Archive for the ‘News’ Category
iPad Initiative
Elphin Community College became the first second level school in Roscommon to introduce IPADS to their 1st Years last September. The iPad initiative has proved to be a huge success. Having spent eighteen months researching this new approach, looking at e-books available, the weight of school bags, and the different devices to deliver this new form of technology, Elphin Community College took the bold step to use iPads to enhance student learning. What started off as a health and safety issue looking at the severe weight of school bags carried by students in todays schools , quickly developed into a whole new approach towards learning. The introduction of the iPads has begun to transform the way the students learn in schools. Firstly the introduction the Apple tablet with their many varied resources has reduced the weight of school bags, has enhanced the learning available through the e-books and has used the latest technology to achieve this.
The personal devices have also augmented learning through the wide variety of apps now available to them. Indeed it is envisaged that shortly 1st years will look at developing their own apps to use in school.
Leading on from this success the decision has been taken that the incoming 1st years of 2013-14 and the Transition Year class should also be given the opportunity to avail of this new technology.
ICT Provision in Elphin Community College
Elphin Community College has invested considerably in its ICT provision over the last number of years but we are always looking to improve.
All pupils from September will be provided with a school based email account. Each pupil will be capable of emailing any staff member or the Principal and vice-versa.
Our pupils and parents have access to the following;
- ePortal
- Wikis
We have moved from less dependence on textbooks since 2009 with more and more resources being shared over our website page or now through our wiki page.
We work with Apple and the various ebook companies to provide teaching resources to our pupils, and on their iPads.
The main advantages of this initiative are;
- 1st Year & TY pupils will be able to reduce use and reliance on paper based projects and folders
- Vast array of Educational apps available
- No need to buy exam papers
- Calculator
- Cut down on weight in bags
- Most interactive learning resources for pupils with Dictionaries, Maps, Globes, Translators, Maths help etc.
- Internet browser for the family
- Affordable repayment options
Insurance
- Home House Insurance Contents Cover
- Pupil Accident Insurance
- Gadget Insurance.ie
Elphin News 2012 – 2013
Transition Year – Induction Trip
Our Transition year opened with an induction trip to Lough Key, Forest Park in Boyle, Co. Roscommon with our transition year coordinators Ms McGovern & Ms Prendergast. The outing began with a walk around the grounds followed by lunch, alfresco. Teams were then chosen for the unique challenge of solving the 47 rooms in the Boda Borg. It contained fun- filled activities, imaginative puzzles and enjoyable tasks but no instructions, so our mission was to solve all the rooms. The team that solved the most rooms won the competition. It was a very enjoyable day full of curiosity, laughter and excitement.
Transition Year – Mini-Company Talk
The Transition Years from Elphin C.C. got a visitor from the Student Enterprise Awards, John Reilly, who talked about different aspects of our mini-company. Firstly, John showed us a video, showing mini-companies from last year’s awards. He then talked to us about how to work in groups and how to get the best out of everyone in the group, and he also showed us different techniques on how to come up with an idea for the mini-company and how to produce that idea. The information John gave us was very helpful and some of us have started working on ideas already.
Transition Year – Junior Cert Results Trip
We went to the Bowling Alley in Carrick-on-Shannon to celebrate getting our Junior Certificate results. It was a long wait but we finally got them, three years of hard work on one piece of paper and everyone in our year did brilliantly. We had three great games of bowling and then to finish a great day we went on to feed our hungry appetites at Supermacs.
By Drew Bell
Leaving Certificate Ecology Field Trip
In late September the Leaving Certificate Biology students from Elphin Community College travelled to St. Johns Wood, Lecarrow, Co. Roscommon to carry their mandatory ecology fieldtrip. The students were accompanied by two staff members from the National Parks and Wildlife Services. The students found the day very informative and enjoyable and would to thank the staff from NPWS and their teachers Ms Fallon and Ms Daly for organising the trip.
Movie Day – LCVP
On the 27th of September the Sixth Year LCVP class organised a fundraiser. This was in aid of Elphin S.O.S. (support to overcome suicide). To raise the money they decided to hold a movie day and charge €2 per person at the event. They firstly carried out a survey to see what films the students would prefer to watch. They decided on The Hunger Games and 21 Jump Street.
As we look back at the event, we are delighted to say it was a great success, raising €194.04. Elphin S.O.S. are delighted for the support. We look forward to meeting a speaker from Elphin S.O.S. who will talk to the school and raise awareness about their organisation.
Transition Year – Mini-Company
As part of our T.Y. Project we held a Tea and Bun Morning in our school on Wednesday 3rd October to raise money for our T.Y bus fund .
The sale was extremely successful as the whole school participated to help us raise funds.
My class has really enjoyed T.Y. so far as we have already done so many activities and we go on work experience every Friday. We are really looking forward to the rest of the year ! T.Y has helped us bond together as most of our activities involve working as a team.
By Shane O’Brien, Rosy Donnelly, Dominik Gnisz
Senior A Boys Volleyball -Round 1
Thursday 18-10-12. First Round matches Elphin played St. Raphael’s Loughrea, St. Brigid’s Loughrea and Fethard Community School.
