboard the plot, filming individual scenes, and deciding on the music to be included and how the final edit of the film should look. A special thank you is reserved for student Niamh Smith from 4E who digitally edited the footage recorded to an exceptionally high standard. A team of four TY students from the film-making group also volunteered their time to record a film for entry into the secondary schools short film competition which was part of the Carlow African Film festival. Kate O Rourke, Trisha Sloyan, Niamh Smith and Kate Rowe filmed the cultural perceptions of Africa as told by St. Leo s College students Naomi Okigbo, Zoe Oviawe, Karimat Olukoyo, Chiamaka Okigbo, Lauren Pawley and Valeidia Afrifa. The film, Africa: Land of Colour and Culture, celebrated the diversity and richness of Africa in terms of art, story-telling, language, family and dress. Again, the film was edited superbly by Niamh Smith 4E. Both the students and the school was delighted that the film won first prize at the film festival. The 42 inch TV awarded as part of the prize will be used to furnish the new school building currently under construction, and the 500 prize money was divided between the students who filmed and featured in the production, with a portion of the money set aside for a film scholarship for one of our students. The TY co-ordinators are currently working to include Digital Media as a set module on the Transition Year curriculum for the school year so that more students can benefit from the experience of filmmaking in future years. The TY co-ordinators would like to thank Mr Sean O Flaherty and Ms Edel Horan for overseeing the students work and instructing them in the art of film-making. Tuesday 21st was the annual display evening and was a great showcase for the vast amount of work and activities undertaken over the previous nine months. Students were presented with certificates marking their involvement in Religion, Self-Defence, Young Social Innovators, Assisted Study and Sports Programmes. On Friday 24th May, students received both their Department of Education and St. Leo s College TY Certificates. Students were complimented for their maturity and co-operation throughout the year and we wish them well next year as they enter 5th year and begin their journey to Leaving Certificate. Results from student questionnaires and interviews indicated high levels of satisfaction with their school. Students are proud of their school, feel cared for, encouraged and well supported to achieve to their potential. Whole School Evaluation - March 2013

38 Awards Civic, Social and Political Education Art Business Studies History German Home Economics French Geography English Gaeilge Information Technology Italian Maths Music Religious Education Science Physical Eductaion Technology

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40 ART Department Members: Marie Nolan and Tara Gooch 1st Year First years are introduced to basic techniques and materials in order to learn fundamental art elements, and acquire knowledge to make an informed subject decision for next year. Each project is designed to last approximately four weeks in duration, so a wide range of art areas are covered. Drawing Painting Graphic design Clay work 3D Craftwork Printing To promote savings in St. Leo s College, Carlow Credit Union organised a poster competition among First Year pupils. 1st prize was awarded to Manuela Kuhne J6 2nd prize awarded to Treasa Hayden J4 3rd prize Chloe Murphy J4 Highly commended - Holly Shorthose J5 and Emma Townsend J6. Carlow Lyons club launched a poster competition based on the theme Peace & Harmony among young people. First prize was awarded to Katie Bullen J1 who represented our school in the Carlow region. St. Leo s College held a competition to design a book mark based on this idea to encourage pupils to open a new leaf and turn a page. 1st prize was awarded to Emma Townsend whose design encouraged pupils to turn a page or two An Adventure awaits you.

41 2nd Year Building upon skills and knowledge gained in First Year, pupils are encouraged to improve and experiment with techniques and materials. Projects are longer and more detailed. Pupils are introduced to the Junior Certificate course and to the concepts of support studies and preparatory work. Pupils need to practice their figure and object drawing, in order that a good standard is attained next year. Areas covered are: Drawing-Figure and Object drawing Painting-From real and imaginary sources 3D-Construction using egg card and various objects, also Clay Modelling Craft Area-Photography, Modelling, Printing, Batik and Calligraphy Craftwork-Photography, Lino printing, Pottery and Batik (2/3 of these options) Graphic Design-Poster work and Packaging This year our school musical was It s Mamma Mia time. Second year pupils were asked to participate in a competition to come up with a winning poster and ticket/programme design for It s Mamma Mia time. The winning design would be printed by a professional printer and advertised around the county. 1st prize was awarded to Niamh Germaine 2C for her poster design and Rachel Condron 2B for the programme design. Highly commended Julie-Ann Kelly 2C. 3rd Year Pupils are prepared for their Junior Certificate examination. This involves a project, which is started in November and ends in May. There are two drawing exams in May. Project-75% Drawing-25% Painting Object drawing Poster/Graphic Design Figure Drawing 3D work Craft Area: Modelling Printing Batik Calligraphy Most pupils choose the honours options. The wonderful displays of projects are exhibited in the Art and Craft rooms on our Open Night. This year the quality of the projects were of an extremely high standard. 4th Year Since art is an optional subject some pupils in Fourth Year may never have taken this subject before. Therefore projects are kept simple and interesting, but flexible enough for the more experienced pupils to excel in. Projects this year include craft areas (Batik wall hangings), as well as Drawing, Painting, Printing and Pottery. Set design, stage construction and scenery painting for It s Mamma Mia Time : Approximately fifteen pupils, who work under guidance, prepare the stage for the school musical. The pupils prepare the sets on ten canvas panels (8 x4 ) each. They then paint the images giving attention to pattern and tone. This project takes 4 weeks of constant work and decision-making. It is a wonderful learning experience especially for those pupils who have a keen interest in art. Activities: Activities include Set painting, Batik, Large-scale painting, Printing and Pottery work for display in the school on the Transition Year evening. This year all pupils organised an exhibition in the sports hall to showcase their wonderful creations. The paintings on display were particularly outstanding while sets created a great backdrop for their end of year show. Two written reports are required from each Transition Year pupil: 1. Irish History of Art-December deadline 2. European Artist-April deadline. Each pupil researches a prescribed topic e.g. Impressionism. 5th Year The Leaving Certificate includes the following: History of Art 38% Figure Drawing 12% Craftwork 25% Still Life Drawing 25%

42 History of Art is introduced as a major part of the syllabus. Resources include the book History and Appreciation and visits to exhibitions. We are fortunate to have in our department an excellent selection of resources. We also use a data projector in the art-room to display Internet resources etc. The Irish art section is studied during this year. Drawing- the emphasis is on figure drawing using different media Still Life is covered mainly in Sixth Year Craftwork - Three areas are covered so that the pupil can select one area to study for next year. The crafts that are covered are clay work (modelling or pottery), poster work and batik. Considerations are design source, research and drawing, degree of finish and use of technique. Pupils are encouraged to look at, and respond to art works as part of the appreciation section of their course. To facilitate this, visits are arranged to museums and galleries. This year fifth and sixth year pupils visited an exhibition in the National Concert Hall of paintings and sculpture by Alice Maher. She is a modern and contemporary Irish artist. Other activities: This year four Leaving Certificate pupils, Jennifer Grace, Stacey Kinsella, Katie Sherlock and Meghan Ryan worked very hard on art portfolios in order to gain entry to Art College. Congratulations to Jennifer and Stacey who have been accepted to the National College of Art and Design, Crawford College and Limerick School of Art and Design. Meghan and Katie are waiting on confirmation to study animation in Dublin Institute of Technology. Resources Textbook Art History & Appreciation Art Library Internet Visual Aids Storeroom-Art Materials Exhibitions The senior art classes also went to the National College of Art and Design open day, Dublin. Three pupils, Beatrice Vaiciunaite, Katie Doyle and Alison Kirwan participated in the All-Ireland Scholarship poster competition. This competition was used to highlight the many scholarships that are available for college 6th Year Pupils work on a selected craft area as part of their exam. Still life is studied in detail during the first term. Experimentation in pencil, pastels and paint are encouraged. Figure drawing skills are further refined. Th study of History of Art is continued in the European & Art appreciation section. Artwork from our Art room Together, senior management maintains a visible presence and works collaboratively with staff and students to promote high standards in all aspects of school life. Whole School Evaluation - March 2013

43 BUSINESS STUDIES Department Members: Mary Kyne, (Department Co-ordinator), Helen Regan, Ann Marie Winters, Willie Cullen, Emer Ryan, Clare Mc Grath. We would also like to thank Maria Foley for her enormous contribution to the department while Emer Ryan was on maternity leave. We were delighted to facilitate teaching practice for Deirdre Delaney, Catherine Gardiner, Ailbhe White and Sarah Hennessy. In the Business Studies Department, we aim to instil in our students a keen awareness of the impact of the world of Business in their daily lives. At Junior Certificate level students are presented with a taster of topics relevant to Leaving Certificate Business, Accounting and Economics. It is a very comprehensive course. All first year students take Business Studies as a subject. In second and third year it is an option subject but the vast majority of students choose to continue studying it. In second year there are four class groups of Business Studies and there are six class groups in third year. First year pupils are taught three periods per week while second and third year students receive four periods per week instruction. In some instances second and third year classes are timetabled concurrently. All classes are mixed ability. Business Studies also provides students with an excellent base upon which they can further their study of business by choosing one or more of the business related courses at Leaving Certificate level i.e. Accounting, Economics or Business. In each of these disciplines we aim to deepen our students knowledge of the world of Business.

