Academic success as students show a willingness to thrive

Academic success as students show a willingness to thrive

13 November 2024

ST Colman’s High and Sixth Form College in Ballynahinch celebrated the academic successes of students  at its annual prize-giving recently. 

The school’s principal, Mrs Jennifer King, led the ceremony with a heartfelt message celebrating both academic excellence and the personal journey each student has undertaken.

“Our prize-giving ceremony is a cherished occasion at St Colman’s,” Mrs King said. 

“It allows us to come together and celebrate the achievements of our students—not only in academics but also in personal growth, perseverance and community involvement.” 

She said that as a non-selective school, St Colman’s valued each student’s unique journey, celebrating both the high achievers and those whose resilience and dedication exemplify the school’s core values.

She said St Colman’s students had continued the tradition of excellence, with 90 per cent of Year 12 students achieving five or more A*-C grades at GCSE level, and an impressive 94 per cent of Year 14 students reaching the A*-C benchmark in their A Levels. 

Subject prize-winners were congratulated for their commitment to disciplines ranging from mathematics and sciences to the arts and sports.

Mrs King said the day’s celebration extends beyond academic results, emphasising the school’s ethos of ‘endeavour’ and the importance of persistence in the face of challenges. 

“To those students recognised for their perseverance and commitment, I say your effort and attitude are as valuable as any academic prize,” the principal said, highlighting that students’ willingness to strive and overcome challenges is a hallmark of future success.

In addition to academic achievements, the ceremony acknowledged students who excel in areas beyond the classroom, including football, public speaking, boxing, fencing, dancing, water polo, horse riding, acting, camogie, hockey and ice hockey. 

She said these accomplishments embodied the St Colman’s values of achievement, creativity and community, and showcased the diversity of talent within the school.

Thanks were extended to the parents and guardians whose support has been instrumental in their children’s success, as well as to the school’s dedicated teachers and staff. 

“You are more than educators; you are mentors, role models, and advocates for these young people,” Mrs King continued. 

Special thanks were extended to the recently retired Head of Art, Cecelia Halleron, and departing Maths teacher Ali Matchett, whose contributions over the years were acknowledged with heartfelt appreciation.

Mrs King also thanked its governors, local primary and post-primary school colleagues and community partners for their support in shaping a safe, inclusive and enriching environment for all students. 

Guest speakers, past pupil Dara O’Reilly (district nurse) and Professor Donna Fitzsimons OBE (Head of School, Nursing and Midwifery, Queen’s University Belfast) were on hand to inspire the students, underscoring the school’s dedication to developing critical thinkers, compassionate citizens and future leaders.

“Today’s celebration reflects the values of our school and our community – diversity, inclusivity, and potential,” Mrs King said. 

“We are honoured to be a part of each student’s journey and look forward to watching them continue to grow, succeed and make a positive impact on the world.”

She said St Colman’s High and Sixth Form College was proud to champion the achievements of its students, from academic accomplishments to personal milestones, fostering a sense of community that extends beyond the classroom. 

She added that the prize-giving ceremony was a “testament to the school’s commitment to developing well-rounded individuals equipped to face the future with confidence, resilience and purpose”.