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• Catherine Farrell - PRO
• 18
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Not even the Snow could stop Rehearsals today!

Get ready for an unforgettable experience as St. Nathy’s students take to the stage on March 13th, 14th, and 15th for their highly anticipated musical “Illeagally Blonde”. Not even today’s snow-covered roads and icy conditions could keep these hardy workmen from making their way to school for rehearsals. With boundless energy, they have shown that “a rainy day (or even a snowy one) is no match for a sunny disposition!” 

This musical is set to dazzle audiences with its unforgettable performances, colourful, original staging, and witty storytelling. Don’t miss your chance to see the hard work and passion of St. Nathy’s students come to life.  

Behind the scenes, hours of hard work have gone into perfecting the songs, choreography, and staging, promising an unforgettable show for everyone.  

Tickets will be available soon.  Follow us here for updates as we meet the members of the cast. 

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• Catherine Farrell - PRO
• 25
• 1

TY Students Embrace the Christmas Spirit with Handmade Wreaths

TY Students Embrace Christmas Spirit with Handmade Wreaths 

This week, a group of incredibly talented and hardworking Transition Year (TY) students (too many to mention, for fear of leaving anyone out! but you know who you are!) brought Christmas to life by making fabulous Christmas wreaths. They worked diligently in the poly tunnel turning an impressive array of natural materials into stunning Christmas decorations. They will look beautiful on Christmas tables/doors around Ballaghaderreen. 

Their creations featured holly, ivy, red berries, and evergreen leaves—each bunch of greenery was chosen and assembled with care. Traditionally, the circular shape of the wreaths serves as a reminder of God’s strength, eternal life, and unending love.  

The students used largely sustainable materials, ensuring the wreaths were both beautiful and eco-friendly. The process began with building a strong wreath base using sally rods tightly woven in a circle, sustainably sourced from our own hedges/ trees behind the school.  Next came the layering of greenery, holly, ivy and fern to form the body of the wreath, courtesy of Ms. Farrell. Decorations such as pinecones, conifers, sticks, dried orange and apple slices, berry sprigs and cute robins were then carefully added.  Equipped with secateurs, wire cutters, and cable ties, the students demonstrated incredible teamwork and creativity. They really are perfectionists as the attached pictures show. 

The poly tunnel was filled with festive cheer and chat as the group worked together. Amid the laughter, there was plenty of music, Christmas carols, chocolates and sweets to keep spirits high, creating the perfect atmosphere in the run up to the Christmas holidays.  

The students also made wreaths to decorate the Bishops’ graves at the Cathedral. This thoughtful gesture added a lovely touch to their work, showing that Christmas is about love, remembrance, and giving back to the community. Thank You to Ms. Staunton for the red berries and Thank You to Ms. Owens for adding the little decorations and the use of her glue gun.

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• Catherine Farrell - PRO
• 26
• 0

Term 2- Recognition and Rewards for 2nd Years

As another term comes to a close, it is time to recognise and reward those in 2nd Year who displayed excellent dedication on a daily basis in St. Nathy's.It is not an easy feat to come in every day, in full uniform, with all homework done, work hard in lessons and for CBAs and 10 Week Assessments, all whilst showing kindness, support and respect to their peers and staff within the school. Firstly, we celebrate our 'Roll Model' (pardon the pun 'roll/role!!) students from each tutor group. Each was nominated by their tutor for displaying many, or all, of the qualities mentioned above. Each student received money towards a Breakfast Roll, Chicken Fillet Roll or to do as they pleased with their reward. So well done to the following students: ·        2A - Zain Clancy and Megan O' Gara·        2B - Leah Cogan and Ella Hunt ·        2C - Thomas Moran and Ben Kearney ·        2D - Grace Bowens and Isabel Philips ·        2E - Aine O' Brien and Sean Roddy Next, we reward the tutor group with the Least Amount of Negative Points as a group out of all of 2nd Year. This was a very close contest between the top three with only 2 points separating all three which is a fantastic achievement. It goes to show that fine margins mean a lot on a daily basis and the groups were battling it out over the past 7 weeks to support each other. However, there can only be one winner and that winning tutor group is....Mr Dolan's 2D Group. Well done everyone, a fantastic achievement! They enjoyed the spoil's of war with some treats for their efforts! Last but not least we reward the tutor group with the Most Amount of Positive Points as a group from the year group. Once again, this was a very tight race up until today. Only 14 points separated all five tutor groups. This is why it is so important to ensure each and every student does what they can during the term to try and earn those +4 points each term as, as harsh as it may seem, one slip up could cost your group the prestigious title and reward! So, for this term, the winning tutor group for Most Positive Points is...Ms Conlon's 2B Group. Well done to you too and enjoy the well deserved treats!  Last but certainly not least, thank you to all the 2nd Year Tutors for the daily valiant efforts in ensuring their group follow protocol but more importantly, look after their well-being and enjoyment in school which can sometimes bring pressures of its own. The students and I are very lucky to have Mr Hennigan, Ms Conlon, Ms Scally, Mr Dolan and Ms McHale so thank you once again very much.All that is left is to say Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year.Stay safe and have fun with friends and loved ones.Mr. Brennan - Year Head 2nd Year