44 Transition Year At Transition Year level the absence of intensity of exam pressure allows us to facilitate our students to discover the relevance and practical application of Business in their daily lives. We choose what we consider to be the most interesting topics from the course and we give our students a taste of the three branches of the subject Accounting, Business and Economics. In this way, we help students with their Leaving Certificate subject choice. Students receive approximately eleven weeks tuition in each branch. The class groupings in Transition Year are entirely mixed ability and classes are divided alphabetically. During Transition Year afternoon, students display their year s work. In the business module, topics covered included personal taxation, banking, marketing and consumer law. In the accounting module the topics covered are marginal costing, club accounts and cash budgets. In the economics module students explore the topics of economic growth and development, economic indicators, demand and supply. In Transition Year, students also participate in the Young Entrepreneurs Programme in association with County Carlow Enterprise Board. Students are exposed to the real world of Business in producing, marketing and selling their mini company products. There are two class periods per week and all Transition Year students are timetabled together. Students attend workshops organised by the County Carlow Enterprise Board. Students also had the opportunity of selling their products in Carlow. Students prepared company reports and attended school interviews in January. Six mini enterprises represented St. Leo s College at the County Final held in Carlow Institute of Technology on Wednesday evening 6th March. Cookie and Crisp Mini Company won the best display award and congratulations to company members Chanipa Kelly, Avena Lennon, Alica Tobin and Joanne Layton. Wise Owl Discount Cards won the school award and were the overall winners of the competition. Team members included Ella Mc Hugh, Clionadh O Grady and Niamh Fahy. Their teacher was Ms Ann Marie Winters. These students represented St. Leo s College at the National Finals in Croke Park on Wednesday 17th April. The Business department has also developed strong links with the local Institute of Technology. Mr Martin Maher head of Business spoke to all Transition Year students on the careers available in business. Ms Marion O Toole, Student Officer, Carlow Credit Union also gave a presentation to all Transition Year students on the role of the Credit Union and encouraged students to get involved in the running of the Credit Union here in St. Leo s College. Transition Year students completed the Tourism Awareness Programme devised by Failte Ireland. One of the trips organised in the Transition Year Activities Module was a trip to the Chocolate Factory. A group of Transition Year students also participated in the Junior Achievement Programme where students were exposed to the importance of finance, budgeting and careers opportunities in business. Resources We have a Business Studies board on the main corridor of the school on which we display information in connection with the subject. Each year we draw from material covered in various books and publications. The computer room is also used as a resource. Here students can surf the net for Business/Economics related information such as the key economic indicators and information on Irish businesses. Our library also offers opportunity for research and the daily newspapers facilitate further independent study. Department members are developing Junior Certificate Business and Leaving Certificate Business resources on St. Leo s College Moodle site. Textbooks we used this year were: Integrated Business Studies A Modern Approach by Matt Hynes (Junior Certificate Business Studies.) Modern Economics - Spencer and McCarthy (Leaving Certificate Economics). Accounting for Senior Cycle New Edition by Christy Tyrrell (Leaving Certificate Accounting) Business Today- Pat Mc Laughlin and Peter Caulwell (Leaving Certificate Business). Methodologies: Our methodologies include direct teaching, class discussion, group work, project work, role play, direct questioning and working extensively from previous exam papers. The department prepares word banks, word search and extra notes. Assessment: Assessment includes homework, class tests and oral work. Each teacher is responsible for her own class tests. All first year students follow a common programme, which includes topics such as Budgeting, Analysed Cash books, The Consumer, Money and Banking, Personal Borrowing and Insurance. Class tests are given periodically and these consolidate continuous assessment. First year students sit a one-hour common exam at the end of May while second year students sit a one and a half hour exam. In second and third year the topics taught are dictated by the syllabus and the department scheme of work and all efforts are concentrated on preparing our students for their Junior Certificate exam. In fifth and sixth year, students also receive class tests frequently. At the end of fifth year, students sit a two-hour exam for each subject. In addition, third and sixth year students sit a mock examination in February/March. Parent Teacher meetings are held in the school for each year whereby teachers give parents feedback on their daughter s progress.

45 Competitions/Clubs: Our senior students, in conjunction with Carlow Credit Union operate a very successful Credit Union within the school. This gives the students operating it the opportunity to directly develop their business skills and a chance for the entire school community to develop the habit of saving. Our Transition Year students also entered the local Business project sponsored by University College Cork. Senior Cycle: Fifth and sixth year students have five class periods per week in each subject. All classes are grouped according to mixed ability. There are two Business groups, one Economics group and one Accounting group in fifth year. In sixth year there are two Business groups, one Accounting group and one Economics group. In both years, we concentrate on preparing students for their Leaving Certificate as outlined earlier. Planning: We have two planning meetings during the school year. The initial meeting which is held at the beginning of the academic year, allows the department to formulate and agree its plan for the fourth coming year. The purpose of the second meeting, which is held in May is to allow us review the years activities. A number of informal meetings may take place throughout the year. The initial meeting allows the department to formulate and agree its plan for the academic year. LCAP: All Leaving Certificate Applied students completed their practical examination task in Office Skills and Customer Care and were examined in May. We wish our students every success. Cross Curricular: Cross Curricular links have been developed with the following departments: Home Economics Department Consumer. IT Researching and writing letters and reports. Maths Taxation and mathematical calculations. Learning Support Business teachers liaise with the learning-support team. LCVP Local area investigation and interview with entrepreneur in their area. Professional Development: Courses attended by members of the Business Department. Department members attended the BSTAI Annual Conference and the Leaving Certificate Business and Economics Revision Workshops in Trinity College, Dublin during this academic year. Scholarships: We congratulate the following students who were awarded the annual business scholarships, sponsored by the Parents Council. All these students have demonstrated considerable business acumen. Accounting - Niamh Byrne Business - Shanice Callinan, Rebecca Burke Economics - Katie Mc Gloin, Caoimhe Mullen Junior Certificate Business Rebecca Mc Grath, Laura Fitzpatrick Conclusion: Overall, we endeavour to nurture a positive attitude towards business in our students and in doing so foster essential skills, which will support the students not merely in school but in their personal and professional lives. An exemplary array of opportunities is provided for students to assume leadership roles that positively contribute to school life. These include the student representative council, the prefect system, head girls, the Meitheal programme, breakfast club, assisted study, teaching assistants and through the wide ranging extra-curricular programmes. Appropriate structures and opportunities are in place for students to report to management and to their peers on relevant aspects of school organisation and management. Whole School Evaluation - March 2013

46 Civic, Social & Political Education Department members: Mary Nolan, Sinead Kenny, Maria Foley (Emer Ryan), Laura Dowling (Miriam O Shea), Ann Marie Winters,, Anne Buckeridge, Lisa Bergin, Kate Redmond, Tom Nolan, Joan Scott, Leah Elliot, Sandra Corrigan, Anita Somers, Tanya Whitford (Aine Delaney) Department Co-ordinator: A. M. Winters Subject Provision: C.S.P.E is a compulsory subject for each class in the Junior School. Each class is timetabled for one period per week over the course of the student s three years preparing for the Junior Certificate. Course Content: The C.S.P.E Department endeavours to promote an understanding of Citizenship based on Human Rights and Social Responsibilities. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child

47 are two key documents which underpin the C.S.P.E course. We aim to develop our student s potential for active citizenship at a personal, school, local, national and international level. We encourage in them a sense of belonging, a capacity to gain access to information and a confidence to participate in a democratic society. To achieve this, seven concepts are identified and explores in a variety of ways. These concepts include: Assessment: Student learning was assessed both through oral and written assessments, throughout the year. Third Year students completed their action projects and submitted them to the Department of Education and Science for assessment in May Rights and Responsibilities Human Dignity Stewardship Development Democracy Law Interdependence Students explore the above concepts through activity based learning. Through the exploration of these concepts, issues such as respect, racism, human rights, global warming, pollution, voting etc. are discussed. A wide variety of activities are undertaken over the course of the three years, leading to the completion of an Action Project, which is worth 60% of the final mark in the Junior Certificate Examination. The remaining 40% is allocated to a written terminal examination, which examines the various concepts studied over the three years. Action Projects: A variety of action projects are undertaken each year, normally by Second year pupils. Each pupil, on completion of an action project, must be able to show the examiner how her action project is related to one of the core concepts. Pupils projects may be individual or group efforts. Some of the action projects undertaken by C.S.P.E classes this year included: Fundraiser for South East Animal Rescue Shelter Talk about how to care for pets given by Jackie and Heather from South East Animal Rescue Class visit by Travellers and fundraising for Travellers section of St. Catherine s Community Centre Visit to St. Fiacc s Nursing Home Some of the activities undertaken by C.S.P.E classes this year included: Energy efficiency awareness Recycling Awareness campaign Group projects on famous people involved in human rights Lunchtime Gangnam style dance in aid of Make a Wish Foundation to mark International Children s Day Students involved in Fundraising for South East Rescue Centre

48 English Department members: Elma O Connell, Anita Somers, Jennifer Foley, Sean O Flaherty, Miriam O Shea, Laura Dowling, Aine Shiels, Mairead Redmond and Dearbhla Cussen. Department Co-ordinator Dearbhla Cussen Provision of English in the School English is a compulsory subject and is studied at Junior and Senior Cycle, with many students receiving extra tuition and guidance from the Learning Support Team. During Junior Cycle and Transition Year, classes are grouped according to the principle of mixed ability. Students are streamed at the beginning of fifth year with higher level students grouped according to ability. Concurrent senior classes are appreciated as they allow greater opportunities for shared activities and the sharing of resources among teachers. The English Department has its own cabinet in the Resource Room to house syllabi, DVDs, material from the Department of Education and Science, in-services etc. Planning and Preparation Five formal and many informal meetings were held during the year to choose texts, organise trips, plan and review work and progress, collaboratively set exams and work on and amend the English Subject Plan. As a department, we are particularly encouraged by the positive affirmations cited in the M.L.L. report. As a department we are continually engaged in reviewing and updating our English Subject Plan. Key Skills of the new Junior Cert English were discussed.

49 Texts studied this year include: 1st YEARS The Outsiders, Roll of Thunder Hear My Cry, Chinese Cinderella, The Graveyard Book. 2nd and 3rd YEARS Goodnight, Mr. Tom, Of Mice and Men, The Pearl, Under the Hawthorne Tree, The Outsiders, The Midnight Fox, To Kill a Mockingbird, Romeo and Juliet. 4th YEARS A Thousand Splendid Suns, The Catcher in the Rye, The Help, The Playboy of the Western World, The Picture of Dorian Gray, My Left Foot and Lies of Silence. 5th YEARS - Macbeth - How Many Miles to Babylon? - Sive - I m Not Scared - The Catcher in the Rye 6th YEARS Macbeth, How Many Miles to Babylon?, Sive, My Sister s Keeper, 32a, I m Not Scared. Past examination papers were utilised by the Sixth and Third Year students in preparation for the State Examinations. Teaching and Learning Areas covered during the Junior Cycle include creative and functional writing, media studies, fiction, drama, poetry, public speaking, debating, project work and comprehension and response to previously unseen texts. Sean O Flaherty, Alison Doyle and Miriam O Shea led a Public Speaking club, open to all junior students. Many third year students attended a production of Romeo and Juliet in The Helix, Dublin and agreed that witnessing a live production added greatly to their understanding and appreciation of drama. Fifth Year students participated in a Macbeth workshop in the Visual Arts Centre in Carlow. An objective of Transition Year is to afford students the opportunity to develop a more personal appreciation of the English language and its literature. While focus is maintained on reading, writing and the study of drama, fiction and poetry, students are encouraged to select some of their own topics and texts. Some areas covered this year include review writing, travel writing, media response journals, debating, improvised drama (4B and 4C wrote a short play in class), film studies and creative writing. The TY film was again up and running and was open to all students to participate. They produced a highly entertaining short film called Change under the guidance of Ms Edel Horan and Mr Sean O Flaherty. This film was given its debut on Transition Year Evening. Lights, camera, action! A group of St. Leo s College students also won best short film in the secondary schools section of the Carlow African film festival. The film was based on the subject of Africa: Land of Colour and Culture, which celebrated the diverse cultural heritage of our students of different nationalities. The film was produced and edited by our TY film-making team. Congratulations to all involved! As part of English and Communications for Leaving Certificate Applied, students attended a workshop in the Nationalist Newspaper. Congratulations to Caroline Halpin (second year), Victoria Byrne (second year) and Clodagh Brophy (first year) who won both categories, Best Team and Best Individual Speaker, at the U.C.D. Women s Graduates Association Public Speaking Competition. Four students from Transition Year, Ella McHugh, Victoria Matuschka, Catherine Byrne and Carol Healy participated in work placements at two well-known media companies in Dublin: Vision Independent Productions and Screen Scene. Whilst there, the girls observed the filming and editing process for flagship shows such as Operation Transformation and availed of the opportunity to interview members of the production team about how to develop a career in the media. These placements were created with the kind assistance of past pupil Mary Curtis (RTE). The Parents Council English Scholarship for 2013 was awarded to Izzy Matuschka.