Team Pic : Back Row L to R:- S. Killoran, G. McDermottroe, R. Larkin, J. Roxby, M. Brennan, F. Lee, C. Brady
Front Row L to R:- S. Ryan, C. Sweeney, D. Brady, F. McDermott, A. Kielty, C. O’Connor.
Transition Year - Debating
The Transition years from Elphin Community College got Eddie Flanagan in to them to talk about public-speaking and debating. Firstly Eddie asked us our names, where we are from and what we want to do in the future. He then discussed to us about public speaking and debating. He explained to us on how to approach the audience, get their attention and to use good tone.
Our first task that he has got us to do is too write a four minute speech on Mental Health so he can see how good we are on peaking and debating and he could make changes. He will be with us for the next few months to work with us, and in November we will be competing with other schools to win. Hope we beat them.
Transition Year – Anti Litter Film Talk
Ceramic Art on Show in the Reading Room
Junior Cert Art Students currently have ceramic work on exhibition in the Reading Room Bookshop in Carrick on Shannon. All of the students work is based on the them of Under the Sea and was completed as a second year project. So if you go into the Reading Room you will find turtles, dolphins, starfish and other nautical scenes nestled amongst the books. All of the students were stunned when they learned that customers in the shop were so taken by the art pieces that they offered to purchase them. “It’s amazing! People just wander around the shop looking for the sea-creatures”, Orlagh Kelly, owner of the bookshop, explained. “The best part is where they are surprised as they come face to face with a turtle. That’s quite a shock if you’re expecting a novel!”
Road Safety Week
The main aim of the shuttle is to provide the general public and other target audiences with the chance to interact with various road safety campaigns and to spread the message about the importance of road safety.
The TY students were trained in on the Tuesday morning and then took turns in working with groups as they came from the school, from Abbeycartron National School and Youthreach in Ballaghadereen. All of the attending students were able to practice their driving skills on car, bicycle and motorbike simulators; testing their hazard perceptions skills, testing their brake reaction time and practicing for the driver theory test.
Most of the students were also lucky enough to sit into the Rollover, where they were able to experience the importance of seatbelt wearing. Students belted in and were then the car is rolled over so that they could experience what it would be like to be in a rollover accident. Safe to say, most came out with a newfound appreciation for the seatbelt.
The Students of Elphin Community College on the 10/9/2012 have experienced what it would be like if they where in a car crash where the car has either fallen on its side or completely flipped on its roof. We were also able to test our Driving skills on a computer car driving simulator game or a motorcycle simulator os also available to test yourself. You can test your reaction time on a computer reaction game or do a real Driving test to see if you qualify for the road. All of this was provided by the R.S.A .
Junior Certificate Ecology Field Trip
In early October the Junior Certificate students from Elphin Community College travelled to Lough Key Forrest Park, Boyle, Co. Roscommon to carry out an ecology field trip. Staff from The National Parks and Wildlife Services accompanied the students. The students thoroughly enjoyed the day and would like to thank their teachers Ms Fallon and Ms Daly for organising the trip. The students would also like to say a special thank you to the staff members from the NPWS.
Junior Cert Art Trip
On Thursday, 8th November, 12 Third Years from Elphin Community College travelled to Dublin as part of their preparation for their Junior Cert Art Projects. The class has decided to focus on the poem with a theme of Underwater Life. To help with this they travelled to Dublin by train and visited the Natural History Museum, where they were able to sketch and investigate fish, mammals and animals with connections to the water and the sea. In the afternoon they were treated to a tour in the National Gallery of Ireland. This tour focused on how Irish and International Artists have rendered rivers, lakes and oceans through the medium of paint throughout history. The students are now looking forward to using their sketches and photographs to inform their work over the coming months.
LCVP – Costume and Film Day
LCVP Leaving Certificate students at Elphin Community College organised a costume and film day on Friday 26th October. Students from each year were charged €2 to wear fancy dress costumes and after lunch the 1st and 2nd years watched a Halloween film (Hocus Pocus). The money raised during the event went to Cancer Care West Charity. This charity is dedicated to supporting those whose lives are affected by cancer. Their aim is to enhance patient care and well being and to provide support to cancer patients and their families during and after their treatment. The students at Elphin Community College were glad to help raise funds for such a good cause.
LCVP – Non Uniform Day
Non uniform Day on Thursday 15th November
Seachtain na Gaeilge
Seachtain na Gaeilge agus La Semaine de Francais will take place in Elphin Community College from 11th to 15th March. Various activities will take place during the week and spoken Irish and French is encouraged. We hope all students will enjoy the week.
ANTI LITTER FILM AWARDS
On Thursday March 21st Marion Parker, Environment Education Officer with Roscommon County Council, visited our school to present certificates and DVDs to winning students in relation to our recent win at the Anti- Litter Film Awards. She also presented a cheque for €300.00 with ZIPiT Tickets for Lough Key Forest Park, Boyle. Students in turn presented Marion with a basket of spring flowers grown in our garden with a bespoke card signed by all the students. We were delighted that she could fit in our school visit into her very busy schedule and thank Roscommon County Council once again for sponsoring this valuable competition.
