WORK EXPERIENCE STUDENTS         Posted:[05/01/07]

The following students were on work placement for one week in October 2006: Gareth McDonald QLC Mayfair – Computer Technician             Olivia Creaney Mayfair – Clerical Work/receptionist               Daniel Bush Mayfair – Clerical Work Lee Mulholland Francis Kelly – Hairdressing             Roger Mulholland Francis Kelly – Hairdressing Stephen McAlinden Lindsay – Ford – Carn – Mechanic           David Girvan Porter’s Body Shop         Michael Lavery Eamon Douglas Construction           Eirn Duffy Upper Cuts – Hairdressing           Amy Furphy Intrigue – Beautician           Kirsten Harrison Hairdressing           Eimear McCormack Receptionist   Orla McNally Superdrug         Naomi Matchett Gordon’s Chemist           Daniel Hamill Yellow Door Restaurant, Woodhouse St.           Edna St Francis’ Nursing Home, Charles St.         Thomas Harte Peter mark Hairdressing               Tara Mulholland Boot’s The Chemist           Aine Hamill and Cathy McNally Dunnes Stores         Nathan Grimley Dunnes Stores           Rory Judge Dunnes Stores         Nathan Grimley Dunnes Stores         Rebecca Donnelly and Naomi Matchett Gordon’s Chemist Emma O’Neill Hairoport, Hairdressing, Garvaghy Rd.         Wayne Gormley McCracken’s Spar, Garvaghy Rd

Dancing Show a Huge Success         Posted:[05/01/07]

St Anthony’s Centre hosted a weekend of Strictly Come Dancing in which large crowds came to see 10 couples do battle on the dance floor. The opening show on Saturday evening saw Drumcee College teacher Anita McGibbon and past pupil Kevin Conwell winning the Swing Jive Competition. The Sunday Night show in which the dancers performed in front of 650 people saw the standard reach an all time high in which all the dance couples put in memorable performances. Runners up went to Fr Brian White and Jayne McCrory, with Jayne getting Fr Brian to perform all sorts of modern dancing which was both difficult but very pleasing on the eye. Third place went to Drumcree College teacher Anita McGibbon and Kevin Conwell who performed a fantastic Saturday Night Fever Megamix. Saturday Nights Show – Winner of the Swing Jive: Anita McGibbon and Kevin Conwell. Runners Up: Madeline McGuinness and Jonathan Mackey Winner of the Free Style Dance: Cllr Kieran Corr and Linda May Martin Runners Up: Madeline McGuinness and Jonathan Mackey. Sunday Afternoon – Entertainment Value Winners: Cllr Kieran Corr and Linda Martin. Runners Up: Fr Brian White and Jayne McCrory. Third place: Anita McGibbon and Kevin Conwell Sunday Night Final – Non Dance Champion: Cllr Kieran Corr and his partner Linda Martin Runner Up: Fr Brian White and his partner Jayne McCrory. Third Place: Anita McGibbon and her partner Kevin Conwell. The dancers from Strictly Come Dancing will be performing in a “Dance Extravaganza” in Drumcree College on Saturday Night 27 January 2007. All proceeds will go towards the Newry Hospice. Tickets are on sale from the school and are expected to sell very quickly. Don’t be disappointed order yours now - £6 each.

November Prizegiving         Posted:[05/01/07]

SUBJECT AWARDS Ulster Bank Cup – Mathematics: Kieran Mulholland Joseph McVeigh Memorial Cup – Science (DA): Kieran Mulholland. Portadown Catholic Association Cup – R.E.: Kieran Mulholland. Learning for Life and Work Plaque: Laura Clinton. Corn na Gaelige – Irish: Laura Clinton. P.E. Girls: Laura Clinton. Mother Teresa Cup – English Literature: Kyle Harrison. Sr Rita Cup – Information Technology: Kyle Harrison. School Cup – French: Rebecca Fearon. Benburb Priory Cup – English Language: Christopher Breen. Bank of Ireland shield for Music: Lana Berry. School plaque History: Gareth Morgan School Plaque – Geography: Stefan Gorman. P.E. Boys: Steven Fox. School Plaque for Technology and Design: Aaron Mulholland. Cunningham Cup – Learning Support: Sarah Molloy. Child Development: Elaine O’Neill. Diocesan RE Award at KS4: Francis McCann. Hamill/McGrane Cup (Top GCSE Student): Laura Clinton. PERSONAL ACHIEVEMENT AWARDS AT GCSE Mathematics – Robert Tiffney; English – Aaron Brankin; Sicence – Catherine McCourt; R.E. – Jacqueline Mossey; Tech and Design – Tomas Mulholland; Business Studies – Steven Fox; Geography – Rebecca Fearon; History – Jimi Halliday; French – Natalie Lyness; English Literature – Catherine McCourt, Natalie Lyness; music – Michael Carvill; I.T. – Robert Tiffney; Learning for Life and Work – Tomas Mulholland; Child Development – Oonagh Kingham. SPECIAL AWARDS Stephen Lyness Award for Outstanding Contribution to Sport: Stefan Kelly. The Gallagher Cup for Achievement: Nicole Murray. The O’Neill Cup of Endeavour: Kirsty Heath. GCSE AND OTHER EXAMINATIONS YEAR 12 – C.A.C.H.E. and Loughry Food Hygiene Certificates: Dana McConville, Nadia Al-Choukair, Louise Lavery, Letitia McConville.

