St Mary’s High School
Upper Chapel Street
NEWRY
Co Down
BT34 2DT
Telephone:
Fax:
Email:
Website:
028 3026 2851
028 3026 7138
info@stmarys.newry.ni.sch.uk
www.stmarysnewry.com
VLE:
www.stmarysnewry.org
November 2010
Dear Parent(s)
On behalf of the Board of Governors of St Mary’s High School, I present to you
our Annual Governors’ Report.
This report covers the last school year from
September 2009 to August 2010. In reflecting on this year I firstly pay tribute to the
Staff, teaching and non teaching, Governors, pupils and parents who have
contributed to this very successful year as a Specialist School in Mathematics and
Business Studies. Specialist Status recognises, not only academic performance but
also the many achievements and successes within the school. Mathematics and
Business take a leading role in sharing good practice and alongside our other
highly successful departments ensure whole school improvement.
The dedication of the school community was also recognised through the receipt of
the Investors In People Award received in May 2010. . This accolade recognises the
combined achievements of all staff in ensuring St Mary’s creates an environment
that is proactive in embracing change, embedding new initiatives and celebrating
success.
Mrs Mary Morgan retired after long service, dedication and commitment to St.
Mary’s. Her role as an English teacher enabled her to make a significant impact
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on the development of our pupils. She inspired so many pupils to enjoy her subject.
Mrs Morgan also gave tirelessly of her time to many charitable organizations,
Macmillan Cancer, Samaritans and Habitat for Humanity to name but a few. We
thank her for her contributions to the school and the wider community and wish
her good health and every blessing in the future.
The Governors’ report will give you, the parents of our pupils, insight into the very
busy and varied life of our school. You will note in reading the subject reports the
many activities and educational visits which were undertaken to extend the
opportunities for teaching and learning. You will also see that the school is taking
part in educational initiatives to enhance learning. The report also gives you the
opportunity to see how the school is both organised and financed.
St Mary’s, an all ability school, continues to be proud of the very high level of
educational opportunity that it offers to the children of Newry and the surrounding
areas. The Governors of St Mary’s are committed to high educational standards
and believe that St Mary’s, through a highly motivated and dedicated staff, offers
excellence in education to all girls whatever their ability.
St. Mary’s is a school in which we, governors, staff, parents and above all pupils,
can have a tremendous amount of pride. As a member of our Area Learning
Community, we have already established very positive working relationships with
our post primary partners. In St. Mary’s we acknowledge and celebrate the sterling
work carried out by our primary partners and our plans to further develop
partnerships will be invaluable in ensuring pupils’ smooth transition to post
primary education. Our Specialist Status enables us to strengthen our position as a
school at the heart of the community and through our Extended Schools
Programme, we already offer evening classes and now through our specialism we
have extended opportunities for community groups. We are confident that being a
Specialist School has made a difference to all involved in St. Mary’s as we embrace
and challenge with confidence.
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Our thanks go to a very dedicated, committed and enthusiastic staff for the
professional manner in which they carry out their duties. We are delighted with the
pupils’ progress and achievements. They have shown what can be done through
hard work, enthusiasm and the support of parents and teachers. We, the Governors,
know that this could only have been achieved through wholehearted commitment.
As an extended school we value links with the local community and wish to express
our appreciation for the expertise and time given to the school by individuals and
agencies. We will continue to review our planning to ensure the continuance of its
distinct Catholic character while celebrating diversity.
The Governors appreciate the help and support given to the school during the past
year and are particularly delighted with the continued development of collaboration
with other schools and colleges: St Colman’s College, Southern Regional College,
St Mark’s High School and our contributory primary schools. We pledge ourselves
to continue to work with all other providers in striving for excellence so that the
girls of St. Mary’s may achieve their potential. We thank you for your support and
invite you to continue to partner us in the furtherance of that objective.
John E McClelland
Chairperson of the Board of Governors
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As a result of the 1989 Education Reform N.I. Order governors have been given
responsibility for the overall management of the school:
(1)
the establishment of aims and objectives for the school and the
drawing up of policy statements for those areas of management where
a written policy is required;
(2)
ensuring the implementation of the Northern Ireland Curriculum and
keeping it under review and in particular fostering links with the local
community and pursuing the objectives of Education for Mutual
Understanding;
(3)
selecting staff, making promotions and undertaking other personnel
responsibilities;
(4)
drawing up an admissions policy and applying it to prospective pupils;
(5)
managing the school’s finances;
(6)
ensuring that the premises are properly maintained;
(7)
providing parents with information about the school through the issue
of a Prospectus and Annual Report.
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BOARD OF GOVERNORS 2010-2014
ST MARY’S HIGH SCHOOL, NEWRY
MR J E MCCLELLAND
CHAIRPERSON
TRUSTEE NOMINEE 2014
MRS P CUNNINGHAM
VICE-CHAIRPERSON
SELB REPRESENTATIVE 2014
VERY REV. FATHER C BYRNE
TRUSTEE NOMINEE 2014
MRS E BELL
TRUSTEE REPRESENTATIVE 2014
MRS S HADDAD
TEACHERS’ REPRESENTATIVE 2014
MS C MC MAHON
SELB REPRESENTATIVE 2014
MR M MCCARTAN
TRUSTEE REPRESENTATIVE 2014
MR D MCCAUL
DENI REPRESENTATIVE 2014
MRS J CURTIS
PARENT REPRESENTATIVE 2014
MRS M COSGROVE
PRINCIPAL AND SECRETARY TO THE BOARD OF GOVERNORS
NB:
EACH GOVERNOR’S NAME IS FOLLOWED BY THE DATE AT WHICH
HIS/HER TERM OF OFFICE EXPIRES
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ST MARY’S HIGH SCHOOL
VISION
Our vision is to educate and develop the students in our school to the highest
possible standard and as a Catholic School, to awaken them to the challenge of
living according to the Catholic Faith whilst also appreciating diversity.
We acknowledge that Catholic Education:

Takes place in communities inspired by the Spirit of Christ. Christ’s
commandment to love God and neighbour inspires a caring ethos which is
expressed in relationships within and beyond Catholic schools

Promotes the dignity, self esteem and full development of each person who is
made in God’s image and uniquely loved by God

Is inclusive. It is respectful of, and engages with people of all beliefs: it
encourages the development of all in their own faith

Is rooted in the Gospel values of Respect for Life, Love, Solidarity, Truth
and Justice: it aims to harmonise faith and culture, build a better society
and pursue the Common Good
MISSION
OPTIMUM SEMPER FACERE - ALWAYS TO DO ONE’S BEST
We will work in collaboration with other educational institutions and in partnership
with parents and students to maximise academic and creative potential of students,
enabling them to achieve the highest educational standards, thereby enriching their
lives, the community and the economy.
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ST MARY’S HIGH SCHOOL
STRATEGIC AIMS
VALUING EDUCATION
 To promote the value of education through the celebration of achievement
and personal endeavour
 To engender a love of learning as a life long process and an appreciation of
its relevance in everyday life
FULFILLING POTENTIAL
 To provide young people with learning opportunities suited to their needs
and abilities
 To maximise the academic and creative potential of students by challenging
them to be independent thinkers and life long learners
 To provide students with the opportunity to develop competence and
confidence in elearning
 To give students opportunity to learn about factors which impact on
learning e.g. learning styles, techniques to improve learning, healthy
lifestyles
 To prepare students for the opportunities, responsibilities and experiences of
adult life and equip them with the skills to manage their career development
 To foster the personal and social development of students as responsible
members of society
 To collaborate with other schools and colleges to improve learning and
extend opportunity
PROMOTING EQUALITY AND INCLUSION
 To ensure all members of the school community are treated with respect and
that there is equality of access to resources
 To encourage tolerance and respect for others and to promote the value of
diversity
RESOURCING EDUCATION
 To use resources effectively to support and improve learning
 To ensure procedures are in place to appoint and develop skilled and
motivated staff
 To seek opportunities to provide additional funding to support and improve
learning
 To provide a safe, healthy, stimulating and well-equipped learning
environment
 To actively promote the welfare of pupils and staff
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Aims of St Mary’s as a Catholic School
Together Catholic Schools provide high quality, rounded education for
all young people, so that they develop their full uniqueness and
potential.
In Catholic Schools the person and message of Christ find expression
in:
 Communities of Faith, Service, Prayer and Worship
 The development of each person’s full potential in a climate of
joy, freedom, respect, challenge, cooperation and celebration
 The enrichment of pupil life – intellectual, physical, spiritual,
moral, social and emotional
 The promotion of a spirit of charity, social justice, global
awareness and concern for others leading to practical outreach
and partnerships
 A culture of tolerance where people of diverse identities are
recognised, welcomed, respected and cherished
 Listening, mutual understanding, trust, reconciliation, healing
and peace
 The preparation of pupils to lead fulfilling and purposeful lives
which will contribute to the common good
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PARENTAL INVOLVEMENT
In the 2009 - 2010 year once again parents played an important part in the life of the
school and were involved at a variety of activities within the school. Participation in
the Extended Schools’ Initiative allowed closer links to be developed between parents
and the school. Attendance at Parent/Teacher Meetings was high. Our thanks go to
parents for their co-operation during the year. By working together we ensure the best
for your daughters. We look forward to continuing this partnership with you, the
parents, the school and ourselves, the Governors, in the coming year.
PROCEDURE FOR MAKING A COMPLAINT
At St. Mary’s High School we are committed to listening about our service. We will use this
information, wherever possible, to help maintain and improve our service. We encourage and
welcome all comments and views, both positive and negative. Parents are welcome to come
to the school to discuss any matter pertaining to their daughter. It is the belief of the school
that this open communication is highly beneficial to all and especially to the pupil. Our
policy is designed to establish a clear mechanism for the resolution of complaints which can
be verbal, taped or E-mailed.
AIMS
Our complaints procedure aims to:
 provide an efficient and thorough system through which issues are effectively
addressed
 facilitate the school in providing the best possible service for its pupils and the local
community
 provide a simple, speedy and accessible service that respects confidentiality
 be courteous and respectful
 address the issues that arise from complaints in a fair and honest manner within the
timescale set out
 treat individuals and groups with openness, equality and inclusiveness
 keep people informed of progress and the final outcome of the issues raised
 be simple, easily accessible and easy to use.
These procedures do not replace or supplement other established procedures and/or appeals
mechanisms in such areas as Child Protection, Special Education, Admissions, Suspensions
and Expulsions etc.
The procedures allow for a five stage process ranging from informal to formal. Most
complaints are resolved at the informal stage but if a parent believes that the issue has not
been dealt with in a satisfactory manner the complaint should be made in writing, initially to
the Principal. Ultimate responsibility for the curriculum of the school lies with the Board of
Governors and it is involved at Stage 4 and Stage 5 of the procedures.
A full copy of the Complaints Procedure and other school policies is available from the
School on request.
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REVIEW OF THE YEAR
The school year 2009 – 2010 was very successful in all areas of school life. The total
number of pupils at the school was 554.
Our Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 examination results were excellent. All pupils were
entered for the GCSE Examination – the majority taking nine. In addition through our
collaboration with Southern Regional College a number of pupils were entered for
Double/Single Award Occupational Studies and BTEC First. The results in these
courses were of a very high standard. All our Year 12 pupils continued their
education in sixth form in St Mary’s or other post primary schools, Southern Regional
College or Youth Training Schemes. We are particularly proud of the excellent results
achieved by our Advanced Level students who gained entry into the course of their
choice at third level.
