GCS Newsletter

A warm welcome to the first edition of our digital newsletter and I hope that you enjoy browsing though the articles and photographs.

As we are such a large school with a myriad of different events, academic and extra curricular, taking place on a daily basis, the newsletter is a great way to capture the essence of GCS and to give a birds eye view of what actually happens when you come through the gates of GCS.

One of the many aspects of GCS that I particularly love is the fact that our school has something for everyone. We are all different and unique, and our school caters for this diversity.

We are intensely proud of our students and staff and the newsletter is a wonderful way of showcasing GCS.

As a Parents' Association our aims are to:

- Represent the views of parents.

- Inform parents of developments in education within the school.

- Foster cooperation between parents, teachers and school management.

- Provide education for parents as required.

- Where possible, help with the provision of extra equipment and teaching aids.

- Support Gorey Community School community in fostering a culture of inclusivity.

- Support the rights of parents to consultation and information on educational policy.

Currently we have a very active Parents' Association with 20 members.

To give an idea of things the Parents' Association does;

Every year we provide refreshments to 6th class students and their parents for the Incoming 1st Year Open Night and to 6th Year students and their parents on Graduation Night.

We buy treats that our students can sell to raise money for the Irish Cancer Society's Daffodil Day.

In May we sponsored a set of boys' soccer jerseys.

We facilitate the Used Book and Uniform sale at the end of June.

Recently we fully funded the purchase of a second AED for the school and 10 Basic Life Support training manikins to aid with the teaching of CPR to our students, staff and parents.

We bought pizzas for the cast and crew involved in the recent school production of Sister Act in Gorey Little Theatre.

And upcoming we are co-funding the Careers Expo to be held in the Ashdown Park Hotel on Wednesday 27th November.

Wednesday, October 9th proved to be a day of great excitement at Gorey Community School as our Transition Year and Fifth Year students who sat their Junior Cycle last June received their results. Management and staff were on hand to offer their congratulations to an extremely talented group of students. Mr. Finn was delighted to see that the results had improved from the previous year. An impressive 88 Distinctions were awarded to students who excelled in a variety of exam subjects. The teachers and staff of G.C.S. extend warm congratulations to this talented group of students.

There will be an awards night for students who achieved a Distinction in the Ashdown Hotel on Thursday 5th December at 7pm.

A special mention to the 12 students pictured, who collectively achieved 45 distinctions across multiple subjects.

On Wednesday, 18th September, Gorey Community School hosted its annual Open Night, which was a great success. The evening began with an engaging and inspiring speech from Mr. Finn, captivating both parents and prospective students alike.

The turnout was impressive, with a large number of visitors eager to learn more about the school. Throughout the night, students and staff highlighted the wide variety of subjects available, offering interactive demonstrations and showcasing their work in different classrooms.

A selection of photos from the event can be viewed below.

Home Economics

Science

Business

Metalwork

Technology

Construction Studies

Modern Foreign Languages

Music

Geography

Art

History

Irish

English

Classical Studies

Sport

Wellbeing

Debating

We were delighted to elect our new student council in early October. Our council is made up of representatives from each year group, and will meet every week to support the promotion of student voice in our school. Our student council has four main aims: to represent all students at Gorey Community School, to improve and maintain a healthy school environment, to ensure healthy working relationships between students, staff, parents, and school management, and to contribute to the positive development of the school. Students are encouraged to bring any ideas, questions or concerns to any member of the student council. You can email the council directly at studentcouncil@goreycs.ie, speak to any council member, or message a council member on Teams.

1st year: Willow O’Neill Arwa Kassab Layla Healy

2nd year: Conal Martin Julia Grabowska Marc Sheehan Doyle

3rd year: Annalise Hudson Will Daly

4th year: Liam Dunne Adam Clarke

5th year: Diarmuid Cronin Ryan Blake

6th year: Anna Adamouica Joe Galvin Aaron O’Connor Emma Jane Tomkins

Annalise, Arwa and Marc represented GCS at the Comhairle na nÓg AGM in Wexford County Council chambers today. They met with other schools from Wexford to discuss a myriad of topics relating to young people including bullying, mental health issues, substance abuse, and exclusion.