Christmas Card     Posted:[05/01/07]

Congratulations to Joseph Toland 12A2 whose card was chosen as the official Christmas card for Drumcree College portraying baby Jesus and his mother. Well done Joseph!

Christmas Card Competition     Posted:[05/01/07]

Congratulations to Sinead Davidson (12A1) whose Christmas card design was chosen form over 8,000 entries by Archbishop Sean Brady to be used as his personal Christmas card. As part of her prize Sinead also received a cheque for £250. Well done Sinead!

School Crossing Patrolman retires       Posted:[05/04/06]

School Crossing Patrolman Jackie Quinn was presented with a clock on his retirement as appreciation for his service as a school crossing patrolman.  Jackie had worked for the school for 7 years.  Pictured with Mr Quinn are Miss C McGrath Vice Principal and Acting Principal Mrs A Mallon.

World Book Day Poetry and Poster Competition      Posted:[05/04/06]

Congratulations to the following pupils who received prizes of book/CD tokens for their entries. 1st Prize £10       Michael McBride 2nd Prize £7        Joint winners                                   Andrea Smyth                    Jonathan Heaney 3rd Prize £6        Joint winners                                   Marta Cipriano                    David Campbell 4th Prize £5        Joint winners                                   Niall Fox                    Pearse Judge

House Point Winners         Posted:[05/04/06]

This group of Drumcree College pupils went to Lisburn Leisureplex as an award for being the best pupil in their class through the House Points system during the Christmas to Easter term.

Drumcree pupils produce music compositions using Sibelius Score Publishing Software         Posted:[05/04/06]

On Thursday May 11 2006 Mrs Noreen White SELB Music Advisor visited the school.  She was asked to come in and assist pupils at key stage 3 and 4 with a new software package for music. Sibelius Score publishing software is renowned world-wide for being the most powerful score publishing software on the market.  Being used by many professional composers and publishing houses it is now considered to be the industry standard. Mrs White gave the group invaluable help and as a result all of the GCSE Year 11 students are now able to transfer their GCSE music compositions from manuscript form onto the new software.  Mrs White will visit the school early in September to continue this new learning experience. Pictured are Mrs Noreen White – SELB Music Advisor, Mrs Deirdre Savage - Head of Music and Year 11 students.

Reading Partnership Programme     Posted:[05/04/06]

Pictured are Year 8 and 9 pupils who are taking part in the ‘Reading Partnership Programme’.  This programme, which runs for 10 weeks, aims to improve children’s reading skills.  Also pictured are classroom assistants Ann Grimes and Roisin Hagan who run the course.

Bonjour everyone!     Posted:[05/04/06]

My name is Perrine. I’m 22 years old and I come from la Roche sur Yon, a city in the West of France (maybe some of you know la Vendée because you spent  some holidays in this place…). I have two brothers and one sister and I’m the oldest one.This year 2005-2006, I was a language assistant in Drumcree College and in Lurgan Junior High School. I really enjoyed teaching French, travelling, making new friends and discovering your beautiful country with my tiny “Renault Clio”! One piece of advice: keep studying foreign languages, it will open many doors for you! My favourite hobbies are mainly arts (music, cinema, painting, reading), cooking, travelling and talking with my friends.  I hoped I helped some of you in French and all the best for the future! Pictured with me is Mrs Kane, teacher of Modern languages at Drumcree College.

Work Experience     Posted:[05/04/06]

Class 11V, Drumcree College were on work experience from Monday 15 to Friday 19 may 2006. In all 12 pupils were involved. Christine Victoria Kim Lorne David Michael L Wayne Seamus Michael John John L Michael O’H Here is a selection of photographs showing these hard working pupils in “action”.  It was found to be a rewarding week.  It was the first period of work experience for many and pupils felt very positive on their on their return to school.  Attendance, punctuality, dress and conduct were all monitored.  There was not a single complaint. Well done 11V! Lorne Mulholland – C Mallon Family Butchers, Mayfair Industrial Estate Portadown. Michael Campbell experiencing the job of mechanic. Seamus Tennyson SJ McConville Building Contractor – Ballyhegan. Wayne Heath and Michael O’Hehir assisting the caretaker at Drumcree College 8k Michael Lavery working for Eamon Douglas Building Contractor, Obins St. Portadown. 8p David Givan working as a mechanic for F O’Hagan, Charlestown Road,Portadown Pupils are in the process of writing an account of their experience and post a thank you card to their employers.