Elphin CC Horticulture- Spring Diary
Students were busy again this week adding manure to fertilize soil in the Poly-Tunnel at the Day Care Centre in Elphin. With guidance and support from Bill, Tim and Mark from Croghan Organic Garden Centre, preparation was finally complete for planting. Potato drills were dug and lined out, to guide planting of seed potatoes. We are hoping for a bumper harvest later in the year and will update on progress over the coming weeks. It is planned to sow onions, cabbage, carrots and turnips in the near future.
It all adds up!
In line with the current National Draft Plan for Literacy and Numeracy, Elphin Community College has decided to organise a number of activities outside the classroom, to improve students’ critical reading, mathematical and thinking skills. Our aim is to encourage and enhance students’ appreciation of reading – not just in books, but in every day scenarios which involve literacy and numeracy to be interpreted and understood. This in turn will develop problem solving and investigation skills.
In addition to searching through books and magazines, newspapers and our local library or through digital media, students can integrate literacy and numeracy into their lives merely by taking a look around and taking the time to make the connections. According to Gerard Mc Hugh, Dublin West Education Centre, ‘in their own environments, learners will enhance their mathematical literacy by, designing as artists, experimenting as scientists and exploring space and place as historians and geographers. As they experience the relevance, the interconnections and the integrative properties of all knowledge, they will construct their own unique knowledge and will emerge as confident individuals capable of solving the problems of their own situations in creative and critical ways’. The same applies to general literacy associated with all aspects of the use and production of traditional texts and new communications technologies using spoken language, print and multimedia and the implied competence therein (adapted from the Draft National Plan to improve Literacy and Numeracy in schools DES, 2010).
So, with this in mind, a small number of students from 2nd, 3rd and Transition Year, recently visited Carrick-on-Shannon to sharpen their literacy and mathematical skills, in a most enjoyable way. They visited a local café to examine the menu, design suitable options for a number of scenarios posed (problem solving) and work on skills such as computation, estimation, percentages and VAT. Cross curricular links were established with Home Economics, Business Studies and English (Media Studies), which will be further developed over the coming weeks. Visits to a local bookshop, department store and supermarket are planned, with the creation of a ‘Town Trail’ and ‘Crack the Code’ competition. Weekly visits to our local library for First and Second Years are also proposed along with a Transition Year, end of year magazine which will afford students an opportunity to develop their creative, journalistic skills!
First Year Five Week Book Challenge
First year students are currently on week three of their book challenge, in an effort to stimulate and foster a lifelong love of reading, in addition to improving literacy levels. As every school is now actively seeking to raise awareness and standards in this regard, our school feels that having a short term goal at the end of the academic year is a nice way to finish up – with the added bonus of having a visit to a local bookshop and a literacy treasure hunt in prospect for May 21st in Carrick on- Shannon. Each week, the students have been visiting the local library on a Wednesday, to replace their books. They are also required to fill in a lengthy book review, which ties in with the English syllabus, to aid examination of aspects of character analysis and relationships, plot, opening scenes etc. as well as information about the author, evaluation and to give a rating and recommendation. Individual bookmarks have also been designed as part of a competition organised by our local Librarian Rebecca Thompson. We would like to thank her for her encouragement and support since the start of our campaign. She has been a wonderful guide to students in recommending books that suit individual needs. We hope to present students with certificates of achievement at the upcoming end of school awards ceremony.
TY visit to Castlerea Prison
Last Thursday, May 2nd Transition Year students were given the unique opportunity to visit Castlerea Prison thanks to Ms Riona Finn, (Head Teacher, Prison Education Unit), who organised contact with Mr Des Kirwin (Acting Industrial Supervisor over Integrated Sentence Management). Castlerea, is a closed, medium security prison for remand and sentenced adult male prisoners in Connaught. It also takes committals from counties Cavan, Donegal and Longford. The current capacity is 351 places.
The trip was a resounding success due in no small measure to the interest, time and dedication of our guide. Officer Kirwin. He actively engaged with students’ questions in a professional and competent manner, whilst relating to the human side of prison and its detainees. The accounts of the daily routine and types of offences for which a person is detained were fascinating and informative, beyond what any video or written article could achieve. For a number of students nowadays, the experience of such a trip is invaluable. The realisation first hand, of what lies in store for a person who strays from the law, is a wakeup call from the sometimes ‘glamorisation’ of roles as played out on television series or films. In addition to the tour of the entire prison, students were allowed access to the control room and ‘drug dog’ handler with a dog in hand. We cannot speak highly enough of the dedication and professionalism, not to mention the personable manner in which Officer Kirwin and the team behaved towards our students. They were not only impressed, but deeply moved by vast amount of information received. We are all hugely grateful and feel privileged for being afforded the opportunity to experience a trip to Castlerea Prison. Our sincere thanks to Officer Kirwin and all involved.
Elphin CC Horticulture- Spring Diary update:
For the past two weeks, students with members of the Croghan Organic Garden Centre team have been keeping busy in the poly-tunnel of the local Day-care Centre. Despite the slow growing season to date, the weeds have been busily flourishing – so careful clearing is constantly necessary! Apart from this, a new climbing frame for the peas was erected with sowing soon after. An array of other vegetables to include, potatoes, cabbage, carrots, turnips and onions has also been planted in the prepared ground. We are hoping for an improvement in weather conditions to accelerate growth, in compensation for the slow start to the season. Finally, to give a helping hand, the sprinkling irrigation system has been re-activated. Further planting will take place in the coming week so watch out for next update. Our thanks to Bill, Tim and the team for their continued support and help. Meanwhile, in our own school garden, Gary has been helping students prepare the potato drills for planting, together with the sowing of spring onions in the raised beds. The cold frame has been weeded with lettuce plants in mind to plant for next week.
