Monday 20th May was a very special evening in St Declan’s as we gathered to celebrate our Leaving Certificate Class of 2024 at their Graduation Ceremony. At 7pm the students and their loved ones made their way to the school gym, that had been decorated with great care for the occasion where Fr Keegan, our school chaplain, celebrated Mass. During the Mass we were treated to music from a group of musicians and singers drawn from Sixth Year. Following two very appropriate readings Fr Keegan spoke to the congregation about the significance of the idea of leaving their ‘childish ways behind’ as referred to in the second reading.
Following the Mass the students received their graduation certificates. These were presented by the class tutors and the Sixth Year Year Head, Mr O’Laighin. After multiple rounds of applause and photo opportunities the graduation song was performed by Beineán Dempsey. The song, ‘Unwritten’ by Natahsa Bedingfield had been chosen by the Sixth Year year group and was performed in style by Beaineán.
We then moved on to the awards section of the evening. The class student of the year awards went to the following students: 6B: Lorcán Cullen & Connor Maleady, 6C: Finn Walsh, 6E: Michael Maguire, 6F: Matt Rian de la Paz, 6S: Nathan Ennis. We all waited with baited breath for Mr McGlue to announce the winner of the overall winner of the Student of the Year 2024 and there was a huge cheer when the name Paul O’Brien was announced. Paul is a very deserving and popular winner. He has been the embodiment of the spirit of St Declan’s throughout his time here.
As we drew to the end of the night Ms O’Reilly spoke to the boys about their achievements over their time in St Declan’s and urged the boys to stay true to themselves as they are now truly in the driver’s seat. To end the ceremony the musicians took to the stage once more, playing their rendition of ‘Life is a Highway’ as we enjoyed a slideshow of some memorable moments from the Class of 2024.
After some refreshments and more photos the Class of 2024 headed off into the night to celebrate with friends and family.
We look forward to seeing what the future brings for them all and wish them luck on their journey.
We were delighted to have photographer Joe Gavin from Frank Gavin Photography present on the night taking photos of the ceremony, the graduation class and our students with their families. You can access and order photos at the link below:
https://www.frankgavinphotography.ie/p/81372cdw/st-declan-s-college-debs-2024