Buaiteoirí Chúige Uladh - Tráth na gCeist Gael Linn

Tráth na gCeist Gael Linn D’éirigh le ceathrar dalta i mbliain 10 ó Ardscoil Iósaif Crois Mhic Lionnáin, daltaí a bhain an chéad bhabhta de Thráth na gCeist Gael Linn in Iúr Cinn Trá i mí na Samhna, Cluiche Ceannais Chúige Uladh a bhaint i Lorgain an tseachtain seo chaite. Bhí siad in iomaíocht leis na scoileanna ar fad eile a bhain a gcuid babhtaí réigiúnacha i gCúige Uladh agus d’éirigh thar barr leo nuair a bhain siad an chéad áit amach ar an lá. Tá a múinteoir, Bean Uí Ridley, iontach bródúil astu agus chuaigh sé i bhfeidhm go mór uirthi cé chomh dícheallach is a bhí siad agus iad ag ullmhú don tráth ceisteanna – is eiseamláirí iontacha iad do na daltaí óga sa scoil. Tá bua an eolas ginearálta acu gan amhras agus nuair a chuireann tú san áireamh go raibh orthu na ceisteanna a fhreagairt as Gaeilge, is éacht mór é. Dúirt an tUasal Ó Scalaí gur éacht iontach é don roinn Ghaeilge agus go raibh áthas mór air de thairbhe a mbua.    Comhghairdeas go léir. ST. JOSEPH’S HIGH SCHOOL, CROSSMAGLEN Gael Linn Ulster Quiz Champions Gael Linn Quiz Four year 10 pupils from St. Joseph’s High school Crossmaglen who won the 1st round of the Gael Linn Quiz held in Newry in November went on the win the Ulster Final in Lurgan last week. They were competing against all the schools in Ulster who won their regional heats and did extremely well to take 1st place on the day. Their teacher Mrs Ridley is very proud of them and impressed at their dedication and preparation for the quiz – they are an inspiration for all the younger pupils in the school. Their level of general knowledge is impressive and this combined with the fact that they had to answer the questions ‘as Gaeilge’ is indeed a great achievement. Mr Scally said that it was a great achievement for the Irish department and that he was delighted at the win. Comhghairdeas go léir. Back row- Mrs Ridley (Head of Irish) with Mr. Scally Principal Fromt row Quiz Cahmpions Ciara Largey , Aaon Duffy and James Meegan

Posted by Admin on Saturday 6th February 2010

CHARITY FUNDRAISING AT ST.JOSEPH’S CROSSMAGLEN

St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen believes it is important to help those less fortunate and encourages its students to think of ways to contribute to their society both locally and globally. As a result two significant fundraising events have taken place recently. Fundraising Intern for Oxfam Ireland Unwrapped, visited the Learning Support Centre (LSC) in St .Joseph’s High School,  in November.  This visit started a fervent campaign to raise money for those less fortunate. Pupils were encouraged to donate any loose change they may have. The campaign run by students from the LSC was very successful and this year the total amount raised was £660.  Many thanks to everyone who donated money. Another charity event that occurred recently was a table quiz in aid of The Haiti Appeal. All junior school pupils participated in this very enjoyable event, culminating in a very hotly contested final between year groups. The event organised by Mrs. Cunningham ( Head of Geography) raised a considerable amount of money kindly donated by the whole school for this very worthy cause. Back row Ms. Mackin, Kevin Rooney , Michael Mc Entee and Mr. Mc Evoy Front row Shannon Mc Kinley, Johnathan Evans and Gary Conlon       All who collected for Oxfam

Posted by Admin on Saturday 6th February 2010

South Armagh Extended Schools provide evening of entertainment in St. Joseph’s Crossmaglen

St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen was the venue for a showcasing of music, drama and dance provided by the South Armagh Extended School Cluster. The South Armagh Extended Schools Cluster consists of the following schools: Anamar Primary, Clonalig Primary, St. Patrick’s Crossmaglen, St. Patrick’s Cullyhanna, St. Mary’s, Mullaghbawn , St. Brigid’s , Glassdrummond, St. Oliver’s, Carrickrovaddy and the lead school St. Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen. The cluster co-ordinator is Mrs. Geraldine Cunningham, Head of Geography at St. Joseph’s High School. Pupils from these schools participated in Drama , Dance and Music workshops funded by the South Armagh Extended Schools Cluster, the results of which were showcased in an evening of entertainment last Tuesday 8th December. The week of October the 12th to 16th saw thirty five Primary school pupils participate in a fun and exciting initiative called ‘Rock Skool’. In conjunction with the fantastic tutors from ‘The Making Music Workshop’, pupils participated in a one week intensive course. This lasted daily for three hours after school. A band was formed and they in turn, composed, edited and recorded a song called ‘Tell Someone That You Trust’ The week of the 19th to 23rd of October saw fourteen post-primary pupils from : Abbey Grammar, Newry,  St. Paul’s , Bessbrook, St. Colman’s College, Newry, Sacred Heart Grammar, Newry and St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen participate collaboratively in ‘Rock Skool’. Two bands were formed and each band wrote the lyrics, composed the music and recorded their track. Their songs were entitled ‘Gone But Not Forgotten’ and ‘Christmas Song’. The pupils themselves performed the music for this final recording. The pupils were aided by some very experienced musicians including Linley Hamilton, John Wilson and Nicky Scott.  Both ‘Rock Skool’ tracks were expertly edited by a sound engineer Simon Mc Bride. Each pupil, from both primary and secondary, was presented with a professionally packaged c.d. of their song .  The cover of the c.d. was designed by Ryan Loye a year 9 student at St. Joseph’s High School. Saturday 28th November and 5th December saw forty primary school pupils participate in a six hour drama and dance workshop with the Drama company BEAM. The theme of the programme was safety. Pupils composed their own short pieces which they performed brilliantly on the night. The dance was accompanied by the track recorded by their peers called ‘Tell Someone That You Trust’. They also performed an excellent dance routine to the backing track ‘Jai Ho’. BEAM also worked with St. Joseph’s Drama department and this performance will be showcased at a later date. Mrs. Geraldine Cunningham, Extended Schools Coordinator said “It was amazing to see pupils after a long day at school, so enthused and enthralled by what they were doing. This event encapsulated the whole idea of extended schools and has certainly afforded these pupils an insight into the complexities of the music and drama industries.” The showcase was performed to a full hall and greatly appreciated by all. Some students who participated in Rock Skool             Tutors and students who participated in Rock skool               Mrs. G Cunningham extended schools Coordinator with Ryan Loye whose design was chosen as the cover for the c.d.

Posted by Admin on Saturday 6th February 2010

ST. JOSEPH’S HIGH SCHOOL CROSSMAGLEN HOLD VERY SUCCESSFUL OPEN NIGHT

Thursday evening last , St. Joseph’s school, Crossmaglen held its open night. The attendance was excellent . It was the largest crowd in recent years. Prospective pupils and parents were treated to  musical delights from pupils at St. Joseph’s. Mr. Scally (Principal) addressed the hall, and clearly outlined what St.Joseph’s has to offer not only academically but also holistically. He highlighted the school’s great strides in its academic results and also highlighted achievements in sport and the many trips that occur in the school year. Also identified were the many extra –curricular activities that the school has the offer. Prospective parents and pupils were ably guided around the school and were afforded the opportunity to experience the school first hand. The event was a great success. Sionan and Ceallagh Murphy with Mr. Scally . These girls sang the highly commended’ Ave Maria’ on the night

Posted by Admin on Saturday 6th February 2010

Martin’s Hardware sponsors of St. Joseph’s  U-16 Gaelic teams

The P.E. Department in St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen, have received a new set of Gaelic jerseys for their U-15 teams, thanks to Martin’s Hardware Crossmaglen. Mr. Reel received the jerseys on the school’s behalf and wishes to thank Martin’s  for their generous and continued support of  Gaelic games in the school.

Posted by Admin on Saturday 6th February 2010

ST. JOSEPH’S CROSSMAGLEN ANNUAL BOOKFAIR

Scholastic Books recently held their annual book fair in conjunction with the librarian Mrs. Mc Namee. This is an opportunity for pupils to peruse new and exciting books with many brand new titles on display. It also aims to entice and encourage the pupils to read and therefore improve literacy through the use of library. Niamh Donnelly, Grainne Lambe and Ryan MC Ardle exporing some of the new titles available             James Meegan, Amy O Connor , Ciara Largey and Hannah Morgan find something of interest             Hannah Morgan, Ryan Crilly and Christopher Flynn enjoying the book fair organised by the Librarian Mrs. Mc Namee

Posted by Admin on Saturday 6th February 2010

Shorts Sports and Cycles sponsor St Joseph’s Crossmaglen  U-16 Gaelic teams

The PE Department in St Joseph’ have received a new set of Gaelic jerseys for their U-16 teams  thanks to Shorts Sports and cycles. Mr Reel received the jerseys on the schools behalf and wishes to thank Naoise and Mary for their generous and continued support of Gaelic games in the school.

