junior students experiences at our school
TRANSCRIPT
MERCY SECONDARY SCHOOL, KILBEGGAN PROSPECTUS
WELCOME TO OUR SCHOOL
Welcome to Mercy Secondary School, Kilbeggan. We are a co-educational Catholicschool operating under the trusteeship of CEIST. Our school strives for each student tobe happy, to feel secure, and to realise their potential in a community environment thatis both caring and co-operative. All students from our multicultural society areembraced at our school and there is great trust and relationships between allstakeholders in our school. Attending our school fills me with joy and has helped toshape me as a person. I have formed unbreakable bonds with friends. I have broadened myknowledge base, I have matured and I have developed characteristics which will assist me inthe future. In this prospectus we give you an overview of what school life is about here. Ifyou require further information please visit our school website or contact our schooldirectly. I hope that you enjoy your time at Mercy Secondary School, Kilbeggan
Erin Heeney, Senior Cycle Student
I would like to welcome all prospective incoming First Years and their parents to MercySecondary School, Kilbeggan. Ours is truly a unique school, with a unique atmosphere.It is not only a place for education, but a place for friendships, a place where there isrespect for everybody, and a place where there is so much opportunity. The teacherscontribute to this atmosphere and are both approachable and motivational. I have madeand continue to make some unforgettable memories here. My friends and I won aLeinster Gaelic Football Championship, I have toured Germany, Belgium and TheNetherlands, and I successfully completed the Junior Certificate. The school has affordedme some amazing opportunities, and as my time here is drawing to a close I amthankful for the journey. Those aforementioned opportunities and your individualisedjourney at Mercy Secondary School Kilbeggan awaits you!
Darragh Seery, Senior Cycle Student
Students described the school as a family andexpressed themselves as feeling safe, cared for and happy in the school
Whole School Evaluation Report
PAGE 2 Tel: 057 9332292 • Fax: 057 9332737 • Email: [email protected] • Website: www.mercykilbeggan.ie
PAGE 3Tel: 057 9332292 • Fax: 057 9332737 • Email: [email protected] • Website: www.mercykilbeggan.ie
JUNIOR STUDENTS EXPERIENCES AT OUR SCHOOL
Conor Molloy Ballinagore N.S.I adapted quickly to secondary school life. I washelped by the teachers and the Sixth-Year mentors.Seeing some familiar faces who also attended myprimary school in the past was brilliant. There isso much to do here and there is something to getinvolved in every week. At the moment I reallyenjoy History.
Mary-Kate Finn Boher N.S.Upon entering secondary school, I immediatelyliked it. The time flies by during the day and itseems a shorter day than when in primary school.There is always something to do and the school isfull of energy. I really like my classes and myclassmates. My favourite subjects are TechnicalGraphics and English.
Morgan Redmond Castletown Geoghegan N.S.There are a lot of differences between primary andsecondary school, and I have really enjoyed thechange. I really like that we have different teachersfor different subjects throughout the day. We alsohave lockers to organise our supplies. I have gotinvolved in school sport and in other activities. PEis my favourite subject so far.
Leah Fagan Dalystown N.S.When I walked in on my first day, I was a littleapprehensive, but within minutes I knew I was goingto enjoy it here. There is a great atmosphere. TheSixth-Year mentors are so helpful in the earlydays. The food in our school canteen is really niceand there is a great selection to choose from. Ihave joined the girl’s football and soccer teams.
Ben Maguire Durrow N.S.My first impressions of Mercy Kilbeggan have beenvery positive. There is a wide selection of subjects,activities and sports to choose from. You will beplaced in classes with some of your old friendsand you will quickly make some more new friends.I am really enjoying my time here and it is not thatdifficult to find your way around after a day or two.
Katie Kincaid Dysart N.S.I was the only student in my class in my primary schooland I am so glad I have chosen Mercy Kilbeggan.Everybody is so friendly and the teachers are reallyunderstanding. In secondary school you have moreresponsibility and it is important to be organised.There are information screens which you can checkto plan your weekly activity schedule.
Ciara Kealy Horseleap N.S.I really enjoy Mercy Kilbeggan. The teachers arealways helpful and make their subject interesting.I love football and represent the school team. Thetaster programme in First-Year is great and ithelped me to decide on my favourite subjects. Ihave got to know new people and I look forward tocontinuing my journey here.