Presentation to Dr. Morkan
Students involved in the school’s Horticulture Programme presented Dr. Morkan with a potted spring bulb collection last week. Following the sowing of a variety of bulbs last October and November, it was decided to make this gesture, as a sign of our continuing appreciation to Dr Morkan for his advice with our school garden and fostering the link with Croghan Organic Garden Centre, as previously mentioned. Flowers grown included blue, pink and white Hyacinths, Grape Hyacinths, Daffodils, Tulips, Crocuses and miniature Irises. Surplus flowers were planted in two containers to brighten up the school entrance, together with more general planting around the building, to enhance the school environment.
Schools’ Aerial Project 2013
Hope, fear, anger, rebellion, challenge. How do the young people of today live in a world where things are constantly changing? Witness an explosion of physical energy as 45 students from Ardscoil Phadraig, Elphin Community College and Templemichael College explore how the elements around us affect our lives. This is not a show for the faint-hearted as they literally hang from the rafters and drive each other up the walls. Working with internationally acclaimed Fidget Feet Aerial Dance Theatre Company, the students have trained together for 15 days, learning how to dance, climb, tumble, fall and fly.
In its third year, the Schools’ Aerial Project has grown to involve three schools from Counties Longford and Roscommon. We would like to thank the VECs of both counties; the Parents’ Councils of all three schools and the Creative Engagement Fund from the NAPD.
Shows take place on Monday 4th March at 8pm; Tuesday 5th March at 12 noon and 8pm. Tickets are available directly from the Backstage Theatre box office at 043-3347888. Tickets cost €5 for children, €10 for adults.
Transition Year 2012 – 13
Transition Year – Induction Trip
Our Transition year opened with an induction trip to Lough Key, Forest Park in Boyle, Co. Roscommon with our transition year coordinators Ms McGovern & Ms Prendergast. The outing began with a walk around the grounds followed by lunch, alfresco. Teams were then chosen for the unique challenge of solving the 47 rooms in the Boda Borg. It contained fun- filled activities, imaginative puzzles and enjoyable tasks but no instructions, so our mission was to solve all the rooms. The team that solved the most rooms won the competition. It was a very enjoyable day full of curiosity, laughter and excitement.
Transition Year – Mini-Company Talk
The Transition Years from Elphin C.C. got a visitor from the Student Enterprise Awards, John Reilly, who talked about different aspects of our mini-company. Firstly, John showed us a video, showing mini-companies from last year’s awards. He then talked to us about how to work in groups and how to get the best out of everyone in the group, and he also showed us different techniques on how to come up with an idea for the mini-company and how to produce that idea. The information John gave us was very helpful and some of us have started working on ideas already.
Transition Year – Junior Cert Results Trip
We went to the Bowling Alley in Carrick-on-Shannon to celebrate getting our Junior Certificate results. It was a long wait but we finally got them, three years of hard work on one piece of paper and everyone in our year did brilliantly. We had three great games of bowling and then to finish a great day we went on to feed our hungry appetites at Supermacs.
By Drew Bell
Transition Year – Mini-Company
As part of our T.Y. Project we held a Tea and Bun Morning in our school on Wednesday 3rd October to raise money for our T.Y bus fund .
The sale was extremely successful as the whole school participated to help us raise funds.
My class has really enjoyed T.Y. so far as we have already done so many activities and we go on work experience every Friday. We are really looking forward to the rest of the year ! T.Y has helped us bond together as most of our activities involve working as a team.
By Shane O’Brien, Rosy Donnelly, Dominik Gnisz
Transition Year - Debating
The Transition years from Elphin Community College got Eddie Flanagan in to them to talk about public-speaking and debating. Firstly Eddie asked us our names, where we are from and what we want to do in the future. He then discussed to us about public speaking and debating. He explained to us on how to approach the audience, get their attention and to use good tone.
Our first task that he has got us to do is too write a four minute speech on Mental Health so he can see how good we are on peaking and debating and he could make changes. He will be with us for the next few months to work with us, and in November we will be competing with other schools to win. Hope we beat them.
Transition Year – Anti Litter Film Talk
Elphin C.C. News March 2012
Welcome Back & Farewell
The school would like to welcome back Ms. Daly after her break. Also we are sad to see Mr. Hanley leaving us but wish him the very best of luck with his teaching career.
Third Green Flag Raised
Last Friday Mr. Luke Ming Flanagan T.D raised the School’s third green flag. This flag is awarded for the category of water conservation and the school would like to thank the Green Schools Committee, Ms. Pendergast and Ms. Bríd Fallon for all their help and support.
Seachtain na Gaeilge
takes place this week with a number of interesting activities taking place. This is co-ordinated by Ms. Connolly and Ms. Gallagher. We will have a further report next week.