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• Catherine Farrell - PRO
• 20
• 0

Jolly Jumpers for Second year CBA

Second-Year Jumpers for Home Economics CBA are both festive and sustainable 

The second-year CBA students have outdone themselves with their creative and sustainable jumpers. These jumpers, crafted with the theme of Christmas are not just visually stunning but also carry an important message: sustainability can be stylish and fun. 

The designs prominently feature recycled materials. From repurposed fabric scraps to upcycled decorations, each jumper tells its own unique story. Good fun was had by all as the students brainstormed, conceptualised, and brought their ideas to life, blending the magic of Christmas with the need for reducing, recycling, repurposing and sustainability. 

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• Catherine Farrell - PRO
• 24
• 0

It’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Kudos to our two very talented elves Shona O'Grady and Jessica Farrell (5th Yr) who went above and beyond to make the masterpiece that is now our front door!

Zoom in to see it in all its glory! Well done ladies. If anyone in Ballaghaderreen needs their windows done, you know who to contact. Look at that detail! Wow!

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• Catherine Farrell - PRO
• 22
• 0

Christmas Market in St. Nathy’s 2024

                      St. Nathy's Christmas Market was in full festive swing this week

The air was buzzing with excitement as the doors to St. Nathy’s Christmas market opened yesterday.  Transition Year (TY) and Leaving Certificate Applied (LCA) Enterprise students put on a display fit for a King.  This year’s market featured an impressive array of handcrafted goods, festive treats, and Christmas cheer, all of which showed the creativity and teamwork of the young participants.

The school’s “Above Study Hall” was transformed into a winter wonderland, decked with twinkling lights and festive decorations. Rows of stalls stacked with products lovingly created by the vendors were lined up for the student shoppers.  Visitors were greeted with the enchanting aroma of scented candles, which came in various seasonal fragrances like cinnamon spice, vanilla, and pine. Besides these, a selection of luxurious hair oils in decorative bottles promised to be the  perfect stocking fillers.

Handmade resin jewellery holders sparkled under the soft glow of the fairy lights. Nearby, winter wonderland snow globes made from large, upside-down wine glasses captured scenes of miniature villages and snowy landscapes.  Virtual ‘Laplands in a jar!’ (Wine glass!)

The woodwork stalls were a particular highlight, featuring beautifully crafted wooden Christmas trees, candle holders, coasters, and even adorable wooden reindeer. These rustic pieces, made from sustainably sourced materials, (branches that had fallen during a recent storm) provided an absolute shopper's delight. For those seeking functional gifts, there was a myriad of wooden coasters and wooden candle holders up for grabs.

Beaded bracelets very similar to Taylor Swift’s “Friendship bracelets” were available in a variety of designs. Silk cloth flowers and colorful jars of sweets brightened up the neighbouring tabletops. Posters featuring motivational quotes, quirky illustrations, and festive themes appealed to those looking for a thoughtful gift.

Among the most innovative creations were pictures made from stones with messages written above them like “Grá” and “Cairde”.  Pottery items added another layer of artistic craftsmanship, with hand-painted ornaments freshly out of the kiln.

There was an abundance of hot chocolate mixes packaged with marshmallows in delightful jars, making for perfect gifts. To ensure all students had a chance to participate, each class was assigned a scheduled time to visit the market with their teacher. Vendors were incredibly persuasive, leaving no stone unturned in convincing their classmates and teachers to buy their products, often poaching prospective customers from neighbouring stalls!