Posted by Admin on Saturday 6th February 2010

ST. JOSEPH’S ‘COPE’ STUDENTS ATTEND YOUNG ENTERPRIZE TRADE FAIR

On Friday 11th December Year 13 students undertaking the Certificate of Personal Effectiveness Level 3 Course, attended a Young Enterprise trade fair, held at The Outlet in Banbridge. Pupils were given the opportunity to display and promote the products they have created in a real life business style environment. The group were delighted to have in attendance their business mentor, Mr Martin Casey to advise and evaluate on their presentation. The students will now continue to develop their products in preparation for the next Young Enterprise event to be held in March 2010.   Eric Hudson, Shauna Rogers, Mr Paul Mulholland (Teacher), Mr Martin Casey (Business Mentor), James Luckie, Rosemary Loye.

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 16th December 2010

ST.JOESPH’S CROSSMAGLEN VISIT THE WEST END

Students from the Year 12 English literature class recently travelled to London to see Willy Russell’s famous play ‘Blood Brothers’ performed in the West End. Willy Russell is one of the most successful playwrights of his generation and this particular play has won rave reviews. This play is part of the pupils G.C.S.E course and the trip was organised by their teacher Mrs, Hamill, to afford the pupils a greater understanding of the play. The trip to London was a huge success and the pupils thoroughly enjoyed seeing the play performed on the West End stage. Front row Mrs. M Hamill, Brenda English, Aisling MC Creesh, Mrs. M . Giblin Back row : Sionan Murphy, Amy Mc Shane, Kelly Carragher and Aisleen Tierney         Outside Buckingham Palace- Enjoying the sights Kelly Carragher, Mrs. Hamill, Brenda English, Aisling Mc Creesh, Aisleen Tierney, Sionan Murphy, Amy Mc Shane, Mrs. Giblin

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 16th December 2010

St. Joseph’s Crossmaglen Supports ‘Run for Autism’

Mr Short (Head of Junior School) presents a cheque for £500 to Sean Quinn from Helping Autism in the Newry District (H.A.N.D). Also in the picture are Shauneen Mines, Jonny McKeever, Tara McCann, Luke Owens and Erica Murphy. Mr. Short wishes to publicly thank the Parents, Pupils and whole school Staff members who donated to the worthy charities this year. A considerable amount of money was raised by the school community for Autism. Downs Syndrome and Cystic Fibrosis. An intensive awareness campaign highlighted the great work done by these charities in our local community.

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 16th December 2010

Award Winners

A-level award winners – Teresa Carr (sociology) , Laura Mc Shane Health and Social CARE AND Orla Loye religious Studies     Sinead Mc Gahon ( Biology and Design technology and Adam Walsh (Business studies and ict)     Alevel award winners with Mrs. Noreen Mc Mahon (Head of Sixth form) and Mr. Tom Mc Kay (Chairman of the board of Govenors) ,Mr. Brian Doran(Guest Speaker) and Mr. Scally     Award for academic achievement: Patrice Murphy, Cathy Anne Murphy and Clare Murray     Overall contribution to School life : Claire Mc Entee and Seamus Kelly       G.C.S.E endeavour award : 12P1 - Aidan McVerry 12P2 - Sean McArdle 12P3 - Cathy Anne Murphy 12P4 - Emma Burns 12P5 - Clare Murray

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 16th December 2010

Public Speaking

St. Joseph’s pupil Dearbhla O’Farrell being congratulated by Mr. Scally Principal and Mrs. Hamill her Englsih teacher. Dearbhla took part recently in a public speaking competition run by Soroptimist International Northern Ireland . Dearbhla was the youngest entrant. She performed very well and the adjudicators commented on the excellent quality and delivery of her speech.

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 16th December 2010

School Sponsored Walk

St Joseph’s junior school students had an enjoyable day out in Gosford Park, Armagh recently where they took part in a sponsored walk, organised by the P.E. Department. Due to increasing demands involved in the running of sports and with a view to enable the department to extend and enhance the students experiences; the walk was organised to raise much needed funds. It proved to be a tremendous success. A large group of about 240 pupils and 15 teachers and classroom assistants completed the 5 mile walk. It was a really enjoyable experience. The P.E. Department in St. Joseph’s is working hard to promote a healthy lifestyle for all students and an event like this is aimed to encourage children to see the benefits of exercise and nutrition for general health and well being. Well done to all the students for making the effort to collect funds and a big thank you from the P.E. Department.

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 16th December 2010

EXCELLENT EXAM RESULTS CELEBRATED AT SCHOOL PRIZEGIVING

Staff and students celebrated the best ever GCSE results in the school’s history at the Annual Prizegiving last week. 64% of the students gained 5 or more GCSE grades at A* - C in the summer 2009 examinations. This is well above the N Ireland average which is 50% The Chairman of the Board of Governors welcomed Mr Brian Doran Chief Executive of the Southern Regional College as the Guest of Honour. In his address Mr Doran congratulated the the Principal, staff  and pupils on the remarkable examination results achieved in 2009. He said that the night was time for celebration, a time to reflect on their success and to pay thanks to those who helped and supported them throughout their studies particularly their teachers and parents. Given the current climate Mr Doran remarked “ future employment will depend more and more on higher level skills and qualifications and I would encourage each and everyone of you here this evening to embrace this learning journey. St Joseph’s has provided you with the building blocks that you will use in future life and learning.  You have demonstrated that you know how to learn – but you must not stop here. He encouraged them to take pride in their achievements and remember that they are second to no one! The Principal, Mr Kevin Scally, welcomed the successful students back to the school. “These are the best results in the history of the school, since it opened in 1964. 64% of our students gained  5 or more A* - C grades. This places us amongst the top performing schools in N Ireland. It is a fitting reward for the students and their teachers. Our students have worked extraordinarily hard to achieve this success” “The top performing student at GCSE is Rosemary Loye who gained 3 A* grades, 5 A grades and 2 B grades. Rosemary is from the Foxfield Road in Crossmaglen and is a former pupil of St Patricks Primary School in Crossmaglen. She is currently studying A levels at St Josephs HS “The top performing student at A Level is Adam Walsh from Mullaghbawn , who gained 4 A grades. It is entirely appropriate that he is given the Student of the Year Award. He is a former pupil of Mullaghbawn Primary School, and is now studying Law at Queens University Belfast” “Although Adam was the top performing student, there many others who also had a string of A* and A grades.” “The vast majority of our students who attended Vocational courses at Southern Regional College in Newry passed the Occupational Studies course” “I am thrilled with these results. We are maintaining high standards in all aspects of school life. “They are the product of sustained hard work and commitment “An enormous effort has been made by everyone and it has paid off. “I want to express my gratitude and appreciation to the teachers, who have helped our students perform to such a high standard “I also want to congratulate our A level students, all of whom gained entrance to their first choice University” Mr Scally also paid tribute to the school footballers. Last year St Josephs won both the U14 Ladies Ulster title. Three of our students were members of the All-Ireland winning Armagh Minor football team G.C.S.E . and A- level winners - Prize Night 2009 A-LEVEL AWARDS - Adam Walsh – Business Studies and ICT Sinead Mc Gahon – Biology and Design Technology Teresa Carr- Sociology Laura Mc Shane- Health and Social Care Orla Loye- Religious Studies Caroline O’Hare and Louise Casey – Sports award Adam Walsh-Student of the year Award Name of Student Music  -  Choir Lauren Grant Music  -  Instrumental Laura Largey Art and Design Clare Murray ICT Aisling Caherty Work Experience – Careers Aidan McVerry / Emer Kealey Business Studies Pauline McGahon French : Excellence Emer McGovern French : Endeavour Amy McCann Irish Jennifer Reel Technology and Design Cathy Ann Murphy Technology and Design – Craft Award Seamus Kelly Geography Patrice Murphy Mathematics Niamh Gernon Mathematics – Maura Cumiskey Paula McShane Life and Work Laura Largey Double Award Science Sinead Mackin Single Award Science Orla Casey PE Darren Gollogly Boys Sports Christopher McShane Girls Sports Aoife McArdle Paddy Short Footballer of the Year Ronan Finnegan Child Development – H Econ Kirsten McEvoy Religion Emma Burns English Jimmy Carr DIDA Shane Canning Attendance Megan Sheridan Student of the Year Rosemary Loye Silver Jubilee Award Claire McEntee Archie McMullan Cup Patrice Murphy / Cathy Anne Murphy / Clare Murray Cardinal O’Fiaich Award Seamus Kelly Maria Loye Award Megan Sheridan Barry McGuinness Award Emer Murtagh Declan Reel Brian Carberry Bernard Crilly Cup Keith Cannon Frank McCreesh Cup Roisin Hamill Endeavour Awards   12P1  Aidan McVerry 12P2  Sean McArdle 12P3  Cathy Anne Murphy 12P4  Emma Burns 12P5  Clare Murray