The Governors of St. Mary’s High School wish to recognise the hard work of the
Principal, teaching and non-teaching staff and their dedication to the spiritual, moral,
cultural, intellectual and physical development of our pupils.
CURRICULUM 2009-2010
KEY STAGE 3:
All pupils follow the Northern Ireland Curriculum. In KS3 pupils are placed in mixed
ability classes with additional support for Numeracy and Literacy. Decisions about
GCSE courses and other Public Examinations are made at the end of Year 10.
The range of subjects offered at KS3 is: Religious Education, Employability, English,
Mathematics, Science, Technology & Design, Citizenship, History, Geography,
Physical Education, Art & Design, Music, French, Home Economics, ICT, Drama and
Personal Development.
In addition pupils have the opportunity to become involved in a wide range of
curricular and extra-curricular activities, clubs, educational and cultural trips. As an
Extended School, St Mary’s offers further opportunities to pursue learning outside
school hours to pupils, parents and the wider community.
KEY STAGE 4:
Pupils in Years 11 and 12 are offered a wide of General and Applied GCSE’s. In
addition to the subjects studied at KS3, pupils can choose English Literature, Learning
for Life and Work, Careers, Business Studies, Business and Communications
Systems, BTEC First (equal to two GCSE’s) in Science, Engineering, e-Media, Child
Development, Travel and Tourism and Occupational Studies.
Each Year 11 student is given the opportunity of work experience in June. Pupils find
this motivating and a valuable aid to decision making about choices for third level
education and future careers.
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KEY STAGE 5:
In St Mary’s the students are offered a range of subjects at GCE Advanced Level: Art
and Design, Geography, Media Studies, Single Award Applied Business, ICT, Single
Award Health and Social Care, Religious Studies, Moving Images Arts (in
collaboration with SRC and St Colman’s College) and Sociology. In addition
collaboration with St Colman’s College has enabled us to extend choices. The
subjects taken in St Colman’s College include: Biology, English Literature, Drama
and Theatre Studies, History, Maths and French. In collaboration with St Mark’s
High School and SRC, BTEC National Sports Studies and CACHE Child
Development are on offer. The students have access to a range of resources in the
Learning Resource Centre and an Enrichment Programme extends pupil experiences.
Pupils also follow a comprehensive Personal Development and Careers Guidance
Programme, helping to prepare them for the opportunities and challenges of higher
study and adult working life.
PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT PROGRAMME:
A highly structured Pastoral Programme operates in the school and Year Heads and
Form Teachers are responsible for support, guidance and positive discipline. Parents
are encouraged to become actively involved in their daughters’ development and
progress by attending parent/teacher meetings and supporting the school’s policies.
RESOURCES:
The school is very well resourced with four high spec ICT suites and an editing suite
for Moving Images Arts. All subject areas have access to interactive white boards and
each classroom is equipped with C2K computers. In recent years facilities in Home
Economics, Technology and Design, Music, Art and Design and Physical Education
have been extended and refurbished. The school’s fitness suite is available to students
and the wider community. Pupils are encouraged to make full use of the computerised
Learning Resource Centre and Sixth Form students have access to a supervised study
hall equipped with ICT facilities.
Outside the school curriculum, pupils had the opportunity to become involved in:
President’s Award
Computer Club
School choir/Orchestra
Maths Club
Drama groups
Gaelic Football
Public speaking
Inter school quizzes
Guitar lessons
Orchestra/Traditional Group
Orienteering
John Paul II Awards
Netball
Cross country running
Fitness Club
Driving Instruction
Homework Club
LET/KEY Young Enterprise
Booster GCSE classes
xL Prince’s Trust
In addition pupils enjoyed a range of educational trips to theatres and places of
cultural interest both in Ireland and abroad.
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Religious Education plays a very important role in the school curriculum. The
Religious Education programme is based on the Church’s Liturgical Seasons. Pupils
are given opportunities to participate in school and class Masses, Penitential Services,
the Sacrament of Reconciliation and Retreats. The work of the Religious Education
teachers is fully supported and enhanced by the commitment of our school chaplain
SPECIAL EDUCATIONAL NEEDS (Policy Summary)
St Mary’s High School is committed to maximising its pupils’ academic achievements
within a broad and balanced curriculum which addresses the social, spiritual and
emotional needs of its pupils. Teachers aim to be alert to the specific educational
needs of the pupils. These range from the needs of the pupils who have learning or
behavioural difficulties to those of pupils who have exceptional ability. The pupils
who require additional support to help them overcome specific learning/behaviour
difficulties are the focus of this policy. The support given addresses the specific
learning/behaviour difficulties which are impeding progress and achievement.
Pupils with special educational needs are integrated into mainstream provision. In
Year 8, Year 9 and Year 10 pupils are placed in mixed ability groups and extra
support is given in English and Mathematics. Shared Reading and Reading
Partnerships are strategies used to develop reading. Teachers use a variety of
teaching/learning strategies and differentiation to encourage learning. Teachers may
use both the pastoral and academic programmes and structures within the school in
identifying and making provision for needs. The resources of CASS (Curriculum
Advisory and Support Service) are drawn on when appropriate and the school is
committed to staff development in issues connected with Special Educational Needs.
Every opportunity is sought to involve parents in the education of their children.
Parents are invited to Prize-Giving Nights and Parent/Teacher Meetings and are
encouraged to visit the school if they have any concerns about their daughters.
Parents receive a copy of the Special Educational Needs (SEN) Policy and are
informed of all measures relating to assessment, provision and review. They are given
the opportunity to work in partnership with the school by:

becoming involved with the Paired/Shared Reading Programme

communicating regularly regarding their daughter’s progress after internal
school examinations and in relation to (Education Plans )EPs.

attending an annual meeting with the Form Teacher.

attending a special event e.g. Religious Service (Mass), Concert.
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ART AND DESIGN DEPARTMENT
The Art and Design Department has celebrated another successful year.
The Department has welcomed two wonderful new members of staff, Mrs
Grace Digney and Mrs Catherine Green, to assist with the delivery of
KS3.
.
Naoimh Larkin, a current ‘A’ Level Art and Design student was awarded
CCEA top candidate for achieving 100% at GCSE level. This was a
fantastic achievement and Naoimh was presented with a special
certificate and award by the Art and Design Advisor for Creative and
Expressive Studies for Northern Ireland, Ms Vine Haugh.
The GCSE and ‘A’ Level exhibition was extremely successful, with a wide
range of work on display; from Costume Designs to Ceramics, Head Pieces
to Fine Art. This exhibition showcased the diverse range of ability and
talent within St Mary’s and promoted the Art and Design Department
within the school and in the wider community.
Two candidates work at GCSE and ‘A’ Level was nominated for the ‘True
Colours’ exhibition. This is an exhibition that travels throughout
Northern Ireland highlighting work of the highest quality at this level.
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BUSINESS STUDIES DEPARTMENT
The Business Studies Department is a subsidiary subject within the
Specialist Schools designation. Specialist Schools status has allowed for
the recruitment of a new member of staff to the department.
The Head of Learning, Mrs P Morgan, led a ‘Sharing of Good Practice’ day
with our partner schools in the Area Learning Community and also to our
own staff regarding ‘Active Learning’ strategies.
Knowledge and
expertise has been shared with newly appointed Heads of Learning.
Once again the department enjoyed a very successful year in terms of
examination results and was particularly delighted with the exceptional
achievements of its ‘A’ Level students – gaining 88% A – C and 100% A – E
grades at A2 level. The GCSE results exceeded the school average.
On 2 October 2009 Year 12 Business Students visited Aunt Sandra’s
Candy Factory. Aunt Sandra’s is a unique Belfast sweet shop that looks
the same as it did 50 years ago. All the candy and chocolate are made by
hand to traditional recipes, some of which date back 100 years. The
students were able to enjoy the tastes and smells of old time candy
making at its best. The visit reinforced many areas of the GCSE Business
Studies course.
On 12 November 2009, Year 11 students joined several schools from the
Newry and Mourne area to attend the ‘Entrepreneurial Masterclass’
organised by Young Enterprise Northern Ireland in the Armagh City
Hotel. Young Enterprise Northern Ireland is a cross community, non
profit organisation dedicated to inspiring young people in the development
of attitudes and skills for personal success, lifelong learning and
employability, through participation in practical business programmes.
Students were inspired by the speakers and found the tasks both
challenging and enjoyable. Year 11 Business Studies students Caoimhe
Tumility and Sinead Farmer both received prizes for winning the ‘Best
Business Plan’ category.
On 16 November, as part of Global Entrepreneurship Week 2009, an
international celebration focusing on the promotion of enterprise in
schools and colleges, the Business Studies Department hosted the ‘Make
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Your Mark Challenge’. This was a UK wide one day enterprise competition
organised by Invest NI in association with the Department of Education.
Students from St Mary’s, St Colman’s, St Mark’s, St Louis Kilkeel, Newry
High, Rathore, and St Paul’s, all members of the Area Learning
Community, came together to take part in the competition which
challenged the young people to come up with an enterprising solution to a
problem around the theme of ‘Don’t be a carbon copy’.
On 12 April, Year 11 Business Studies students visited the Tayto factory
in Tandragee. The information given by the tour guides was used to
reinforce areas of the GCSE Business Studies course. The students were
able to experience first hand the production process that takes place at
the factory and enjoyed the ‘crisp tasting’ on the tour.
Year 14 Business students established a banking service within the school
in collaboration with the Northern Bank, Newry. The School Bank is open
each Tuesday during lunch time and many students are regular savers.
To fulfil the requirements of Unit 9 GCE Applied Business, the Year 14
students were required to organize a school Mini Enterprise. The project
was hugely successful both in terms of the experience and knowledge
gained by the girls with regard to business ownership and marketing but
also in developing their entrepreneurial skills.
The department has continued to foster its association with local and
regional businesses. The Year 13 students visited the Canal Court Hotel
and interviewed the General Manager, Patrick Murtagh, to collect
information to enable them to fulfil the requirements of their ‘AS’
portfolio assignment.
Year 14 students travelled to the head office of ‘Heat’ a heating services
company in Belfast and met with their Operations Manager. This company
achieved top place in the Sunday Times ‘100 Best Companies To Work For’
2008 competition. The visit and subsequent online contact provided the
students with valuable information concerning ‘Investment in People’
planning within that company.
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CAREERS/EMPLOYABILITY DEPARTMENT
2009/2010 has been an exciting and highly successful year for the
Careers/Employability Department at St Mary’s High School.
Our
Specialist School Status has strengthened our resolve for improvement
and renewed our sense of purpose.
We are very proud of the excellent links we have developed this year
with the ALC (Area Learning Community) and following the publication of
the DEL joint strategy document “Preparing for Success” our department
has been working very closely with the ALC to produce a common
programme of work for KS4 CEIAG across all schools. This has proved to
be a highly worthwhile and informative exercise and great strides have
been made this year. It is hoped that further development of these links
will arise throughout 2010/2011 for KS3 and KS5 CEIAG.
We have maintained, extended and strengthened our already excellent
links with local businesses and schools and the Work Experience
Programme in both Year 11 and Year 14 are continuing to prove to be
highly worthwhile and enjoyable for our pupils. We have new employers
joining our programme every year and this is testament to their
commitment to helping our young people make well informed career
decisions now and in the future.