Roscommon Macra Quiz
Elphin Community College came third in this years, Roscommon County Macra Quiz. All the schools in the county were represented and it was a great achievement for Finbarr McDermott, Gerard McDermottroe, James Dwyer and Donal Brady, Well done lads.
Junior Boys Volleyball
Our two Junior Boys Volleyball teams played their first series of matches last Thursday week in Drumshanbo. There were six teams involved, meaning a total of 15 matches had to be played on the day. In an enjoyable and exciting day of volleyball, our team A finished top of the group with team B finishing in fourth place. Both teams go forward to the next round of the competition. We would like to thank Mr. Noone for all his work in preparing the different teams for competition.
Guest Speakers at Elphin C.C.
Student Enterprise Awards
Video Project
Students from the second year English class can be seen dashing around the campus of Elphin Community College these days as they work on shooting scenes for their video project. Using “Oh the Places You’ll Go” by Dr Seuss, the three groups read pieces from the poem as they act it out. The poem itself is about how we make our way through life. Sometimes it’ll be easy and other times it will not.
The next stage will involve students collating of the rough footage to decide which versions to use and reshoot in high quality for the final cut. This will be done with the help of Mr Noone. Following on from there, they will collaborate with Jym Daly, musical director with Fidget Feet Aerial Theatre Company, to develop a suitable soundtrack for the film, which will be made available on the school website.
Romeo and Juliet
The second year English class recently travelled to the Helix Theatre in DCU to see the Cyclone production of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet. Based on the idea that Shakespeare’s spirit comes to the present to ‘help’ a group of modern actors to put on a production of his famous play, the students got to see how our values have changed since Elizabethan times, challenging our ideas about the role of women, marriage, love and conflict. This was a particularly interesting production as the play was stopped several times, so that the actors could enter into a discussion with the students, asking them why they thought Shakespeare was making these choices. Definitely a worthwhile tour.
Schools’ Aerial Project 2012
Work is well underway for this years aerial project as the Transition Year and Second Year students take to the air in yet another aerial journey. Collaborating with Fidget Feet Aerial Dance Theatre Company, three teachers and 40 students are learning how to climb and ‘dance’ on rope, harness and trapeze. This project is primarily funded by the NAPD Creative Engagement fund, which looks to upskill teachers and expose students to the arts through collaborative work with local artists. Students train once a week for 6 weeks to develop a stage performance, which will be put on stage in the Roscommon Arts Centre and the Backstage Theatre, Longford in May.
Pre-Leaving students get to grips with The Lonesome West and Macbeth
Pre-Leaving students saw their English texts come to life over the past two weeks. They travelled to the Roscommon Arts Centre to see Martin McDonagh play, The Lonesome West, as part of the Roscommon Drama Festival. Set in Leenane, the play presents us with two bachelor brothers who constantly seem to be fighting. We quickly learn that one of them has killed his father and the other has used that to force his brother to sign over all that he owns to him. Throw a young girl who sells poteen and a priest who is questioning his faith into the mix and you have a play that is as funny as it it is hard-hitting. Students were particularly impressed by the presence of a Judge who presented constructive comments at the end of the performance.
Last Friday, the same students travelled to the Town Hall Theatre in Galway to view the Second Age Theatre production of Shakespeare’s Macbeth. Second Age can always be relied upon to provide a solid performance and they didn’t disappoint. “It is so important that students get to see these plays performed live, on stage”, comments Shane Holohan, Principal and one of the English teachers in the school. “The written text in a book cannot compare with the interactive impact of actors, sounds, music, set and lights on a stage. It literally comes to life for them. Top marks are awarded to students who treat the ‘text’ as a production and as such these trips are invaluable learning opportunities for our students”.
Saint Patrick’s Day Parade
Some of our Pre-Leaving Certificate students were busy working with the Day Care Centre this week helping them to decorate their mini-bus for the Saint Patrick’s Day Parade in Elphin. Hoping to draw attention to the service provided by the Day Care Centre, students produced logos showing the changing ages of man, from child to teenager to adult to older adult. They also attached cans etc. to the back of the bus with the sign “Just Aged” on the back. “It’s great to the see the students coming down to help out”, said Christine Parker, Director of the Day Care Centre. “Last year we were so lucky to have them help us at a time when we were short on staff. Both the students and our clients here learn so much by working together”.
School Offers FREE Supervised Study
Supervised study restarted in the school last week, but with one small difference. Thanks to the voluntary efforts of parents and members of the local community, study is now offered free to all students. It is particularly heart-warming to see the community come together and support students. Having a quiet place to go back over notes, catch up with reading and make a start on homework can make all the difference, regardless of what year the student is in. It is obvious, however, that examination students have a particular focus and need at this time of the year.
Parents’ Open Night
There will be an open night for all parents of current and future students of Elphin Community College this Thursday (29th March). This is an opportunity for parents to get together, discuss their experiences of the school and make suggestions for its future. The meeting will start at 8pm sharp.