We are thrilled to share that Gorey Community School recently staged the musical "Sister Act"! Over the course of the event, audiences were treated to a delightful showcase of the incredible singing and dancing talents of our students.

The high standard of performance was a testament to the diverse skills of our talented students, who excel both on the sports field and the stage. "Sister Act" captivated audiences of all musical tastes and highlighted the commitment and dedication of our young performers.

A special thank you goes to Ms. Róisín Dempsey, whose extensive experience greatly enriched this production. Her guidance and support, along with her talented team, were invaluable in bringing this remarkable show to life.

We extend our heartfelt congratulations to all the students for their outstanding performance and appreciate everyone who contributed to making this event a memorable success!

Gorey Community School celebrated the long and distinguished careers of seven staff members on Friday, September 27th.

The Art department bid farewell to two colleagues, Heather Deacon and Paul McCloskey. Both teachers dedicated over 25 years of service to the school, inspiring their students to excel in exams, art competitions, and pursue careers in Art.

The Technical department said goodbye to Donie Doyle and Joe Kenny. Donie’s career spanned over 40 years, joining Gorey Community School in 1993 when it opened, after having previously worked at the VEC school in the town. He taught Metalwork and Technology. Joe worked in Gorey for over 25 years, teaching DCG and Engineering. Many engineers across the country owe much to their lessons.

Michael O'Reilly retired from the Science department after 30 years, during which he taught Science, Chemistry, and Agricultural Science. His presence will be missed by both staff and students. Two of his former pupils have followed in his footsteps, now teaching science in the school.

Mary Redmond, the School Chaplain, also retired. A Wexford native, she returned to Gorey from Donegal to teach History, English, and serve in the Chaplaincy role. Her colleagues in the Religion department, as well as the wider school community, will greatly miss her support.

Finally, Claire MacDonald retired from the SNA department. As a dedicated and enthusiastic member of the team, Claire helped countless students reach their full potential. Her absence will be felt deeply by both her colleagues and the students she supported.

These seven remarkable staff members have left a lasting legacy at Gorey Community School, and their contributions will be fondly remembered.

Restart a Heart Day (16th October) is a CPR awareness day where across the globe people and organisations work to share their CPR skills and knowledge.

Our students took part in workshops and lunchtime demonstrations learning the key skills which could save a life.

A huge thank you to our school community who raised over €1094 today in aid of St Aidan’s and The LauraLynn Foundation - A Big Splash for Little Hero's.

Acrostic Poem Winners

Poster Competition Winners

Creative Writing Competition

It suddenly leaped down from the table and grabbed the sharpest knife in the kitchen 'You thought it was fun carving me, well now I'm going to carve you! -Hannah Darcy

As the smell of pumpkin pie wafted through the door , I was reminded she wasn't there anymore. -Sophie Mulcahy Lu

When we cut the pumpkin, the seeds were rattling , the eyes were blinking, and the mouth was watering, and then suddenly he jumped. -Marius Maimesca

She said she had seen a ghost, and I didn't believe her until I heard a loud bang. -Amelia Byrne

" I always feel like somebody's watching me," the phone in her hand sang , as the swing screeched in the sudden wind. -Arwa Kassab

I felt an eerie feeling in the living room and all I could think about was him when the dark shadow fell over me. - Hugh Ahern

I could hear the footfalls of their little feet; they were coming for a treat but might just get a trick! - Rosie Cooper

Ghosts and ghouls hopped and skipped down the dark, gloomy streets in search of children to eat for their Halloween trick or treat! -Anais-Fay Lohou

The moon lit up the dark spooky night , giving us a dim light to go trick or treating, but it wasn't enough for us to notice that something was following us. -Cian Gregan

Walking slyly down a dark alleyway ,a domestic black cat with emerald, green

eyes, portals that could suck you in , in a millisecond....-Anais-Fay -Lohou

The black cat balanced on the thin broom as it soared through the starry night , its green eyes twinkling with fear , knowing it was going to be the next sacrifice. -Arwa Kassab

I could hear his long, ragged sharp nails screech as they trailed down the large, brown door. -Nevaeh O Connor

The witches haunting cackle emanated from the glowing cauldron. -Jacob Hill

Cauldron boil, cauldron bubble, full of Halloween treats. Mix around, hear the sound and then we start the feast. - Lily Kavanagh

It was a dark night and the green bubbles from the black, dusty cauldron lit up the night sky as witches and wizards gathered around and sang their song to lure the children into their trap. - Ava Donegan

Competition Winners

Issac Gallagher with Ireland Manager Heimir Hallgrímsson during the LOI Down Syndrome Festival.