50 FRENCH Provision of French in the School All incoming students take French and the subject is compulsory to Junior Cert. All Transition Year students also study French. At Fifth Year level, pupils who have taken French only up to this point must continue with this subject. Pupils who have taken both French and German for Junior Certificate may opt for one of these languages or both. Leaving Certificate Applied pupils take Italian and not French as their modern language option. In the classroom pupils first to sixth year are prepared to become competent in the four areas of Listening and Understanding, Speaking, Reading and Writing the French language, with a view to completing the Junior Certificate and the Leaving Certificate. Planning and Preparation Several meetings were held. Textbooks were reviewed and discussed at these meetings, among other issues. Meetings were also held to develop planning documents, plan for Paris trip and inform parents about it. Information was passed on to all French teachers about Oral exams, school exchanges, courses and scholarships. Mock papers were ordered for Leaving Certificate and Third year pupils and these exams were sent away to be corrected. Some classes continued to use French song as part of their aural and cultural studies of French. Teachers used the internet to aid them in the development of resources for use in class. Pupils were able to become more autonomous learners through the use of the new language lab. Sites such as Linguascope and Digital dialects proved popular with pupils and successful in revision work.

51 Gaeilge Department members: Áine Hynes, Kate Redmond, Patricia Gurhy Joyce Macken, Jim O Keefe, Ian Curran, Angela Kirwan, Veronica Doyle, Leah Elliott, Karen Ryan, Alex Jully and Jennifer Skelton (HDip.) Department Co-ordinator Áine Hynes/ Leah Elliott Provision of Irish in the school Irish is a compulsory subject and is studied at both junior and senior levels. A small number of students receive an exemption, sanctioned by the Department of Education and Skills, and is confirmed by the Learning Support Team at the beginning of each year. First, second and fourth year classes are grouped according to the principle of mixed ability. Third and senior classes run concurrently to facilitate movement between levels. Planning and Preparation Time was allocated at a number of staff meetings for departments to work on subject development planning. There is a Clár na Roinne available in the staff library and on-line, which details the department policy in regard to the teaching and learning of Irish in the school. The following teachers attended inservice training on the new Leaving Certificate curriculum: Áine Hynes, Joyce Macken, Jim O Keefe, Kate Redmond, Leah Elliott, Karen Ryan, Patricia Gurhy. The following teachers attended inservice training this year on ICT agus an Ghaeilge: Joyce Macken, Jim O Keefe, Kate Redmond, Leah Elliott, Karen Ryan, Ian Curran, Angela Kirwan, Patricia Gurhy, Veronica Doyle and Jennifer Skelton.

52 Teaching and Learning Junior and Leaving Certificate students follow the syllabus as prescribed by the Department of Education and Science. It is aimed at developing the four key language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing according to the ability of the individual students. From September 2013 the Irish department will introduce a new element to the first year syllabus to include Key Skills, which are a core component of the new Junior Cert Programme. (JC2) This is a whole school initiative. Seachtain na Gaeilge A range of activities were organised for Seachtain na Gaeilge These included a poster competition for 1st Year students, a Céilí for all years and a treasure hunt for 1st years organised by Aisling Byrne 6th year. 5th Year students attended Scéal na Gaeilge; an Irish film produced by TG4; in the Visual Arts Theatre. 5th and 6th year students also attended a Céilí in the CBS during the week. Bliain na Gaeilge agus Ceiliúradh Cainte 2013 is Bliain na Gaeilge, and after the success of Seachtain na Gaeilge around the school the students of classes 2B and 4D took part in Ceiliúradh Cainte- Speak Irish for a Day on Wednesday 17th April. Múinteoir Gaeilge Karen Ní Riain organised the day with the help of Brenda Ní Ghairbhí the manager of Seachtain na Gaeilge, who sent t-shirts, information packs, posters and sponsorship cards. The girls raised over 200 for Headstrong, the National Centre for Youth Mental Health, a non-profit organisation supporting young people s mental health in Ireland. Fibín Auditions Fibín Drama Company visited the school again this year and held auditions for all students aged over 15 years. Last year Derbhla Kelly, Aisling Byrne and Niamh Sloyan (Leaving Certificate 2013) attended a summer drama school with Fibín following successful auditions. Bliain na Gaeilge agus Ceiliúradh Cainte Glór Ceatharlach Irish Debating Team Irish Debating Team The senior Irish debating team participated in the first round of the Gael Linn Debating competition. Unfortunately the girls were not successful in progressing to the next round of the competition. Well done to Aisling Byrne, Niamh Dundon, Deirdre Ashe and Katie McGloin. Fáinne Interviews Fáinne interviews were once again organised this year by Joyce Macken with 24 students receiving either a gold or silver fáinne. Comhgairdeas le gach duine! An Ciorcal Comhrá The Ciorcal Comhrá conversation group met every Monday at lunchtime to promote spoken Irish in the school and to help senior students preparing for their oral Irish exam. Glór Ceatharlach Ciara Céitinn and Aoife Nic Aonghusa visited KCLR to tell Bríd de Róiste about Irish in St. Leo s College and what the school was doing to take part in Bliain na Gaeilge and Seachtain na Gaeilge. Assessment and Achievement Assessment is on-going throughout the year, with teachers giving individual class tests. Reports are sent home at Christmas and at the end of the summer term. Third and Sixth year students sit mock exams in February. First, second and fifth years sit a common paper in summer. In addition to this, all first and second years sit a short oral exam at the end of the school year. This will account for 25% of their overall grade in Irish and reflects the emphasis placed on oral Irish in the new Leaving Cert course. Fifth year students also sit an oral exam in preparation for sixth year.

53 Geography Department members: Valerie Delaney, Tom Nolan, Caroline Kelly, Sandra Corrigan, Tanya Whitford and Aine Delaney. Department Co-ordinator: Tanya Whitford/Sandra Corrigan Provision of Geography in the school Geography is a compulsory subject at Junior Certificate Level, while it is optional at leaving Certificate Level. Transition Year students study Heritage Geography for half the school year. All classes are grouped according to the principle of mixed ability. At Junior Level there are three classes per week while five classes per week are allocated at Senior Level. Transition Year students have 2 classes per week, usually a double period. Planning and Preparation The Geography Department meets informally many times throughout the year and we also have timetabled meetings. Time is spent working on subject development planning which details the department s policy on teaching and learning of geography in the school, organising trips, reviewing progress on schemes of work and collaboratively setting summer exams for first, second and fifth years. Members of the department have attended on-going inservice to coincide with the new Geography syllabus at Senior Level and continue membership of the Association of Geography teachers of Ireland. This year two teachers were inspected in Geography as part of the WSE-MML Inspection. Both received positive feedback and suggestions on how to enhance the teaching and learning of Geography in the school.

54 Geography Room The Geography Room, situated on the top floor, is always a hive of activity during the year. Each class is time-tabled in this room for some or all of their classes. Evidence of activity-based learning can be seen where posters, projects and models are on display. This year a World News Wall is on display on the notice board in the Geography room where natural disasters, weather phoneme for example were labelled on a World map. On the outside of the door interesting articles related to Geography were posted for all to see. Each of the first year rooms have World and European maps. The Geography Room has a computer, data projector and visualiser. We have internet access, DVD s, rock samples, OS maps and aerial photographs. Equipment for the Geographical Investigation eg. new trundle wheels were purchased this year, we have weather station, posters and models. This year a new press was installed so that equipment and books could be stored. Teaching and Learning Junior Cycle Topics of study include: Primary, Secondary and Tertiary activities, Economic Inequality, Physical Geography, Restless Atmosphere and Climates, Population, Settlement and Urbanisation. OS maps and Aerial Photographs are also studied in detail and incorporated into other topics such as Physical and Human Geography. Textbooks: New Complete Geography, Geo 2nd Edition Transition Year Heritage Geography The areas of study selected are chosen to provide students with an insight into multifaceted learning approaches and areas of interest that geographers encounter. These included: Careers in Geography, Fieldwork module, OS maps, Aerial photographs and Regional Geography. The objective in Transition year is to afford students the opportunity to consolidate existing concepts and skills that students have learned at Junior Certificate Level. It provides a platform to leave the class room and discover the world around them, and to look at their surrounding environs from the point of view of a critical geographer. It also provided a transition for those intending to study Geography at Leaving Certificate level. Textbook: Make the Transition Geography Leaving Certificate All Senior Cycle students completed the relevant Leaving Certificate course material as prescribed by the syllabus. Fifth Year There were two fifth year classes this year. Students studied the following core physical elements: Plate Tectonics, Volcanoes, Earthquakes, Rocks and The Rock Cycle, Weathering, Karst Landscape. The core regional elements studied were: Concept of a Region and Two Contrasting Irish Regions. In May both classes undertook the following Geographical Investigation for their Leaving Certificate Exam: Analyse the relationship between land use and traffic flow in a local area. Textbook: Today s World, 3rd Edition This year three international students studied Geography in fifth year. Each contributed to the class particularly during our study of Regional Geography. Emma Yamin from the Netherlands, Anniirina Nikku from Finland and Johanna Rave from Germany. Dublin Docklands Tour On the 9th & 10th May 31 students went on an over-night trip to Dublin. As part of Regional Geography students study the growth of Dublin, from historic times to present, urban sprawl and the development of new towns. While staying in the Docklands area students were able to experience urban renewal and redevelopment during a walking tour of the sites such as the Convention Centre,

55 IFSC and Grand Canal Square. Thursday night was finished off with a visit to The Bórd Gais Energy Theatre to see The Lion King. On Friday morning we visited the Archaeological Museum which displayed evidence of historic human settlement in Ireland. Following this we took a walking tour of Georgian Dublin, where students saw Georgian houses close to Government Buildings and Merrion Square. Italian Tour Plans are underway for a Geography tour to Naples and Rome in October This tour will incorporate both Physical and Regional Geography. Physical includes plate tectonics, earthquakes and volcanoes. In regional Geography we examine primary, secondary and tertiary activities, population and culture in different regions. The Mezzogiorno in Italy is a European Peripheral region that we study. By visiting sites like Mt. Vesuvius, Pompeii and the Phalegaen fields, it is hoped students will gain a much better understanding of these natural processes and the landforms that develop. A visit to Rome, The Amalfi Coast and a working Olive grove will give students an insight into economic and cultural life in Italy. Sixth Year There were three 6th year classes this year. During the year all students completed their core section and Geographical Investigation. Two classes undertook the investigation on how land use affects traffic flow while one class undertook to investigate changing land use over time in a local area. The Human elective was completed and this year the option covered was The Atmosphere - Ocean Environment. Congratulations to Sally Doyle who was awarded the annual Parents Association scholarship on Awards Day. 3 of our international students representing Finland, Germany and Austria 5th year evening out Textbooks: Today s World, 2nd Edition Planet and People The Human Environment Planet and People The Atmosphere Ocean Environment Assessment and Achievement Assessment is on-going. Teachers give individual class tests throughout the year and set correct homework and project work. Third and Sixth Year students sit mock exams in February. First, Second and Fifth Years sit a common exam paper in the summer. Transition Year students display their work at an end of year open evening. Both teachers and students exhibited high expectations for learning. An analysis of student outcomes at Leaving Certificate indicated a consistently high uptake of higher-level papers, with many students excelling across all subjects. Whole School Evaluation - March 2013

56 German Department members: Ann Tully, Emma Dwyer Language Assistant: Franziska Emde Department Coordinator: Ann Tully Provision of the Subject in the school All incoming students are offered German as a second foreign language as French is compulsory at Junior Cycle in St. Leo s College. Achievements Transition year pupils Trisha Sloyan, Peggy Miller, Kate O Rourke, Carol Healy and Kate Rowe were invited to an interview at the Goethe Institute, Dublin, based on the exceptional grades they achieved in the Junior Certificate German Exam Carol Healy and Kate O Rourke got a three week scholarship to Germany. All expenses for four weeks will be paid for Kate Rowe due to her outstanding result. Facilities We utilize the language laboratory when timetabled there and have adequate resources in the Library and the Resource Room. Clubs We have a German Club at lunchtime and students take part in organized debates locally and nationally.