VOLLEYBALL NEWS
It is a busy time for Junior volleyball in the School. The first and second year boys and girls are in action this week in the second round of volleyball matches. On Monday the 26th of March, the Junior A Boys Team and Junior Girls team travel to Loughrea. The Junior A Boys will take on St Raphael’s Loughrea and Mallow Community School. The Junior Girls will also take on St Brigid’s Vocational School Loughrea and St Mary’s Secondary School from Ballina. On Wednesday the 28th of March, the Junior B Boys teams travel to Ballinagare where they will take on St. Louis’ Secondary School, Kiltimagh and Drumshanbo Vocational School.
ROSCOMMON COUNTY COUNCIL ANTI LITTER DVD
Last Wednesday students from Elphin Community College travelled to the Art Centre in Roscommon town. They were there for the showing of this years Anti Litter DVD organised by Roscommon County Council. Nearly all schools in the County participated in this project. Elphin Community College received the second place award in this competition. The winners were Youth Reach from Ballaghaderreen. This was a very rewarding project and we would like to thank especially Ms Pendergast for all her hard work during the production of this DVD which will now be sent to all the National schools in the county to increase their awareness of litter prevention in the county.
Programme for International Student Assessment
The Programme for International Student Assessment (PISA) is an international assessment of the skills and knowledge of 15-year-olds. PISA assesses students’ performance on ‘real-life’ tasks that are considered relevant for effective participation in adult society and for life-long learning. PISA is implemented every three years, and this year sees the fifth implementation of the study. The number of countries participating in PISA has increased from 32 in 2000 to 65 in 2009, making it the largest study of its kind.
Last week, 13 students from the school took part in the study, which covered the areas of Mathematics, Reading, Science, and cross-curricular problem-solving. The attending Inspector was particularly impressed by the confidence and open-ness of all of the students, and not just those involved in the assessment.
We would like to thank all of those students who were involved in PISA: well done!
U14 Draughts Champions
Congratulations to the U14 County Community Games Draughts team. First year students Stephen Quinn, Ciarán O’Donnel and Oisín O’Connor were on the winning team. This is the second year for this team to win the county title. Best of luck lads in the next stage.
Roscommon GAA Student Reporter Competition
Congratulations to Emma Ryan in TY for winning first prize in this competition. It was open to all post-primary schools in the county and Emma had to submit a match report of 500 words. The prize was a €100 One4All voucher and a fantastic opportunity to write a match report on a home game in the Allianz League. This match report will be printed in the Herald. Well done Emma, a wonderful achievement.
Senior Footballers face Coola in the final
Congratulations to our Senior Football Team who have reached the Connacht Vocational Schools C Final, after defeating Drumshanbo VS in the semi final last Wednesday in Annaduff. The Final, against Coola from County Sligo, will take place on Tuesday, 17th April in Páirc Séan, Carrick on Shannon with a 12:30 throw in. Best of luck to the team, led by Shane Killoran!
Boys Volleyball – 26th & 28th March
The Junior A and B Boys and the Junior Girls team were in action this week. The Junior A Boys and the Junior Girls travelled to Loughrea on Monday for the second round of matches. The Junior Girls took on St Brigid’s of Loughrea in their first match losing narrowly in two sets 25- 20, 25 – 21. In the second game the girls from Elphin played St. Mary’s Secondary School, Ballina. The girls won both sets on a scoreline of 25 – 16, 25- 18.
On the same day the Junior A Boys took on St Raphael’s of Loughrea. They lost in straight sets 25 – 22, 25 – 20. They also lost out to Mallow on a scoreline of 25 – 19, 25 – 21.
On Wednesday the Junior B Boys took on two teams from St Louis Kiltimagh, and Drumshanbo Vocational School. In a busy day of volleyball the boys from Elphin who were all first years lost in straight sets to Kiltimagh A, 25 – 22, 25 -19 and then lost to Kiltimagh B, 25 – 23 and 26 – 24. In their final match the lads from Elphin took the first set from Drumshanbo 25-17, but then lost out narrowly in their remaining sets 25 -23, and 15-12. In all the matches the teams performed well and we look forward to the girls progress in the competition. Also a big thank you to Saffron, Breiffni and Bronagh who officiated for the day. Thanks girls!!!!
Mental Health Week 2012
This week was Mental Health Awareness Week in Elphin Community College, which saw the school working and participating in activities and workshops which did and will contribute to well-being of everyone. Elphin Community College would like to whole-heartedly thank everybody who made this week such a tremendous success.
The week began with Dr. Geraldine Colleran delivering an excellent presentation detailing Mental Health Awareness and promoting positive Mental Well-Being. Dr.Colleran gave a talk to all Junior classes and then all Senior classes.
On Tuesday, the Home Economics department, with the help of students gave every student in the school pancakes, SOS donated the ingredients and toppings for the pancakes. The students had their choice of toppings and filled up on the delicious treats. Following this, Liam Moroney from Youth Work Ireland (Roscommon Branch) guiding the students through Progressive Relaxations sessions. The students were split into groups so they could experience the full effects of relaxing and Liam equipped the students with useful knowledge to help them cope with stress and life’s pressures.
On Wednesday, the Senior classes attended a workshop from the charity organisation Aware. Colm from the Galway branch delivered a talk entitled ‘Beat the Blues.’ The students were able to talk and listen freely to the content of the presentation. The workshop helped in removing the stigma that exists around mental health.
