On Tuesday, 23rd June, the children from our two Sixth Classes graduated from primary school. To mark this special milestone, a graduation ceremony was held in the school hall. The children were joined by their families and many of the school staff, all of whom gathered to celebrate their achievements and wish them well for the future.
During the ceremony, we reflected on the children's journey through Queen of Angels National School through songs, poems, prayers, and fond memories. Each child was presented with a fun "Most Likely To..." certificate, voted for by their classmates, which brought plenty of smiles and laughter.
Fr. Jim addressed the graduates, offering words of encouragement and wishing them every success as they begin secondary school in September. He gave the children a special blessing and invited everyone to participate in a Maranatha meditation, similar to the one the Sixth Class pupils practised every Wednesday throughout the school year.
Ms. Donegan also spoke to the children, recalling their very first days at school when they arrived holding their parents' hands, facing a world that seemed both new and daunting. She reflected on their many accomplishments over the years, highlighting their academic achievements, sporting successes—particularly in the Jonathan Harris Cup and the DLR Cup—and the kindness, respect, and good manners they consistently demonstrated. She spoke proudly of how much they have grown and matured into wonderful young people who are now ready to embrace the opportunities and challenges of secondary school.
Eva, Chairperson of the Parents’ Association, also addressed the graduates and wished the boys and girls every success and happiness in the future. She left them with a wonderful piece of advice:
“Whatever you do today, do it with the confidence of a four-year-old in a Batman costume”,
-a quote that brought smiles to everyone!
As part of the graduation ceremony, Ms. Donegan presented each child with a graduation certificate, a graduation medal, and a cinema voucher. It was a truly special occasion enjoyed by everyone in attendance.
Following the ceremony, families and staff gathered to enjoy a wonderful selection of cakes, sandwiches, tea, and coffee. A big míle buíochas to Ms. Downes, who organised and hosted the lovely coffee morning.
The school hall looked spectacular thanks to the creativity and hard work of Eva, along with her children, Sky and Charlie, and Sky's friend. Their artistic talents helped create a beautiful setting for this memorable celebration.
Finally, we would like to extend our sincere thanks to their dedicated teachers, Ms. Dunne and Ms. Martin, and to their wonderful SNA, Parm, for their care, support, encouragement, and commitment to the children throughout their final year in Queen of Angels.
Our graduating class is an exceptional group of boys and girls and wonderful ambassadors for our school. We are incredibly proud of all they have achieved and wish them every happiness and success in secondary school. We look forward to hearing about their future accomplishments and adventures in the years ahead.
J McTeague