Megan Hopes to see Grand Final Stars     Posted:[05/04/06]

Drumcree College pupil Megan Halliday is hoping to emulate Kelly Clarkson by imitating the American Idol winner in a major Northern Ireland final. Megan has won a place in the Grand Final of the Stars in Yer Eyes competition in the Waterfront Hall later this month. After wining her school heat of the sound-a-like competition she took part in the regional final against winners from St Michael’s Grammar School, Lurgan and St Patrick’s College, Armagh as well as fellow Drmcree College pupils Olivia Creaney and Nicole Murray.  Olivia sang a Lauren Hill number – Killing Me Softly and Nicole sang a Shakira song – Underneath Your Clothes. The audience were also entertained by up and coming star “Minty”. Megan was again successful, singing Clarkson’s hit single ‘Because of You’ to win a place in the grand final on June 22 where she will compete against 20 acts from schools across the province compete for a share of £5,000 prize-money. The competition is organised by J.W. Promotions.

Young Enterprise      Posted:[05/04/06]

Drumcree College Music Students Visit Amma Centre in ArmaghPosted:[05/04/06]

Drumcree College Music students took part in a workshop at the Amma Centre in Armagh using the new Acid Music programme for Keystage 3 and 4.  This involved each pupil producing a musical composition of sound and recording it in the purpose built recording studio. They then used the Acid Music programme to manipulate and enhance their sample. Some of the pupils were then encouraged to use this programme within GCSE compositions with great success.  As a follow up we hope to install this programme for all Keystage pupils within the school.  This will give the opportunity for many more pupils to use technology that has been so praised within the Educational Services. Pupils who took part: Eimear Wilson Lana Berry Michael Carvill Jonathan Grimley Sinead Davidson Alice McNally Rory Judge Rachel Fox Jamie Curran Aaron Mulholland Cathy Bailey Vikki Reid Alicia Wilson

Young Enterprise NI Trade Fair at Rushmere Shopping Centre Posted:[05/04/06]

Drumcree College took part in the Young Enterprise NI Trade Fair held at Rushmere Shopping Centre. Schools from Craigavon, Newry, Armagh, Dungannon, Banbridge, Keady and Dromore were at the trade fair, which is part of the students’ participation in the Young Enterprise Northern Ireland Company Programme. The students developed and manufactured the products with the help of a local business adviser.  The trade fair is an opportunity for the students to see exactly how the business of selling works, and it gives the local community the opportunity to support their young entrepreneurs. Valerie Ingram, chief executive of Young Enterprise Northern Ireland, said, “Young Enterprise is thrilled so many students participated in this year’s trade fair.  It gives them a chance to build their confidence and sell their goods, and it gives the community a chance to support their young people.” Drumcree College’s mini company, Crafty Crafters, sold jewellery, keyrings and plaques which were handmade.

Young Enterprise Day Marshes Shopping Centre Dundalk Posted:[05/04/06]

Cross-border links for pupils in the Learning Support Unit at Drumcree College was a huge success on Saturday 11 March in the Marshes Shopping Centre in Dundalk. The Crafty Crafters came 1st in the Cross Border Young Enterprise Day. They won best overall company and were presented with money, individual prizes and an engraved plaque.  Pupils were ecstatic about the results and will contrive to expand and produce products of a high standard. They want to say a big thanks to all staff at the Marshes for their support and hospitality.  During the week L.M.F.M., Louth Meath, radio station did a live interview with Mrs McGibbon and she explained to them all about the Crafty Crafters and the Young Enterprise day. Students are now preparing for Young Enterprise Interview Day which takes place in the Seagoe Hotel on 11th April 2006 and the Graduation Ceremony in the Market Place Theatre, Armagh on 9th May 2006. Students from Drumcree College Learning Support Centre meet students at the Dundalk Young Enterprise Trade Fair along with Mr Braithwaite, Chairman for Y.E.N.I. Southern Area Board. Also pictured is Cathy Morrison – Y.E.N.I. Development Manager.     Pupils receiving their prizes from Yanky Fachler at the Dundalk Young Enterprise Day are from left: Nadine Collins, Barry O'Hagan Sarah Molloy, Urfan Iqbal and Yanky Fachler.     Mrs Al Janabi receiving a suprise birthday cake from Mr Harry Traynor Marshes Centre Manager along with the pupils from Dundalk Grammar School.

Stars in yer' Eyes         Posted:[05/04/06]

Pupils at Drumcree College showed off their considerable musical talents by imitating the stars.  Twelve acts took part in the annual Star in Yer Eyes competition, organised by JW Promotions, in front of a packed audience. Performances included sound-a-likes of Jamelia, Al Green, Abba, Jessica Simpson, Sixpence-none-the-Richer, Lonestar and Irene Cara as well as memorable performances from Tony Christie and Robbie Williams. In the end, though, the audience selected Megan Halliday, who performed as Kelly Clarkson, as the winner, with Olivia Creaney, as Lauryn Hill of The Fugees, in second place and Nicole Murray, as Shakira, in third. The trio will now go forward to the regional finals where they have the chance to win a place in the grand final in the Waterfront Hall in Belfast. This year, the school were treated to three different acts during the interval, including rising Northern Ireland pop star ‘Minty’ whose song has been played regularly on Cool FM as well as a performance by members of Linda May’s after-school dance class. Drumcree College student Aaron Brankin was also on stage, performing tracks form his CD, ‘When you say nothing at all’.