Emma Murphy Kilbeggan N.S.At Mercy Kilbeggan there is a friendly environmentand I love attending here. I have met so many nicepeople and continue to form new friendships. Myfavourite subjects are Music and Woodwork and Ireally like doing practical work in the classroom.The teachers are so nice. They are enthusiasticand help to motivate students within their subject.
Ruby Ward Loughnavalley N.S.After spending eight years in primary school, I wasreally looking forward to the new experiences thatsecondary school would bring. There is so muchgoing on each and every day. You move from classto class and you can get to know different people. Imade additional friends quickly and there is a greatcommunity spirit here.
Ava Flanagan Rahugh N.S.My favourite subjects are PE and Irish. I also thinkthe new subjects are a big positive about attendingsecondary school. For example, I am currentlylearning a new language, I can now speak German.The early finish on Friday is a good reward for workinghard throughout the week within your subjects.
Noel Killian Rosemount N.S.More than anything, I have learned that there is noneed to worry about moving to secondary school. InFirst-Year you get to sample different subjects in ataster programme. I got to choose subjects which I enjoyed and felt that I would be good at. Havingone-hour classes and moving rooms is great. I alsoenjoy lunch time when I catch up with my friends.
Sarah Conlon Streamstown N.S.Settling in at Mercy Kilbeggan has been easy, asevery student is made feel welcome and part of alarge family. I play football, camogie and basketballfor the school and enjoy trainings and games withmy teammates. Starting new subjects has been funand I have learned a lot, thanks to the assistance ofmy teachers.
Neale Pierson Tyrrellspass N.S.I am really enjoying my time at Mercy Kilbegganand I have made lots of new friends. I really enjoyEnglish and PE. I love sport and I am a memberof the school soccer and football teams. We alsoget the opportunity to play soccer on the astro atlunchtime. The teachers here are friendly. Havingdifferent teachers for different subjects is great.
Isobel Larkin Additional AvenuesI was one of only two students from my primaryschool to come to secondary school in MercyKilbeggan. I made new friends straight away andI am happy coming to school each day. The schoolis so welcoming and there is a tight-knit bondbetween the students here. I have really enjoyedHome Economics and Science so far.
MERCY SECONDARY SCHOOL, KILBEGGAN PROSPECTUS
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JUNIOR CYCLEDuring the first three years, all students are prepared for the JCPA. Subjects Offered:
• Irish• English• Mathematics• History• Geography• French
• German• Science• Business• Music• Art• Music
• Technical Graphics• Home Economics• Religion• Materials Technology Wood• Materials Technology Metal
• Well-being:- Physical Education- SPHE- CSPE- Digital Awareness
SENIOR CYCLESubjects Offered:
• Irish• English• Mathematics• Applied Maths• History• Geography
A Leaving Certificate Vocational Preparation Course (LCVP) is also offered to all Senior Cycle students.
• French• German• Accounting• Business• Music• Art
• Religion• Agricultural Science• Physics• Biology• Chemistry• Music
TRANSITION YEARModules Offered:
• Irish Language & Culture
• Classical Studies• Mathematics• History• Geography• Art, Craft & Design• Life Skills• French• German
The curriculum is both broad and balancedWhole School Evaluation Report
• Accounting• Business/
Mini Company• Physical Education• Gaisce• Future Leaders• First Aid• Foreign Trip• Science/Young Scientist• Computer Studies
• Music/Choir• Speech & Drama• Technical Graphics• Work Experience• Woodwork• Metalwork• Home Economics• Religion• Road Safety
• Home Economics• Construction Studies• Engineering• Design & Communication
Graphics• Physical Education
Tel: 057 9332292 • Fax: 057 9332737 • Email: [email protected] • Website: www.mercykilbeggan.ie
OUR SCHOOL CURRICULUM
PAGE 5Tel: 057 9332292 • Fax: 057 9332737 • Email: [email protected] • Website: www.mercykilbeggan.ie
• Debating• Public Speaking• Choir• Musical Productions• Talent/Fashion Shows• Quiz Teams• Educational Trips
• Adventure Trips• Foreign Trips• Student Council• Book Club• Academic Competitions• Gaisce Awards• Green Schools
Our school believes that extra curricular activities and sports are central to each students personal development.Our selection includes:
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES
• Gaelic Football• Hurling• Camogie• Soccer• Basketball• Rugby• Badminton
• Pitch & Putt• Golf• Equestrian• Volleyball• Athletics• Tennis• Water Sports
SPORTSThere is a commitment toproviding a fully roundededucational experience in acaring and supportiveenvironmentWhole School Evaluation Report
EXTRA CURRICULAR ACTIVITIES & SPORTS
MERCY SECONDARY SCHOOL, KILBEGGAN PROSPECTUS
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LEARNING SUPPORTOur learning support department is devoted toproviding academic assistance to students, when andwhere necessary, across subject domains. It strives toensure that each student is provided with the bestpossible opportunity to achieve at their own respectivelevel. The department has several contributing teachers.