We had a fantastic Wellbeing Week this year, filled with activities promoting health, relaxation, and fun for everyone.

Healthy Snacks for All Throughout the week, all students enjoyed fresh fruit generously provided by Cullen's Fruit.

6th Year Students Our 6th-year students had the opportunity to choose from a range of activities designed to help them learn new skills, relax, and have fun. These included:

Yoga, Meditation, Calligraphy, Cookery demonstration, Creative Writing, Fun Football and a Wellbeing Walk

1st, 2nd, 3rd, and 5th Year Students Students from these year groups took part in a Fun Wellbeing Table Quiz, with prizes for the winning teams.

Transition Year (TY) Students Our TY students are having an amazing week at an outdoor adventure centre, as well as participating in a myriad of workshops at school. These include drumming, dance, meditation, and first aid.

Staff Wellbeing To support our hardworking staff, the Home Economics Department, along with Ms. Cullen, provided a delicious mix of healthy and indulgent treats to keep everyone energized in the lead-up to midterm.

After midterm, Eileen, Tommy, and Siún are planning a Mystery Tour for the staff.

Additionally, Ms. Eimear Whelan will be offering a six-week meditation course, Faoiseamh, focusing on stress relief.

Wellbeing Ambassadors & Period Poverty Awareness Our Wellbeing Ambassadors have been raising awareness about the availability of free period products at reception, ensuring that students experiencing period poverty have access to what they need.

Team Triskele Warrioress, Jorja Hennell, Brooke O'Shea (model) & Sophie Rothwell, represented Gorey Community School at the Junk Kouture Grand Final on October 1st.

Robyn Fitzgerald (Gorey Community School) placed 4th in the equestrian interschools individual 90s qualifier

The Gorey Community School riders had a good day on Sunday 20th October in the Interschools competition in Barnadown hosted by Coláiste Bhríde Carnew.

Amber Farrell came 1st in the metre individual.

Alexandra Cassidy came 6th in the metre individual.

Michelle Murphy came 1st in the 90cm individual.

Amber and Angel Cronin Kenny both played as part of the Leinster handball team in Croke Park last Saturday. Leinster beat Ulster in the semi-final, but unfortunately lost the final to Munster by just nine points. Amber and Angel played two fantastic games in both stages, and came away with silver All-Ireland medals.

Congratulations to Angel and Amber Cronin Kenny who were crowned County handball winners in St. Joseph's Wexford on Monday 21st October.

Their Leinster Final will take place next Tuesday 29th in Kilkenny.

“Everyone is very helpful and welcoming”

Kerisa D

"Great. Classes have been good and finding them has become easier”

Noah M

“I like how easy it is to find your way around the school and everyone is very helpful”

Grace

What I like about GCS is the new teachers and new friends, but most of all I love the sports”

Odhran F

“I like the canteen and that you can eat outside and inside with friends”

Vivienne B

On September 24th, our annual First Year sponsored walk took place in Courtown Woods. It was a wonderful opportunity for our First Years to bond and create lasting connections. The students truly enjoyed the experience, making it a memorable day. A huge thank you to the Year Head team, class tutors, and SNA's who walked alongside them. We raised a total of €4,465, which will be used to purchase a new PA system for the school.

First Year Home Economics students have been busy over the last few months baking and sewing. Check out their work below

The 1st Year students are learning how to use lines, shading, textures, and patterns. Through fun projects, they are discovering how these basic techniques can make their artwork look more detailed and interesting.

Our 1st year Classical Studies class have been working on Greek mythology, and have created some fantastic comic strips to tell the tales of the stories they have studied so far. The work of Kerisa Duncan, Vivienne Balaz, Caitlin Price and Lua Cox is pictured below

Our First Year students have been busy creating their first woodwork projects.

🤫Salut!