Credit Union      Posted:[05/04/06]

Drumcree College pupils did extremely well in the recent Credit Union Poster competition.  Thomas McKeown won in three different chapters and was presented with an art set, the Tommy Hendron Cup and prize money of £107.  This is the first time that a pupil from Drumcree College has been presented with the Tommy Hendron Cup. Prize winners were: Sarah Trainor Niamh Murphy Naidine Collings Jason Whitla Stacey McNally Thomas McKeown Aaron Beeton David Goodfellow Group photo from back left Mrs McGibbon, Catherine Hamill, Stacey McNally, Niamh Murphy, Sarah Trainor, Nadine Collins. Seated – Thomas McKeown and Jason Whitla Absent from photo: Aaron Beeton and David Goodfellow.  Between them they won over £350. Well done and congratulations to all who entered.

Prize-Giving Night 17th November 2005    Posted:[07/01/06]

THE SEAMUS O’NEILL AWARD FOR ENDEAVOUR Simon O’Neill, son of the late principal, Mr Seamus O’Neill, presents the Seamus O’Neill Cup for Endeavour to Annie McCrory       KEY STAGE 3 Some of the top students who achieved success at Key Stage 3.         JOINT VCE AWARD FOR BUSINESS Presented by Mr J McConville to Aaron Kerr – Currently studying at Liverpool University and Ceara Smith – Studying at UUJ.         TOP STUDENT Ciara Delaney achieved 9 A’s at G.C.S.E.           ACHIEVEMENTS Back row: Year 9 boys who received awards for The Reading Partnership Programme: Martin Jackson and Barry Creaney. Front row: Year 11 – Thomas Mulholland and Francis McCann recognised for Sporting achievement.       AWARD WINNERS AT G.C.S.E. along with Jimmy Smyth – guest speaker and Miss McGrath Acting Principal         THE MARIA GALLAGHER TROPHY FOR ACHIEVEMENT Awarded to Amy Toland. Included in picture are Mrs S Kearney Acting VP and Mrs Alison McCague Head of Home Economics       THE STEPHEN LYNESS MEMORIAL TROPHY Presented to Francis McCann by Stephen’s mother Catherine. Included are his sisters Megan and Natalie and Miss C McGrath Acting Principal         The Platform Party

Open Your Mind   Posted:[07/01/06]

Once again this year, a team of Year 11 pupils represented the school admirably in the public speaking competition entitled “Open Your Mind”. Organised by the Craigavon and Banbridge Community Trust, the competition aims to heighten your people’s awareness of mental health issues. The picture above features this year’s speakers in the back row (L-R) Honor Gorman, Vikki Reid, Rory Judge and Jonathan Grimley. They are joined by the team of 2004 who won the competition and celebrate with the cup. (L-R) Aaron Brankin, Lana Berry, Laura Clinton and Jimi Halliday.

FIT FOR LIFE        Posted:[07/01/06]

The pupils of Drumcree College took part in a sponsored Ballygowan Water and Energy fitness Challenge on Thursday 20th October. The pupils in years 8-11 were involved in boxercise, aerobics and dance for 1 hour led by event leaders Freddy Kinnersley and Catherine McAleer. At the end of the day both leaders gave a demonstration in marital arts and kick boxing as well as giving a talk on health and nutrition. Catherine brought along her Celtic Kick Boxing belt and medal. She finished in 3rd place in the recent world Kick boxing Championships. This was a very successful and enjoyable day with over 130 pupils taking part in the activities.

CREDIT UNION        Posted:[07/01/06]

Congratulations to all pupils who entered the Credit Union Poster competition. The entries were of a very high standard. The winning pupils will be notified in the New Year! Good luck to everyone involved.

12K COMPLETE LOVE FOR LIFE PROGRAMME       Posted:[07/01/06]

Patrick Matchett, Stacey McNally, Thomas McKeown and Barry O’Hagan (pictured above) along with Arron Beeton, have successfully completed a two year Love for Life Programme. Love for Life delivers presentations in 65% of secondary schools in N. Ireland. The aim of Love for Life is to empower 13-15 year olds to make informed choices about themselves, relationships and sex. Love for Life has been funded by Peace II. Patrick, Stacey, Thomas and Barry are pictured receiving their certificates at a cross community get together, with other local schools in Portadown Town Hall.

From the Vatican June 2005        Posted:[07/01/06]

Secretariat of State First Section – General Affairs From the Vatican, April 2005-11-25 N 7 To Pupils and Staff of Drumcree College His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI gratefully acknowledges the thoughtful message of greetings and good wishes sent to him on the occasion of his election to the See of Peter. To all who have promised him the support of their prayers at the beginning of his ministry as Supreme Pastor of the universal church the Holy Father cordially imparts his Apostolic Blessing as a pledge of lasting joy and peace in our Lord Jesus Christ.