57 Planning and Preparation Meetings: The German Department meets informally throughout the school year and we have two timetabled meetings. Resources: Throughout the years we have expanded our collection of novels, short stories, maps, poetry, software, games, posters, pictures, tapes, videos, DVD s etc. Those items are stored on shelves in the language lab. Textbooks: Junior Certificate: Klasse 1 and Klasse 2, Viel Spaβ 1 Transition Year: Ausblick Senior Cycle: Hörschatz 2, Deutsch für die Mündliche Prüfung, Achtung Deutsch and Übung macht den Meister. Use of ICT The Computer Room is used where possible. Current texts are accessed via the internet and are used as a basis for up to date and culturally relevant lessons. These texts along with the accompanying exercises devised by teachers ensure the systematic building of student linguistic competence. Overhead Projectors are used regularly Laptops and Data Projectors are also used within the classrooms. This facilitates access to up to date material and authentic texts. Assessment A common program is utilized and where possible we organize common end of the year exams. Teachers Association We are all members of the G.D.I. Use of the Notice Boards The notice boards on the main corridor and the classroom walls are used regularly. There is a German notice board, where we regularly post in school information as well as information about courses being run in colleges. We also inform students here about exchange programs and language immersion courses. Inservice and CPD We attend any organized inservices and partake in the G.D.I. conference held in Trinity in our free time. Teaching and Learning The topics covered are as per the German Syllabus for the Junior Certificate and Leaving Certificate. We did a lot of work on the subject of German Feast Days, Festivals and Celebrations as part of the Landeskunde - Programme. Many classes enjoyed a German Breakfast. Some pupils entered the Austrian Essay writing Competition. Assessment and Achievement Pupils are tested almost on a weekly basis. Formal tests are given at the end of a topic, at the end of the term, and at the end of the year. Homework is given and corrected daily. Oral and Aural tests are included at the end of each topic. Leaving Certificate pupils were individually given a mock oral exam during the teacher s free time. We use German as the target language in the classroom. Students keep a diary in TYO and continue to make entries throughout the school year. In the classes we regularly hold competitions e.g. quizzes, posters, games, poetry, essays etc. Open Evening A display of pupils work is organized and teachers are present for the evening. Again a display of work was organized for the Transition Year evening. German Exchange A group of second year students took part in an exchange with a secondary school in Hamminkeln, Germany. We believe it is of great benefit for the pupils who had an unforgfettable week with their host families. During their stay they visited Cologne Cathedral and the Phantasialand theme park and also gained great insight into German Culture. A group of students from Germany will come to Ireland for a return visit in November. German Assistant Franziska Emde was our German Assistant this year. Franziska worked closely with the German teachers in the classroom and outside. Her presence was invaluable to pupils and teachers in bringing German to life during all language and cultural lessons. We are expecting our new German Assistant to arrive in September and we are sure that she will inspire the students and enhance their learning of the German language. Teachers encouraged pupils to go to Germany during the holidays if possible.

58 Information on exchanges and Euro Language Colleges were given to students. A number of pupils will attend courses at these colleges this year. As part of our celebration of German Festivals students painted Easter eggs, took part in an Easter egg hunt and these were displayed on the main corridor of the school. A record was kept of money allocated to the Department and a statement of account was prepared for the end of the year. New resources, such as books, tapes, DVD s, magazines etc. were bought. The primary schools were visited where taster lessons were provided by the German teachers and some Transition Year pupils to 6th class pupils. 3rd year and Senior Cycle students got to see the German film Wintertochter at the GBS Theatre in February. A highly successful extracurricular programme is provided, where students participation is encouraged and supported and where their achievements are acknowledged and celebrated. Whole School Evaluation - March 2013 The German Scholarship Students History tour to Berlin The German Exchange group outside Phantasialand Group at Reichstag Berlin Holocaust memorial Berlin

59 History Department members: Alison Doyle, Tom Nolan, Miriam O Shea, Kate Redmond, Valerie Delaney, Jennifer Foley, Laura Dowling, Anita Somers, Joan Scott and Caroline Kelly Department Coordinator: Kate Redmond Provision of the subject in the school History is taught at all levels throughout the school. It is a compulsory subject at Junior Certificate level and is optional at Leaving Certificate level. Ten teachers were timetabled to teach History during the past academic year. There are three class periods allotted to the subject at Junior Cert Level and five periods at Senior Cycle. This year saw a welcome increase in an uptake at senior level resulting in two fifth year classes. Classes at both levels are mixed ability. A Resource Room is available to the Department and all resources are kept here including DVD s, Video s, slides, books and posters. Planning and Preparation There were four Department meetings held during the year to discuss planning and resources. The first two of these meetings focused on preparation for MML inspection in. Some amendments were made to the subject plan and staff had a meeting to update everyone on resources added to moodle. Further meetings were held to discuss a common scheme of work for fifth year students. This was added to the subject plan.following inservice from staff members involved in the JC Network a discussion took place regarding embedding key skills in the first year history course. Teaching and Learning All Junior Cycle students completed the relevant Junior Certificate course material for their year as prescribed by the syllabus. Students of first year studied material from Ancient Ireland, the Romans the Middle Ages and the Renaissance. Second year students studied the Age of Exploration, the Reformation, the Plantations,

60 the Age of Revolutions and the Industrial Revolution. Third year students studied Modern Ireland, International Relations and Social Change. All Senior Cycle students completed the relevant Leaving Certificate course material as prescribed by the Syllabus. Fifth Year students studied the Documents question. The document case studies came from the topic Pursuit of Sovereignty and Impact of Partition. They also studied the topic The United States and the World. Preliminary work was carried out on their Research Study. Leaving Certificate students completed their study of the Documents question and their Research Study and submitted it as requested to the school authorities on Friday 27th April. They also completed their study of the other two topics, the Pursuit of Sovereignty and the Impact of Partition and Dictatorship and Democracy Students of Transition Year undertook a course in Heritage Studies based on the revised Transition Year plan. It also included a historical walking tour of Carlow and a visit to the recently opened Carlow Museum. As well as Local Studies, students also completed a project on geneology whereby they constructed their family tree. They also completed an Oral history project. A Fifth year trip to Berlin was organised by Ms Kate Redmond. Mr Nolan and Ms. Redmond brought twenty students on a historical journey to the heart of the German Reich during World War 2. The trip included guided tours of Sachsenhausen concentration camp, Berlin Bunkers tour and the Jewish museum. Local guides provided vivid and poignant descriptions of wartime Berlin. Discussions about the terror of Nazi Germany and collective responsibility were encouraged in an attempt to gain a greater understanding of the Holocaust. The city is constantly rebuilding and redefining itself and its history is present in every stone wall and unfinished building. Kate Rowe, Trisha Sloyan, Katie Fitzpatrick and Niamh Smith. Assessment and Achievement Teachers followed a policy of continuous assessment with a final summer exam with respect to first, second and fifth year students. Common papers were set for both first and second year students. Both 3rd year and 6th year students sat a mock history exam at Easter. Both written and oral homework was set for students by teachers with due regard paid to the Homework policy. Students of first and second year completed various projects throughout the year. Topics included Ireland s first inhabitants, the Reformation, the Age of Exploration and Age of Discovery. Various mediums employed included model making, wall charts and biographical accounts. Students behaviour was exemplary over the course of the evaluation. Whole School Evaluation - March 2013 The History Scholarship from the Parent s Council was awarded to Alicia Tobin 4th Year.

61 home Economics Department members: Kathleen Coyne, Patricia Morrissey, Mary Nolan, Margaret Farrell DEPARTMENT CO ORDINATOR: Patricia Morrissey PROVISION OF THE SUBJECT IN THE SCHOOL: Home Economics is taught at Junior and Senior level, following the D.E.S. syllabus in both areas. The senior cycle Social and Scientific course has a practical element built in with Department of Education assignments recorded in a coursework journal and worth 20% of Leaving Cert mark. NUMBER OF TEACHERS: Three full time teachers TIMETABLING: 1st Year: 2nd Year: 3rd Year: 4th Year: 5th Year: 6th Year: L.C.A.: 1 double class and 1 single class 1 double class and 2 single classes 1 double class and 2 single classes or 2 double classes 1 double class 1 double class and 3 single classes 1 double class and 3 single classes 1 triple class and 1 single class The subject is taught at Higher and Ordinary level to Junior and Leaving Certificate.