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 11th November 2010

St. Joseph’s - Gael Linn Quiz Champions for the Third Consecutive Year

St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen emerged victorious from the annual Gael Linn quiz. This is the third year in a row ,they have emerged champions. This event was held at Newry Sports Centre on Wednesday last. This quiz is very popular and there was an impressive turnout from schools in Newry and the surrounding schools in Down and Armagh. Given the high standard of the competition, it is a great accolade to the Year 10 pupils who took first place. They were James Meegan , Gavin Rowland, Aaron Duffy, Shannon Robinson and Ciara Largey. Mrs. Karen Ridley, their Irish teacher was delighted and very proud of the team. She feels the event, which was enjoyed by all pupils who participated is a great way of promoting the Irish language. Back row : James Meegan , Gavin Rowland, Aaron Duffy Front row :  Shannon Robinson , Mrs. K Ridley (Head of Irish) and Ciara Largey.

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 11th November 2010

YEAR 8 PUPILS GET CONNECTED

Year 8 pupils at St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen, recently took part in an innovative two days focussing on Connected Learning. Connected Learning is a key aspiration of the Revised Curriculum. St. Joseph’s teachers worked cross departmentally on three projects: creating a photo story, an animation and a drama- all of which came under the theme of ‘Who am I?’ The aim of connected learning is to enhance the pupil/teacher dynamic and to provide time for probing ideas in more depth and giving pupils more individual support. It also allows pupils work together on a common aim or project sharing knowledge and skills. It also attempts to ‘deepen learning’.  The departments involved were :  Art, Religious Education, English, Physical Education and ICT. The pupils worked in groups and together created fantastic end results. The group working on the animation went to the AMMA centre in Armagh where they shot their sequences and edited their animation. The two days proved very enjoyable and educational. The result of this handwork was showcased on the night of the First Year mass. Parents, pupils and teachers were very proud of what they achieved. Mrs Giblin with year 8 pupils working on their photo story       Pupils working hard creating their photo story       Mrs Hearty helping students plan their animation       Pupils shooting their animation at the AMMA center         Pupils rehearsing their drama which was showcased at the year 8 mass

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 11th November 2010

ST.JOSEPH’S CELEBRATES KEY STAGE THREE SUCCESS

On Tuesday 6th of October , St. Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen , celebrated the excellent achievement of its pupils in the Key Stage Three examinations. The school was delighted to welcome Mr. Paul Mc Shane as Guest of Honour for the prize giving. Mr. Mc Shane is a past pupil of the school and also manager of the Armagh Minor team who are current All Ireland champions. Each pupil received certificates outlining their individual achievements. Awards were given to those pupils who achieved the highest level in Maths ,English and Science. A Also received were awards for French and ICT. A special award was given to the Overall Winner of Junior Certifcate, this was awarded to Lauren Sheridan. Awards for endeavour were also given out, these awards acknowledge those pupils who endeavoured to achieve their potential. The Prize giving which was organised by Mr. Oliver Short , Head of Junior School, was a great success and a very enjoyable experience for all who participated. Award Winners :   Endeavour Awards :   Sean Quinn Michelle Cannon Dara Quinn Sinead Hughes Lauren Sheridan Jade Fitzpatrick Orlagh Flynn Ciara Gartland Miceal Murphy Danielle Gollogly Shannon Hearty Ciara McKeever Danielle Mackin Brian O’Connell Aoife McEleavey Colleen McCann Leanne McKinley Eoghan Harvey Overall Class endeavour Award Winners were: Shannon Booth Emma McShane Jordan Hearty Natasha Hughes Tara O’Callaghan KEY STAGE THREE WINNERS : ENGLISH –Shannon Booth MATHS –Dara Quinn SCIENCE –Sean Quinn Mr. Paul Mc Shane ( Guest of Honour) with Lauren Sheridan who was the overall Junior Certificate Winner with Mr. Scally (Principal)     Back row Mrs. A. Carleton (Head of English) , Mrs M Dolan (Head of Maths) Mrs . E. Trainor (Head of Science) Front- Mr Scally  , Shonnon Booth, Dara Quinn, Sean Quinn and Mr. O Short (Head of Junior School) Class Endeavour award winners –  Mr. Short (Head of Junior School) Natasha Hughes, Shannon Booth, Emma Mc Shane , Tara Ocallaghan Jourdan Hearty Mrs. M Mulligan ( Vice Principal) , Mr. Jones ( Vice Principal)   Pupils who achieved the highest number of distinction in the Junior Certificate Mrs. M Mulligan ( Vice Principal) , Mr. Jones ( Vice Principal, Aidan Conlon, Shannon Booth, Emma Mc Shane, Dara Quinn, Lauren Sheridan, Orlagh Flynn, Miceal Murphy Front row - Sinead Hguhes, Michelle Cannon, Mr. Paul Mc Shane, Gary Reel, Jaqueline Reel, Mrs. B Hollywood (Head Of Year) and Mr. Short (Head of Junior School)

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 11th November 2010

YEAR EIGHT STUDENTS ARE ’MOVING ON’ AT ST. JOSEPH’S HIGH SCHOOL CROSSMAGLEN

Year 8 students at St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen , recently took part in a seminar run by Young Enterprise Northern Ireland entitled’ Moving On: Your School , Your Business’. This seminar required students in groups to devise a solution to an existing problem identified by them in the school. This seminar forms part of an excellent induction programme run by the school and enabled pupils to familiarise themselves with the school and feel a part of the community, through their input in making it better. The day was broken into six sessions ably facilitated by Ms. Joanne Hughes . It was a thoroughly enjoyable day and they Year Pupils gained much from their day. Facilitator Ms. Joanne Hughes with Year 8 students

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 11th November 2010

St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen Present Endeavour Awards

St. Joseph’s High school presented endeavour awards to its year 8 and year 9 pupils recently. Endeavour awards are there to acknowledge the achievement of pupils across all academic ability ranges. Points are awarded to pupils according to the place they achieve in each subject.  The winners were as follows: YEAR 8 Overall winners were: KATIE MC DONNELL NIAMH BRENNAN SINEAD DONNELLY ASHLING CARRAGHER ALICE RUNCE CONOR CLARKE The year 9 endeavour awards were equally highly contested and co-ordinator Mr. Short Head of Junior School said it was a credit to the year group. Year 9 The overall winners were: CLAIRE MACKIN AMY O’CONNOR PETER OG McDONNELL ARNUS DZINKEVICIUS SEANA MULHOLLAND. Mr.Short acknowledged the excellent achievements of all the students and paid tribute to the excellent work done by the teachers and classroom assistants.It is hoped that the excellent results and high standard of endeavour shown by the pupils will be reflected in future KS3, G.C.S.E. and A level results in the future. Year 8 Endeavour Award winners : Mrs. Ridley (Head of Year) Katie Mc Donell and Mrs. Mulligan(Vice Principal), Conor Clarke and Sinead Donnelly. Front row Alice Runce, Aisling Carraher and Niamh Brennan     Year 9 endeavour winners: Back row Mrs. Traynor (Head of Year) and Mr. Short ( Head of Junior School). Seana Mullholland, Amy  O Connor, Claire Mackin and Peter Og Mc Donnell

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 11th November 2010

ST. JOSEPH’S HIGH SCHOOL CROSSMAGLEN CELEBRATES BEST EVER RESULTS AT G.C.S.E

St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen has achieved its best ever results this year. 66% of the students gained 5 or more GCSE grades at A*-C. This is a big increase on the previous year, which was 51%. The school’s results have shown an improvement every year since 2005 and has consistently achieved  well above the Northern Ireland average for secondary schools. Principal Kevin Scally said, “Some of our pupils come from a background where they feel that they have failed at 11 yet we give them a sense that they can be successful and contribute to the better good of society. “You cannot get the kind of results we get without extreme hard work, not just by the students but by the staff and parents. This is a team effort. “The downturn in employment prospects mean many more young people, particularly boys, want to remain at school after the age of 16. The success of our students this year at GCSE will result in a big increase in the numbers in our sixth form. We started offering A levels several years ago, and it has steadily grown in size. “St. Joseph’s serves the entire South Armagh community, and has a proud tradition of success on the sporting field, particularly in gaelic football. I am glad that we are also now being recognised and acknowledged for our excellence in the academic field also” Brenda Morris , Patrick Mc Cann and Aoife Brennan celebrating their great results       Sarah Finnegan and Jennifer Reel being congratulated on their achievements by Mr. John Jones (Vice Principal)         Conall Mc Creesh , Rosemary Loye , Mr.Scally (Principal), Claire Murray and Keith Mc Groder who were all delighted with their results       Mr Scally congratulates Laura Largey and Sean Mc Ardle on their great success       Megan Mc Creesh, Lauren Grant  and Shauntelle Murphy are congratulated on their excellent achievement by  Mr. Scally (Principal)       Rosemary Loye, Cathy Anne Murphy and Laura Largey proudly show their results