The STEM Agenda has become increasingly important this year and the
CEIAG Department recognises the need to highlight these areas to our
pupils. We purchased a large display board which has pride of place in the
school foyer. Each month we showcase a STEM Career and include
qualifications, progression routes, salary, where can I study and so on. It
is hoped that students will recognise how important these careers will be
to the future economy of the UK.
The VEP Programme has been extended and we have improved our links
with both Southern Regional College and St Colman’s College ensuring that
we meet the requirements of the Entitlement Framework. Year 11
students can now study a BTec First Certificate in Engineering and Post
16 students can avail of the CACHE Diploma alongside the traditional ALevels offered in collaboration with St Mary’s and St Colman’s College.
Feedback from parents, students and training providers has been
extremely positive and we look forward to forging even stronger links
16
this coming academic year and so extending further our KS4 and Post 16
Provision.
The Careers Department has extended the research library and plans are
in place to extend opening hours next year to lunch time and after school.
Students will be able to visit the library, have access to up to date
information and impartial advice. We also plan to have an appointment
system in place for next year where students can meet with a member of
the CAT (Careers Advisory Team) to discuss plans or voice worried or
concerns.
This year also saw the collaboration of the Head of Careers with the
Geography Co-ordinator in Rathore School. A collaborative Field Study
was planned and carried out in Rathore School grounds and proved to be a
highly successful project with pupils from S1 class deepening their
geographical skills. CEIAG has a whole school dimension and the
department felt that collaboration in a combined project with the
geography department of Rathore School was a wonderful way to
showcase the multi faceted nature of our area of study and in doing so
show our commitment to working in the community.
Further to the NISCA Conferences this year in both November and May
and following detailed ETI Guidelines all departments have received
training in October of this year on how to incorporate employability into
all areas of learning. The CEIAG Head of Department is currently
carrying out a whole school audit of careers/employability and how
individual areas of learning are addressing this important issue in class
teaching but also through guest speakers, visits in and visits out.
The table below is a brief synopsis of our achievements in 2009/2010
Sept
2009
‘Your School Your Business’ for Year 8 pupils
Employability Team roles reviewed and amended with reference to
key features of the revised curriculum
Review of the Work Experience Programme completed using
employers feedback and pupil self evaluation
Review of CCEA KS3 and KS4 Employability Programme and beginning
work on common programme of work for KS4 (ALC)
Review of KS5 Careers Programme (ongoing)
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Oct
2009
Nov
2009
Dec
2009
Jan
2010
Feb
2010
Mar
2010
Careers Service NI “Getting Connected” Programme for Year 12
students
Junior Presentation of Progress File
Jordanstown and Queens University Open Day Visits – Year 14
Daisy Hill Hospital Open Day – Year 14
STEM Training, Clounagh (HOD)
Work Experience Programme – Year 14
“Theatre & Learning” Drama Presentation on Post 16 Options
CCEA LLW Support Day – Canal Court
“Embedding Employability into the Curriculum” In house training (HOD
& Staff Body)
Interview Skills Day – Year 14
Year 12 – Study Skills Programme
Year 14 UCAS Application Process
STEM Training at Loughry College (Careers in Food Industry – HOD)
In house training – Target Setting and VLE (Virtual Learning
Environment)
Year 10 Employability Interviews with school teaching body
HOD Middle Management Training – SELB (Clounagh DAY ONE)
CCEA Teacher into Industry (Belfast City Airport)
Work 4 U “Careers in the Health Sector (St Josephs High School)
Young Enterprise “YE9 Programme” Year 9
NISCA Annual Winter Conference
Open Night
ALC Cluster Meeting
Completion of individual University References – Year 14
Beginning of Year 12 Interviews with Mary Knight from Careers
Advisory Service – through to June
Young Enterprise “Project Business” Year 11
SELB Middle Management Training DAY TWO
Year 10 Options Seminar with parents, staff body, Southern Regional
College and Careers Advisory Service
Open Days at FE Colleges (through to April)
Sentinus “Interview- Skills Programme” Year 14
Young Enterprise “Learn to Earn” Programme Year 10
“The Links Works” Talk on post 16 pathways Year 12
CCEA In-house training “Financial Capability”
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“Inspirational Women’s Conference” Waterfront Hall
“Amnesty International” Guest Speaker
YENI “Personal Economics” Year 12
April
2010
SIMS In-house training
Work Experience Programme Year 11
ALC Cluster Meeting
LLW Moderation
May
2010
“Occupational Studies” Presentation of Certificates Year 12 at the
Canal Court
Year 12 Leavers Mass
Year 12 Presentation of Progress File and Work Experience Packs
SELB Middle Management Training DAY THREE
SELB Work Experience Procedures – Dromantine Conference Centre
“EcoSchools” HOD Training – Clounagh
NISCA Summer Conference
ALC Cluster Meeting, Bagenal’s Castle
Year 9 “Taste and See” at Southern Regional College
Rathore School – feedback and evaluation of collaborative fieldwork
project “The Way Forward”.
June
2010
Many of the above events have been publicised throughout the year in
the local press and on the school website.
Further developments planned for 2010/2011 include:
● Further departmental collaboration and strengthening of CEIAG as a
cross-curricular subject
● Continued extension of business links
● Continued enhancement of the VEP Programme
● E-Progress File
● Assessment for Learning
● Assessment of Learning
● Extension of Careers Service Level Agreement to include Year 14
UCAS Applications
19
● Preparation for a St Mary’s Careers Convention in collaboration with all
learning
Overall, as a department, we are proud of our achievements this year and
we look forward to the 2010/2011 academic year with a renewed and
strengthened sense of purpose, one in which we can extend the CEIAG
learning offer and ensure all our students become mature, confident and
well informed decision-makers of the future.
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CITIZENSHIP and LEARNING for LIFE and WORK
The Citizenship team have continued to implement a number of initiatives.
Citizenship is delivered to all KS3 pupils. The Schemes of Work and Pupil
Booklets were revised and updated. Regular assessments have been
added to the KS3 programme to help pupils prepare for Controlled
Assessment Task at GCSE.
Over the year citizenship issues were themes at assemblies and
fundraising took place for the Developing World.
The GCSE Learning for Life and Work is continuing to develop in St.
Mary’s and this year we have two Year 11 and two Year 12 groups studying
this. There is a strong Citizenship theme in this subject.
Year 11 and Year 12
Continuing on from the previous year all pupils in years 11 and 12 are
taught Citizenship. Those pupils not studying Learning for Life and Work
were provided with a Citizenship module which fulfilled the statutory
requirements. Year 11 study a module, taught during PD class, on
homelessness. Year 12 study a module on Human Rights taught during
Employability class.
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ENGLISH AND DRAMA DEPARTMENTS
September 2009
Year 10 – Prize-giving Night
Year 11 performance- ‘Parents and Teenagers’
Theatre Visits to see- Twelfth Night- Newpoint Youth in Newry Town
Hall.
‘Seussical the Musical’- Newry Bosco Drama.
October 2009
After school Drama Club begins.
Open Night – Dance performances by GCSE Drama year 11 from show,
‘Wicked’ and dance, ’We Don’t Want No Education’ – by year 12 Drama
students.
Young Writers’ Competition- over 30 poems published in anthology- KS3
pupils.
November 2009
Six week –‘Shared Reading Programme’ and a week of related activities/
competitions/ in library and class, to encourage reading among years 8
and 9.
Soroptomists Public Speaking Competition in Newry Arts Centre
Winner 1st- Rebecca Kenna - ‘It’s the deed and not the glory’
and 2nd place – Jane McAteer ‘Cloning- isn’t one of me enough?’
Participation in pubic speaking – ‘Open Your Mind’ -Mental Health Forum
Three pupils participated in this competition in Newry Arts Centre
Team St Mary’s – Lauren Carroll, Colette Heaney, Nadia McVeigh
Anti- bullying drama workshop for KS3 students during National AntiBullying Week
A workshop where years 8 - 10 students explored issues around bullying
through, poetry, scripted plays, and speeches.
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Theatre Visit from ‘Replay Theatre Company’- for years 11 and 12
‘Bulletproof- a play examining issues around teenage suicide.
December 2009
Prize giving night- participation in concert
Term 2
February 2010
Performance of ‘Our Day Out’ by GCSE Drama students
March 2010
Traditional Irish Concert for St Patrick’s Day- a concert of music, poetry
and dance in school assembly hall for whole school.
April 2010
Drama workshop - ‘Every Day Counts’- A workshop looking at the
importance of school attendance. Participation of students from KS3
Newry Feis - participants in Verse Speaking, Good Conversation class and
Public Speaking.
Year 8
1st Padraigin Murphy
2nd Shannon Davison
3rd Rosanna Doolan, Cliodhna Doherty, Caoimhe Larkin and Orlaith O
Reilly
Year 9
1st Emma Gaul
Year 10
1st Nicola O Gorman
2nd Kerrie Rice, Leah Mooney
3rd Kirsty O Neill, Colette Heaney, Molly McParland
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Year 11 and 12
1st Tara Heaney (Winner of the Secondary School Cup)
2nd Alice Craven
3rd Kate Kelly
Good Converstaion Class
1st Place - Winning 'the John Kennedy Memorial Cup'
Topic 'Mobile Phones - A Necessary Nuisance?'
Team D Jane McAteer, Abigail Fogarty, Claire Patterson, Cliodhna
Hughes
2nd Place (Tie)
Topic 'Are school uniforms a necessary evil?'
Team A Orla Devlin, Cliodhna McCurry, Tara Heaney, Rebecca O'Hale
Topic 'Should teenagers have jobs or receive pocket money?'
Team B Rachel McShane, Danae Morley, Niamh Brady, Shannon Devlin
Topic 'The World's Greatest Invention'
Team C Nicola O'Gorman, Colette Heaney, Lauren Carroll, Orla Travers
Public Speaking Teams
1st Place Winning the 'Newry Credit Union Cup'
Team A Topic 'Cloning - Is one of me enough?'
Invited Speaker Jane McAteer (Winner of the 'Speakers Shield')
Chair Person Claire Patterson
Proposing Thanks Abigail Fogarty
Questioner Cliodhna Hughes
2nd (Tie)
Topic Life for newcomers in Newry City
Invited Speaker Kamila Kostka
Chairperson Martyna Olszowska
Proposing Thanks Diana Strusinska
Questioner Rebecca O Hale
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Topic The deed is all, not the glory
Invited Speaker Rebecca Kenna
Chairperson Rachel McShane
Proposing Thanks Shannon Devlin
Questioner Cliodhna McCorry
The Felix O'Hagan Perpetual Challenge Cup (Top Prize Winner in
classes 9 to 12)
Awarded to Emma Gaul
Polish Week- Visit to school by Mr. Jerome Mullen - N.I. Consul for Polish
Immigrants- public speaking and music provided by Polish students
May 2010
Theatre Visit to see - ‘Carousel’- by Newry Musical Society.
Attendance by all GCSE Drama students.
June 2010
Visit to school from children’s author, Marilyn Taylor.
Marilyn spoke about being a writer and what inspired her to write her
books.
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Newry Polish Newcomers Make History at Newry Feis
Three young Polish newcomers from St Mary’s High School, Newry, have
made history by participating in the Public Speaking Section of Newry
Feis.
The three girls are all year 12 students from St Mary’s Newry, and
although they have only been in Ireland for 2-3 years they were able to
speak in excellent English.
They chose the topic of immigration and talked about what it is like being
a teenage newcomer in a new country.
Their performance involved a role play in which the students pretended
to take part in Newry and Mourne’s Good Relations Forum.