ASD CLASSThe aim of our ASD class is to provide a holistic learningand caring environment which facilitates students withASD to reach their full educational potential. Theteachers, support staff and parents are partners in thestudent’s education. We place emphasis in areas ofcommunication, daily living skills, social skills, literacy,numeracy and other areas like Art, History andGeography, where students can excel. Differentiationis an integral part of the learning environment and allstudents have an Individual Educational Plan.
SCHOOL NUMBERSBoys: 303 • Girls: 299 • Total: 602
BUS ROUTES & TIMES• Routes, times and tickets organised by Bus Éireann
EVENING STUDY• Available to all students• Monday–Thursday 4.00 to 6.00pm, Friday 1.30 to 3.30pm
SCHOOL DAY8.15am School opens8.55am Students assemble outside classrooms 9.00am Classes start. There are six one-hour
classes each day3.45pm Classes finish. Early finish of 1.15pm on Friday
Tel: 057 9332292 • Fax: 057 9332737 • Email: [email protected] • Website: www.mercykilbeggan.ie
LEARNING SUPPORT & ASD CLASS
SCHOOL LIFE INFORMATION
PAGE 7Tel: 057 9332292 • Fax: 057 9332737 • Email: [email protected] • Website: www.mercykilbeggan.ie
BOOK RENTAL SCHEME• Available to all students• Helps defray the high cost of school books
BREAKFAST CLUB• A tea and toast Breakfast Club is stationed in the
canteen each morning
LUNCHTIME ARRANGEMENT• There is no permission to leave school for the
Junior Cycle cohort. Senior Cycle students andstudents going to their own home are permittedto leave
• Subsidised healthy lunches available in school,order between 8.15am and 8.55am
STUDENT COUNCIL• Made up of two representatives from each year
group• Voice opinions on behalf of student body on
matters relating to them• Fundraise for local and national charities
MENTOR PROGRAMME• Big Brother / Sister Programme• 6th Year students assist 1st Year students with
transition into Secondary School
NEW SCHOOL• Full Planning Permission for our new state-of-
the-art school has been granted• The school will be in place from September 2022• To be built on a green field site on Dublin Road
out of Kilbeggan
SCHOOL LIFE INFORMATION
MERCY SECONDARY SCHOOL, KILBEGGAN PROSPECTUS
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Muiread Breathnach Irish, Religion
Maria Kate Carberry Maths, ASD Class Teacher
Aida Carroll Music, French
Emer Clarke History, Religion, LCVP
Sarah Clarke Biology, Science, Learning Support
Mary Conmy Music, Religion, SPHE
Sarah Corcoran Irish, German
Mark Corrigan Engineering, Metalwork, DCG, Technical Graphics
Craig Cox Construction Studies, Woodwork,Technical Graphics, Computers
Caitlin Ní Chuinneagáin Irish, Geography, SPHE
Niamh Daly Biology, Science, Physical Education
Ryan Delaney Physical Education, Mathematics
Laura Dempsey Mathematics, Physics
Gareth Donnelly History, LCVP, ASD Class Teacher
Brendan DoyleGeography, Physical Education
Triona DunneGeography, Computers
Daniel DuffyEnglish, Geography
Ruth Duignan German, English
Pauric EarleyBiology, Science, Mathematics
Maureen FallonGeography, History
Garrett FarrellPrincipal
Ann Marie Fitzgerald Science, Biology, Home Economics
James Flynn English, Geography, Business
Bernadette GallenDeputy Principal
Jennifer GrennanGerman, Geography, History, CSPE
Maria GlynnEnglish, Irish, CSPE
Gerry Hagan Geography, ASD Class Teacher