62 FACILITIES: We have three equipped specialist rooms which are used for cookery, needlework, craft and mini-company. PLANNING AND PREPARATION: Department meetings are formally held regularly each term. Informally, we discuss department matters daily. Resources developed/ bought: We are required to use the internet for investigating Leaving Cert Assignments for students and researching designs for creative crafts at Junior cert level and Transition years. Resource Area: We are constantly building up resources by purchasing up to-date magazines, books and DVDs. Each kitchen now has a data projector. We also have a visualizer each of the in the Home Economics rooms. Text Books: This is our seventh year using Deirdre Madden s Design for Living book in Junior Cycle. This is the fifth year using our Leaving Cert book Living Life. Common Assessment, Common Programme: We are working towards this but it is difficult because of mixed ability classes. Leaving Cert coursework assignments determine a significant part of the 5th year programme. Use of Notice Boards and Posters: We continue to use the Home Economics notice board to display achievements, to notify students of upcoming competitions and to display newspaper and magazine articles relevant to the subject. Inservice/Continuous Professional Development undertaken during the year: Members of the department attended the ATHE AGM in Athlone in October and Home Economics workshops during the year. TEACHING AND LEARNING: We are delighted to facilitate Teaching Practice. This year, Jillian Byrne, a 2nd year student from St. Angela s, Lough Gill was with us for three weeks in March. 1st Year All teachers followed a common agreed core of topics from the Junior Cert syllabus. As well as developing their culinary skills, they all enjoyed learning to stitch creatively. Students designed, stitched and completed a cushion. Students also had the opportunity to learn how to use the sewing machine. Prizes were awarded on Awards Day. We are grateful to Sr. Áine for presenting us with her exquisite hand made prizes for our winners. 2nd Year: Department syllabus covered. Term three, craft option selected and started. The crafts include cross stitch, embroidery, knitting and crochet. 3rd Year: The option and practical cookery exam 50% of Junior Cert mark at higher level and 60% at ordinary level mark was examined in April. 4th Year: - Cookery Module - Cook It programme. Certificates were presented by local Health Promotion Officer - Textile module - Interior Design project - Social Studies module 5th & 6th Year: Social and Scientific course implemented over two years Department assignments carried out and written up in 5th year and beginning of 6th year. They were sent to DES for marking in November Option 3, Social Studies was the chosen elective for 6th years LCAP: Completed their final year of a two year programmer, successfully completing their key assignments and tasks

63 ASSESSMENT AND ACHIEVEMENT: Continuous assessment Classroom displays Homework is given at the end of each lesson and monitored Practical exams Group work Competitions Reports sent home at Christmas and Summer Junior Cert and Leaving Cert students sat mock exams and all mocks were examined externally. Common paper for house exams where possible. Open Evening Our kitchens were open for Open Evening with staff and students on hand to answer any queries parents or prospective students may have had. Junior Certificate crafts and photographic displays of student s work were on display throughout the year. Transition Year Evening All Home Economics projects, certificates and crafts were displayed on our TY evening held 21st May. Awards Day On Awards Day we acknowledged the achievements of competition winners. We presented the 1st year embroidery awards. Chloe Gaffney, 2nd year and Nicole O Hara, 4th year were also acknowledged for their achievement in the Easyfood s Baking Games Competition. The Home Economics Scholarship was awarded to Sarah Brophy 6th year. Entry for the Home Baking Finals - Aladdin s Cave Cake Entry for the Home Baking Finals - Chocolate Brownies with IPad Apps THANKS We would like to thank Sr. Nora most sincerely for all the photocopying. It is much appreciated. We thank Clare Ryan for her support and encouragement to members of this department. We would like to thank Sr. Nora most sincerely for her photocopying service. It is very much appreciated. We thank Clare Ryan also for her continuous support and encouragement to members of this department. Students contributions to lessons were valued and many teachers encouraged expression of opinions and views to stimulate higher levels of involvement and interaction. Whole School Evaluation - March 2013 Entry for the Home Baking Finals - Raspberry Cream Meringue with white chocolate

64 Italian Department Co-Ordinator: Joyce Macken An Italian pupil, Tania Islam, who did Transition Year this year, was extremely helpful in preparing both her own classmates and the Leaving Certificate applied pupils for their oral exams. Joyce Macken attended the Italian teachers Conference on Saturday the 17th November 2012 in the Italian Institute of culture in Dublin where teachers from all over Ireland shared ideas and materials. Provision of the Subject in the school One Transition year class took Italian this year. They had 3 classes per week. The Leaving Certificate Applied Class also took Italian with the same class time. Planning and Preparation Joyce Macken liaised with the co-ordinators in the planning for the year. Sets of books and Italian films were used with classes from the school s resources for this subject. The classes kept a record of their work in copies. Classes used the Internet to research projects both in school and at home. In the language lab sites such as Linguascope and Digital dialects proved very popular with pupils beginning Italian. Teaching and Learning The teaching focused mainly on oral work.

65 Leaving Certificate Applied Pupils completed two modules Social Relationships and Travelling and Finding the Way. They did assignments involving recording themselves speaking Italian and presenting their findings about Italian culture in poster form. The completed a mock exam in March and their oral exam 22nd May All girls attended and were commended for their work. In June they sat their aural and written exam. Assessment and Achievement The Transition Year group completed individual oral tests at the end of their course. They displayed their copies or folder of work at their end of year evening. Pupils made and displayed posters of their Italian work. Pupils watched the Italian films Io non ho paura (I am not afraid), Respiro (Breath), La Vita e Bella and Cinema Paradiso among others. They listened to some Italian songs. Both classes enjoyed their experience of learning Italian. These courses form a basis for future study and travel. The Transition year group were visited as part of the WSE inspection on the 27th September and were commended for their excellent participation and enthusiasm for learning the new language. Teachers are conscientious professionals with the development and welfare of the learner at the heart of their decisions. Whole School Evaluation - March 2013

66 Information Technology Provision of the subject in the school There are two computer rooms with 26 PC s in each, a data projector and speakers. Every classroom is equipped with a projector, speakers and access to the school network. Teachers have access to school laptops for teaching and learning. The school has access to 100mb broadband. First year students are offered an introductory course which is delivered in one class period per week. Transition year students attend two classes per week. Fifth years have one timetabled class per week. Access is also available for students undertaking LCVP and through Carrer Guidance. Leaving Certificate Applied students have two timetabled periods if IT per week. A booking process is in use for both computer rooms for teachers who wish to have their class avail of the facility for research and projects. Every students has been assigned a school account that can be used for educational purposes and have been given access to Moodle and restricted access to the network. There are 6 ICT positions open to fifth year students. Their role involved helping teachers and students with ICT issues and displaying student notices on the TV outside the libary every morning. They assisted at school events, open night, the transition year musical and awards day.

67 Planning and preparation Planning and preparation is central to the provision of ICT in the school. Department meetings were held throughout the year regarding: Open Night Whole staff ICT training Auditing and maintaining equipment Policy review Review programme of work Planning for ICT for the coming school year Planning and preparation Every class room is equipped with a teacher PC. Computer Room 1 was completely updated with new PC s and a new server. Visualisers are available to staff to use as a resource in teaching and learning. The Learning Centre has an interactive whiteboard. Fifth Year Students attained skils in the area of programming using Scratch, creating and presenting PowerPoint presentations, creating newsletters and using Geogebra. Students also improved on their skills in using Microsoft packages. Time is given to introducing students to relevant resources and interactive websites on the internet. Cross curricularlinks are made where possible (e.g. Geography, Career Guidance, LCVP, Maths, Business) Assessment and Achievement Assessment is through class based assignments and projects throughout the year. Transition year students display their work at the end of year open evening for parents and guardians. Teaching and Learning First Year Students become familiar with Microsoft Word, Publisher and PowerPoint. They are educated in researching effectively and safely on the internet and using their school account. Students are introduced to resources and interactive websites on the internet. Transition Year The establishment of the annual Catherine McAuley lecture, delivered by high profile past students, has proven to be inspirational. Whole School Evaluation - March 2013 The transition year IT programme involves improving on skills attained in first year. Students using microsoft word, PowerPoint, Excel and Publisher. They learn to research effectively for their projects using the internet. Students become familiar with photo editing, animation and windows movie maker. Time is given to introducing students to relevant resources and interactive websites on the internet.

68 Maths Department members: Mary McHugh, Angela Kirwan, Cathy Cradock, Veronica Doyle, Imelda Morley, Helena Sheridan, Sineád Kenny, Willie Cullen, Clare McGrath, Emer Ryan, Marie Foley, Áine Delaney, Ann Tully. Department Co-ordinator: Mary McHugh. Mathematics Learning Support Team: Sinead Kenny, Tanya Whitford, Valerie Delaney, Áine Delaney. Provision of the Subject in the School Mathematics is taught to all years from first to sixth year as per DES Syllabi and Guidelines. First years follow a common introductory course as recommended by the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment. Second year students follow a common programme of work aimed at Junior Certificate Higher Level. Classes are timetabled together for all students from second through to sixth year. Learning support is available, where appropriate, from the learning support team. Mathematical Applications is taught to Leaving Certificate Applied students. (See Leaving Certificate Applied report). Applied Mathematics is available to Leaving Certificate students as an additional subject outside of the school timetable. A Mathematics notice-board is in place outside the staffroom. Maths Week Ireland took place from 13th 21st October Junior classes took part in school-based activities with second years participating in a Maths table quiz and first year classes being invited to take part in a Maths Scavenger Hunt

69 throughout the school, which created a great buzz of excitement. This activity was assisted by Transition Year volunteers who ensured everything ran smoothly. Students are teased with weekly maths puzzles, displayed on the notices TV outside the library, courtesy of our ICT assistants. First year students took part in the IMTA Irish junior maths competition. Two students, Alanna Waters and Nicole Whelan were invited to take part in the final. Nicole represented the school in the final which was held in Tullamore. Some fifth year higher level students took part in a school based competition for the Maths Olympiad. The school is subscribed to Mangahigh ( an interactive maths website. Teachers are able to set maths challenges in different areas for their students for homework. Students have access to the website from home and are encouraged to use it to improve on their mathematical skills that they are learning in class and for revision. Planning and Preparation Preliminary meetings were held in August. The outcomes of these meetings were: Allocation of classes and computer room for Transition Year Mathematics. Review programme of work for all years. Co-ordination of the modular programme for Transition Year Mathematics. Co-ordination of the on-going review and update of the subject plan. Analysis of Junior and Leaving Certificate results in relation to national average. Department meetings were held at lunch time throughout the year regarding: Open night Maths week Irish Junior Maths Competition organised by IMTA Review of progress and planning for first, second, and fifth years. Organising the purchase of resources for Project Maths. A number of end of year meetings were held to: Review Maths Subject Plan, to incorporate junior cycle key skills into the First year plan Review of textbooks. Review the progress of the Project Maths syllabus to date. To discuss and devise common summer exams for first, second and fifth year students. Maths classes were visited by inspectors and the maths subject plan reviewed as part of the MLL. The Maths teachers were pleased with the positive feedback. All Maths teachers attended Project Maths Inservice, Workshops 7 & 8. Unfortunately an onsite workshop from the Project Maths team scheduled in April was postponed and is to be rescheduled in September. Some members of the Maths department attended Project Maths modular evening courses held in the education centre in Kilkenny. Teaching and Learning Co-ordination on course work covered. Team teaching with Learning Support staff members. Small class groups are established where possible. A number of students attend the Learning Centre for individual tuition. Assessment and Achievement There is class based assessment throughout the year. First years sit a common level test at the end of the year. Second years choose a Higher or Ordinary Level paper for end of year exam. This aids their choice of level for the Junior Certificate. Fifth years sit a common test at the end of the year in their chosen level. Fourth years display their work at an end of year open evening for parents/ guardians. The learning atmosphere was characterised by very positive, affirming and respectful interactions between students and their teachers. Whole School Evaluation - March 2013

70 Music Department members: Anne Buckeridge and Ian Curran Provision For Music in the School First year students are offered an introductory coaurse which is delivered in one class period per week. Students who opt for the music course in second year attend four classes per week in a mixed ability grouping. The second year course carries through third year and prepares music students for the Junior Certificate exam. Transition years complete a series of modules designed to expand and broaden their experience and understanding of music. These modules are presented in two class periods per week. At senior level music students engage in a two year course which offers them performance, composition and listening opportunities as part of the Leaving Certificate Music Programme. Choarl singing is part of the educational programme offered to all junior students. First, second and third year students attend one choral singing class per week. Chamber choir facilitates both junior and senior students who wish to develop their choral singing skils and gain access to performance and competition experience. Piano lessons are available with Ms Paula McGovern. The Music department has it s own music room equipped with piano, instruments, CD s, DVD s, books, laptop, data projector, ipod docks and PA. The assembly hall houses the Petrof grand piano and has special tiered steps to facilitate choral singing rehearsals. Planning and Preparation Music department planning is central to preparation for the provision of music in St. Leo s College both curricular and extra-curricular during the school year. Meetings were held during the year to review and plan the Transition Year Musical, music excursions, music for events, awards day, the Leaving Certificate Graduation Ceremony and Chamber Choir.