One student, Diana Strusinska acted as chairperson while the main
speaker was Kamila Kostka, who addressed the meeting telling about the
difficulties she encountered coming to Ireland three years ago.
Another student, Martyna Olszowka acted as the prosper of thanks at
the end of the meeting. The ‘meeting concluded and the girls won a
deserved 2nd place in the competition.
The adjudicator, Mrs Marie McQuillan, said that she was delighted to
welcome these young Polish girls who were the first immigrants to take
part in this section in the history of the Feis which is in its eighty second
year.
Congratulations to the Polish girls who proved to be excellent
ambassadors for their country!
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GEOGRAPHY DEPARTMENT
The school year 2009/2010 has been a highly rewarding year for the
geography department for both staff and pupils. The staff have been
involved in CPF (Continued Professional Development) opportunities and
developed the use of the VLE (Virtual Learning Environment) as an
important learning resource. Our planning has been very much shaped by
the revised curriculum and pupils have successfully added to their
thinking skills and personal capabilities. The following is a short synopsis
of our successes this year.
September 2009/2010
As part of our commitment to working with the community, a member of
the department was involved in a collaborative fieldwork project with
Rathore School. Students at Rathore had the opportunity to carry out a
litter study of their school grounds in searching for an answer to the
question “Where is the best place to be in our school”? Through the
study of different sites, pupils collected data in the field, analysed,
interpreted and drew conclusions. Ultimately they concluded that “The
Sensory Garden” was the best place to be in their school.
September 2009
Year 9 pupils visited the Marble Arch Caves in County Fermanagh to see
the features of limestone scenery. This visit helps to develop the pupils
understanding of chemical weathering and introduces them to the
importance of protecting our natural environment while developing the
economic potential of the caves as a tourist attraction.
March 2010
Year 10 pupils improved their ICT skills by completing a Fair Trade
questionnaire using the school VLE (Virtual Learning Environment).
June 2010
Year 11 GCSE students carried out River Investigation in Killowen Field
Centre in preparation for their coursework. This involved data collection
including cross-sectional area, gradient and bed load.
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June 2010
A key focus within the geography is ESD (Education for Sustainable
Development) and members of the department attended training to
highlight the practical application and development of this key issue.
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HISTORY DEPARTMENT
The History Department in St Mary’s enjoyed a very exciting year with
the appointment of a new Head of Department, Mrs. Grainne Mallon and a
new History teacher, Miss Sile Bartlett.
The year began very
successfully with last year’s GCSE candidates being praised by the
History Moderator for their very high standard of coursework.
This was the first year of the implementation of the new Year 10
syllabus, which enthuses the pupils in the study of History, a fact
reflected in the excellent PowerPoint and media presentations that were
created and demonstrated so capably at Open Night by the pupils.
Another indication of the success of the subject is the large numbers
choosing to study it at GCSE level.
During the year the History Department organised cultural visits to
various museums and places of historical interest most notably the:
Ulster American Folk Park to experience at first hand Halloween
customs in Ulster and also in American people from Ulster who emigrated
in the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. This visit contributes to the
pupils’ presentation folders for English
Carrickfergus Castle
As a result of the history visit to Carrickfergus Castle, a number of
beautiful castles were created by Year 8 students.
Paris:
Year 9 pupils enjoyed a successful trip to Paris. They visited famous
historical sites and had the opportunity to improve their French as well
as gaining an understanding of French history and culture.
It is hoped for next year, to avail of the newly renovated facilities at the
Ulster Museum as well as working more closely with Declan Carroll in
Bagenal’s Castle on collaborative projects.
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This year also saw the introduction of modular assessment at GCSE for
History as well as a new controlled assessment. Year 11 students have
responded enthusiastically to the changes, reflecting that the extra
challenges continually keeps their interest in History alive.
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ICT DEPARTMENT
At St Mary’s High School we aim to develop, maintain and stimulate
students’ curiosity, interest and enjoyment in ICT and to encourage pupils
to see ICT as a means to support independent and life-long learning. As a
department, we work to enable students to acquire appropriate,
transferable ICT skills, knowledge and understanding.
This year saw the introduction of the student enrichment programme
ECDL. ECDL was offered to all students who opted for ‘A’ Level ICT, but
did not have GCSE or Key Skills ICT. All students successfully completed
the programme which helped to equip them with the necessary skills to
pursue ‘A’ Level ICT. The programme was offered in conjunction with the
Southern ITeC by Mrs Eileen Hughes. We hope to continue this valuable
partnership for next year’s sixth form cohort.
The department continues to strive towards strengthening contacts and
visits with local business organisations so the pupils can realise the
importance and valuable role ICT plays in today’s society and relate this
experience to their studies. GCSE ICT students attended a conference
on e-skills at St Josephs High School, Newry. The workshop focused on
promoting ICT as a career choice. Our students participated in group
workshops, one of which was to think of the next big thing in ICT. Two
of our students volunteered to present their ideas which were warmly
received at the conference.
This year three of our ‘A’ level students produced projects for clients
who intend to utilise their work.
We are delighted with their
achievements which include, a Playgroup Cook Book produced for fund
raising. This cook book is aimed at students who are intending to advance
to university. Finally a student produced a range of wedding stationary,
magazine and a website for her family’s business. The projects produced
this year were of a very high quality and the department is delighted with
the collaboration with public and private organisations.
Sixth form students have benefited this year again from completing a
Photoshop workshop hosted by the AmmA Centre, where they gained
valuable graphic manipulation skills. The skills gained contributed to their
‘A’ level ICT Coursework.
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Extra curricular opportunities have played an important role in the
department with classes being offered to junior school pupils by our
highly valued ICT technician Miss Ciara Doyle. All pupils will benefit from
the ICT skills being taught to them, skills which they can apply to their
curricular studies.
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HOME ECONOMICS DEPARTMENT
The Home Economics Department enjoyed a successful year in 2009 –
2010.
Students participated in many exciting practical activities
throughout the year.
Year 11 students excelled in making and decorating Christmas Cakes. The
cakes demonstrated a high degree of competency as the students
displayed their creative, artistic and technical skills to produce
outstanding Christmas cakes. The whole school and parents were invited
to view the final display of cakes produced by the girls.
Year 10 students enjoyed designing and building Gingerbread Houses
which were incorporated into an enchanting Christmas Gingerbread snow
scene village.
The Home Economics Department is now involved in delivering the ‘A’ level
Enrichment Programme. Through this programme, students are prepared
for the challenges of going to university. This involves independent living,
budgeting, managing their own finances and most importantly cooking
nutritional meals on a limited budget.
The Department continues its links with outside agencies to enrich and
support the learning experiences of all students. Representatives from
Loughry College and the Livestock and Meat Commission contributed to
the delivery of the Home Economics Curriculum through lectures and
cookery demonstrations.
As part of the School Enrichment Programme, the Department holds an
after school Cookery Club. Many students attend this class each week
and enjoy creative cooking.
To end the year, Year 11 students completed the modular GCSE Practical
examination.
Students undertook highly complicated dishes with
outstanding results.
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LANGUAGES
The Department was very pleased with the GCSE results in French,
Spanish, Polish and Italian.
The Languages Department works
collaboratively with St. Colman’s College to extend learning opportunities
for our pupils and continues to enter Newcomer pupils for GCSE in their
native language.
For our Open Night, the department put on a short sketch entitled le
Français c’est important. We emphasised the importance of the language,
the many countries where it is spoken, the historical connections both
locally and globally and highlighted the many careers with languages. Both
parents and primary 7 pupils enjoyed the event.
Many of our Year 9 pupils had the chance to travel to Paris on our annual
school trip. In Paris, they visited the Eiffel Tower, Disneyland, Stade de
France, Montmartre and enjoyed a cruise on the River Seine as well as
bowling, swimming and shopping in Val d’Europe.
Within the department, we continued to explore and make the most of
Information Technology with use of podcasting and software for oral
work. We linked up with Collège Henri Morat near Dijon in France and
some of our year 10 pupils were able to videoconference with their
penpals. Year 8 pupils also enjoyed a penpal link with the school in France
and a group of year 10 pupils took part in a French language ICT project
with a school in Austria.
Once again, the department welcomed the French Théâtre for Schools
Company to put on a play for Year 11 and 12 GCSE pupils. The company
which employs only native speaking French actors provides fully scripted
drama suited to the needs of junior and senior pupils. Five pupils had
roles in the play and the show included interactive audience participation
to increase the fun and build learner confidence. Everyone thoroughly
enjoyed the show.
Finally, we had the pleasure to welcome Thomas Nobletz from France as
our Language Assistant for the year, both pupils and teachers enjoyed
working with him.
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MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT
Specialist Schools Status
We have completed the first year as a Specialist School in Mathematics
and Business. This prestigious award recognises the high standards
already achieved in school and our commitment to continue to develop
quality learning and teaching that will ensure success for every pupil. The
school already enjoys a collaborative learning culture and has fostered
strong links with partner primary and post-primary schools, community
and local businesses. The additional funding has supported our school and
partners who have benefited from the innovative and creative plans
developed by the Mathematics Department. As a department we are
delighted to be recognised for all our successes to date.
As part of the Specialist Schools Programme the ETI (Inspectorate
Team) carried out a Baseline Inspection in January 2010. The outcomes
of the inspection proved very favourable to the school in general and in
particular the Mathematics Department.
 We have been invited to share Good Practice with Maths
Departments in other Post Primary Schools.
 The Mathematics Department facilitated Numeracy Training for
Classroom Assistants from St Mary’s and St Joseph’s High
Schools. The training, led by Mr Gerry Toal (CASS – Post Primary
Numeracy Advisor), focused on developing useful strategies that
can be used within Maths lessons.
 Year 13 Students were trained by Mrs Brenda Barron (CASS
Primary Numeracy Advisor) to assist teachers in four local Primary
Schools. The students worked in St Joseph’s, St Clare’s, St
Patrick’s and St Malachy’s over a period of six months. This work
involved working with individual pupils, small groups and included
the use of ICT and games in the Maths activities .
 Miss Angeline Fearon, a bank official from one of our partner
businesses, the Northern Bank, delivered a six week ‘Financial
Capabilities and Responsibilities’ Programme to one of our Year 11
GCSE Maths groups.
 The Mathematics Department purchased the ICT Maths Package
‘My Maths’ as a means of assessing students’ mathematical skills
through this online programme.
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 The Mathematics Department, supported by Sentinus, planned and
organised a ‘Developing Maths Skills Day’ for all Year 9 students.
This event proved very successful and it gave students an
opportunity to develop their thinking skills through the variety of
Maths challenges and puzzles.
KS3 and GCSE
KS3:
All Year 10 pupils are entered for the CCEA KS3 External Exam (Tiers A,
B, C, D).
GCSE:
All pupils are entered for the CCEA Two Tier Modular Mathematics GCSE
Exam. The Higher Tier grades range from A* to D and the Foundation
Tier from C to G. One of the contributing factors to our continued
success includes after school revision classes provided by members of
the department.
GCSE Mathematics does not include a coursework element. Each student
completes a Module Paper (Calculator and Non Calculator Papers) - 45%
and a Completion Paper (Calculator and Non Calculator Papers) - 55%
Mathematics Awards for 2009/2010
Senior Awards: Rebecca Kenna (1207) and Denise Byrne (1212)
Junior Award: Michaela Doherty (1025)
Numeracy Programme
All Year 8 students follow the Numeracy Programme one period per
fortnight. This programme allows students to develop their numerical
skills through the use of puzzles, ICT, games and challenges. Mrs
Kearney, as Numeracy Coordinator, continues to implement the Numeracy
Strategy both inter-departmentally and cross-departmentally. Monthly
puzzles were organized for Years 8 and 9 pupils.