Dara Harper Art, SPHE
Edward HeeryMathematics, Applied Mathematics,Science
Shauna HeffernanFrench, Irish
Karen HennessyIrish, Religion, Learning Support
Catherine HeratyIrish, Mathematics
Edel KellyEnglish, Religion, SPHE
David LynchEngineering, Metalwork, Technical Graphics, Mathematics
Cora MackenMathematics, Business
Jennifer McArdle Chemistry, SPHE, Career Guidance
Kevin McGauranMathematics, Science
Sarah MulliganBiology, Learning Support
Angela O’BrienCSPE, Learning Support
Padraig O’CarrollConstruction Studies, Woodwork, DCG, Technical Graphics
Darren O’MearaBusiness, Mathematics
Donnacha PrendergastEnglish, Religion
Laura QuigleyEnglish, French
Anthony QuinnBusiness, Accounting, Mathematics, CSPE
Aisling RaymondChemistry, Science, Mathematics, Ag Science
Mairead RelihanHome Economics, Biology, SPHE
Eleanor StensonHome Economics, Business
Colin StobieScience, MathematicsLearning Support
TEACHING STAFF
Tel: 057 9332292 • Fax: 057 9332737 • Email: [email protected] • Website: www.mercykilbeggan.ie
SNA STAFF
ANCILLARY STAFF
Anne BrayMaurice ColtonFiona DunneMary McDonnellDamien MinnockDenise MurrayMary NolanHeather Seery
Finola Seery Secretary
Donal Fox Caretaker
OUR STAFF
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JUNIOR CYCLE
Our programme begins in First Year. It involves notonly the Guidance Counsellor but the Pastoral CareTeam, Year Heads and Teachers of Religion andSPHE. Guidance is provided in the following areas:
• Transition from Primary School toSecondary School
• Study Skills• Working and co-operating with others• Taking responsibility• Appreciation of school and for code of
discipline• Self-awareness and aptitude
SENIOR CYCLE
At Senior Cycle our programme is expanded toinclude:
• Assistance with career/educational planning• Career options, occupational choice, third
level options• Preparation for and evaluation of work
experience in both Transition Year and LCVP• Personal guidance/counselling
OUR FACILITIES
CAREER GUIDANCE & COUNSELLING
Art RoomComputer RoomsDCG RoomMusic RoomStaff RoomTeacher WorkroomDressing RoomsGymAstro PitchSports FieldOutdoor TrackOutdoor CourtASD ClassDining HallPrayer Room
LibraryScience LabsScience RoomsWoodwork RoomMetalwork RoomHome Economics RoomTextiles RoomCareer Guidance RoomHistory RoomsGeography RoomsBusiness RoomsMathematics RoomsLanguage RoomsLearning Support RoomsUse of St James’s Hall
MERCY SECONDARY SCHOOL, KILBEGGAN PROSPECTUS
PAGE 10 Tel: 057 9332292 • Fax: 057 9332737 • Email: [email protected] • Website: www.mercykilbeggan.ie
SCHOOL LIFE GALLERY
Principal: Garrett Farrell Deputy Principal: Bernadette Gallen
Tel: 057 9332292 • Fax: 057 9332737Email: [email protected]: www.mercykilbeggan.ie
MISSION STATEMENT
Mercy Secondary School Kilbeggan is a Catholic co-educational school committed to the holistic education
of all students, to ensure that individually, they each realise their full potential in a social and physical environment
that is caring, supportive and joyful. We work in partnership with students, staff,
parents and the community and welcome all students from our multicultural society.
Mercy Secondary School, Kilbeggan, Co. WestmeathTel: 057 9332292 • Fax: 057 9332737
Email: [email protected]: www.mercykilbeggan.ie
Principal: Garrett Farrell • Deputy Principal: Bernadette Gallen
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