Products flew off the shelves (tables), and orders were taken for customised for out-of-stock items. The bustling stalls saw plenty of heightened negotiations, as students proudly pitched their creations and shoppers haggled. Let’s hope the busy elves from St. Nathy’s can fulfill all these orders and deliver them by Friday!

The Christmas Market was not just an opportunity for shoppers to find unique gifts but also a chance for them to gain valuable experience in running a business. As part of their TY and LCA Enterprise curricula, the students worked hard with their teachers to visualise, design, produce, and market their products. The entire process, from brainstorming ideas to calculating costs and setting prices, provided them with a real, hands-on approach to understanding entrepreneurship.

TY Coordinator Ms. Scally praised the students for their hard work and dedication as did the four diligent Enterprise teachers involved, Ms. Munnelly, Ms. Healy, Ms. Mee and Ms. Hughes. For the students, the event was a lesson in business, a boost to their confidence, and a cherished memory of their time in school.

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• Catherine Farrell - PRO
• 29
• 0

St. Nathy’s Christmas Carol Service 2024

St. Nathy’s College - Carol Service 2024.

Last Friday 13th Dec. we gathered again as a School Community in St. Nathy's Cathedral for our annual Christmas Carol Service. Yet again, it did not disappoint. This year the choir under the guidance of Ms. Stack and Ms. Gordon opened the festivities with their spirited performance of “Joy to the World”. Bishop Doran then addressed the gathering, offering words of hope and encouragement, urging us all to join in the carols and celebrate together. 

The JPII students (John Paul II) then lead the entrance procession with lighted candles. Henry Black did the First reading, focusing on the Gospel of St. Mark. He reminded us that while Christmas is a time for celebration, it is also a time when we prepare for the coming of Christ.

Aaron Fox Lunt, Henry Black and Chloe O’Gara were the soloists when the choir performed "Little Drummer Boy," telling the touching story of a poor boy who, unable to offer material gifts, gave the gift of his drumming to the newborn Jesus. Niamh Grady followed with a reading from the Prophet Zechariah, reflecting on the humble arrival of a victorious king who would bring peace and rule over a vast kingdom.

Afterwards, the choir performed "Carol of the Bells," a festive piece celebrating the joyous sounds of Christmas bells. The Gospel reading told the familiar story of Mary and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem for the census. Bishop Doran asked us to reflect on the significance of the scene, urging us to consider, "What is this all about?" Following this reflection, the choir sang "O Holy Night," a powerful carol that celebrated the birth of Jesus and the profound joy of humanity’s redemption. (Soloists were Hannah Moynihan, Gabrielle Heavey, Chloe O’Gara, Henry Black, Ava Horgan, Zoe Mc Donagh, Adam Lavin, Ethan Hurl, Sinead Regan, Saoirse McDonnell and Ava O’Brien)

The "Prayers of the Faithful" followed, led by Ruth Brett, who encouraged us to prepare our hearts to welcome Jesus amidst the hustle and bustle of the season. Anthony Murphy then prayed for those experiencing hardship this Christmas, particularly those affected by war and displacement. Rebecca Giblin prayed for the families within our school community who welcomed new babies this year, celebrating the gift of new life. Rebecca McDonagh offered a prayer for those who bring joy to our lives, asking for God’s blessings of happiness. Molly Frain prayed for the Church, asking God to guide and inspire its leaders. Ciara Walsh’s prayer was for those separated from their families this Christmas, especially those whose loved ones have emigrated, asking for peace and joy wherever they are. Aoibhin Boyle prayed for peace, asking God to comfort those with troubled hearts. Rebecca Doherty concluded the prayers, remembering all those connected to our school who have passed away, asking that they find peace in God’s eternal home.

Gabrielle Heavey and Hannah Moynihan took the lead in the next song “Walking in the Air," from ‘The Snowman’, evoking a sense of wonder with their magical description of a boy’s flight with a snowman on a moonlit night. We were reminded that this season is ultimately about celebrating the birth of Jesus.

Next, after his thought-provoking reading, Ryan Geever introduced "Away in a Manger," a beloved carol that captures the peaceful innocence of the Nativity. Its simple melody allowed even the youngest students to join in, making it an integral part of our school’s Christmas celebrations. The carol’s focus on love and hope perfectly captured the true meaning of Christmas.