A ‘Numeracy Guide’ was produced by the Maths Department and
distributed to all Year 8 parents at the Prayer Service in October. This
guide provides step by step revision notes for parents to use when
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helping their daughter and also for the students to use as a Study Aid
for Maths.
UK Junior Maths Challenge
We entered 90 Year 9 pupils for the UK Junior Mathematics Challenge in
April 2010. There are over 240,000 entries for the Challenge from all
around the U.K. one of our girls achieved very high marks in the Challenge
and each received a silver certificate and six girls received a bronze
certificate. This was a magnificent achievement for these girls but
congratulations must go to all the girls who entered.
Best in School and Silver Certificate:
 Laura Daly (0919)
Bronze Certificates:
 Maddie Gilbert (0919)
 Demi Rafferty (0909)
 Shanna Murphy (0919)
 Amy McKeown (0919)
 Claire Fox (0909)
 Patrycja Pabis ( 0918)
Maths Club
Miss Connolly successfully organised the After School Maths Club on
Tuesdays from 3pm until 4pm. The Club encourages Year 8 students to
view Mathematics as an enjoyable and interesting subject, rather than
simply a subject they are required to study. It also aims to improve
pupils’ numerical and practical skills through fun activities.
After School Support Classes
Year 8 and 9 Support Classes were held on Tuesday, Wednesday and
Thursday afternoons from 3pm to 4pm. These classes were aimed at
providing extra support for students who find Maths difficult and also
for those who are Gifted and Talented in the subject.
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MUSIC DEPARTMENT
St Mary’s Music Department enjoyed another very busy and successful
year. The aim of the department is to provide musical opportunities for
all our pupils through the enhancement of skills and provision of
experiences. Undoubtedly the pupils have gained skills and enjoyed
experiences which will benefit them throughout their life.
Extra curricular activities have always played an important role in the
Music department and we continue to use the talents of students to
provide music for school celebrations, Open Night, Presentation Night
and Prize Nights. Two new musical groups were established this year in
the school, a Drum Group and a Senior Choir chosen from girls in Year 13.
St Mary’s School Choir this year provided music for many liturgical
celebrations such as the annual whole school Mass and Year 8 and 12
Masses. The choir took part for the first time in the High School class of
Newry Feis and were delighted with third place and the pleasing
comments from the adjudicator. We were also privileged to be invited to
sing at the switching on of the Christmas lights at Newry City Hall. The
choir also took part in a special concert organised by Rowan Hand to raise
money for a little boy in India. This took place in the Church of the
Assumption in Drumalane before Christmas and was a very enjoyable
occasion.
Opportunities were given to play many instruments both within the
classroom and through peripatetic tuition. The department was delighted
again to have the services of Fil Campbell for vocal tuition. All of her
students achieved distinction to pass in the vocal examinations. Several
of her students were entered for classes in Newry Feis and received
very favourable marks and comments from the adjudicator. In addition
we enjoyed the continued support and tuition in both woodwind and
strings, provided by the music service of the SELB. All pupils entered for
board examinations were successful.
Through Extended Schools we have gained another music tutor Mr. Peter
Mac Anulty who teaches guitar to a number of pupils after school. GCSE
and Year 10 pupils also took part in the ‘Making Music’ workshop over a
period of four evenings. During the sessions they co-wrote, performed
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and recorded their own songs. Pupils from St Colman’s College and St
Joseph’s High School also took part in the workshop in St Mary’s.
The Multi Media Suite has continued to be an important resource at both
KS3 and KS4. The GCSE pupils have produced excellent compositions and
arrangements using the Apple Mac computers and all pupils at KS3 level
have used the Garageband music programme to produce compositions as
part of their class work. Examples of their work can be heard on the
Music Area of the school VLE.
The highlight of the year for the Music Department was the Spring
Concert which was a culmination of the work of the Music and Drama
departments. It provided an opportunity for many pupils to perform and
showcase their musical talents. Among the performers were the school
choir, traditional group, vocalists, instrumentalists and our newly formed
drum group and senior choir.
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
Physical Education is compulsory for all pupils in St Mary’s. We aim to provide a
balanced, enjoyable and challenging programme of physical activity for all. Through
participation in Physical Education our pupils develop an understanding of the
benefits of exercise to good health and are encouraged to continue active
participation in physical education on leaving school. Our programme of extracurricular activities provides an opportunity for pupils to extend and develop their
skills.
ACTIVITIES OFFERED TO PUPILS
Aerobics, Athletics, Badminton, Camogie, Creative and National Dance, Gaelic
Football, Gymnastics, Health Related Fitness, Orienteering, Rounders, Swimming,
Table Tennis, Tennis, Volleyball and Unihoc.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION AT GCSE LEVEL
P.E. is offered to pupils as a GCSE subject. The course is both practical and
theoretical.
Component 1: Terminal Examination
Component 2: Developing and maintaining a balanced, healthy lifestyle.
Component 3: Individual Performance in the Physical Activities.
BTEC NATIONAL AWARD IN SPORT
In partnership with Southern Regional College we offer the BTEC National Award in
Sport.
‘A’ LEVEL
In partnership with St Colman’s College Newry, we offer students the
opportunity to study Edexcel Physical Education at Advanced Level.
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EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
The following activities were offered:
Netball, Badminton, Fitness, Athletics, Gaelic Football, Camogie, Orienteering and
Volleyball.
FIRST AID
Year 11 pupils followed the “Heartstart” Emergency Life Support Programme and
gained a qualification in First Aid.
ENERGY FITNESS DAY
Pupils in Years 8 – 11 took part in sponsored aerobics sessions and were given advice
on developing and maintaining a balanced healthy lifestyle. £1,000 sponsor money
was donated to Action Cancer.
SPORTING ACHIEVEMENTS
This year St Mary’s pupils achieved success in a range of sporting activities at local,
county and provincial level. The school was also nominated for the school’s award in
the Newry and Mourne Sports Awards.
NETBALL
This has been a very successful year for netball in St Mary’s. We entered six
teams into the Newry & Mourne Netball League. All teams performed extremely
well, with the Year 11, 12 and Senior teams winning their sections and the Year 10
team reaching the semi-final stage.
The Intermediate Netball Team entered the SELB league and beat Sacred Heart,
Newry in the final to become SELB champions for 2010.
Mary Adegbamiye and Niamh Mc Loughlin were selected for the Under 15 Regional
Development Squad.
Niamh Tumilty, Laura Doran, Niamh Monaghan and Mary Adegbamiye were selected
for the Netball Podium 4 Sport.
Mary Adegbamiye and Niamh Tumilty were talent identified to attend trials for the
Under 17 Northern Ireland Netball Squad. Mary was selected for the Initial
National Squad
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ATHLETICS
NEWRY AND MOURNE CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS 2009
Team Prizes YEAR 8
3RD TEAM – Mary Kernan
Christianah Adegbamiye
Emma Pentony
Louisa Dillon
SENIOR
TEAM A – 1ST
Mary Adegbamiye
Eimear Kane
Laura Connell
TEAM B – 2ND
Judith Mc Cartan
Aisling Turley
Kirsty Mc Kevitt
TEAM C – 4TH
Sinead Mc Garry
Rachel Havern
Maeve Murphy
Anna Madine
INDIVIDUAL AWARDS
Mary Kernan – 6TH Year 8 Race
Mary Adegbamiye – 3RD Senior
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CO DOWN SCHOOLS CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS
Senior Team 1st
Eimear Kane
Rachel Havern
Natashya Lennon
Anna Madine
Lorraine Havern
ULSTER CROSS COUNTRY CHAMPIONSHIPS
The Senior team came 3rd in the Ulster Championships at Mallusk to
qualify for the Irish Schools’ Championships. Mary Adegbamiye came 8th
so also qualified as an individual.
Mary Adegbamiye
Eimear Kane
Rachel Havern
Anna Madine
Natashya Lennon
Lorraine Havern
HANDBALL
Lorraine Havern won the Senior Singles All Ireland
Schools’ Championships.
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ORIENTEERING
The Year 11 GCSE P.E. class took part in the Armagh/Newry Orienteering
Project which gave the girls an ideal introduction to the sport. Siobhan
Carnegie and Karen Hadden came 3rd in the Tollymore Event.
The girls also took part in the Schools’ Orienteering Festival in Armagh
with Kirsty Mc Kevitt placed 2nd.
GAELIC FOOTBALL
St Mary’s, once again, participated in the Ulster Ladies Football
Competition. The Under 20 team reached the play-off stages of their
competition but were beaten in the last match. Our Under 16’s and Under
14’s represented the school well. They completed the league but
unfortunately did not make it out of their section.
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POST SIXTEEN
ACADEMIC
The ‘A’ Level results were excellent with 100% pass rate, reflecting the
hard work of students, teachers and the on-going support of their
parents. The majority of students progressed to University and Higher
Study, many receiving their first choice in a range of institutions
including Queen’s University Belfast, University of Ulster, St Mary’s
University College Belfast and John Moore, Liverpool.
This was a very exciting year with the further extension of ‘A’ Level
provision through our collaboration with St Colman’s College Newry, St
Mark’s High School, Warrenpoint and the Southern Regional College.
ENRICHMENT AND SCHOOL EVENTS
September 2009
Year 14 students attended Open Day’s at the University of Ulster at
Jordanstown and Queen’s University, Belfast
September 2009
Sarah Savage was appointed to the position of Head Girl and the Deputy
Head Girl positions were filled by Danielle Carroll and Leona Grant. A
number of other girls were appointed to the School Council.
October 2009
Year 14 Formal in the Canal Court Hotel, Newry.
October 2009
In collaboration with the Northern Bank Newry, Year 14 students were
trained to establish and run the school bank.
October 2009
Year 14 students took part in work experience in a range of local
businesses and organisations. This experience helped to facilitate the
students in their UCAS choices for university application.
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November 2009
Interview skills day for Year 14
The Year 14 students took part in an interview skills workshop organised
by Sentinus, followed by individual interviews with a range of local
employers.
November 2009
Year 13 Students as part of the Health Education Programme took part in
a Promoting Good Mental Health workshop facilitated by ‘Mood Matters’.
The programme was designed to raise awareness of depression and
mental health issues.
December 2009
To facilitate University Application Year 14 students had an individual
interview with the school’s careers officer Mrs Mary Knight.
December 2009
Sixth form trip to Belfast, including the Christmas Pantomime in the
Grand Opera House.
February 2010
Year 13 students attended the PSNI Road Traffic Road Show. The aim
of the event was to develop positive attitudes towards road safety among
teenagers.
February 2010
Year 13 students attended the ‘Love for Life’ workshop designed to
explore issues in relation to sexuality and relationships.
March 2010
Year 14 students visited Dundalk Institute of Technology.
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April 2010
Year 14 students attended two workshops to prepare them for the
demands of university study and adult life;
 Student Finance – work shop designed to raise awareness of the
financial demands of university study.
 Independent Student Living – Brian Slevin, Welfare Manager from
Queen’s University Belfast gave a presentation to Year 14 students
discussing relevant issues connected with student life including
finding accommodation and adjusting to university study.