We have been making up some Fake French Passports this term. Don't know if they would get us to France though🤣🤭

Here we have Maria Zunzunegui, Javier Aldama Diez and Yzovelle Ramos showing off their passports, for which they won a prize🎉 Super!

Ms. Leacy and Mr. Murray's 1st Year Geography class proudly presented their impressive collection of handmade volcano models! The students have put in tremendous effort and creativity, crafting these detailed representations to showcase their understanding of volcanic activity. From vibrant eruptions to realistic landscapes, each model is a unique display of their hard work and enthusiasm for learning about Earth's geological wonders. A big well done to all the students for bringing the world of volcanoes to life with such imagination

The 1st Year Students have been getting the grips with the equipment available to them.

Students working on their new key rings.

Check Them Out Below

Overview

Calling new members !

A big welcome to our first years and all new students. We would love to invite you to pop into our Reading & Games Club every lunchtime in room 802. This is a safe, supervised space for students to hang out. You are welcome to eat, read, play board games, chat or just chill out and relax. On your own at lunchtime? don't be! Pop in and chat to our lovely regulars, see photo attached.

It would be lovely to see you. If you want to find out more just ask Ms O'Neill, Ms O'Shea or Ms Neary. Happy to help!

See you there!

Room 808 Tuesday Lunch times -

GCS Chess Club is an open space for people to enjoy the beautiful game of chess.

All levels are welcome to join in on the fun.

Whether you're aspiring to be the next Magnus Carlsen or are looking for some fun during lunch make sure to pop in.

Every Friday at lunchtime, room 806 is available for our senior cycle students who are interested in forming a study group or getting some homework done.

Debating for Fun and Competition.

At GCS we have three debating groups this year, a 1st year group, a 2nd and third year group and the Senior ‘Concern’ debating group. Gorey C.S. also offers a Transition Year Module for Debating and Public Speaking.

Our first year group meet every Monday at lunchtime, the Seniors every Tuesday and the 2nd and 3rd year group on Wednesdays. Students are presented initially with readymade speeches to get accustomed to ‘The Podium’ before progressing to drafting and writing their own speeches.

Not every student will want to be on a team, however every student gets the opportunity to write and deliver a speech connected to their area of interest.

Upcoming events include our 2nd and 3rd year group consisting of three teams competing in The UCD Junior School Debating Competition at Belfield, our Senior Debaters compete against Colaiste Abhain Ri from Cork and our 1st year group will compete against a local school before December.

Well done to all students who participated in the ‘Speak Off’ which determined who would get the opportunity to represent the school in the first rounds. The standard was very high and the future looks bright.

Mr. Kidd. Debating Co-ordinator

The All Ireland Linguistics Olympiad (AILO) is a contest in which secondary school students develop their own strategies for solving problems in fascinating languages from around the globe.

Room 806 Thursday Lunch Times

Our TY students started the year with a team building fashion show.

Our TYs enjoying the Wicklow countryside

All the TY girls travelled to Waterford to attend the SHINE festival .The presentation on the Day promoted the empowerment of women. The energy in the room was electric and I hope our students benefitted from and learnt something from all the wonderful speakers. Olympian's such as Emma Healy , Margaret Cremen and Ellen Kean the Paralympic spoke about balancing sports, school and work life and the highs and lows of both. Students were challenged to be open to meeting and speaking with people not just in their friend group in school but to step outside friend groups and be willing to learn more about others that we think are different from us, but when we get to know them are not that different . Finnoula Moran and Laura Dowling gave the audience tips to help regulate emotions before we are about to 'Flip the lid'. Giving ourselves compassionate pause breathing exercises to check in with our emotions. Calm Cuddle , star -fish-stretch, puffer -fish-puff, toilet Roll blow are some of the exercises we did that could help when things get overwhelming and calm the mind from all its chatter. Joanne mentioned the power of playfulness and using this to work our way through difficult moments. These were simple ideas to 'unstick' ourselves . Before we broke for lunch the whole room stood up and participated in a tiktok dance to Apple by Charli XCX.

During the final two weeks of school prior to the Halloween break, students in transition year took part in the annual trip to Petersburg Outdoor Education Centre. The centre is located on the shores of Lough Mask on the outskirts of Clonbur in Co. Galway. Petersburg focuses on providing high-quality learning experiences, challenges, and fun in a rural and incredibly scenic location.