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 11th November 2010

Night of Ceoil agus rince at Scoil Naomh Iosaif, Crossmaglen

On Thursday the 13th March ,St .Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen hosted an extremely successful ceili , organised by the Irish Department, in celebration of Seachtain Na Gaelige. The music was provided by the ever popular Cathal Mc Nulty Céilí Band and the Fear an Tí was Sean O’ Neill who ensured everyone got on their feet. This is the first time in a number of years that a ceili has been hosted at St. Joseph’s and it was wonderful to see all members of the community partake in the dancing and craic. The Irish Department would like to thank all those local businesses who donated prizes for the raffle and acknowledge the extended schools project which helped fund the ceilí. All funds raised are going towards Gaeltacht scholarships for the many pupils who are attending the Gaeltacht this summer. Hannah Morgan, Zoe Mc Shane , Ciara Largey, Shona Daly year 9 students at St. Joseph’s enjoying the ceili             Mrs. Karen Ridley (Head of Irish Department),Mr. Tom Mc Kay Chairman of the Board of Governors, Mrs. Majella Hatzer, Mr Kevin Scally (Principal) and Miss Mc Coy (Irish Teacher)           Natasha Quinn. Claire Mackin , Alannah Murray and Lisa Hughes who performed on the night             Some of the ceili dancers enjoying the night             Some younger members enjoying the dancing

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 1st April 2009

ST. JOSEPH’S PUPILS SUCCESSFULLY COMPLETE HEARTSTART PROGRAMME

Heart Start is an emergency life support programme funded by the British Heart Foundation. It focuses on the practical skills of ELS. Pupils need to know when and how to act in a life-threatening emergency. The programme design provides maximum time for practice and ‘hands on’ learning using resuscitation training mannequins. This programme is sponsored by the British Heart Foundation. All students in St. Joseph’s High School complete this programme in Year 9. The programme is co-ordinated by Miss E. Trainor (Head of Science). She is ably assisted by Mrs M. Quinn (School Nurse), Mrs B. Mackin and Mrs R. Donnelly. Some Year 9 students with Mr. Oliver Short (Head of Junior School, Miss E. Trainor (Head of Science) Mrs M. Quinn (School Nurse), Mrs B. Mackin and Mrs R. Donnelly.         Content. • Demonstrate safe approach and assessment • Make a 999/112 call • Open an airway • Check for breathing • Demonstrate the recovery position • Perform rescue breathing • Check for signs of a circulation • Perform one-rescuer, adult, cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) • Demonstrate the management of choking for adults, infants and children • Know how to manage someone with a suspected heart attack • Know how to deal with serious bleeding

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 1st April 2009

Scoil Naoimh Seosamh, Crossmaglen, Celebrates Seachtain Na Gaelige

The Irish Department at St. Joseph’s High School has transformed the school into a multi-lingual school, in celebration of Seachtain na Gaelige , which runs from 2nd – 17th March. They are encouraging all members of the school community to speak Irish where possible. Several projects are underway within departments such as posters in Employability to promote jobs using Irish , also a competition is being run with the Art Department for the best poster with the theme of ‘Seachtain na Gaeilge’. Staff members are competing for the accolade of ‘Teacher who can use the most Irish’. All of this preparation culminates in a Fíór Ceili which is being run at St. Joseph’s on Thursday 12th March from 8 p.m. to 11 p.m. Cathal McAnulty’s Céilí Band will provide the entertainment for the night and admission is £5 which includes supper. All pupils must be accompanied by an adult. This event is taking place in the school hall and all are welcome. It promises to be a night of craic agus ceol and we hope many of the community will attend. The Principal of St Josephs High School said “Tá gach duine i Scoil Naomh Iosaif ag glachadh páirte i Seachtain na Gaeilge. Tá múinteoirí agaus baill eile den fhoireann ag labhairt i nGaeilge agus tá na daltaí ag baint suilt as na himeachtaí atá ar siúl sna ceachtanna. Tá súil again go dtiocfaidh scaifte mhór de dhaoine chuig an céilí ar an 12ú Márta. Beatha teanga í a labhairt” Mr Scally with Miss Mc Coy and year 8 pupils

Posted by Admin onWednesday 1st April 2009

P6 PUPILS ENJOY TASTE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL AT ST. JOSEPH’S CROSSMAGLEN

Friday last, 27TH th February saw St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen open its doors to over 186 P.6 pupils from the local feeder schools. This innovative idea, organised by Mr. Oliver Short ,Head of Junior School, is an opportunity for students to get a taste of secondary school. Pupils had the opportunity to experience exciting lessons in Technology and Design, Science, I.C.T. ,Home Economics and P.E. They were expertly guided and helped during these lesson by KS3 pupils from St. Joseph’s .The day was extremely successful and enjoyed by all. P.6 Students at Home Economics           Discovering Science                         Enjoying P.E.

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 1st April 2009

Mrs. Millar , St. Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen, receives Professional Qualification in Headship

Mrs. Marie Millar, Head of Senior School, at St. Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen was recently awarded the Professional Qualification in Headship(PQH). This is a very significant achievement and is the result of three years of very rigorous study and assessment. Mrs. Millar received this award from The Minister of Education, Catriona Ruane, at a ceremony in Belfast recently. The PQH is a qualification to prepare teachers for School Principalship. It was introduced in 1999 and 900 teachers out of a teacher population of 27,000 have gained the qualification. It is designed to enable teachers to lead change in their schools. Previously, Mrs Millar was awarded a Masters Degree in 2000. Mrs Millar started her career in St. Josephs High School as a teacher of Science in 1994, and was made Head of Year in 1999. A year later, in 2000, she was made Head of the Science Department, and was subsequently responsible for the introduction of A level Sciences in the school. These have proved to be a very successful addition to the curriculum at St. Joseph’s. Further promotion followed in 2004 when she joined the Senior Management Team as Head of Senior School. In December 2008 she was appointed to liaise with other local schools as ‘Entitlement Framework Coordinator’. Currently she is working to develop closer links with other schools in the Newry and Mourne area, with a view to sharing resources and providing more choice for the children who attend S.t Joseph’s. The Principal of St. Joseph’s High School, Mr. Kevin Scally, congratulated Mrs Millar on her PQH qualification. He said “ Mrs Millar has been a proactive, supportive and committed member of the Senior Management Team over the past 5 years. The acquisition of the PQH and the experience she has gained will enable her to help to move this school forward with confidence. With her help we will continue to deliver the best quality teaching and learning experiences for all children in South Armagh” Mr. Kevin Scally (principal) Marie Millar and Mr. Tom MC Kay Chairman of the Board of Governors

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 1st April 2009

St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen says ‘Bienvenue’ to French Exchange Student

Six students from St. Joseph’s school welcomed their peers from Paris, France as part of an exchange programme. This programme was arranged by Ms. Pascal Patel, from ‘The Language Farm’. The motto of ‘The Language Farm’ is ‘Cultivate your child’s mind’. It aims to do this through the exchange programme. Ms. Patel has been involved with St. Joseph’s through ‘The Extended Schools Initiative’. She runs weekly classes after school for pupils from all year groups. The French pupils are from a state school in Paris which is the only one in the city to have an international section. The student’s have enjoyed the Irish hospitality and were treated to a concert and some Irish Dancing by St. Joseph’s Traditional Music group, under the guidance of Mrs. Tracy Gibbs. ‘The Language Farm’ offers exchange programmes for pupils of all ages and can be organised through a school or on an individual basis. Pupils involved in the exchange programme

Posted by Admin on Wednesday 1st April 2009

Romance is in the air in St. Joseph’s School , Crossmaglen

Romance was certainly in the air, on Valentine’s Day in St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen. The school was awash with roses onWednesday last, as the school ran its annual charity rose sale. The sale of roses and their distribution was organised by Mrs. Karen Ridley and Mrs. Majella Hatzer with the wonderful assistance of Year 14 students. Hundreds of roses were sold, raising several hundred pounds which will be donated to a local charity. This event which has been running now for four years was a great success, proving that romance is not dead rather it is alive and kicking in St. Joseph’s School, Crossmaglen. Mrs. Karen Ridley and Mrs. Majella Hatzer with the students who helped run the event

Posted by Admin on Monday 2nd Marchl 2009

FAMOUS STORYTELLER VISITS ST.JOESPH’S HIGH SCHOOL, CROSSMAGLEN

St.Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen was delighted to welcome famous storyteller, Mr. Niall De Burca to school on Tuesday the 3rd February. Niall de Búrca is one of Ireland’s finest traditional storytellers. He was raised in Galway and displayed a talent for narrative from a young age. He has featured in theatre, radio and at many festivals including Féile Earraai, the CS Lewis Festival, and The National Children's Book Festival. Niall enthralled the pupils from St.Joseph’s with his excellent delivery of engaging stories. The diversity of his stories enabled him to reach all pupils from year 8 through to 12. His visit, arranged through the librarian Mrs. M. Mc Namee has certainly enthused the pupils and raised awareness of the value of the oral tradition in our culture. Both pupils and staff enjoyed his visit immensely and are eagerly looking forward to his return to the school.

