Scoil Mhuire Gan Smál
Christmas TY Newsletter 

Christmas 2023

Welcome, everyone, to our Christmas edition newsletter. In this edition, we will be discussing some Christmas activities in TY and the school. We hope you enjoy it!


Ice skating trip

Firstly, we would like to share the fantastic experience of our ice skating trip as TY students. The ice skating took place at the Marina Market. We boarded the bus, and it buzzed with lively conversations and laughter throughout the journey. Upon arrival, we swiftly put on our ice skates and hit the rink. Initially, there were some falls and laughter, but most of us mastered it by the end of our session. The staff were incredibly kind and helpful, especially to those who took a tumble. Personally, I thoroughly enjoyed ice skating, as it has been an interest of mine since childhood. I believe this trip created lasting memories for each one of us in TY.

~Kaci Egan

School Musical: The Greatest Showman



Secondly, as a lot of you may know, the school musical, ‘The Greatest Showman’, was another amazing experience. There was a lot of hard work put in, which definitely paid off, learning the choreography, songs and acting. In my opinion, the musical could not have been better, the casting was perfect and it was an enjoyable experience. The teachers and students involved all did a great job. I would definitely recommend seeing the next school musical. 

~ Laoghaire Butt


The below video is a behind the scenes clip of the cast enjoying one of their first shows behind the stage.


20231206_195730.mp4

Christmas Cards

In Ms. Fogarty's art class, Class 414 made Christmas cards. They got creative with Ms. Fogarty, putting together unique and festive cards. Ms. Barrow from religion class added an extra touch and assigned the students to send these cards to residents in nursing homes. It wasn't just about art; it was about sharing kindness during  Christmas time . The project brought together creativity and compassion, showing that students could spread joy beyond the classroom by making someone's day a bit brighter, while also having an enjoyable time making the wonderful cards.

"Bring Me Back Alive" play.

Onto a more serious topic of this newsletter, "Did you hear about Pablo?" These words open the poignant play, "Bring Me Back Alive," a powerful exploration of the impact of suicide on the lives of six friends. Written by Patricia McCann , produced by “Shine a Light'' and Actorsvision, and directed by Darren Kelleher, the award-winning play unfolds in a youth center, where Jessica, Nadia, Jocker, Robyn, Daryll, and Peaches grapple with the aftermath of Pablo's untimely death. McCann's skillful storytelling weaves drama and humor , reflecting her keen social consciousness. Recently, two TY classes attended the play organized by the TY coordinator. I spoke to a student who admitted she wasn't expecting much, but the play left a profound impact, resonating with her personally. Having seen the play myself a few years ago, I can attest to its gripping effect. It kept me on the edge of my seat, profoundly shaping my views on suicide awareness and evoking deep empathy for those dealing with loss or contemplating suicide. "Bring Me Back Alive" serves as a powerful vehicle for spreading awareness about this critical issue.

~ Kaci Egan 


The Giving Tree

Pictured below are the students working with St Vincent De Paul, Cliona Kirby, Meabh Barry, Ava O'Donovan, Laoise O'Connell, Lucy Dunne (not pictured) and Cathal Lynch (not pictured), giving back to Cork by donating Christmas goods.

To conclude the second 2023/24 newsletter, I would like to say thank you so much for reading. We would be honoured if you read the next one, stay tuned!!


Newsletter crew

PS: If you are in one of these pictures and would like to be removed, please email me at ehealy2020@smgsblarney.ie