This year, the transition year students were split into four groups for the trip, with each group staying two nights in the West, while the remaining groups took part in workshops at school.

The first group disembarked from GCS early on the morning of Thursday, 17th October, to make the 330 km trip across the country. Upon arrival, students were provided with a briefing and received lunch before moving directly into a range of activities. Over the following two days, students took part in a variety of land-based and water-based activities. These included kayaking, hillwalking, canoeing, paddleboarding, orienteering, raft building, abseiling, an obstacle course, and bushcraft. Students also participated in evening activities, which included building a campfire, forest walks, and nightline.

Each evening culminated in a reflection on the day that focused on personal challenges encountered and how they were dealt with, along with setting personal targets on how to approach the following day in order to get the most from the experience.

Gorey Community School offers a range of modules to our TY students to help them explore their passions.

TY Students showing off their new barista skills.

GCS's aspiring Film Makers

TY students learning the basics of Data Analyitcs

Dance Room

The "STEM by Inquiry" module is designed for Transition Year students to engage deeply with the fields of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). This module encourages students to explore scientific concepts through inquiry-based learning, fostering critical thinking, creativity, and problem-solving skills. Students will

Undertake individual or group projects, conduct research, and present their findings, thereby gaining hands-on experience in scientific investigation and project management.

Introduction to basic Chinese phrases, numbers, self-introductions

Introduction to aspects of Chinese culture: traditional & modern.

The "iRun" module, developed in collaboration with Athletics Ireland, is designed to introduce Transition Year students to the fundamentals of running as a lifelong fitness activity. This module combines theoretical learning with practical running sessions, promoting physical well-being, understanding of fitness principles, and enjoyment of running. Through engaging activities, students will learn about running techniques, endurance building, training plans, and the health benefits of regular exercise, culminating in a local 5K event or fun run organized by the students themselves.

Introduction to Computer Science is a 9-week module that exposes transition year students to LCCS. Class group rotates every 9 weeks and is based on their module choices before the beginning on TY. Students who pick it as number 1 will sit the Module first and so on.

The students learn the basic elements of good story telling, they will explore character construction, world building and the Three Act Structure which scaffolds a well-executed story. They will learn how stories are made.

Students gather information and reports from GCS school activities and learn how to design and publish a newsletter.

This offers TY students a robust introduction to filmmaking. This 10-week program utilising smartphones to guide students through the entire filmmaking process, from initial concept development to final edits. Emphasizing practical, hands-on learning, the course aims to develop foundational technical and creative skills

This is a sustainable fashion competition. Junk Kouture challenges young people to design high end Kouture from recycled Junk, before showcasing their design and representing their school on stages arose the world. Students get the chance to show case their creativity and work as a team. GCS has reached regional and national finals, and this has been spearheaded by Ms.Codd over the last number of years.

This module helps develop in students a love for the outdoors, planting, weeding and maintaining the shrubs and plants around the school. Learning about the different tools used and what each season brings.

Over 10 weeks, the Theatre and Stage module aims to develop students acting stagecraft and collaboration skills. Students will explore theatre history, script analysis, acting techniques, and stage design. Learning outcomes would include enhances creative expression, teamwork and confidence in performing. Key skills such as communication, tecnical stagecraft and collaboration fostered through workshops, rehearsals and a final performance. Assessment approaches involve performance evaluation, reflective portfolio, peer feedback and observation and engagement in rehersals.

Working and learning about different disabilities. Developing Awareness campaings during inclusion week. Working with our local community on a collaborative initiative ‘s to build and further develop inclusion in our community. Organising events in our school. Fundraising for St. Aidans.

The team's performance was a masterclass in discipline and strategy, showcasing their ability to execute a well-thought-out game plan. From the outset, they demonstrated a cohesive structure, maintaining a compact formation that suffocated the opposition's attacking options. Their defense was impenetrable, characterized by precise tackles and relentless pressing that disrupted any momentum the opponents tried to build. Even with a slender 1-0 lead, the team exhibited remarkable composure, skillfully managing the game by controlling possession and dictating the pace. This strategic approach allowed them to absorb pressure without succumbing to it, ultimately ensuring they preserved their advantage until the final whistle. Their victory was a testament to their resilience and tactical acumen, highlighting the power of teamwork and focus in achieving success.