May 2009
A special leaver’s Mass was organised for Year 14 students. The service
was conducted by the school’s Chaplain, Fr Mc Conville and was attended
by students, teachers and family members. After the Mass the students
were presented with a memento of their time in St Mary’s.
47
R.E. DEPARTMENT
Term 1
27 Aug.2009
Talk to staff on Catholic Ethos from Dr. Andrew
O’Connell / Staff Mass
16 Sep. 2009
Gideon Bibles distributed to year 8 pupils
23 Sep.2009
Year 8 talk from Legion of Mary
25 Sep.2009
Whole School Mass
During September and October Fr. Conor visited all
year 8 classes to introduce himself and talk about his
role as School Chaplain
2 Oct 2009
Year 14 pupils attend Youth Retreat Day in Fairways
Hotel Dundalk
13 Oct 2009
Welcome Service for year 8 pupils and parents
22 Oct 2009
Year 13 pupils attend the LIFE Conference in City Hall
5 Nov 2009
Talk for Year 13 girls from Peter Sands about
completing the Pope John Paul II Award
7 girls have undertaken the work to gain the award
next year
2 Dec 2009
Jumble sale organised by 0824 which raised £350 for
the ‘Tony’s Project’
During December penitential services were held for
junior classes
During Advent mass was celebrated one morning each
week in the oratory
48
TERM 2
18 Jan 2010
Bishop Mc Areavey celebrated mass with school
leavers
During Lent many fund raising activities were
organised to raise money for St Mary’s African School
Project. £6000 was raised for this cause
Penitential services were held for junior and senior
classes
Mass was celebrated one morning each week in the
oratory and pupils participated by reading and
preparing the oratory
25 March 2010
Penitential service for all Year 8 pupils in the
Assembly Hall
27 March 2010
Awards Ceremony for Pope John Paul II Awards in
Banbridge Parish Centre
29 March 2010
Year 13 retreat day in Parish Centre
4 -10 April 2010
Two year 13 pupils took part in a parish trip to
Lourdes under the direction of the Diocesan Youth
Director Anita Ryan
TERM 3
19/20 April 2010
Year 11 retreat days in Bosco Centre
22 April 2010
Speakers from Logos Ministries spoke to classes on
the theme of value and worth
6 May 2010
Leavers’ mass for year 14 pupils and parents
11 May 2010
Prayer service for year 12 pupils
49
2-4 June 2010
Members of R.E. department attended the annual
Diocesan Conference for R.E. teachers in Dromantine
Throughout the year, our school chaplain visited each
class at least once and class masses were celebrated
throughout the year
Each Wednesday morning a group of pupils delivered
an assembly to the whole school. Special assemblies
were organised for the most important times in the
church’s liturgical calendar. Each class had a chance
to participate.
50
SCIENCE DEPARTMENT
2009 was a very exciting year in the Science Department. The range of
events organised this year catered for every child studying Science
throughout the school.
Our excellent success rate at Key Stage 3 and GCSE examinations
continued this year. We enter our pupils for higher and foundation level
Core Science (Single) and Additional Science (Double) and Key Stage 3
exams at the end of Year 10. We continued to raise standards within the
department by striking a balance between the use of practical work and a
range of classroom activities.
Science Awards for 2009 – 2010
Key Stage 3 Award:
Key Stage 4 Award:
Rebecca O’ Hale
Rachel Magill & Laura Mc Cartan
Events in the Science Department 2009-2010
8th October 2009 – Year 8 attended a Science 2life road show entitled
‘Magical Science and Engineering’. This was hosted by St Colman’s
College, Newry.
7th December 2009 – Sinead Bellew attended a Physics workshop at St
Colman’s College, Newry. This workshop was specifically for teachers and
concentrated on developing experiments in Physics.
4th March 2010 - Year 9 educational visit to the Navan Centre and Fort,
Armagh as part of National Science Week. The pupils participated in an
interactive show – ‘Move it’. They also participated in a ‘Living History’
demonstration, which highlighted scientific advances.
9th March 2010 – The Science Department organised a Year 9 creative
writing competition. The pupils had to submit a piece of work detailing
their experience at the Navan Fort Centre. The overall competition
winner was Claire Fox (0909).
51
10th March 2010 – 0824 attend the Sentinus STEM Experience Event in
Armagh City Hotel.
12th March 2010 - Year 10 Science Quiz in St Patrick’s High School,
Keady. Our quiz team consisted of:
1. Nadia Mc Veigh (1035)
2. Shannon Philips (1035)
3. Seana O’ Brien (1035)
15th May 2010 – The Science Department organised a Year 10 trip to
Belfast Zoo. This visit although very enjoyable had educational benefits
to it. The pupils had to answer a series of questions on Environmental
Adaptation, the winner of the quiz was Nadia McVeigh (1035).
The STEM Module
The STEM Module was launched by Caitriona Ruane, the Education
Minister on the 30th September 2009. Its aim is to promote careers in
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) related
industries and promote the increased uptake in Science and Technological
subjects at Post 16 level.
The STEM Module is a mobile laboratory and workshop designed to bring
high quality learning experiences in STEM subjects to pupils in STEM
Specialist Schools. The Module provides a showcase for developing
creative and innovative approaches to learning and teaching in Science,
Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.
The Science Department were fortunate to have 3 visits from the STEM
Module this year. We used this as an ideal opportunity to invite some of
our Partnership Primary Schools to our school to use the facilities in the
STEM Module.
1. 26th May – Primary 6 pupil from St Clare’s, Newry.
2. 27th May – 0827 and 0817 St Mary’s High School pupils
3. 14th June – Primary 6 pupils from St Malachy’s and from StPatrick’s
Primary School, Newry.
52
All these groups attended a Science course in the Module. The pupils
took part in activities including designing and making rockets, botany, use
of forensic microscopes and using Photoshop to construct a slide show.
53
SPECIALIST SCHOOLS’ – COMMUNITY
In September St Mary’s officially launched its Specialist School
Programme.
Representatives from partner primary and secondary
schools, our sponsors and personnel from the local business and voluntary
community joined the staff and pupils of St Mary’s for a ‘Breakfast
Morning’ to launch the programme. During the event Dr. Conor Patterson
from Newry and Mourne Enterprise Agency gave a presentation ‘Business
and Mathematics in the Local Economy’ explaining the importance of our
specialist subjects in the economy.
As part of Specialist School’s designation, St Mary’s has developed a
number of important links with local Primary and Secondary School and a
range of Community Organisations.
Over the year the school has
facilitated a number of projects designed to enrich the curriculum
provisions within a range of local schools and support local community
organisations in the wider Newry Area.
Maths Mentors Programme
Year 13 students from St Mary’s were trained by Mrs Brenda Barron
(CASS – Primary School Numeracy Advisor) to assist primary teachers in
four local primary schools. The ‘A’ Level students worked in St Joseph’s,
St Clare’s, St Malachy’s and St Patrick’s Primary Schools over a period of
six months. The students used their training to support the primary
teachers during numeracy lessons. This work involved working with
individuals and groups of pupils and included the use of an ICT numeracy
software programme.
A number of the Maths Mentors also delivered the Primary Two ‘Catch
Up Programme’ over a period of six weeks.
Classroom Assistant Training
St Mary’s facilitated numeracy training for classroom assistants from St
Mary’s and St Joseph’s High School. The training led my Mr Gerry Toal
(CASS – Post-Primary School Numeracy Advisor) focused on developing
useful strategies which the assistants can use within classroom lessons.
54
YENI Programme
In collaboration with Young Enterprise Northern Ireland and three local
banks; the Northern Bank, Bank of Ireland and First Trust, the ‘Our
World’ programme was delivered in 4 local Primary Schools. Facilitators
from the three bank’s delivered the six week programme in Ballyholland
Primary, St Patrick’s, St Clare’s and St Malachy’s Primary Schools. Pupils
explored the concept of world trade and investigated the country of
origin of many products which they use daily. They were engaged in a
range of interactive activities designed to develop their enterprise and
problem solving skills. The programme was a huge success for both the
participating pupils and the facilitators involved.
Global Entrepreneurship Competition
The Business Studies Department organised and facilitated the ‘Make
Your Mark Challenge’. The event celebrated Entrepreneurial Week in
association with Invest Northern Ireland and the Department of
Education. Students from St Mary’s, St Colman’s, St Mark’s, St Louis,
Newry High, St Paul’s and Rathore, all members of the Local Area
Learning Community came together to take part in the competition which
challenged them to develop enterprising solutions to an environmental
problem.
Three Ways Community Group
Working in partnership with St Clare’s Primary School and Three Ways
Community Association the school successfully organised a series of
numeracy workshops to assist parents in understanding the changing
Mathematics Curriculum at Key Stages 1 and 2.
The interactive workshops facilitated by Colette Delargy from ‘Maths
Buddy’ Newry, was designed to inform parents of the various strategies
they could use at home to help their children to grow in confidence as
they develop their Numeracy Skills.
Carnagat Community Association
In collaboration with St Malachy’s Primary School, a successful six week
Numeracy Programme was organised for local parents and members of
Carnagat Community Association. The programme was hugely successful
enhancing the knowledge and skills of local parents, helping them to assist
their children with various aspects of numeracy.
55
Crushan Munia
A number of numeracy workshops took place to develop numeracy skills
for members of Crushan Munia. The sessions were designed to develop
the participant’s confidence in numeracy.
STEM Module
The STEM Module visited St Mary’s on a number of occasions throughout
the year to support the teaching of Science and Technology in the school
and also within our partner Primary Schools. Pupils from St Clare’s, St
Malachy’s and St Patrick’s visited the school to complete Science
Investigations using the facilitates within the module.
56
TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT
IET Faraday Engineering Challenge Dayin St Paul’s High School, Bessbrook
On Thursday 10 December 2009, six Year 9 pupils represented the school
from the disciplines of Mathematics, Science and Technology. The
competition was organised by the Institute of Engineering and Technology
(UK) under the STEM, Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics
Programme.
The other schools taking part were, Markethill High School, St Joseph’s
High School, Crossmaglen, Newry High School and St Paul’s High School,
Bessbrook.
The pupils were given the backdrop of the recent catastrophic floods
which devastated towns and villages in England and Wales where an
estimated 5 million homes are thought to be located in areas prone to
flooding.
Pupils in their groups of six were set the challenging task of designing and
producing a hand operated pump capable of pumping water through a given
height. Pupils were set the constraints of cost and limited resources
available to construct their device. The winning project would be the one
which pumped the greatest quantity of water successfully while
consuming the least of the resources provided.
The girls from St Mary’s worked extremely well to come a very
respectable third out of the six groups competing.
Robotics Workshop at St Louis Grammar School, Kilkeel.
A group of Year 10 students were chosen to represent the school at a
Robotics Workshop which took place on 11 December in St Louis Grammar
School, Kilkeel.
The workshop was run by SENTINUS represented by Mr Gerard Hughes.
The purpose of the workshop was to involve pupils in learning a range of
programming techniques to facilitate the control of a lunar buggy.
57
The pupils really enjoyed the experience of working with pupils from
other schools to test their programming ability.
Primary 7 visit to the Department
On 28 January 2010 Primary 7 students from a number of different
Primary Schools in Newry visited the Department to take part in a ‘Cross
Curricular Skills Day’ through Technology and Design.
The pupils were engaged in a practical exercise of manufacturing a simple
Keyfob using a range of practical basic workshop skills.