Dancers        Posted:[07/01/06]

Pictured here are pupils from Drumcree College and our local, primary schools who attend Linda May’s after school dance lessons every Thursday. Congratulations to all those who took part and who won awards in Linda’s recent competition. New members are always welcome

GCSE GEOGRAPHY FIELD TRIP        Posted:[07/01/06]

Recently Year 12 GCSE Geography students completed a river survey at Kilbroney, Co Down

Funds Raised for Meningitis        Posted:[07/01/06]

Congratulations and best wishes are extended to Mrs Joan Robinson who raised £3,000 for Meningitis Research. Mrs Robinson took part in the Dublin Marathon and successfully completed the 26.6 mile course. Joan is pictured, with (acting) Principal Miss C McGrath, displaying her medal.

November Prayer Services        Posted:[07/01/06]

Pupils and staff of Drumcree College took part in prayer services to remember deceased members of our community this month. Fr. Brian White, our chaplain, led the prayer service which focussed on celebrating the lives of loved ones who are no-longer with us, and praying for the repose of their souls.

ST VINCENT DE PAUL        Posted:[07/01/06]

Pictured along with 8A3 are Jackie McKeown and Mairead McCourt from our local St. Vincent de Paul Society receiving over 300 angels and stars which the pupils made with Mrs McGibbon during their religion class. The angels and stars will be used to decorate the S.D.V.P. ‘Giving Trees’ which will be displayed in both our churches during Advent.

CRAFTY CRAFTERS BOARD MEETING        Posted:[07/01/06]

On Friday 18th November 2005 The Crafty Crafters had their first board meeting. Mr Michael Rentmeister, our appointed advisor, kindly chaired the meeting, discussing all aspects of starting up a business All present were very enthusiastic and were eager to start production for our first sales venture at High Street Mall on 16th December 2005

E-Buddies     Posted:[25/10/05]

Last year, a group of boys from 11A1 took part in a pilot project with pupils from St. John the Baptist Primary School. The project names E-Buddies and organised under the auspices of the SELB, involved eight boys from Miss McGuiness’s P7 class having their writing read, marked and commented upon by the Drumcree boys. The pupils did not meet during the exchange of their writing; that celebration had to wait until the project was completed in June. For the Year 11 pupils, the work was demanding but fulfilling. Miss McGuiness reported that for the P7 boys, the fact that they were sending their writing to be read by our students provided wonderful motivation and helped them take a great interest in their work. The project ended with a little party for everyone involved. Laden with gifts and cards, the primary school pupils were delighted to meet their readers for the first time and to see the boys whose comments and interest had encouraged them to work so well over the previous eight weeks.

Cardiac Care   Posted:[25/10/05]

The Cardiac Care Association were presented with a Cheque for £300. The money was raised and collected by Mrs Liz Smyth. Pictured are: (back left to right) Mr G Johnston, Mr J McConville, Mr S McCann, Miss C McGrath, Mr A Moriarity and Mr W Cummings. (Front) Mrs L Smyth and Mrs K Beattie.

This year students at Drumcree College received a very impressive set of G.C.S.E. results        Posted:[25/10/05]

Pictured is a selection of students who achieved 100% pass rate A*-C in nine subjects: Mark Robinson – 3A’s, 6B’s, Gemma McKenna 1A*, 5A’s and 3B’s, John Francis Donnelly 2A’s, 5B’s and 2C’s. Included in the picture is Miss McQuillan – School Improvement Manager.           A selection of very happy students collecting their G.C.S.E. results and feeling relieved that they have achieved the grades that they need to continue their study both at Grammar and Technical Colleges.       Mrs Henry (Principal) with a selection of students who made excellent progress and proved that after five years of hard work and studying, everything is possible.       Congratulations goes to Gary O’Connor top boy with 7A’s and 2B’s and Ciara Delaney top student, who is to be commended after achieving a very commendable and impressive set of results: 9A’s

CACHE WORKSHOP        Posted:[25/10/05]

On Thursday 8th September 2005 our sixth form CACHE Students took part in a “Peer Support Training Day” organised by Childline Northern Ireland. The training will enable the sixth form students to offer support as mentors to other younger members of the school. Peer support helps to tackle bullying, resolve conflicts and make students feel safe. It ensures they have young people who show understanding and will listen to them. The training was very practical with workshops, role play and question and answer sessions. All students who participated will receive certification from Childline.

September 2005 Intake       Posted:[25/10/05]

First years were placed into 3 classes: 8A1 – form teacher Mrs Savage       8A2 – form teacher Mrs Leathem       8A3 – form teacher Mr J McConville

YEAR 8 INDUCTION        Posted:[25/10/05]

This year’s induction of pupils into first year took place on Thursday and Friday 26th and 27th August. On the first day the pupils got the opportunity to get to know their form teacher, their new school and some of the staff. On the second day the pupils spent the day in sport and team building games and finished the day with a quiz. The pupils were divided into 6 teams and competed in various challenges such as: Netball, Hockey, Basketball, 4-to-win, Soccer and Roll + Spin. The teams scored points in the challenges and in the quiz. The winning team on the day were Tyrone with Armagh as runners-up – a bit like the All-Ireland semi-final.