Posted by Admin on Monday 2nd Marchl 2009

Press Release from Newry and Mourne District Policing Partnership

“BE BRIGHT AT NIGHT CAMPAIGN REACHES ST.JOSEPH’S HIGH SCHOOL , CROSSMAGLEN” Members of the Student’s Council at St. Joseph’s Crossmaglen were among the first to receive some reflective items from the Newry and Mourne District Policing partnership. The Newry and Mourne District Policing Partnership launched their awareness of safety on the roads “ BE BRIGHT AT NIGHT CAMPAIGN” to encourage school students throughout the District of Newry and Mourne to wear reflective items, when walking at night or on dark mornings to help motorists see them. The Campaign is particularly focussed on those school students who get a bus to school and then may have a distance to walk up a dark country road to their homes. When it is dark it is very difficult for them to be seen, and there is a greater risk of being hit by a vehicle. Eight post primary schools in the District have participated in the Campaign and the District Policing Partnership has provided reflective arm-bands, hats with reflective bands on them, and reflective items to hang on student’s school bags to ensure they are “BRIGHT AT NIGHT” DPP Chairperson Cllr Josephine O’Hare said “ This is a very important Road Safety Awareness Campaign the DPP has launched. We are only too aware of the road safety risks involved when students walk from buses on dark nights, to their homes. We would encourage the students to wear these items and we would encourage parents to explain to children the importance of wearing such items. Indeed, I would encourage all walkers to “BE BRIGHT AT NIGHT!”. For further information please contact Patricia Hamilton DPP Manager 30313071 Back row Members of the Student council wearing arm bands and hats from DPP Front row From L to R : K Scally (Principal), Cathy Fegan, Josephine O’Hare (DPP Chairperson), Mayor Colman Burns, Cllr Geraldine Donnelly.

Posted by Admin on Monday 2nd Marchl 2009

ST. JOSEPH’S CROSSMAGLEN HOLD VERY SUCCESSFUL OPEN NIGHT

Thursday evening last , St. Joseph’s school, Crossmaglen held its open night. The attendance was excellent with one of the largest crowds seen arriving in recent years. Prospective pupils and parents were treated to a musical delights from a group comprised of both staff and pupils from St.Joseph’s. This was followed by a very effective piece performed by some of the drama students at the school. Mr. Scally (principal) addressed the hall, and clearly outlined what St.Joseph’s has to offer not only academically but also holistically. He highlighted the school’s great strides in its academic result and also highlighted achievements in sport and the many trips that occur in the school year. Also identified were the many extra –curricular activities that the school has the offer. Prospective parents and pupils were ably guided around the school and were afforded the opportunity to experience the school first hand. The event was a great success.

Posted by Admin on Monday 2nd Marchl 2009

ST. JOSEPH’S CROSSMAGLEN, MAKES PRESENTATION TO PRIMARY SCHOOLS

Mr. Scally (Principal) recently presented Primary School Principals of the area with a framed poster recording the successes of their past pupils at St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen. The poster showed photographs of each of the 2008 GCSE Award winners from the Annual School Presentation which took place in November. The Prizes were presented by his Eminence Cardinal Brady. The Primary Principals were delighted to receive the poster and will be proudly displaying it in their schools . The featured former students from St Patrick’s Primary School, Crossmaglen include • Orla Donaldson, • Deboral Gray, • Roisin McShane, • Stephanie Kirwan, • Thomas McEntee, • Ryan Conlon, • Ross Kernan The featured former students from St Patrick’s Primary School, Cullyhanna are • Lisa Reel • Moira Boyle • Aoibheann Moley • Aoife Burns • Fiona Murray The featured former students from Anamar PS are • Amy Goodman • Sinead Bellew • Paula McShane • Patrick McEntee • Kay Burns • Ann Marie Duffy The featured former students from St. Brigid’s PS, Glassdrummond are • Sinead Carragher • Ciaran McGuire The featured former students from St. Mary’s Primary School, Mullaghbawn are • Colleen Crilly • Aoidin Darcy • Denise Murphy • Padraig McKinley The featured former students from St. Oliver Plunkett’s Primary School Forkhill are • Joseph Murphy • John Keenan • The featured former student from Shelagh Primary School is • Mary Rooney Mrs. M Mc Shane v.p. Ananmar 4MR. PAT O HANLON , PRINCIPAL CULLYHANNA           MR. PETER GILDEA PRINCIPAL ,, ST.PATRICK’S CROSSMAGLEN         MR. PETER MC DONNELL , Principal st.mary’s, mullaghbawn         Mr.Ciaran Mackin, Principal St. Oliver Plunkett’s Forkhill         Mrs. Frances Donnelly, Principal St. Brigid’s Glassdrummond         Ms. Roisin Fee V.P. Shelagh National School

Posted by Admin on Monday 2nd Marchl 2009

CHARITY EVENTS AT ST.JOSEPH’S , CROSSMAGLEN

St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen has been embracing the Christmas spirit of giving through its efforts for  charitable causes lately. A jumble sale was organised, mainly by a year 11 pupil Packie Grant, along with Mrs. Geraldine Cunningham and Mr. Oliver Short. The staff, pupils, along with the whole community donated goods. This event was very well attended and raised a fantastic £550. This money was divided and £275 went to the Palliative Care Department in Newry Hospital and £275 to Macmillan Nurses. Ms. Anna Mc Keever the co-ordinator of Macmillan Nurses for the area received the cheque. Also run was a ‘Dare to wear Pink Day’. This was organised by Ms.Colleen Murtagh and was in support of Breast Cancer Campaign and the Hospice. This event was well supported with Martina Crilly kindly supplying the Ribbons. SUPERVALU also sold Ribbons on behalf of the school. An amazing £490 was raised through this event.  £245 pounds went to the Breast Campaign and £245 was donated to the Southern Area Hospice. This cheque was presented to a representative from the Hospice in school. St. Joseph’s will continue with its charitable causes in 2009. Ms. Colleen Murtagh and students from St. Joseph’s presenting the cheque to a representative from the Southern Area Hospice         Mrs. Geraldine Cunningham and some of the fundraisers presenting a cheque to Ms. Anna Mc Keever Coordinator of Macmillan Nurse for South Armagh Absent from photo is Packie Grant who was a main organiser of the event

Posted by Admin on Monday 12th January 2009

BUILDING AND DESIGNING AT ST.JOSEPH’S, CROSSMAGLEN

St. Joseph’s High School year 8 pupils participated in a STEM (Science, Technology, English and Maths) workshop recently. This was delivered by Sentinus in partnership with the Science Department at St. Joseph’s High School and St. Paul’s High School, Bessbrook. Pupils had a wonderful day, building an air powered car and their own paper rocket. These activities are designed to inspire and enthuse these pupils in the areas of Science and Technology. The activities also promote teamwork, communication and practical skills. The day was very well received by the pupils and enjoyed thoroughly. Pupils from ST. Joseph’s with Sixth form helpers from St. Paul’s with workshop facilitator         Pupils at work