Eilidh Woods and Aednat McLoughlin shared beautiful poetry, both in Irish and English, reflecting on the peaceful imagery of the season. Their verses described angels' candles in the sky and the warmth of a fire as we awaited the birth of Jesus.

Ava Horgan, Zoe McDonagh, Adam Lavin and Sonya Radchenko delivered a beautiful rendition of “Silent Night,” the famous Christmas carol that celebrates the serene night of Jesus' birth. Their performance vividly portrayed the calm, holy scene in Bethlehem, showing the baby Jesus, his mother Mary, and the heavenly peace that graced the world that night.

Matthew Naughton read from St. Paul’s letter to the Corinthians, emphasising that love is the most important element of Christmas. He reminded us that love should take precedence over material preparations and that true love is selfless and enduring.

The next musical treat came from some of our very talented musicians—Ciara Walsh, Megan Walsh, Ewan Duffy, Aisling Maloney, Sarah Creaton, and Vaclav Hluchy—who performed a soothing instrumental piece, "Dublin Airport." The piece captured the bittersweet emotions of travel, evoking feelings of excitement and nostalgia.  Guitarists were Henry Black and Aoife Shanley. Sound was monitored by Aaryanna Waldron and Aaron Fox Lunt.

Megan Walsh, Mollie Jordan, Daniel Anderson, Paudi Gilligan, and Eilis Taheny spoke thoughtfully about Advent before the choir performed "When Christmas Comes to Town," a song reflecting a child’s wonder and excitement at the arrival of Christmas.

Fr. Henry thanked everyone for their contributions to the evening, noting Ms. Stack, Ms. Gordon, Ms. Staunton, the choir, the JPII students, the readers, the soloists, the staff and the students and all those involved in making the service so special. He reminded us that family is at the heart of St. Nathy’s College and wished everyone peace, joy, and happiness. Bishop Doran concluded with a final blessing for all and a humorous tribute to our "Sound man," Aaron Fox Lunt who is a “sound man!”

The service closed with a beautiful performance of John Lennon’s "So This Is Christmas," Ms. Stack and Ms. Gordon kept the best wine for last. The song urged us to reflect, embrace unity, and hold onto hope for a brighter, more inclusive future. It was a perfect finale, reminding us of the peace, goodwill, and love that the Christmas season brings.

https://www.stnathys.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Walking-in-the-Air.mp4https://www.stnathys.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/Little-Drummer-Boy.mp4https://www.stnathys.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/20241213_130146.mp4https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XHOmBV4js_E

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• Catherine Farrell - PRO
• 24
• 0

Christmas cards for Carepack

Here is a sample of the 26 Christmas cards that 1E made which are being sent to nursing homes around Roscommon in association with the organisation Carepack.ie. What a wonderful idea 1E.

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• Catherine Farrell - PRO
• 24
• 0

Garda Lifesaver Road Safety Project

LC Students attended the Garda Lifesaver Road Safety Project last Thursday. The Lifesaver Project is a new road safety education program delivered by members of An Garda Síochána. Students learned about the dangers and consequences of road traffic collisions. It explored the dangers of drink driving, and texting while driving. It was an eye-opening experience, as well as informative and touching. Thank you to Garda Enda and Sergeant Deirdre for coming to the school. 

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• Catherine Farrell - PRO
• 26
• 0

A Big Thank You to Jim Callery who donated E41,300 to “Schools of Sanctuary”

A very big "Thank You" to Jim Callery who donated €41,300 to SOS Schools of Sanctuary, with  equal amounts going to three other charities. On Wednesday last, one of our EAL (English as an Additional Language) teachers, Ms. Peyton attended a presentation with some of our EAL students.  Mr. Callery took great interest in the stories of our students and he then spoke with them about his own Secondary school days and told them about Irish migration over the years.  This  money will be used by "Schools of Sanctuary" to encourage the inclusion and integration of migrants, to help 'homelessness support' and to assist Irish diaspora, causes very close to his heart. His passion is that the sacrifice of Irish migrants should never be forgotten. As St. Nathy's is the West's first "Champion School of Sanctuary," we were invited to attend. We were proud to represent the school and Schools of Sanctuary. Jim was delighted to meet Samira, Anzal and Aya.  Article from "Irish Independent" attached which tells of his amazing 165km walk along the National Famine Way. https://m.independent.ie/regionals/roscommon/news/roscommon-man-raises-165000-for-charity-with-165km-walk-on-90th-birthday/a1218304116.html

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