71 Teaching and Learning First Year All first years study the course book A Tempo covering topics such as music theory, instruments of the orchestra, Irish music etc. It s Mamma Mia Time The Transition Year show this year was once again an outstanding success. It s Mamma Mia Time produced by past pupil Gillian Tierney, with Musical Directors Ollie Hennessy and Anne Buckeridge, received superb reviews and enjoyed capacity audiences at all performances. Sets, Costumes, Lighting and Sound were so professional ensuring that the cast of 138 raised the roof each evening. Special thanks to parents, staff, students, sponsors and patrons who combined to once again produce an unforgettable experience. Second Year Second year students start their Junior Certificate music programme with the book Sounds Good. The second year programme covers major and minor keys, Italian terms, set songs and set works such as Rossini s William Tell Overture. Practical performance skills are a core element of initial preparation for the Junior Certificate music practical exam. Third Year Third year music students worked hard to cover the comprehensive Junior Certificate course. Composition skills such as triadic and chordal work were refined. Transition Year Transition Year students put great effort into their musical Mamma Mia. Gillian Tierney was appointed director. It was an outstanding success. The costumes, sets and music all blended together to create a sophisticated Broadway stage production. Choral Achievement Our Chamber Choir under the direction and leadership of Ian Curran, travelled to Navan in May and competed in one of the most prestigious Choral Festivals in Ireland. The choir entered three categories and were the only school to walk away with prizes from each, scooping a first, a second and a third. The adjudicators described the choir as excellent with perfect intonation, intelligent musical phrase shaping and superb tone quality. The girls were also commended for their pristine presentation and engaging communication with the audience. This year the Chamber Choir performed at a number of functions in our community including the African Film Festival, The Delta Christmas Fair and the John Paul Awards Ceremony. The choir goes from strength to strength and is open to all students. The modules covered in class include music appreciation, great composers, choral work and film. Open day Music students provided an exposition of various performance styles for prospective students and their parents. Visitors were treated to a concert in the school gymnasium. Many students took part providing a very entertaining evening.

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73 Physical Education Department members: Anne Rennick, Fiona Farrell and Vivienne Kelly Department Head: Vivienne Kelly Provision of Physical Education in the school. Physical Education is offered to all students in the school. At Junior Cycle, all students took physical education class for a single period once a week. In Transition Year, students had physical education for a double period once a week. In Leaving Certificate Applied, students had a double period of leisure and recreation once a week. For the remaining students at Senior Cycle level, physical education was given for one period a week. Students are strongly encouraged to participate in the wide and diverse programme of extra-curricular activities that are on offer within the school. Please see the corresponding annual report for further information on the activities available. The P.E. Department have three full time teachers.all physical education classes in the school are targeted at mixed ability.

74 The physical education department has access to the following facilities and resources within the school: A sports hall which includes five badminton courts, two volleyball courts and a full size basketball, indoor soccer and Olympic handball court. The sports hall also has an area that incorporates a fitness suite and there is also a separate office for PE files and storage. The fitness suite holds two treadmills, two cross trainers, two bikes and two rowing machines, a set of fitness balls with instructions and a set of free weights with instructions. One all-weather hockey pitch. One all-weather athletics track. There are grass areas to either end of the hockey pitch that can be used for a variety of activities. Athletics equipment including hurdles, shot putts, javelins, discus, high jump equipment and relay batons. Badminton equipment including nets and posts for five courts, rackets, shuttles and coaching manuals. Basketball equipment including indoor basketballs. Cricket equipment. Equipment for co-operative games including manual, ropes, tyres and skis. Fitness testing equipment including, volometers, blood pressure gauges and manuals. A range of various fitness tests are also available e.g. Beep test, etc. Frisbee sets and equipment to play Ultimate Frisbee. Dance CD s and a music player. Gaelic football equipment. Gymnastic equipment. Indoor and all weather hockey equipment including sticks, balls and protective goalie gear. Indoor soccer equipment including futsal balls. Olympic handball equipment including ball and coaching manuals. Rounders equipment including balls, cones and bats. Soccer training balls and bibs. Tag rugby sets with balls and training manuals Volleyball equipment including balls, posts, nets, antennae and coaching manuals. External facilities used by the school include the following: St. Laurence O Toole use of high jump facilities. Carlow Lawn Tennis Club Hanrahan s GAA Club Students are required to wear a uniform for all physical activity. The P.E. uniform consists of a plain navy tracksuit bottoms, a white polo shirt and the red school sweat skirt. Students are also asked to wear appropriate footwear. There were a number of extra-curricular clubs and activities where students could participate in a wide range of sporting activities. These clubs took place at lunchtime, after school and sometimes in the morning before school. The clubs were open to all students regardless of ability level. Please see the extracurricular report for details. Planning and Preparation The Physical Education department updated the Physical Education plan in August This will be further reviewed and amended in August 2013 prior to the commencement of the school year. For Junior Certificate Physical Education, all of our schemes are in line with the guidelines as issued by the Department of Education and Skills. We hope that first years in September 2013 will be given a double class of Physical Education and are planning accordingly. The planning for the Leaving Certificate programme is ongoing but currently is in line with the suggested curriculum for Leaving Certificate. We spent the previous two years trialing a new programme at senior cycle and hope to further develop this in August 2013.We have also suggested various amendments to the transition year programme that hopefully will promote physical activity in school. Our resources are largely contained in the sports hall and we have the use of a small hut on the hockey pitch. Students currently do not use textbooks but are given handouts or booklets produced by our department e.g. the fitness log book used in Transition Year. Students who participate in the volleyball and gaelic football coaching programmes have access to both instruction manuals and logbooks. I.T. has been introduced specifically into the Leaving Certificate Physical Education programme using it to assist in the teaching of yoga and pilates on some occasions. All of our plans, minutes, budgets etc. are on file and we continue to update a growing IT file on resources for Physical Education. Internet access is available in the sports hall and we have a laptop and an overhead projector and a printer in the sports hall. All students followed the same programme for their year group but were assessed within their own range of ability and participation. We share membership of the P.E.A.I. which is the primary body associated with physical education in Ireland. All members are registered with the Teachers Council. Members of staff are also members of Basketball Ireland, the G.A.A, the B.U.I., the G.I., the I.LGU, the H.U.I and the V.A.I., which are all governing bodies of various sports. We feel that these memberships are vital to keep up dated with all the latest developments within each area.

75 The department had the use of a large school notice board, which is also used for extracurricular activities. We also use a section of the staff notice board for information regarding student activities. We also have access to the student information screen situated outside of the library. We have access to Moodle and use it for Transition Years to access assessment options within Physical Education. Teaching and Learning The first year programme contained an introduction to the basic skills involved in Basketball, Hockey, Volleyball, Gymnastics, Dance, Athletics and Rounders all of which were at level 1. The second year programme was a development of the skills learnt in year 1 and all were to level 2 standard. All first and second year students were tested twice using the beep test and participated in the Aviva Schools Fitness Challenge. Students were encouraged to increase their activity levels from the date of the initial test. Following the second test the vast majority of students showed an increase in fitness levels. The results were encouraging and we hope to participate in the event in future years. The third year programme introduced the activities of Soccer, Olympic Handball, Gaelic Football, Tennis, Outdoor Education Activities and Badminton to level 1 standard. In Transition Year, the students were involved in the concepts of Fitness Testing, Tournament Organisation, Research Activities into various sports, Orienteering, Athletics, Rounders, Dance, specifically Zumba Dance and Tennis. In fifth year, the programme aimed to incorporate elements of the new senior cycle plan and may have included modules in the following: Tag Rugby, Pilates, Game Creation, Ultimate Frisbee, Athletics and Fitness. In sixth year, participation in leisure activities was strongly encouraged. Students participated in a range of activities that may have included Yoga, Cricket, Tennis, A Refereeing module in Spike ball, Gymnastics, Fitness, Tag Rugby and Outdoor Education Activities. This year the 6th year course was more structured than in previous years. The Leaving Certificate Applied programme contained all elements as detailed within the Leaving Certificate Applied Report. A selection of our Junior Volleyball players TY Cyclists return from Leighlinbridge Assessment and Achievement While we encourage sporting excellence, our primary aim continues to focus on participation for all regardless of age and ability. Assessment for most students was carried out on a continual basis of observation, participation and motivation within the class. Students in Transition Year were more formally assessed by means of a project. This could either be in the form of a sports research paper or the creation of a sports facebook page. They also were assessed on their tournament organisation skills. Students of Leaving Certificate Applied were assessed on their attendance and also on the completion of various key assignments undertaken throughout the year. This complies with departmental regulations. Students competed within the various sporting disciplines through the extra-curricular clubs. All physical education teachers were available to speak to parents at their respective parent teacher meetings. Forty students participated in a Gaelic Football coaching Course organised by Carlow G.A.A. These students have been coaching in local primary schools throughout the year. Fifteen students participated and achieved certification in volleyball refereeing organised by the VAI. A total of twenty two students received certificates and prizes for their commitment and dedication to various sporting activities. They were: Katie Webb, Chloe Sheehan, Lisa O Toole, Marian Walsh, Therese O Regan, Carol Healy, Niamh Fahy, Kate Rowe, Roisin O Donoghue, Shannon Geogheghan, Lisa Hayden, Eva Pannett, Mairead Kelly, Katie Fitzpatrick, Katie Harding, Sarah O Neill, Niamh O Donoghue, Rachael Coyle, Zoe Barrett, Kate Bolger, Aveena Lennon and Nicole Hanley. The following were the sports prefects: Katherine Byrne,Kate Bolger, Rupali Ashashan, Niamh Fahy, Vera Fadel, Ashleigh Farrell, Katie Fitzpatrick, Caroline Glynn,