Big School Seminar        Posted:[25/10/05]

In September Year 8 pupils took part in a Big School Seminar organised by Young Enterprise Northern Ireland. The aims of the project are to ease the transition from primary to secondary school, to encourage team building and to introduce our new pupils to Year 12 students. Twelve Year 12 pupils acted as mentors. Pearse Lavery 8A2 with Karen Clarke - Young Enterprise Northern Ireland.

Return Dates for September 2005   Posted:[29/08/05]

Below are the dates for pupils returning to Drumcree College Wednesday 31st August - Registration for Years 13, 14 Thursday 1st – Monday 5th September Year 8 Induction Monday 5th September - Return of Years 9, 11 Tuesday 6th September - Return of Years 10, 12 Whole school returns NOTICE! PE UNIFORMS CAN ONLY BE PURCHASED FROM THE SCHOOL SHOP. These must be bought before the 1st September as 2nd September will be an activity day for first years.

DEDICATION OF O’NEILL SUITE   Posted:[28/6/05]

On Thursday 16th June, a year to the day after his premature death, Mr Seamus O’Neill, former principal of Drumcree College, was honoured and his lifelong contribution and commitment to the school celebrated in a ceremony of remembrance and dedication. The First Anniversary mass and Dedication of an ICT suite in his memory took place in Drumcree College where Seamus had worked as teacher, vice-principal and principal for 32 years. Guests of honour for the occasion were members of the O’Neill family who heard moving tributes paid, first by Mrs Patricia Henry, Principal of Drumcree College and later by Mr Charlie McSherry, a former colleague and friend for many years. In her words of welcome to over 120 guests and introduction to the Anniversary Mass, Mrs Henry spoke of the creativity and vision which had characterised Seamus O’Neill’s leadership and how, under his guidance, Drumcree College had become synonymous with educational initiatives and innovation. Extending a particular welcome to the O’Neill family, Mrs Henry expressed the hope that their great sense of loss and sadness might be allayed, in some way, by the recognition of what Seamus had contributed to the school and by the esteem in which he was held by colleagues form all walks of education life. Fr Brian White, chaplain to Drumcree College, celebrated the Mass during which representatives from all areas of school life and members of the O’Neill family played an active part. Beautiful choral and instrumental music was provided by a group of singers and musicians who highlighted the special nature of the evening. Under the direction of Mrs Deirdre Savage Head of Music, the pupils of the school choir and orchestra were joined by both current and former members of Drumcree College staff, their combined voices and instruments enhancing the beauty of the ceremony. In his tribute which followed the Mass, Mr Charlie McSherry described the qualities which made Seamus O’Neill an outstanding Principal and a much-valued colleague. Recalling early days when they worked together in St Malachy’s High School, Charlie identified some of Mr O’Neill’s gifts and personal qualities which would later inspire and energise pupils and colleagues alike. Seamus O’Neill’s professionalism, his readiness to lead by example, his sense of mission – especially in his exploration of ways to motivate under-achieving pupils – his commitment to hard work and his willingness to embrace change were at the core of his leadership. His philosophy could be summarised in three words: caring and practicality – a philosophy which prompted him to seek solutions to problems, to provide practical means by which pupils and colleagues alike might be enabled to succeed. As Principal, Seamus took great pride in the school and in the achievements of the Drumcree College pupils, achievements he rewarded and helped to celebrate. Speaking of his personality, Charlie referred to Seamus’s sense of humour, his love of life, his ability to see things from a child or young person’s perspective and his enthusiasm for a wide range of interests – camping, cars, photography, technology to name but a few. In his concluding remarks, he summarised Seamus O’Neill in the following way: “He was a multi-talented human being… a man of the times and of the future as well. There are people far and wide who are better people for having met and known Seamus O’Neill”. Following the tribute by Mr McSherry, the ceremony to dedicate the O’Neill suite was held in the presence of the O’Neill family, the Board of Governors and Senior Management team of Drumcree College. Reading the citation of dedication, Fr Brian White highlighted the appropriate nature of the ICT suite. “Seamus was always creative and passionate about learning. He investigated ways in which this school could embrace the latest technology. His name was synonymous with new ideas and methods in which the medium of technology could advance teaching and learning. The O’Neil Suite represents a lasting tribute to Seamus’s lifetime of commitment to Drumcree College”. Mrs Máire O’Neill cut the ribbon and the O’Neill Suite was formally opened. Later, speaking to the assembled guests on behalf of the O’Neill family, Mr Philip O’Neill expressed his appreciation of and gratitude for the way in which his father’s contribution to Drumcree College had been celebrated and commemorated during the evening. He spoke of the pride which his father took in the school and concluded with the observation that the entire evening was one which he believed his father would have very much enjoyed. With the formalities completed, the guests were treated to a buffet supper during which they met and mingled as they made new acquaintances and renewed old friendships, recounted anecdotes, recalled memories and remembered the man whom they had come to honour and commemorate – Seamus O’Neill. Pictures 1a Mrs Máire O’Neill, wife of the late Seamus O’Neill and Principal Mrs P Henry           1b Mrs Máire O’Neill cuts the ribbon to formally open the O’Neill Suite       1c Vice Principal Miss C McGrath, Principal Mrs P Henry and Fr Brian White – School Chaplain       1d Mrs Máire O’Neill, wife of the late Seamus O’Neill, takes a seat at one of the computers in the new computer suite. Also pictured, from left, are Principal Mrs P Henry, Seamus’s children: Claire, Marie-Louise, Stephen, Philip and Simon, and Sadie Hamill, acting chairperson of Board of Governors.   1e Mr Ciaran O’Neill (Seamus’s brother), Mrs Máire O’Neill (Seamus’s wife), past teacher Mr Dennis McKeever, Mrs E Montgomery (Seamus’s sister) and Mr P Mulligan, past teacher.     1f Past Principal Sr Yvonne Jennings with former members of staff.       1g Mrs F Currie, Mr D McKeever, Mrs M Gallagher and Mrs D McNally       1h Mrs S Kearney and Mrs P Taylor         1i Mr G Quinn, Mr L Hagan, Mr P Mulligan and Mr R Heaney       1j Mrs C Kirk, Mr B McDonnell, Mrs A Fox, Mr G Quinn and Mrs E McKeever       1k Mr G Preshur, Mrs C Lyness and Mrs A Grimley       1l Mr J Lee and Mr M Gribbon