Posted by Admin on Monday 12th January 2009

A-LEVEL PRESENTATION NIGHT AT ST. JOESPH’S CROSSMAGLEN

St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen was delighted to welcome back their former A-level students on Wednesday (17th) night to celebrate their phenomenal success in their examinations. The evening was a great success and extremely well attended by parents , pupils and teachers and  Governors. The guest speaker for the night was Ms Lynda Strain. Ms. Strain is a very successful local business woman from Mullaghbawn with two beauty salons ‘Secret Essence’ and ‘Slieve Gullion Springs’. Ms Strain is also a former pupil of St. Joseph’s High School. Mr.Scally, Principal, welcomed the pupils and congratulated the pupils on their excellent academic achievements. He also commended the work of the staff in particular and parent’s in aiding the pupils in their development into mature, educated young people. In particular he highlighted the encouragement and hard work of Mrs. Noreen Mc Mahon, Head of Sixth Form. Mr. Tom Mc Kay from the Board of Governors also spoke of his pride as a Governor of St. Joseph’s of their achievements. Guest speaker, Ms Strain spoke to the pupils about the value of hard work and ambition. She spoke of her personal journey to becoming the success she is today. She complimented her former school on the support she got while she was a pupils here and congratulated all pupils and staff on their results. She also encouraged the young people to “Work hard and aim high” in the future. This she said will reap rewards. The presentation of certificates was officiated by Mrs. Noreen Mc Mahon and presented by Ms. Lynda Strain. Mrs. Mc Mahon in her address said it was a pleasure to work with the pupils and that the prizes were very difficult to award as each pupil did well. All pupils were presented with certificates. The following received special awards :  Dermot Bellew  received the Biology award. Irene Fanthorpe received the award for Business Studies. , Health and Social care award went to Lorraine Mc Sorley, ICT award went to Shaneen Mc Govern. Religious Studies and the Sports award went to Kiera Mc Kinley. The Technology and Design Award went to  Caoimhe Mc Combe. Student of the year for 2008 was Aveen Donaldson. The evening was a great success and enjoyed by all . Student of the year Aveen Donaldson with  Mr. Scally and Ms. Lynda Strain         Kiera Mc Kinley with Mr. Scally and Ms. Lynda Strain         Debbie Mc Cann and Lorraine Mc Sorley with Mrs. Mc Mahon ,  Mr. Scally and Ms. Lynda Strain         Shauneen Mc Govern  and Irene Fanthorpe with Mrs. Mc Mahon ,  Mr. Scally and Ms. Lynda Strain         Caoimhe Mc Combe  and Dermot Bellew with Mrs. Mc Mahon ,  Mrs Delargy and Ms. Lynda Strain         A-level Students with Board of Governers

Posted by Admin onMonday 12th January 2009

Extended Schools Cluster showcase 2008

The South Armagh Extended Schools Cluster consists of the following schools: Anamar Primary, Clonalig Primary, St. Patrick’s Crossmaglen, St. Patrick’s Cullyhanna, St. Mary’s Mullaghbawn , St. Brigid’s , Glassdrummond, St. Oliver’s, Carrickrovaddy and the lead school St. Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen. The cluster co-ordinator is Mrs. Geraldine Cunningham, Head of Geography at St. Joseph’s High School. Pupils from these schools participated in Drama , Dance and Music workshops funded by the South Armagh Extended Schools Cluster, the results of which were showcased in an evening of entertainment last Tuesday 16th December. The week of October the 6th to 10th saw thirty five Primary school pupils participate in a fun and exciting initiative called ‘Rock Skool’. In conjunction with the fantastic tutors from ‘The Making Music Workshop’, pupils participated in a one week intensive course. This lasted daily for three hours after school. A band was formed and they in turn, composed, edited and recorded a song called ‘Pollution Stinks’. The main tutor was Mr. Matt Maginn. The week of November the 24th to 28th saw eighteen post-primary pupils from : Abbey Grammar, Nerwy, St. Patrick’s , Keady, St. Paul’s , Bessbrook, Our Lady’s , Newry, Our Lady’s, Castleblaney and St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen participate collaboratively in ‘Rock Skool’. Three bands were formed and each band wrote the lyrics, composed the music and recorded their track. The pupils themselves performed the music for this final recording. The pupils were aided by some very experienced musicians including Linley Hamilton, John Wilson and Nicky Scott.  Both ‘Rock Skool’ tracks were expertly edited by sound engineer Sam Davidson. Each pupil, from both primary and secondary, was presented with a professionally packaged c.d. of their song .  Saturday 6th and 13th December saw seventy primary school pupils participate in a six hour drama and dance workshop with the Drama company BEAM. The theme of the programme was protecting the environment. Pupils composed their own short pieces which they performed brilliantly on the night. The dance was accompanied by the track recorded by their peers called ‘Pollution Stinks’. The secondary pupils from St. Joseph’s High School produced a short play on the theme of ‘Bullying’. It was composed by Mrs. M Hamill , Drama Teacher at St. Joseph’s.  These pupils had three evening workshops with tutors from BEAM. They also performed this meaningful drama on the night. Mrs. Geraldine Cunningham, Extended Schools Coordinator said “It was amazing to see pupils after a long day at school, so enthused and enthralled by what they were doing. This event encapsulated the whole idea of extended schools and has certainly afforded these pupils an insight into the complexities of the music and drama industries.” The showcase was performed to a full hall and greatly appreciated by all. Secondary school drama group         Some of the primary school participants         Secondary school rock school participants

Posted by Admin on Monday 12th January 2009

ST. JOSEPH’S HIGH SCHOOL PUPIL DRAWS HER WAY TO SUCCESS

A picture drawn by Ciara Largey, a year 9 pupil at St. Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen was selected to be part of the Newry and Mourne District Council Environmental Calendar for 2009.  Ciara attended a prize giving event in the Sean Hollywood Arts Centre, Newry. She was delighted to receive the award which saw only thirteen people in the area have their picture selected. Ciara’s picture was chosen to represent the month of July , as it portrayed a sunny scene. Ms. Rooney the Head of Art said she was “Very proud of Ciara’s achievement and hopes Ciara will continue to develop her obvious artistic talent”. Ms. Jacqui Rooney (Head of Art) with Ciara Largey

Posted by Admin on Monday 1st December 2008

Ulster President of the Ladies Association Congratulates MS. Micheala Downey, All Star

The Ulster President of the Ladies Association, Mr Gerry Doherty (a teacher at St. Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen), congratulated Ms. Downey (also a teacher in St. Joseph’s High School) on her achievement in being awarded an All Star.. In his comment he said “I am particularly delighted to congratulate Michaela on this wonderful achievement. No player deserves this more as she has shown dedication and commitment over the years and this year she was Player of the Match in the three championship matches in which she played . She is an excellent role model for all young players and I wish her further success in the future.”

Posted by Admin on Monday 1st December 2008

ALL STAR AT ST.JOSEPH’S CROSSMAGLEN

St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen was delighted and extremely proud that Ms. Michaela Downey , P.E. teacher at the school , was awarded an All Star at a recent ceremony held in Dublin. Ms. Downey is the first Down Ladies player to be awarded such an accolade. She received the award from President Mary Mc Aleese and Ms. Geraldine Giles who is the outgoing president of Cumann Peil Gael na Mna. Ms. Downey joined the staff in September and is a great addition to a very successful P.E. department. Mr. Scally,  School Principal presented Ms. Downey with flowers on behalf of all the staff, in acknowledgement of this great achievement. He described her as a “Prolific goal scorer” and “Supremely talented”. He expressed his delight at having such talent on the staff. He wished her every success in her sporting career.

Posted by Admin onMonday 1st December 2008

ELECTION FEVER AT ST.JOSEPH’S HIGH SCHOOL , CROSSMAGLEN

While election fever reigned in America, it also hit St. Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen, where strong campaigns were run in order to secure a place on The Student’s Council. There are two representatives from each year group and they represent the student body as a whole. They meet once a month so that issues affecting school life can be addressed. The Student Council may deal with a range of issues such as school systems for example canteen provision, charity and social events, School Assemblies, Merit system and Anti Bullying Initiatives to name but a few. The successful candidates are as follows: Year 8 Carol Hughes Year 8 Callum Kieran Year 9 Joanne Loye Year 9 Patrick Hanratty Year 10 Colleen McCann Year 10 Bernard Garvey Year 11 Shannon Lyons Year 11 Padi Reel Year 12 Emma Mc Glade Year 12 Jimmy Carr Year 13 Aoife Connolly Year 13 Shauna Mc Parland Year 14 Sean Liddy Year 14 Teresa Judge               Student council member with Mrs. R. Burns (Teacher Co-ordinator) , Mrs. M. Mulligan (Vice Principal) and Mr. K Scally (Principal)

Posted by Admin on Monday 1st December 2008

New Head of Art at St. Joseph’s Crossmaglen

St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen, is delighted to announce the new permanent appointment of Ms. Jacqui Rooney as Head of Art. Ms. Rooney has been working at the school since 2006 and during her time has worked hard at raising the profile of Art within the school. This is something she continues to do with great enthusiasm. She is looking forward to developing this further and to bringing colour to the school.