The game kicked off with Max Ryan from Gorey CS. The lads had a great start with great tackles which won them a penalty in the first 5 minutes. The lads eventually after countless attacks opened the scoring when Max Ryan scored a well run try. Unfortunately Robin Sunderland couldn't score the conversion. Score 5-0 . Unfortunately Athy scored a try and shortly after a penalty just before half time to give them the lead before half time. Score 8-5

The lads started really well in the first half which resulted in James

Leach getting a early try. Robin Sunderland landed the conversion between the posts. 12-8. About 5 minutes later a great run through the Athy defense saw Emmet Slattor getting a try. Robin Sunderland scored the conversion. 19-8. Shortly after a great attacking play by Gorey it resulted in a penalty. Robin Sunderland scored the penalty. 22-8. Later Athy score a try 22-12. Finny Arnold scored a great try from a great chip kick from Stephan Hendy. Robin Sunderland scored the conversion 29-12

Full Time 29-12.

GCS Junior Rugby Team

Gorey Community School celebrated an exhilarating victory over Presentation Wexford with a final score of 5:14 [29] to 5:08 [23].

The match was marked by Gorey's impressive performance, particularly in the first half where they established a strong lead of 3:09 to 2:05. Their sharp attacking strategy combined with a steadfast defense put them in a favorable position. As the second half unfolded, Gorey maintained their composure, showcasing skill and teamwork in a fast-paced, high-scoring encounter.

The standout performer, Kate Ní Luasaigh, was deservedly named the player of the match, highlighting her crucial contribution to securing the win.

Final score:

GCS: 5:14[29]

Pres Wexford: 5:08[23]

First Match: GCS vs Meanscoil Gorman

The game started with Usha Daly O’Toole taking a throw-in, quickly setting the pace for GCS. In the opening quarter, Layla Holmes found the net, giving GCS an early 2-0 lead. The second quarter saw a dominant GCS side as Fern scored in the opening minute, followed by additional goals from Karolina and Imogen. Despite this momentum, Meanscoil Gorman fought back, with Blanthid delivering a stunning score to finish the quarter, shifting the lead to 10-8 in favor of GCS.

As the third quarter began, Usha’s precise throw down the court to Karolina led to another goal, and Layla added to the tally, bringing the score to 14-12 for GCS. The final quarter saw a determined Ella McLoughlin make a crucial comeback shot after a physical challenge, keeping GCS in the lead. Usha then sealed the game with an excellent shot, leaving GCS victorious with a hard-fought 18-16 win over Meanscoil Gorman.

Second Match: GCS vs Enniscorthy

The second match began with Usha once again in control for the throw-in, but GCS struggled to find their rhythm early on. Enniscorthy capitalized on the opportunity, ending the first quarter with a commanding 6-0 lead. GCS bounced back in the second quarter as Usha scored twice, and Ruby Gallagher added a goal just before the whistle, leveling the score at 6-6 going into halftime.

However, Enniscorthy regained their momentum in the third quarter, extending their lead to 10-6, with GCS unable to score during this period. In the final quarter, Usha showed tremendous leadership, pushing her team forward, but despite their best efforts, the match ended with a narrow 16-14 defeat to Enniscorthy.

Both matches showcased GCS's resilience and strong performances, particularly from Usha Daly O'Toole, who played a key role in both games. The team will look to build on these performances in the upcoming fixtures.

The Senior LGFA team has made a strong start to the 2024 Leinster B LGFA Championship, securing two wins from two against tough opponents, Loreto Kilkenny and St Leo's Carlow. They also had a successful practice match against Creagh College, which provided valuable preparation. The team now looks ahead to upcoming matches against Castlecomer and FCJ after Halloween.

Attached are photos of both teams that participated, along with the 6th-year players (missing Roisin McGonigle).

Mr. Crowe

Ms. Donohoe

Emily Bolger

Duda Manaia Buzzonaro

Millie Byrne

Jack Challoner

Lee Doyle

Cian Keating

Eanna McDonald

Ruby Murdiff

Cliona O'Sullivan

Doireann O' Sullivan

Abbie Owley

Imogen Rooney

Sally Ryan

James Teehan