UK Junior Mathematical Challenge 2005        Posted:[28/6/05]

Congratulations to Martin Harrison and Darren O’Hagan 9A1 who were awarded bronze certificates in the 2005 Junior Mathematical Challenge. Also pictured is Mrs O’Hagan – Maths Teacher.

DRUMCREE COLLEGE SPORTS DAY - 2005        Posted:[28/6/05]

Download Sports Day Results (please note you must have Microsoft Word installed to be able to view this document) Sports Day photos:

SPORTS DAY PRIZE GIVING       Posted:[28/6/05]

Sports Day winners were awarded by Marc McCann of Portadown F.C who brought along the I.F.A. Cup. Year 8 Boys Sports Day winners with Marc McCann and the I.F.A. Cup           Year 8 girls           Year 11 boys             Year 10 boys             Year 10 girls             Year 9 boys             Year 9 girls             Victor Ludorem – overall best athletes in each year group - Shea Skelton, Alicia Wilson, Stefan Kelly, Mark Tennyson, Megan Wilson, Francis McCann, absent Olivia Creaney.         Sisters do well at sports day. Megan (Year 8) and Alicia Wilson (Year 9) win the Victor Ludorem as best girl athlete in their year with Marc McCann and the I.F.A. Cup

Primary 7 Registration Evening        Posted:[28/6/05]

On Wednesday 27 June 2005 a registration evening was arranged for transferring pupils and their parents. After a special mass celebrated by Fr Brian White, the school chaplain, there was an opportunity to meet the Principal Mrs Henry, Year Head Mrs M Taggart and many of the teachers.

'Da' launches website for young people to express hopes for a peaceful future        Posted:[28/6/05]

A well-known character from the BBC’s ‘Give My Head Peace’ has clicked on the Internet to launch a website aimed at giving young people an opportunity to express their hopes for a peaceful future. ‘Da’, played by actor Tim McGarry, was in Portadown today (Monday, June 13) to launch the www.enablingyoungvoices.org website which has been developed as part of the Enabling Young Voices Project. . The project is coordinated by the Southern Education and Library Board (SELB), the Graduate School of Education at Queen’s University Belfast, and WAVE Trauma Centre. Young people from across the SELB area, representing schools, youth and community groups and Victims’ Support groups, have been involved in developing the website. Alexandra Barr, SELB Chief Education Welfare officer, said: “The Enabling Young Voices website will give the young people an opportunity to discuss their experiences of the Northern Ireland Troubles. It will provide an opportunity for them to express their hopes for the future.” Dr Ruth Leitch of the Graduate School of Education at Queen’s University said: “For too long it has been believed that young people have grown up protected from the political conflict here and have been largely unaffected by it, but the website tells us otherwise. Children have indeed been affected. Young people clearly care deeply about living and growing up in Northern Ireland and what the future holds. Having a forum like this plays a key part in giving rightful voice to our young citizens.” Alan McBride of Wave Trauma Centre said: “Enabling Young Voices is not only a valuable project for young people directly affected by violence, it also gives a voice to all those who have grown up in a divided society. The resources which have been developed, with the involvement of the young people, will help them to relate to other people in what is an increasingly diverse society.” As well as being a valuable tool for the young people, www.enablingyoungvoices.org contains resources and materials of use within the school curriculum that teachers from schools across the SELB area have contributed to.