76 Carol Healy, Orla Heffernan, Ella McHugh, Amie McGuirk, Nuala Murphy, Ciara O Brien, Cliona O Grady, Trisha Sloyan, Kate Rowe, Marian Walsh. Orlagh Moran, 6th year, was a member of the Leinster schools Gaelic football team in the interprovincials. Aisling Byrne, 6th year and Niamh Smith 5th year, played on the south East U18 Hockey team in the inter provincials in November. Lauren Dwyer played for Ireland on the Ladies U17 soccer team in the European Qualifiers and Won Player of the year. Siobhfra O Flaherty won the All-Ireland Junior Cross country and was selected onto the Irish Schools Junior Cross Team. At the All Irelands, she won the Junior 1500m. Chloe Lawlor, 6th year competed on the Irish Archery team. Montana Cobey Dunne (3nd Year) qualified onto the Irish National Youth Swim Squad. Three special awards were given to sixth year students for outstanding commitment and dedication to sports in the school Aisling Byrne for Hockey, Nicole Hanley for Basketball and Orlagh Moran for Gaelic Football. The Show jumping team of Evelyn Moore, Ciara Kelly, Niamh Kennedy and Taylor Deane are the All-Ireland Inter Schools Champions and will travel to Hickstead, England to represent St. Leo s College in the equivalent competition there in August. They received the Physical Education Scholarships following their win at the Irish Show Jumping Schools Finals. We wish them the best of luck. Happy Tennis Girls

77 Religious Education Department members: Joan Scott, Margaret Farrell, Mairéad Redmond, Elma O Connell, Áine Shiels, Claire Casey and Sheila Coady. Department Co-ordinator: Sheila Coady Provision of the subject in school First Year Junior Certificate students followed the Junior Certificate syllabus at both higher and ordinary Level. Each first year class would have experienced meditation and participated in paraliturgies in the school Prayer Room. Some first year classes visited the heritage room in the convent and were given a talk by Sr. Maureen Keogh. Some first year students participated in Team Hope s Shoe Box Appeal. Most first year classes participated in decorating the fish symbol in response to the invitation from the organisers of the Diocesan Congress. All students used the textbook A Question of Faith by Lori Whelan and Niamh McDermott. Second Year All students followed the Junior Certificate syllabus at both higher and ordinary Level. All second year students were offered the opportunity to participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation in the Cathedral of the Assumption in Carlow. Each second year class would have experienced meditation and participated

78 in paraliturgies in the school Prayer Room. The Cairdeas leaders facilitated an afternoon retreat for each second year class in the Cathedral parish centre. All students used the textbook A Question of Faith by Lori Whelan and Niamh McDermott. Third Year Students followed the Junior Certificate syllabus at both Higher and Ordinary Level. All journal work was completed and submitted by 26th April Each Third Year class would have experienced meditations and participated in paraliturgies in the school Prayer Room. As part of journal research, some Third Year classes availed of the services of the Poor Clare Sisters, the Sisters of Mercy, Fr. John Cummins (School Capeline) and Fr John Dunphy, parish priest of Graiguecullen/Killeshin. Other third year students were assisted in carrying out research for their journal by St. Vincent De Paul personnel Alec Stenson, Frank Holden and Alec Purser. Visits to the Convent chapel, the Cathedral of the Assumption, St Clare s Church Graiguecullen and the Mosque in Clonskeagh also took place to facilitate journal work. Students used the textbook A Question of Faith by Lori Whelan and Niamh McDermott. Other Resources Throughout the Junior Certificate cycle, students utilised the school s I.T. facility to aid their journal work. Various DVD s, posters and PowerPoint presentations were used as resource materials by teachers. Assessment Homework and regular class tests. A common Religious Education paper was used for both first and second year students for the summer exams Christmas tests and Summer House Exams. Mock exams for third year students. Parent - Teacher Meetings Transition Year All Transition Years pursued a programme on Social Justice, which was broken down into five modules. These were as follows: Module One Environmental Justice Module Two Discrimination and Racism Module Three Poverty in Ireland Module Four Volunteerism Module Five Fair Trade Each Transition Year class would have experienced meditations and participated in paraliturgies. Transition Year students participated in a one day retreat facilitated by the NET Ministries Ireland team in the Cathedral parish centre. Aisling O Rourke from Carlow Volunteer Centre addressed all Transition Year students about the merit of volunteering and liaised with a large number of students who participated in volunteering during the course of the year. A number of students volunteered weekly in St. Fiacc s House, Graiguecullen. Yvonne Rooney, Kildare and Leighlin Faith Development Services visited and spoke to all Transition Year students about the John Paul 11 Awards. Students who participated in these awards were supported by the R.E. team in linking in with the parish co-ordinators. A large number of students took part in the Diocesan Congress Day which was held in St. Leo s College. Sr. Mary Ryan from Act to Prevent Trafficking gave a very interesting presentation to all Transition Year students on human trafficking and it s effects. Sixth Year young Mercy Leaders addressed all Transition Year students. Four Transition Year students represented St. Leo s College at the International Pilgrimage for Young Mercy Leaders in Dublin from 16th to 19th July. A number of Transition Year students were involved in the organisation of the Annual Catherine McAuley lecture on May 15th. A number of students organised a display of Fair Trade products and Fair Trade information leaflets as part of Fair Trade Fortnight. All Transition Year students presented a paper on an aspect of Social Justice and were awarded certificates accordingly. Other Resources I.T., visits out and guest speakers Homework Assessment Classroom displays Transition Year Evening Display Fifth Year All Fifth Years explored the following topics: The Search for Meaning, World Religions, New Religious Movements, Morality and Moral issues. The F1and F4

79 classes co-ordinated and organised the Trócaire Lenten 24 Hour Fast. As usual this was a great success and raised a substantial sum. Jennifer Brennan from Trócaire addressed all fifth year students on the work of Trócaire in India. The social issues of alcohol awareness and drug abuse were dealt with during the first term, culminating in a workshop facilitated by residents of Cuan Mhuire, Athy. All Fifth Year students had the opportunity to partake in a retreat in Graiguecullen Parish Centre. A number of fifth year students attended the Diocesan Youth Congress. A group of fifth year students visited the Cathedral and were given a talk on the history of the cathedral and the significance of liturgical space. A group of fifth year students visited the Poor Clare Community in Graiguecullen. This year s guest speaker was past pupil Mary Doyle, Deputy Secretary General of the Department of Education and Skills. Mary s theme was most fittingly Continuity and Change in Irish Education She delivered an impressive paper detailing the impact of education on Irish society including an analysis of the rate of participation of young Irish girls in education since Integral to her presentation was her appreciation of the Sisters and staff of St. Leo s College in particular for their dedication to the empowerment of women. In addition to the academic, Mary delighted the audience with a series of photographs from both her primary and secondary school days in St. Joseph s and St. Leo s College. Paraliturgies All students were given the opportunity to participate in the Sacrament of Reconciliation in the Cathedral of the Assumption, Carlow. Each Fifth Year class experienced meditations and participated in paraliturgies in the school Prayer Room. Fifth Year students helped in the preparation and organisation of the annual Christmas Carol Service. St Vincent De Paul members packing the Christmas hampers 3 of our Young Mercy Leaders Mairead Redmond Resources Tuesdays with Morrie Mitch Alborn. I.C.T. and various multimedia. Assessment Written reviews. End of term reviews. Self assessment and evaluation. Parent-Teacher Meetings Sixth Year All sixth years studied the following topics: Mercy tradition (culminating in the organisation and preparation of Mercy Day Mass) Education for Reconciliation The Bible in Modern Culture Women and the Church Prayer and Meditation. Discovery Leaving Certificate Applied (L.C.A). All L.C.A. students completed the remaining two of the four prescribed modules; module two, Our Religious Story and module three A Living Faith. They produced a booklet on Bible Stories as part of module two. As part of module three on Ecumenism they visited various churches Trocaire

80 The students visited St. Fiacc s House in Graiguecullen. They participated in a Reconciliation Service in the Cathedral of the Assumption. The class also attended a talk given by residents of Cuan Mhuire, Athy. As part of Fair Trade Fortnight the class represented St. Leo s College at the Fair Trade event for secondary schools held in Carlow I.T. All Sixth Years attended a one day retreat at Castletown Retreat Centre, Mountrath, Co. Laois. A large number of students participated in a pilgrimage from St. Leo s to Old Leighlin. Sixth Years prepared and organised their Leaving Cert Graduation Mass. Assessment Class participation Parent-Teacher Meetings. Key Assignments (L.C.A.) Scholarship Congratulations to Transition Year student Nuala Murphy who was awarded the Religious Education scholarship, sponsored by the Parent s Council. Nuala has been an outstanding contributor in a variety of roles to promoting human rights, social justice and development education. Subject Provision St Leo s College Prayer Room All students take Religious Education at Junior and Senior level. Each class is timetabled for three class periods at Junior Certificate Level and three classes at Senior Level. All teachers of Religious Education have access to one specialist room, the Prayer Room. During the year a sacred space was created in the prayer room to mark the following key events in the liturgical calendar: November, Month of Remembrance, Advent, Catholic Schools Week and Lent. Reflections at Assembly were also given to highlight each of these significant times in the liturgical calendar. Two teachers participated in a one day in-service in Kilkenny organised by the Diocesan advisors in the South East. Margaret Farrell attended an inservice day and two evening in-services organised by the Professional Development Services for Teachers. One student from St. Patrick s College, Carlow and one student from St. Patrick s College, Thurles were facilitated by the R.E. team in Teaching Placement. Thanks We would like to express our sincere thanks to our Principal, Clare Ryan, for her support, care and encouragement over the past year. We would also like to thank Sr. Nora for all the work she does for us. A sincere thank you to our part-time chaplain, Fr. John Cummins, for all his work. Mary Doyle, guest speaker at the Catherine McAuley Lecture with Mairead Redmond.

81 Annual Catherine McAuley Lecture

82 Science Department members: Irene Connors, Lillian Fogarty, Liz Kennedy, Nuala Kennedy, Ruth McHugh, Fiona McManus, Anne O Riordan and Anne Rennick Department Co-ordinator : Irene Connors Provision of Subject in the school St Leo s College, at the moment, has three well-equipped laboratories; one specialised for each of Biology, Chemistry & Physics. Currently a Science Laboratory is under construction in the new building. This means that we will soon have a laboratory specialised for each of the science subjects offered at leaving cert level, with Agricultural Science gaining a specialised laboratory. Each laboratory is fully equipped for all junior science activities. Junior science: Junior Science is mandatory for all students. All junior science students are timetabled for four science class periods a week; 2 single periods in a classroom and 1 double period for the practical activities in one of the four science laboratories. Transition year: Transition year science is made up of modules including: Problem solving, Biology, Chemistry & Physics. The variety of modules available is intended to help students with their subject choice for senior cycle. Senior cycle: All senior level students have the opportunity to study Biology, Chemistry, Physics and (from September 2011) Agricultural Science. Applied Maths (for fifth years and sixth years) is available in the school after hours. Students may pick one, two or three of the Science subjects.