Posted by Admin on Monday 1st December 2008

Prize Night 2008

Award Name of Student Music John Keenan / Annmarie Duffy Art and Design Stephanie Kirwan ICT Colleen Crilly Work Experience – Careers Joseph Murphy / Mary Rooney Business Studies Sinead Bellew French : Excellence Annmarie Duffy French : Endeavour Paula McShane Irish Aoife Burns Technology and Design Aoidin D’Arcy Geography Lisa Reel Mathematics Amy Goodman Mathematics – Maura Cumiskey Ross Kernan Life and Work Patrick McEntee Double Award Science Deborah Gray Single Award Science Joseph Murphy PE Peter Carragher Boys Sports Ciaran Maguire Girls Sports Fiona Murray Paddy Short Footballer of the Year Ryan Conlon Child Development – H Econ Denise Murphy Religion Roisin McShane English Moira Boyle Attendance Thomas McEntee Student of the Year Amy Goodman Silver Jubilee Award Sinead Bellew Archie McMullan Cup Deborah Gray / Lisa Reel / Sinead Carragher Cardinal O’Fiaich Award Orla Donaldson Maria Loye Award Stephanie Kirwan Barry McGuinness Award Kay Burns Declan Reel Padraig McKinley Bernard Crilly Cup Roisin McShane Frank McCreesh Cup John Keenan Endeavour Awards   12P1  Mrs Hearty Sinead Bellew 12P2  Mrs Burns Orla Donaldson 12P3  Mrs O’Hare Denise Murphy 12P4  Mr Smyth Aoibheann Moley 12P5  Mr Nugent Mary Rooney Principal Kevin Scally with Tom Mc Kay (chair of Governors) , Amy Goodwin (Student of the Year) and Cardinal Sean Brady         Individual prize winners with Cardinal Brady and Mr. Scally Principal, Mr. J Jones (vice principal) and Mrs. M Mulligan (vice principal)

Posted by Admin on Monday 1st December 2008

EXCELLENT EXAM RESULTS CELEBRATED AT CROSSMAGLEN SCHOOL PRIZEGIVING

St.Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen was delighted to have as Guest of Honour, His Eminence Cardinal Sean Brady, to their presentation of awards and records of achievement on Wednesday last. This event was an opportunity for the class of 2007/2008 to reunite and celebrate their wide range of achievements. The evening was a great success and extremely well attended not only by the pupils and parents but also other distinguished guests such as the Board of Governors, representatives from the SELB and CCMS. Also in attendance were many primary school principals. Mr.Scally, Principal of St.Joseph’s acknowledged his appreciation of such attendance. In his address Mr.Scally congratulated the pupils on their excellent academic achievements, achievements which have placed St.Joseph’s High School amongst the top group when compared with similar schools in Northern Ireland.He said “These are the second best results in the school’s history. I am thrilled with these results. We are maintaining  high standards in all aspects of school life. The results  are the product of sustained hard work and commitment” He also commended the work of the staff in particular and parent’s in aiding the pupils in their development into mature, educated young people. In particular he highlighted the encouragement and hard work of Mrs. Marie Millar , Head of Senior School and Mrs. Karen Ridley who was Year Head for this group since they stated in school. Those who came first in each subject were acknowledged. A range of other achievements were also celebrated such as sporting prowess, musical ability and attendance. Awards were given for endeavour and also to pupils who contributed in a positive way to school life. Each pupil was commended and presented with their own Record of Achievement. A special award was given to the student of the year, Amy Goodwin. Amy achieved a remarkable six ‘A*’ grades and four ‘A’ grades. Presentations were made by the Guest of Honour, Cardinal Brady, who spoke of his own experiences both as a pupil and teacher. In his address Cardinal Brady congratulated the Principal, staff and pupils on the remarkable examination results achieved in 2008.He encouraged all the pupils to follow the right path in life and to sustain a relationship with God. The night was extremely enjoyable and refreshments were served afterwards. Mr. John Jones, Mrs.Delargy and Ms. Chambers with the year 14 pupils

Posted by Admin on Monday 1st December 2008

St. Joseph’s Crossmaglen Emerge Gael Linn Quiz Champions

St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen emerged victorious from the annual Gael Linn quiz for the second year in a row. This event was held at Newry Sports Centre on Wednesday last. This event is very popular and there was an impressive turnout from schools in Newry and the surrounding schools in Down and Armagh. Given the high standard of the competition, it is a great accolade to the four Year 10 pupils who took first place. They were : Danielle Rowland, Michelle Cannon, Jacqueline Reel and Aoife Wills Mrs. Karen Ridley, their Irish teacher was delighted and very proud of the team. She feels the event, which was enjoyed by all pupils who participated is a great way of promoting the Irish language. Year 10 pupils who participated with Mr. Scally (PRINCIPAL) and Mrs. K Ridley (Head of Irish)           PUPILS IN PHOTO ARE:   Michelle Cannon, Aoife Wills, Danielle Rowland, Jaqueline Reel

Posted by Admin on Monday 1st December 2008

ST. JOSEPH’S HIGH SCHOOL WELCOMES YEAR 8 STUDENTS WITH SCHOOL MASS

On the 25TH September, St. Joseph’s High School welcomed its Year 8 in pupils and parents to join them for a mass to celebrate this milestone in their educational lives. There was an extraordinary turn out.  The mass was celebrated by Fr. Liam McKinney. After the mass, Principal Scally addressed the group and extended his welcome to the new pupils and school . Following this, pupils were treated to a slide show recounting their first few weeks in St. Joseph’s High School. Mrs. B. Hollywood Head of R.E. and Mrs. K Ridley Head of Year with some year 8 pupils.

Posted by Admin on Monday 1st December 2008

ST.JOSEPH’S HIGH SCHOOL , CROSSMAGLEN,CELEBRATES KEY STAGE THREE SUCCESS

On Monday 6th of October, St. Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen , celebrated the excellent achievement of its pupils in the Key Stage Three examinations. The school was delighted to welcome back Fr. Rory Coyle as Guest of Honour for the prize giving. Each pupil received certificates outlining their individual achievements. Awards were given to those pupils who achieved the highest level in Maths ,English and Science. Also received were awards for French and ICT. A special award was given to the Overall Winner of Junior Certifcate, this was awarded to Dearbhla O’Farrell and presented by Fr. Coyle. Awards for endeavour were also given out, these awards acknowledge those pupils who endeavoured to achieve their potential. The Prize giving which was organised by Mr. Oliver Short ,Head of Junior School, was a great success and a very enjoyable experience for all who participated. Award Winners : Endeavour Awards :   Niamh Burns Laura McShane Dearbhla O’Farrell Aine Nolan Conor Walsh Nicola Gray Lisa McGahon Sionan Murphy Nicole Stuttard Ryan Connolly David Duffy Brenda English Shannon Lyons Laura Judge Clinton McKeever Fergal O’Neill Gary McShane Daniel O’Neill Stephen McCoy Kevin Tinnelly Vilius Vaiciulis Declan Judge Anne Martin Sean McConville Patrick Grant KEY STAGE THREE WINNERS English  Anna Mc Creesh Maths Michelle Reel Science Laura Mc Shane

Posted by Admin on Monday 1st December 2008

ST. JOSEPH’S RUNNING SUCCESSFUL EXTENDED SCHOOL PROGRAMME FOR A THIRD YEAR

The Extended Schools Programme is at the core of the Children and Young People Funding package which aims to provide a range of services and activities to support breakfast clubs, after school study support as well as youth, sport and leisure activities. St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen has a comprehensive range of activities, covering the five main themes outlined in the programme : Being Healthy, Enjoying Learning and Achieving, Living in Safety and with Stability, Experiencing Economic and Environmental Well Being and Contributing Positively to the Community and Society. The clubs being offered are: Dance Aerobics Circuit Training Art club Science Club Music Drama Technology and Design Senior and Junior Homework Club Nail Art Also funded by the initiative are after school classes in G.C.S.E Maths, English, French and Junior Technology. In keeping with the aim of supporting pupils, also funded by the initiative is one of the School Councillors and the Mentoring Programme run by Mr. Pat Mc Guigan. Before these clubs each pupil is provided with the opportunity of purchasing a healthy snack which is subsidised by the Extended School Programme. As evidenced above the Extended School Programme offers great activities and variety for the pupils. While this focuses on the pupils in St. Joseph’s High School, other clubs are provided for the whole community through the Extended Schools Cluster Group.