On Thursday, Finola Colgan from Mental Health Ireland gave an excellent presentation to the students on Mental Health and promoting positive Mental Well – Being. The presentations were delivered to Junior classes and then Senior classes. The talk confronted myths and gave top tips for promoting Positive Mental Health in everyone.
Additionally, Nicola Moran from Youth Work Ireland (Roscommon Branch) set up a stand which detailed all the wonderful facilities that are available in the school. Nicola manned the stall for the day and was on hand to talk to the students about all the leaflets she had. The students could attend the area at any time. Most of these leaflets will be available in the school.
The final day of the Mental Health Awareness week encapsulated the teachings of the week. SOS contributed to a very success, very competitive Mental Health Awareness Quiz.
SOS sponsored the prizes. All the students gathered in the lobby and balcony area of the school. The students had decorated with decorative figures, with a picture of themselves on top. Students were split into teams consisting of members from every year group.
Following this, students were allowed to enjoy games for the last two classes. Students had the choice of games. Games included soccer, basketball, hockey, volleyball, Nintendo Wii and Xbox, as well as watching comedy movies.
The atmosphere around the school this week has been electric and there was a real sense of unity and togetherness. Our aim was to remove the stigma that surrounds Mental Health and we feel that our students are part of a new generation of thinkers. This theme will be a continued message in our teachings and we are now in a position where we can help ourselves and help others. We all have a basic knowledge and we urge you to ask your child about their experience of the week. We enclose a basic checklist that you can keep to assist you, your child and your family to maintain positive Mental Health.
On behalf of the Guidance and SPHE department, we would like to thank Mrs. Lee, Miss McPhillips and all the teaching staff, the excellent speakers and organisations who helped so generously and of course, the students. This week was a success because of their willing participation, thirst for knowledge and their desire to help or be helped. As we learned this week, Mental Health is the relationship you have with yourself, with others and your ability to cope with life’s demands.
Elphin C.C. News January 2012
Transition Year News
Anti-litter video
A large number of students from 1st Year, 2nd Year and T.Y took part recently in an anti-litter DVD project. Sponsored by Roscommon County Council the theme chosen was based on the LMFAO Party Rock Anthem song.
The shuffling song involved it was felt, would appeal to a wide variety of students in both primary and secondary schools. In fact Google has stated that the word ‘shuffle’ is the most frequently searched word on the internet. It was a lot of hard work but we had great fun along the way.
The film crew turned up last Monday to record the three minute productions. It will be ready to launch in February of next year. On behalf of the students we would like to thank everyone involved especially, Charlene Mulligan our choreographer.
TY Mini Company School Finals
The TY Mini Company School Finals took place last Friday. At the time of going to print a winner had not been chosen. Well done to the following teams – “Games 4 You”, “S & L Designs” and “Pickur Frames”. Final results and pictures in next weeks paper.
Leaving Certificate L.C.V.P. News
On Wednesday, 7th December, students from the Leaving Certificate Link Modules class invited committee members Eileen Sweeney and John Ames to give a talk on the service the Youth Café provides to the community. The students gathered a lot of information, and they took the opportunity to present the committee with a cheque for €137. This money was raised through a costume day in the school and was organised by Kieran McGrath, Daniel Harding, Richard O’Grady, Jack O’Donnell, Emma Farrell and Ieuan Weston.
On the 15th December, Valerie Byrne came in to visit the Leaving Certificate Link Modules class to speak to them about the work of Support to Overcome Suicide (SOS). The visit was a great success with the students learning much about the invaluable services and supports this organisation provides. Students also presented Valerie with €236, which was raised through a Film Morning in the school. This fundraising event was organised by Clare Cregg, Fiona McCann, Ciara Hennessy, Michael Sullivan, Damien Byrne and Ronan Beirne.
Cadette Boys Volleyball
The Cadette Boys ended their involvement in this years compettion when they lost in two straight sets to St Louis Secondary School, Kiltimagh on Tuesday last 17th January. While both sets were close, losing 25 – 22, 25 – 23 the boys were disappointed with their performance. Team as follows Ryan Larkin (captain) James Dwyer, Austin Kielty, Sean Duarke, Christopher O’Connor, Joshua Roxby, Substitutes: Jonathan Beirne, Padraig Neary, Richard Harding, Dominic Gnisz, Drew Bell, Ciaran Beirne and Francis Lee.
OPEN NIGHT
An Open Night will take place this Thursday the 26th Janaury at 7.00p.pm This will give parents of perspective 1st years students the chance to come along to an information session in the school and to view the new facilities that we have to offer.
OPEN DAY
Following on from the Open Night the 6th class students from the local National Schools will visit the school on Friday 27th January, to look at our facilities and also to see a number of the subjects in action. It promises to be an enjoyable and informative exercise for the students of the area.
LCVP WORK EXPERIENCE
The pre-leaving Cert students are busy preparing themselves for LCVP work experience which begins on Monday 30th January. We would like to thank all of those companies who have provided our students with valuable experience for their working life.
MOCK EXAMS
The pre Examination Mocks begin on Wednesday 1st February. Students from both the Junior Certificate and Leaving Certificate are studying hard (or should be!!!) as they approach. Best of luck to both groups.