Programme for Technology Practical Skills Insight Day 2010
St Mary’s Technology Department hosted two Practical Skills Insight
Days for Primary 7 pupils from St Joseph’s Primary School, Newry on 9 &
10 February 2010. A total of 72 pupils were taught key practical
workshop skills by Mr Morgan and Mr Magee.
The purpose of the programme was to introduce pupils to some of the
practical skills carried out in Technology and Design classes in KS3.
The programme included skills such as measuring and marking out,
fabrication using plastics, card and wood, and practical activities using
workshop machinery such as pillar drill, notcher and soldering equipment.
At the end of the session each pupil had produced their very own battery
powered racer.
STEM Bus for Technology
On Tuesday 11 May 2010 the STEM bus visited St Mary’s to facilitate the
Technology Department.
The STEM bus is an initiative by the
Department of Education to raise the profile of Science, Technology,
Engineering and Mathematics subjects by providing students with access
to the specialised resources in those areas which are showcased on the
specially modified laboratory pod.
58
The special focus of the bus on this occasion was the use of CAD-CAM
(Computer Aided Design and Manufacturing) techniques as used in
Technology and Design.
A morning and afternoon session was organised to give GCSE pupils and
some Year 9 students a chance to design and manufacture a handy
earphone holder using computers to produce designs and manufacture the
finished product on a state of the art laser cutter.
Use of Roland CNC Milling Machine
The Technology Department exchanged an older Dunn CNC Mill for the
more widely used Techsoft Roto-Camm MDX 40 which is widely used in
secondary schools in the SELB area and for which CASS support is
available.
A number of projects have already been implemented, the use of the
technology is limited only by the pupil access through the C2K system.
Learning to Draw Programme
St Mary’s was chosen to help implement the program with its partner
primary schools. Mr Morgan undertook the training and spent a day in St
Joseph’s Primary School, Newry teaching sketching techniques to primary
7 pupils.
Community Links
The Department agreed to work with St John’s Primary School, Glenn to
commemorate the closing of the school by producing a commemorative
plaque depicting the school for existing pupils and staff. The items were
produced on the Department CNC Mill and presented to the Principal,
Mrs Brenda McCreesh.
59
HEALTH EDUCATION
St Mary’s is a health promoting school. We provide a supportive
environment and a Health Education Curriculum for the girls to enable
them to make informed and responsible decisions in relation to their
health.
16th September
Dental Trauma – Year 8
1st – 6th October Stop Smoking Group
7th October
Aware Defeat Depression – Year 13
8th October
Fireworks Safety – Years 8, 9, and 10
12th November
Energy Fitness Day – Years 8, 9, 10 and 11
10th December
Action Cancer – Year 10
17th February
Love for Life – Years 9, 11 and 13
Jan – Feb
Emergency Life Support Skills – Year 11
60
THE PRINCE’S TRUST – xL PROGRAMME
St. Mary’s xL group have completed the second year of their two year
programme. The Year 12 pupils completed this programme in June 2009
gaining an externally validated certificate from the Prince’s Trust.
Fifteen girls are working towards the gold standard which is equivalent to
GCSE level and it was a sound stepping stone to other courses. The aim
of the programme was to enable and empower students, to develop
personal skills and a sense of awareness of good citizenship. Part of the
course involved entrepreneurship and community development work. The
students enjoyed the programme which was delivered by a youth worker
and organised by Miss Joanne Morgan.
OUTREACH PROGRAMMES
In St. Mary’s we believe that education is not only about gaining academic
qualifications, which will be a passport to job opportunities. Education, in
its true sense, is a process that is life long learning and also learning
about life – real life in the real world.
With this in mind, we seek to create opportunities for our pupils, which
enable them to explore situations that they will inevitably face when they
leave school and journey into their lives.
We have sought to build on already established programmes where
members from statutory and community bodies have come into the school
and offered courses and workshops to explore the issues that they work
with every day.
CITIZENSHIP
The Citizenship team has continued to implement a number of initiatives
e.g. Dissolving Boundaries and Comenius Project. The subject is now
delivered to all KS3 pupils. Over the year citizenship issues were themes
at assemblies and fundraising took place for the Developing World.
61
PRESIDENT’S AWARD
President’s Award continues to be offered in St. Mary’s and it is certainly
gaining in strength and popularity. Miss S Mc Connell and Mrs J. Grant
are involved in running the programme and 7 girls have achieved the
Bronze Award, 7 the Silver Award and 7 working towards the Gold Award.
Equivalent to an AS ‘A’ grade, St Mary’s is the only school in Newry to be
pursuing the Award at this level. The Gold expedition required a lot of
work and preparation from the girls as their qualifying venture was not in
the Mournes but in the Antrim Hills and consisted of 50 miles journeying
along with a project based on the four day expedition.
Bronze Award
Silver Award
Aoife Murphy
Lorraine Havern
Olivia Carragher
Caellach Grant
Terri Fearon
Maeve Murphy
Inis Fitzpatrick
Ciara Franklin
Anne Mc Caul
Nicole Mc Govern
Anna Madine
Anne-Marie Maguire
Ciara Murtagh
Amy Ryan
Expedition and Residential Sections
Nicole Mc Govern
Anne-Marie Maguire
Anna Madine
Residential Section
Anne Mc Caul
Expedition Section
Ciara Franklin
Ciara Murtagh
Amy Ryan
62
YEAR 9 EDUCATIONAL TRIP TO PARIS
The Year 9 trip to Paris was once again a resounding success this year.
Over fifty pupils travelled with their teachers from Dublin to Charles de
Gaulle airport, Paris for a memorable visit to the City of Light.
The pupils began their stay with a guided tour of the city, taking in all the
famous sites and then enjoyed a cruise on the River Seine in one of the
world famous Bateaux-Mouches. They spent a full day in Disneyland
Paris, enjoying an evening meal in Planet Hollywood and then back to the
Latin Quarter for bowling. No trip to Paris would be complete without a
visit to the top of the Eiffel Tower. Pupils were able to take in the
breathtaking views of the city from this historical monument. The girls
also visited Montmartre where many had their portraits drawn by Parisian
artists and they tasted local specialities such as escargots and crepes au
chocolat. Pupils also visited the Champs-Elysees, the Arc de Triomphe
and the Val D’Europe Centre and had the opportunity to go to
Aquaboulevard in central Paris, one of Europe’s largest aquatic parks.
KEY PROGRAMME – YOUNG ENTERPRISE
The school ran a very successful Key Programme for Year 11 led by Mr
Magee and Miss Mc Connell. This programme was developed by Enterprise
Northern Ireland in partnership with Achievement Ireland and funded
through the International Fund for Ireland. It is aimed at making a
positive impact on young people at a critical stage in their lives. The aim
is to make a difference to them and to the community. The pupils had
the opportunity to engage in outdoor activities, focus on communication
skills, develop entrepreneurial skills, their leadership qualities and the
importance of developing a healthy and enjoyable lifestyle.
LET PROGRAMME (Learning and Educating Together)
Year 9 girls participated in the Let Programme which was led by Miss
Bellew. They took part in three residentials and a one day cultural visit,
working in partnership with two other schools.
They found the
programme and activities motivating and enjoyable. This programme
involves young people from al over Ireland and promotes peace and
reconciliation through tasks and activities which develop entrepreneurial
skills.
THE SCHOOL DAY
63
The school day commences at 8.55 am and finishes at 3.00 pm and is
divided up as follows
8.55
9.00
9.15
10.00
10.45
11.30
12.05
12.50
1.30
2.15

-
9.00 ASSEMBLY
9.15 REGISTRATION
10.00 SECOND CLASS
10.45 THIRD CLASS
11.30 FOURTH CLASS
12.10 FIFTH CLASS
12.45*SIXTH CLASS
1.30* SEVENTH CLASS
2.15 EIGHTH CLASS
3.00 NINTH CLASS
LUNCH IS TAKEN EITHER AT 12.05 – 12.45 OR AT 12.50 –
1.30 IN THE SCHOOL CANTEEN.
CLASS ORGANISATION
Details of this are to be found in the section entitled Curriculum
Provision.
HOLIDAY ARRANGEMENTS FOR 2009 – 2010
School operated during the period 21 August 2009 - 30 June 2010. It
was closed for all statutory holidays occurring within that period.
TERM 1
21 August 2009 – 23 December 2009 inclusive.
Bank Holiday: 31 August 2009
Mid-Term break: 26 October 2009 – 30 October 2009 inclusive.
Christmas Holidays: 24 December 2009 – 6 January 2010 inclusive.
TERM 2
7 January – 2010 - 31 March 2010 inclusive.
Mid Tern Break: 15 February 2010– 19 February 2010 inclusive.
TERM 3
12 April 2010– 30 June 2010
Bank Holidays: 3 May 2010 and 31 May 2010.
64
Principal
1
Vice-Principal
1
Teachers
34
Clerical Staff
3
Caretakers
2
Science Technician
1
ICT Technician
1
Home Economics Technician
1
Technology Technician
1
Classroom Assistants
8
Librarian
1
Study Supervisor
1
STAFF – ST MARY’S HIGH SCHOOL 2009– 2010
65
Teachers
Mrs M Cosgrove – Principal
Miss D Crawley – Vice-Principal
Miss S Bellew – Science
Mrs R Kidd – Careers/Geography
Mrs D Boyle – Physical Education
Mrs S Tennyson – Music
Mrs S Fearon - Mathematics
Miss M Connolly - Mathematics
Mr M Fitzpatrick –Business Studies
Mrs S Haddad – French
Miss K Hanratty–Sociology/H& S/RE
Mrs J Hughes – Religious Education
Mrs A Kearney – Mathematics
Mrs T Kearney – Religious Education
Mrs S Lavery – Geography
Mrs E Mc Allister – English/Drama
Mrs E Mc Clory – English
Mrs F Mc Cloy – English BCS
Mr A Twohig – Business Studies
Miss J Morgan – Religious Education
Miss L Trainor – Art & Design
Mrs G Mallon – English/History
Mrs J Grant – Mathematics
Mr J Mc Auley – Science
Mrs E Magee – French
Mrs M Moneley – Home Economics
Mrs G Williams – ICT
Mr B Morgan – DT/Science
Miss L Crossey – English
Mrs P Morgan – Business Studies
Mrs R Murphy – Science
Miss A O’Hare – Home Economics
Mrs E O’Higgins – Physical Education
Miss Bartlett – History/LLW
Miss S Mc Connell – Science
Mr A Twohig- Business Studies
Mr E Magee – DT
Clerical Staff
Miss M Mc Ateer
Miss L Mc Veigh
Miss E Mc Court
Ancillary Staff
Mr J Mc Ardle
Mr J Crimmins
Mrs M O’Rourke
Mrs M Cunningham
Miss C Doyle
Mrs M Kirk
Mrs A Kennedy
Mrs M Jennings
Mrs A Jennings
Mrs S Carville
Mrs A Larkin
Mrs E Teague
Mrs S Mc Shane
Mr B Flynn
Mrs A Owens
Miss O Mc Polin
Caretaker
Caretaker
Librarian
Study Supervisor
ICT Technician
Science Technician
Technology Technician
Home Economics Technician
Classroom Assistant
Classroom Assistant
Classroom Assistant
Classroom Assistant
Classroom Assistant
Classroom Assistant
Classroom Assistant
Classroom Assistant
STAFF DEVELOPMENT
66
St Mary’s staff participated in a varied programme of continuous
Professional Development to ensure staff received the most recent
training for the Northern Ireland Curriculum. Also in consultation with
staff, target areas for training and the sharing of good practice through
the effective use of in-house expertise enhanced a sense of collegiate
responsibility and accountability.