83 The number of classes at senior level for this year is as follows: Senior students are timetabled for five class periods a week; three single periods for theory and one double period in the dedicated laboratory for the mandatory activities associated with each subject. All classes for senior students are of mixed ability and are generally assigned to their classes according to their subject choice at the start of fifth year. Assessment & Achievement The new Junior Science syllabus has been examined in St. Leo s College since June This year all Science students again completed mandatory investigations worth 25% of the final science result. The students chose two topics; from Biology, Chemistry and Physics and they carried out practical investigations based on these topics. This work gave each student the invaluable experience of researching, designing and implementing their own experiments. A further 10% of the final result is awarded for completion of 30 mandatory experiments and recording the results of these in their Practical Work copies. The remaining 65% is awarded for the examination paper. First year students follow a common science programme and sit a common test at the end of first year. This process facilitates the re-arrangement of classes for second year. Second years also follow a common programme with a common test at the end of the academic year. Department meetings: There have been several departmental meetings during this academic year to discuss topics such as curricular planning, events for science week, open evening, text book selection, ordering equipment, junior science investigations, syllabus, assessment, planning, preparation of the annual report, and budget for the next academic year. Interns: Biology Chemistry Physics Ag. Science 5th year th year performed a very long list of duties, which included demonstrations of experiment, demonstrations to both students and teachers on the use of equipment, preparation work, organisation, inventory and cleaning. The laboratory glassware has never been so sparkling. On occasion they also helped with experimental work, experimental write ups and supervision. The 2 interns proved invaluable many times during the year, but particularly during the Junior Certificates Project work, keeping all the necessary equipment in perfect working order. Both were also constantly available to advise our Scifest students. The Science Dept. is extremely grateful to both Mary and Nthabi for their enthusiasm and hard work. Teacher inservice Various members of the Science department attended evening and weekend inservice courses. Biology Inservice Junior Science in service Agricultural Science Inservice I.S.T.A. meetings and Annual Conference Frontiers of Physics Day Chemistry IT Induction day for new physics teachers in UCC Chemistry for non-specialists, 20-21st June 2012 One of our Science teachers Fiona McManus has been working with PDST as a local facilitator for Junior Science. This involves on-going support for teachers at Junior certificate level either through providing resources or in-service First Leaving Cert Agricultural Science in St. Leo s College In September 2011 the very first group of girls of St. Leo s College began their Leaving Certificate course in Agricultural Science. These eighteen very enthusiastic students have undertaken the two-year course with exceptional co-operation and interest. They have already finished their practical (which is worth 25%), and they have proven themselves as great ambassadors for both the school and for the subject of Agricultural Science. In addition to all the hard work and study they put in, we have also had great fun both in the classroom and during a number of excursions to various farms. They are wished the very best of luck in their written paper in June, and I would like to say that it has been a pleasure teaching them. This year we were very fortunate to have 2 laboratory interns working with us under the Jobbridge scheme. Our interns were Mary Faulkner, who had a strong Physics background, and Nthabiseng Ndawo, who had a strong Biology background. Both interns joined us on November 6th and continued with us until May 3rd. They

84 Science Week A group of Transition Year science students went to Bishop Foley primary school to demonstrate science experiments. Some of the experiments were hands on and the boys really enjoyed them. The girls equally enjoyed the enthusiasm shown by the boys. It was a great success. Senior Science Quiz This year St Leo s College won the regional ISTA Science Quiz, and went on to represent the South East in the All Ireland finals in Trinity College Dublin. The girls were coached by Ms Liz Kennedy. The Students on the team were Sally Doyle, Crystal Percival and Kate Bradley, all 6th years students. BT Young Scientist 2013 Ella McHugh, Cliona O Grady and Niamh O Donaghue presented their project The Big C: Breast Cancer what s my Risk? at the BT young Scientist exhibition in Dublin in January, along with their teacher Ms Fiona McManus. This project entailed surveying one thousand people to gain information on their perceived cancer risk over their lifetime. The three girls then embarked on an awareness campaign involving posters around the school and a number of guest speakers visited St. Leo s College. The students then reassessed their subjects and presented their findings. They were awarded third in their intermediate Social & Behavioural Sciences category and were also presented with the Marie Keating Foundation award for best project aimed at improving cancer awareness. Young Scientist Trip 50 first year students had the wonderful opportunity to go to the Young Scientist exhibition in Dublin. They had the opportunity to support our own project and to attend various shows and view exhibits and stands. St. Leo s College Leaving Certificate Agricultural Science Class. Cliona O Grady, Niamh O Donoghue and Ella McHugh at their stand at the BT Young Scientist. They came home full of ideas and laden down with pens, pencils, posters etc. from the exhibitors. A great day was had by all. Visiting Speakers: Chemical Engineering Talk On Thursday May 16th the 5th year Chemistry students received a talk from a Chemical Engineer Deirdre McMahon. It was a great opportunity for the students, who would otherwise be unaware of the excellent opportunities that a career in Chemical engineering can offer. Equine Genetics Talk Dr. Emmeline Hill, a genomics scientist who specialises in equine genetics delivered a talk on her studies in St. Leo s College on Thursday 25th October. Dr. Hill is a co-founder along with Jim Bolger (racehorse trainer) of Equinome. The scientist leads the Equine exercise genomics research group at the College of Agriculture, Food Science and Veterinary Medicine in UCD. Members of the Equestrian club and some 4th and 5th year students attended the talk, in which the students learned of the basics in equine genetics. From Dr Hill s research it can now be determined how fast a racehorse can run before it is even trained. The horse can be categorised as suitable for short distance, middle distance or long distance racing by testing the horse s genes. Nanoscience On March 11th Arlene O Neill (a PhD student from Trinity College and current Dublin Rose of Tralee representative) spoke to senior Physics and Chemistry students (plus interested 4th yrs.) about Nanotechnology. This was a fascinating introduction to the science and applications of an aspect of Physics which the girls found especially interesting. She has special interest in promoting science to girls and was a most interesting and enthusiastic speaker.

85 Rebecca Loughman and Katie Harding attended a Transition Year Physics Experience (TYPE) Nanoscience Day on 26th February along with about 60 other Transition Years from around the country. Throughout the day they attended a number of different lectures about Physics and in particular Nanoscience. This helped them understand the concept of Nanoscience and the extremely small measurements that are used. Scifest 2013 Two projects were entered from St Leo s College this year. The first by 3rd year students; Aoife McCabe, Molly Cooper and Lea Cindemi entitled How smart is your dog? which was an extension of a project they worked on last year. Science Scholarship This year the Science Department were granted a Science Scholarship from the Parent s Council. We are very grateful to the Parents Council for their generous contributions of Scholarships over the years. It was decided to offer this scholarship to 1st and 2nd year students. Interested students were encouraged to apply by writing a letter, stating in less than 100 words why they should be considered as a suitable candidate to represent St. Leo s College. We chose a suitable course to be run in IT Carlow for a week in July, by a company called Anyone 4 Science. There were a large number of applicants, and the standard was very high. The scholarship was awarded to 1st year student Claire Delaney. We wish her the very best, and hope this is the beginning of a career in Science. The second was by 1st year Emma Townsend entitled A study of Nostoc Commune and its potential use as a fertiliser. Emma really impressed the judges she met and came away with the Best Communicator award. Well done! Lunchtime Chemistry Club. This year Emma Townsend, a first year student, was very keen to set up a chemistry club in the school. She approached her Science teacher Mrs Nuala Kennedy to see if it was possible, and as is usual in St Leo s, when somebody suggests setting up a new club, she was given full encouragement! She drew up posters and encouraged first years to come along. Whether it was the sweets on offer, or Emma s enthusiasm for Chemistry, it worked, and on Wednesdays the lab was buzzing each week. Each week she would approach Mrs Kennedy and suggest a new experiment. If we had the chemicals then Emma did the rest. Mary Faulkner our lab assistant and Paul Doyle our student teacher were very enthusiastic and helpful to the girls and we had many interesting sessions. Lunchtime Chemistry Club with our two interns Emma has received a science scholarship in recognition of her contribution to science at St Leo s College. Salters Chemistry Day in TCD A group of 4 first year students Emma Townsend, Clodagh Brophy, Sinead Tobin and Aislinn Flood accompanied by science teacher Nuala Kennedy, went to TCD for the 22nd annual Salters challenge on Saturday the 11th May. The girls, along with first year students from 20 schools around the country, got to work in the wonderful Crocker laboratory and tried to solve a mystery using chemistry. They were directed in the experiments and then had to analyse the results and draw conclusions. It was a wonderful opportunity and the girls hope to return in a few years time as students of the college. Well done! IT Carlow Entrance Scholarship Salters Chemistry Day in TCD

86 Technology Department members: Fergal Murphy Technology is proving to be an ever increasingly popular choice among students in St. Leo s College. This year has seen, yet again, an increase in the number of students choosing Technology for Junior and Leaving Certificate. The subject is offered at two levels for state examinations with the expectation that all students take higher level, and this has been a feature of the subject since it s introduction. The academic performance of students is tracked and monitored throughout the year with regular school reports issued. In addition, students are given formative feedback during the year on their practical and written work. My work with the delivery of T4 National Inservice Provision and correction of Technology in the state examinations enables me to provide students with advice and support to gain the maximum results in the written and practical components of their examination. Students who do not choose Technology for Junior Cycle as an examination subject are given the opportunity to experience aspects of the subject through a five-week modular programme during Transition year. In order to promote the subject and broaden student s experience of Technology, the main focus of the modular programme is on practical work. The work designed and developed by Transition year students are displayed at the end of year Transition year night. A wide and varied range of interesting and challenging Junior Cycle projects have been successfully undertaken this year to fulfil the practical component aspect of Junior Cycle Technology. The Leaving Certificate Technology students of 2012 achieved very favourably in comparison to the national norms, with the majority of students achieving their highest overall mark in Technology. This year all Leaving Certificate Technology students are pursuing higher level in the subject. The theme for their practical component is based on an interactive device to aid in fundraising for the charity of their choice. All students have successfully completed this aspect of the course, and a two hours theory paper will be undertaken in June as the remaining element of the subject.

87 Nine Transition year students who studied Technology for their Junior Certificate volunteered to work as Technology assistants this year. They mentored 1st year students during practical Technology classes throughout the year. Their support and guidance was greatly appreciated and ensured that all 1st year students benefit from their experience as they develop key skills and competencies in the subject Technology Assistants were: Aoife Byrne, Rebecca Loughman, Ciara O Brien, Erika O Connor, Maria O Dwyer, Anna O Neill, Alicia Tobin, Shanice Walker, and Rachel Whelan. After a six year period in temporary accommodation, the Department of Education and Skills chose St. Leo s College to have the temporary prefabs replaced with a permanent structure, and work on the new extension began in December This very exciting phase in the history of Technology will see the new school extension incorporating a purpose built Technology Suite. Work has progressed apace and the new suite is due to be operational early in the academic year 2013.

88 Awards

89 Gaisce 1st Year Group Art Group nd Year Group

90 3rd Year Group National Show Jumping champions th Year Group 5th Year Group

91 Technology assistants with Fergal Murphy Leaving Certificate Group Spot the difference - twins and triplets with Clare Ryan Student Representative Council with Joan Scott Winners of the African film festival with Sean O Flaherty