STUDENT TEACHER
We would like to welcome Mr. Benson to the school. He is on work experience from GMIT / Letterfrack and is teaching Woodwork and Technical Graphics to 1st and 2nd year students.
SENIOR BOYS FOOTBALL
The senior boys had a narrow 1 point victory over Coola V.S. in Riverstown last Wednesday.
ECC TAKES ON THE WORLD OF WORK
Students from Elphin Community College are out on work placement this. However, they’re in good stead having taken part in a Mock Placement last week. Students ‘worked’ in 5 different settings: primary school, journalism, toy stories, product review, and market research.
As the journalism group, we had to interview and photograph the other four different groups and write this article. The first organisation was Primary School Teaching. By the end of the session they had to produce an art class for second class students. Their main aim was to find out if they would work well with young students in the school environment.
Another group was involved in market research. The job involved taking number plates, car colours and car types from 30 cars. From this they had to draw various pie and bar charts. The findings of the charts showed what types of cars people were most interested in, the most popular car, and car colour. When asked about the experience, they said that although it was ‘cold’ they enjoyed getting the most of the fresh air. The whole group seemed interested in the career but they said they would not pursue it in life.
Another group, the product testers, were testing a product called the “Moisturising Lab”. I interviewed Michael Macken. The all-boys group felt gutted and disappointed. Sources told me that Michael Higgins and Stephen Ryan were interested in wearing the moisturiser product. Stephen claimed the product is easy to use if you follow the step by step instructions. Stephen said his skin felt soft after it. Overall it seemed embarrassing but an enjoyable activity for the boys at Elphin Community College.
Last but not least, the fourth group were on work experience in a toy store. In this job, skill, craftsmanship and team work were the big factors of being able to complete the task. We interviewed a person in the group and were told that they expected this job to pay well; that they would get to develop their communication skills through dealing with customers and to get better at team-work. They had to build and adverstise a large roller-coaster structure, using ‘K-nex’.
Great fun was had by all for the afternoon and we expect that we’re well-prepared for the various tasks in front of us this week.
Operation Transformation
On Wednesday last, all of our first years participated in a bleep test which helps to determine the fitness levels of our teenagers. The results have been sent forward to Dublin City University for analysis. The students will be reassessed at a later date to see if they can improve on their scores, so everyone will have a very active few weeks ahead. The project is a joint venture between D.C.U. and the John Murray Show on RTE Radio. The winning group will enjoy a three day activity and coaching camp in DCU later this year.
Elphin C.C. News November 2011
Leaving Cert Ecology Field Trip
On Thursday November 10th, the Leaving Certificate class travelled to St. John’s Wood, Lecarrow with their teachers Ms. Fallon and Mr. Hanley. The trip provided students with the opportunity to complete their ecology experiments in a woodland habitat, where they saw the natural flora and fauna of this old Irish woodland. This excellent service was provided by Rebecca and Dawn of the North Midlands Wildlife Education Centre (National Parks and Wildlife Service)
Leaving Certs Travel to Sligo IT Open Day
Our Leaving Certificate students attended Sligo Open Day on Thursday 24th November. The students were given full access to the college and spoke to the Students Union regarding the possible reintroduction of college tuition. The students attended lectures about the range of courses on offer and got first hand information from staff and current students.
Students Travel To AIT
Transition Year on Retreat
Student on a recent retreat to Adventure Retreats Ireland in Tanagh, Cootehill,
Co. Cavan.
Volleyball News Girls Volleyball
Our Senior girls are in action on Monday 21st November in the National Quarter
Finals against St. Brigid's Clondalkin. This is after beating St. Mary' Secondary
School 25-21 and 25 - 11 in round 2 last week. They also defeated Balla Secondary
School 25 - 12, 25 - 14 to top their group. Well done and good luck girls.
Boys Volleyball Senior B Boys Elphin Community College vs. Drumbshambo C and B on Thursday 17th November the
Elphin senior B team travelled to Drumshambovto play two of their teams. Elphin's
first opponents on the day were Drumshambo's B team. Elphin got off to a bright
start in the first set. It was a close set, with both teams winning point for point.
Ieuan Weston and Keiran Mc Grath were very effective as main hitters. A run of bad
luck and unforced errors seen Elphin lose the first set, a close 27-25.The second set followed the same fashions the first. Jack O Donnel and Dillion Beirne were
impressive as they set for Ieuan and Keiran. Unfortunately for Elphin unforced errors
dictated the run of play finding themselves 20-9 down. Despite heroic dives and great
service from James Dwyer and the experience of Michael O'Sullivan Elphin still lost
this set and match 25-13. The second of the matches to be seen was versus Drumshambo
C team. The team started well leading 5-0 and the confidence was up, but bad
decisions and errors meant that elphin lost the lead. Despite this elphin still put
in a good fight and went tit for tat and unfortunately lost the match 26-24. An
unlucky loss for the lads with every player playing well in the set! What was to be
Elphin's final set of the day was another tight set but unfortunately for Elphin
the set didn't go their way and bowed out of this years competition.
Senior A Boys
The senior A boys are in action on Wednesday 24th November in Streete where they
will be in action against St. Raphael's, Loughrea in the National Semi-finals of
this years competition.