The Staff Development priorities reflected the targets on the School
Development Plan as well as the whole school targets for PRSD. Staff
also participated in Area Based Training with schools from the area
learning community.
Support was given from the Curriculum, Advisory and Support Services
(CASS) and Regional Training Unit (RTU). All opportunities for Staff
Development were evaluated.
DATE
Staff
Development
Days
Day 1
FOCUS
Day
Date
Friday
23/10/09
Target Setting and Effective use of Data. VLE
Training
Monday
02/11/09
ALC Day Focus: Sharing Good
Practice/Learning Intention/Success Criteria
Tuesday
08/12/09
Wednesday
06/01/10
Friday
12/02/10
Day 1
Day
Friday
Date
21/08/09
NI Curriculum: Learning Plans, Tracking
Literacy, Numeracy and Employability;
Departmental Planning
PRSD; Book Evaluations; PD Development;
Reporting Using Assessment Manager
Sharing Good Practice: Focus - Numeracy,
Literacy Learning Plans, Employability;
Review of IEPS
FOCUS
Specialist Schools Overview; Departmental
Planning
Day 2
Monday
24/08/09
Exploring the Catholic Ethos led by Dr
Andrew O’Connell; Departmental Planning
Day 3
Monday
21/12/09
Day 4
Thursday
01/04/10
School Improvement: Revision of
Departmental ICT, Numeracy and Literacy
Policies; Team Building
Sharing Good Practice: Department
Handbooks
Day 5
Monday
26/04/10
Day 2
Day 3
Day 4
Day 5
Baker Days
GCSE Coursework Moderation
67
EXAMINATIONS INFORMATION
STATEMENT OF POLICY AND RESULTS
The full range of subjects offered at GCSE (General Certificate of
Secondary Education) is as follows:
Art & Design
Business & Communication Systems
Business Studies
Mathematics
English
Music
English Literature
Physical Education
French/Spanish
Religious Studies
Geography
Science (Single Award, Double Award)
History
Learning for Life and Work
Drama
Technology
Home Economics
ICT
BTEC eMedia
BTEC Travel & Tourism
BTEC Engineering
BTEC Child Development
CCEA Occupational Studies
‘A’ LEVEL SUBJECTS
Art & Design
Applied Business
Drama
Moving Image Arts
Geography
ICT
Chemistry
Biology
English Literature
Religious Studies
Health & Social Care
68
PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS – POLICY STATEMENT
All pupils reaching the end of Key Stage 4 (end of Year 12) are entered
for public examinations and it is expected that each pupil will take a range
of General Certificate of Secondary education (GCSE) examinations or
equivalents. The decision regarding entry for public examinations is made
after a consultation process involving the pupil herself, her parents and
the subject teachers concerned. The subject teachers, exercising their
professional judgement, and in consultation with parents and pupils will
recommend the examinations which are considered most appropriate in
each individual case and they will also suggest the appropriate level of
entry where applicable.
The Examining Boards and Institutions listed below are currently availed
of for GCSE and they are selected because of their suitability for our
pupils.




Northern Ireland Council for the Curriculum Examinations &
Assessment (CCEA)
Assessment and Qualifications Alliance (AQA)
Oxford Cambridge and RSA Examinations (OCR)
BTEC Edexcel
69
PUBLIC EXAMINATIONS RESULTS 2009 - 2010
GCSE RESULTS
A*
A
B
Art & Design
4
1
3
%
33
8
25
Drama
1
1
10
A*-C
D
E
F
G
U
X
4
12
0
0
0
0
0
0
12
33
100
0
0
0
0
0
0
100
6
18
0
0
0
0
0
0
18
C
Total
%
6
6
56
33
100
0
0
0
0
0
0
100
English Language
2
13
27
25
67
19
9
3
1
1
0
99
%
2
13
27
25
67
19
9
3
1
1
0
99
English Literature
1
6
24
15
46
4
0
0
0
0
0
50
%
2
12
48
30
92
8
0
0
0
0
0
100
French
1
5
10
18
34
13
2
0
0
0
0
99
%
2
10
20
36
69
27
4
0
0
0
0
100
Geography
1
5
2
10
18
5
1
0
0
1
0
24
%
4
20
8
40
72
20
4
0
0
4
0
96
History
0
4
4
6
14
1
1
0
0
0
0
16
%
0
25
25
38
88
6
6
0
0
0
0
100
Home Economics
0
3
9
9
21
1
1
0
0
0
0
23
%
0
13
39
39
91
4
4
0
0
0
0
100
ICT
0
2
5
1
8
5
2
0
0
1
0
15
%
0
13
31
6
50
31
13
0
0
6
0
94
Learning for L&W
0
2
11
10
23
2
1
0
0
0
0
26
%
0
8
42
38
88
8
4
0
0
0
0
100
Mathematics
1
10
19
26
56
22
9
5
7
1
0
99
%
1
10
19
26
56
22
9
5
7
1
0
99
Music
0
0
4
3
7
1
0
0
0
0
0
8
%
0
0
50
38
88
12
0
0
0
0
0
100
Office Technology (BCS)
0
3
8
18
29
6
7
5
1
1
2
48
%
0
6
16
35
57
12
14
10
2
2
4
99
Physical Education
0
8
1
6
15
1
0
0
0
0
0
16
%
0
50
6
38
94
6
0
0
0
0
0
100
Religious Studies
7
25
27
14
73
7
9
3
4
2
1
96
%
7
25
27
14
73
7
9
3
4
2
1
97
Science Double Award
3
7
15
17
42
10
3
1
0
0
0
56
%
5
13
27
30
75
18
5
2
0
0
0
100
Science Single Award
2
9
13
36
60
20
7
9
2
2
0
98
%
2
9
13
36
60
20
7
9
2
2
0
98
Italian
0
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
%
0
0
0
100
100
0
0
0
0
0
0
100
Polish
2
3
0
0
5
0
0
0
0
0
0
5
%
40
60
0
0
100
0
0
0
0
0
0
100
Spanish
0
2
2
1
5
1
0
0
0
0
1
6
%
0
29
29
14
71
14
0
0
0
0
14
86
70
GCE A’ LEVEL
Subject
A*
A
B
C
D
E
U
Pass
Pass
A – C
A –
E
Art and Design
Applied Business
Biology
1
2
1
1
17%
32%
17%
17%
0
4
13
13
3
13%
39%
39%
9%
0
2
0
0
0
0
7
0
17%
0
0
0
0
67
5
6
83%
100%
30
33
91%
100%
2
3
67%
100
Chemistry
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
Drama
0
0
2
1
0
0
0
3
3
67%
33%
100%
100%
0
0
0
1
English Literature
0
0
1
0
0
100%
Geography
Health and Social
0
0
Care
ICT
Moving Image Arts
Religious Studies
Sociology
Sport Studies
0
0
0
0
0
100%
1
2
1
1
1
16%
36%
16%
16%
16%
1
5
7
12
4
3%
16%
23%
39%
0
0
1
4
6
68%
100%
2
13
29
13%
6%
42%
94%
4
3
1
1
8
11%
44%
34%
11%
11%
89%
2
1
0
0
0
3
3
67%
33%
100%
100%
6
8
13
6
27
33
18%
24%
39%
19%
81%
100%
1
3
6
0
10
10
10%
30%
60%
100%
100%
0
1
1
2
2
50%
50%
100%
100%
0
71
0
0
0
0
0
0
BTEC First Certificate – Equal to two GCSE subjects
BTEC First in
A*A*
AA
BB
CC
Not
Total
achieved
BTEC First in Children’s Care,
68%
20%
4%
8%
Learning and Development
(17)
(5)
(1)
(2)
BTEC First Certificate in Media
14%
43%
14%
(1)
(3)
(1)
BTEC First Certificate in Travel
5
100%
and Tourism
(8)
Occupational Studies –
Level 1
Level 2
Level 3
Total
67%
33%
0
6
(4)
(2)
50%
50%
0
6
(3)
(3)
Double Award
Occupational Studies
Single Award
KEY STAGE 3 RESULTS 2009 – 2010
English
Mathematic
Science
s
LEVELS
TEST
TEST
TEST
Abs
0
0
0
Exempt
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
3
4
6
14
4
22
23
24
5
32
37
27
6
17
11
15
7
7
4
2
72
25
8
Percentage of pupils achieving: Level 5 and above at KS3:
ENGLISH
MATHEMATICS
SCIENCE
Level 5 and above
67%
63%
54%
Level 6 and above
28%
18%
21%
TRANSFER TEST GRADES
2007
2008
2009
2010
–
–
-
2008
2009
2010
2011
A
B1
B2
C1
C2
D
Other
Total
0
0
1
0
1
1
0
0
2
5
1
0
3
3
2
7
6
7
4
11
30
29
42
17
36
34
42
46
78
79
92
81
73
DENI STATISTICS BRANCH - SCHOOL PERFORMANCE
School Reference Number
5230108
Number of pupils in Year 12
100
Percentage entered for 5+ GCSEs
100%
Percentage entered for 1-4 GCSEs
0%
Percentage achieving 5 or more GCSEs at A*-C
74%
Percentage achieving 4 or less GCSEs at A*-C
26%
Percentage achieving 5 or more GCSEs at A*-G
100%
Percentage achieving 4 or less GCSEs at A*-G
0%
Percentage achieving no GCSEs
0%
Number entered for other examinations
45
Number achieved 1 or more other exams in Year 12
45
Number of leavers in 2008 - 2009
42
Number going to Grammar School
5
Number going to Jobs Skills
2
Number entering a modern apprenticeship
1
Number going to further education
30
Number transferred to another school
2
Number going into employment
2
Number going to other than specified
0
% Attendance
92%
74
FINANCIAL YEAR APRIL 2009 - MARCH 2010
1.RESOURCES AVAILABLE
£
TOTAL FORMULA FUNDS ALLOCATED
2,346,840
LMS CASH CARRYOVER FROM 2008/2009
310,923
EXTENDED SCHOOLS CASH CARRYOVER FROM 2008/2009
OTHER FUNDING
0
80,074
TOTAL RESOURCES AVAILABLE
2,737,837
2. EXPENDITURE
GROSS EXPENDITURE
LESS INCOME
2,385,322
-6469
NET EXPENDITURE
2,378,853
3.CUMULATIVE CASH CARRYOVER
LMS CASH CARRYOVER
EXTENDED SCHOOLS CASH CARRYOVER
2009/10 TOTAL CUMULATIVE CASH CARRYOVER
75
358,984
0
358,984
THE SCHOOL FUND ACCOUNT
Income
School Funds
Educational Visits
Miscellaneous
Postage
Newspapers
Charities
Gifts
Hospitality
Extended Schools
Exam remarks
Professional Fees
Exam Fees
Exam Refund
Breakfast Club
Music Tuition
Sundries
O'Reilly's
xL
Open Night
Friends of St
Mary's
Africa
TOTAL
BALANCE
Expenditure
6,469.00
4,093.00
1,286.40
1,336.50
3,521.15
2,130.00
28.00
5,236.00
990.00
1,193.90
267.50
80.00
4,417.73
289.20
1,177.00
45.00
204.00
161.00
1,262.00
1,193.20
465.57
65.00
260.00
486.00
3,134.00
160.00
18227.82
21723.33
3495.51
76