ENABLING YOUNG VOICES SCHOOL PROGRAMME – DRUMCREE COLLEGE.      Posted:[28/6/05]

Enabling Young Voices recently did group work with young people in Drumcree College. This project is being coordinated by the Graduate School of Education at Queen’s University Belfast, the Southern Education & Library Board and WAVE Trauma Centre. The purpose of the programme is to explore young people’s experiences, views and emotions in relation to the Northern Ireland conflict. The programme is being facilitated by 2 project workers, Grace Black and June White. Nuala Buck, one of Drumcree College’s two Learning Mentors, also assisted in the workshops in school. The young people involved in the programme in Drumcree College were encouraged to voice their opinions and experiences. All view-points were listened to and accepted non-judgmentally. During the sessions the young people explored how they deal with conflict. The work these students did during the programme links into various aspects of the curriculum, i.e. citizenship and PSHE. The sessions involved group discussion, art work and role-play. Information and creative work obtained through this programme may be published in a report, placed on the Enabling Young Voices web page, shared with other educational organisations, used for educational training purposes and published in educational journals.

Comlghairdeas le Niamh Ní Mhurchú agus le Caitlín Nic Aogáin    Posted:[5/6/05]

Comlghairdeas le Niamh Ní Mhurchú agus le Caitlín Nic Aogáin as 9A1 a fuair leath – scholaireachtár don Ghaeltacht faoi scéim an Athair uí Mhuirí faoi Choimirce Comhaltas Uladh. Congratulations to Niamh Murphy and Kathleen Keegan from 9A1, who were awarded ½ scholarships to the Gaeltacht in the inter-school Father Murray Shield Competition organised by Comhaltas Uladh. Both girls will be presented with their awards by Eamonn Ó Cuív T.D. Minister with responsibility for the Gaeltacht, on Friday 20th May, in the Glenavon Hotel, Cookstown at 7.30pm. Beidh an bronnadh ann oíche dé hAoine, 20ú Bealtaine ar 7.30 i.n. san ostán Glenavon.

Blonde Amy to Star in Final        Posted:[5/6/05]

Drumcree College pupil, Amy Stuart, has stars in her eyes after winning through to the grand final of a major sound-a-like competition. Amy performed as Blondie singer Debbie Harry at the Stars In Yer Eyes competition organised by JW Productions. The regional final – held at St. Michael’s Grammar School, Lurgan – brought the winners of heats from Drumcree College, Markethill High School, St Michael’s and City of Armagh High School. Twelve acts took to the stage and included sound-a-likes of Katie Melua, Nicole Kidman and Robbie Williams, Gareth Brooks, The Dixie Chicks, Britney Spears and Cher. In addition to Amy’s winning performance, the Drumcree College acts also included Ciara Delaney as Eddie Reader from Fairground Attraction and Mark Robinson, Gary O’Connor, John Francis Donnelly and Michael Carville as Green Day. Courtesy of her win, Amy will now go forward to the Grand Final at the Waterfront Hall, Belfast on June 27, where she will compete against 2acts from schools across Northern Ireland for a share of £5,000 prize money. Pictures 2a Amy Stuart as Blondie           2b Mark Robinson, Gary O’Connor, John Francis Donnelly and Michael Carville as Green Day         2C Ciara Delany as Eddi Reader

CRAFTY CRAFTERS       Posted:[5/6/05]

Pupils from Drumcree College “Crafty Crafters” attended the Young Enterprise N.I. celebration event in the Market Place, Armagh in May 2005. The Young Enterprise programme is sponsored by the Northern Bank and is a cross-community charitable organisation dedicated to inspiring young people to develop skills and attitudes for personal success, life-long learning and employability through participation in practical business programmes. Students were presented with certificates and enjoyed meeting and talking to Julian Simmons from U.T.V. Colm Vige was presented with an award for the most outstanding individual. Pictures 3a Classes 8G & 10f who attended Young Enterprise N.I. Celebration         3b Mrs Al-janabi & Mrs A McGibbon with Julian Simmons         3c Julian Simmons with some Drumcree pupils         3d Julian Simmons with staff Lisa Marley, Jean O’Hagan and Irene Hamill         3e Colm Vige accepting his award for most outstanding individual         3f The Crafty Crafters on stage with Julian Simmons

Drumcree College Leisure and Tourism Class visit the Odyssey Arena        Posted:[5/6/05]

This term the VGCSE Leisure and Tourism class visited the Odyssey Arena in Belfast. Students were given a behind the scenes look at how Ireland’s largest indoor venue stages huge events and concerts. During the visit they got the chance to see preparations for the famous horse show Apassionata. Pictures 4a – Year 11 Leisure and Tourism Class         4b - Preparations being made to stage Apassionata         4c – Ulster Television and Pamela Ballentine arrive to promote Apassionata on the evening news.         4d - View of the Odyssey Arena

8G Visit to St. John the Baptist Church       Posted:[5/6/05]

8G visited St. John the Baptist Church with Mrs McGibbon to view the stained glass window as part of their project on the Baptism of Jesus.

Local Primary School Children Sit Entrance Tests at Drumcree College Posted:[5/6/05]

Local children attended Drumcree College for the day to take their entrance tests for September 2005. Pictured are pupils taking a well earned lunch break from their tests. Included in the pictures is Mrs M Taggart Head of Year who organised the day.