Posted by Admin on Monday 1st December 2008

Year 11 and 12 Merit Awards

Years 11 and 12 pupils were presented with Gold and Silver certificates in an award ceremony recently. The merit award scheme is designed to acknowledge and reward good behaviour. All pupils are to be congratulated on their achievement. Year 12 Silver certificate         Silver certificate         Gold certificate         Gold certificate           Year 11 Silver Merit Awards         Silver Merit Awards         Silver Merit Awards Gold Merit Awards Gold Merit Awards

Posted by Admin on Monday 1st December 2008

St. Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen Elects Senior Prefects

St. Joseph’s High School has elected twenty two Senior Prefects from Years 12-14. They are led by the Head Boy Sean Liddy, , Head Girl Sinead Mc Gahon, Deputy Head Boy  Seamus Kelly and Deputy Head Girl Rosemary Loye. Throughout the coming school year Senior Prefects will be given real opportunities to contribute fully in a very visible and positive way to the enhancement of their school community. Their main responsibility is to lead by example, to be good role models for younger students; they will also take on a supervision role at break and lunchtimes, speak at school events and assist at school functions. The Year 12 Senior Prefects are in charge of organising the annual school formal. The school wishes them success in this responsible role. Back row: Sarah Finnegan, Sinead Bellew, Stephanie Kirwan, Shane Canning, Aidan Mc Verry, Sean Mc Ardle , Keith Canning, Annemarie Duffy and Paula Mc Shane Middle Row :Mr. K Scally Principal, Adam Walsh, Clare Murray, Megan Sheridan, Theresa Judge, Mary Farrelly, Conor Moley and Mrs. M Millar (Head of Senior School) Front Row : Emma Burns, Rosemary Loye, Sinead Mc Gahon, Sean Liddy, Seamus Kelly , Laura Largey and Edel MC Nulty

Posted by Admin on Monday 22 September 2008

St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen Present Endeavour Awards

St. Joseph’s High school presented endeavour awards to its year 9 and 10 pupils this week. Endeavour awards are there to acknowledge the achievement of pupils across all academic ability ranges. Points are awarded to pupils according to the place they achieve in each subject.  The winners were as follows: Year 10 Overall winners.  Back row Mr. John Jones (Vice Principal) Emma McShane, Jordan Hearty, Eoghan Harvey, Shannon Booth and Mr. Oliver Short (Head of Junior School). Front row  Lisa Mulligan,Mrs. Bronagh Hollywood (Head of Year ) , Mr Kevin Scally (Principal) Orlagh Flynn     Endeavour award winners           Endeavour award winners         Endeavour award winners         Silver certificate winners         Gold certificate winners           Year 9 Silver certificate winners         Gold Winners OVERALL winners Ryan Carville, Zoe Mc Shane , Amy O Connor and Francine Loughran with Mr. John Jones Vice Principal and Mr Short (Head of Junior School) absent from photo is Seana Mullholland       Mr.Short acknowledged the excellent achievements of all the students and paid tribute to the excellent work done by the teachers and classroom assistants. Thankswas also given to the secretarial staff in particular Mrs.Majella Hatzer who ensured the ceremony ran smoothly.

Posted by Admin on Monday 22 September 2008

St. Joseph’s Welcomes Mentor

St. Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen  is delighted to welcome back Mr. Pat Mc Guigan to the school. Mr. Mc Guigan will be acting as Mentor to some year 12 pupils in an effort to ensure these pupils realise their full potential at GCSE. The Mentoring Programme was piloted last year and  Mr. Mc Guigan’s support  helped many pupils to achieve excellent results.   Mr.Mc Guigan was formally a member of the Senior Management team in St. Brigids High School Armagh and therefore has lots of experience of working with young people in schools.  St. Joseph’s is delighted to be running the Mentoring Programme again this year. The Principal, Mr Scally, said he was delighted with the results of the Programme. “It is one of a number of ways that we are using to help pupils achieve good results in public examinations”

Posted by Admin onMonday 22 September 2008

St. Joseph’s Welcomes Record Number of  Lower Sixth Intake

This year thirty students have returned to study A level’s at St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen. This is a record number since the school began offering A level’s. This may be due to the ongoing success of the A level students at St. Joseph’s, where almost all candidates this year achieved their first choice of university. Also for the first time, Lower Sixth Students will be commencing a COPE programme that is a Certificate of Personal Effectiveness. This will be studied in addition to their chosen A levels and will provide essential skills for University and valuable UCAS points. Lower Sixth with Mrs.N Mc Mahon (Head of Sixth Form) and Mr. K Scally (Principal)

Posted by Admin on Monday 22 September 2008

ST. JOSEPH’S HIGH SCHOOL BIDS FARWELL TO FR. RORY COYLE

On Wednesday last (27TH) Fr. Rory Coyle was presented with a leaving gift from the staff at St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen. Fr. Rory has been chaplain to the school for the last two years and was a welcome and often visitor to the school .Fr. Rory was extremely popular with the whole school community and will be greatly missed. Principal Mr. Kevin Scally said,”Fr. Rory was a great addition to the school and we appreciate all his participation in school events. We wish him all the best in his move to Armagh”. Fr. Rory with Mr. Kevin Scally (Principal)           Fr. Rory with the R.E. Department (Mrs. B. Traynor, Mr. John Jones and Mrs. B Hollywood ) with whom he worked very closely.

Posted by Admin on Monday 22 September 2008

New Teachers appointed to St Josephs High School, Crossmaglen

St.Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen has appointed five new teachers across various curriculum areas. Ms Ciara McCoy. from Jonesborough, has appointed to teach Irish and General Subjects. She is a graduate of Queens University and last year she taught Irish in St Brigid’s High School. Ms McCoy is the Irish Language Officer of Dromintee GAC. Miss Sinead McCusker, from Dromore, Co. Tyrone will be teaching technology during the maternity absence of Mrs Mullan. Ms Michaela Downey from Newry will be teaching PE during the career break of Ms A. McCarron. Ms Downey is Captain of the Down Ladies Football team. Miss Michaela McKeever from Cullyhanna will be teaching General Subjects and has previously taught in the school. Ms Ann Marie Begley, from Creggan will be teaching Business Studies. She has also previously taught in St Joseph’s High School. The school would like to welcome these new colleagues. Back Row Mrs. Ann- Marie Begley , Ms. Ciara Mc Coy , Ms. Michaela Mc Keever Front Row Ms. Micheala  Downey  , Mr. Kevin Scally ( Principal) , Ms. Sinead Mc Cusker

Posted by Admin on Monday 22 September 2008

Students at St Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen are celebrating

Students at St Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen are celebrating the fruits of their hard work with excellent GCSE examination results. For the third year in a row the Crossmaglen School scored above the Northern Ireland average for the percentage who achieved five or more A* to C passes. Principal Kevin Scally said “I am delighted that the GCSE results in the school mean that we consistently outperform the majority of  other schools in the North of Ireland.This is just reward for our students and their teachers, who along with their parents should feel proud of their achievements.” “These are outstanding results and an impressive demonstration of how we continue to maintain high standards in all aspects of school life” The Principal said, “This is another good year for us. I commend all of the students for their dedicated application to study. I also express my gratitude to the enthusiastic and dedicated teachers. They have helped our students perform so successfully again this year” Amy Goodwin , Sinead Bellew, Denise Murphy , Orla Grant  with Mr, Kevin Scally  (Principal)         Sean Mc Keown, Yvonne Murkin, Aideen D’Arcy with Mr Scally and Mrs. Maire Mulligan (Vice Principal)         Danielle Doherty, Nicola Hatzer, Laura Norton, Naoise Cumiskey with Mr. Scally , Mrs Mulligan (V.P.)Jo hn Jones (Vice Principal)         Mrs Marie Millar (Head of Senior School) with Roisin Mc Shanr, Lauren Booth, Orla Donaldson Mandy Reel, Stephanie Kirwan and Mr. Scally         Fr. Rory  (School Chaplain) with Peter Carragher, Ciaran Mc Guire, Gary Rowland , Eavan Moley and Mr. Scally

Posted by Admin on Monday 22 September 2008

EXCELLENT A LEVEL RESULTS CELEBRATED AT ST JOSEPH’S

On Thursday 14th August, staff and students at St.Joseph’s Crossmaglen, were delighted as they celebrated another year of excellent A Level Results. The Principal, Mr Kevin Scally said that 81% had gained 3 ‘C’ grades or better.  St Joseph’s students perform well above the average for Northern Ireland Grammar Schools. According to Department of Education figures, the Grammar school average across Northern Ireland is 74%. St. Joseph’s students have consistently achieved above the Northern Ireland Grammar School average ,since A levels were introduced 5 years ago . “Although we compare ourselves with Grammar Schools, it is important to remember that we are a non-selective school and this is an important part of our ethos” said Mr Scally The Principal went on   “These are outstanding results. It is a fitting reward for the students and their teachers. Our students have worked extraordinarily hard to achieve this success. We are thrilled with these results. These are an impressive demonstration of how we continue to maintain high standards in all aspects of school life. They are the product of sustained hard work and commitment. An enormous effort has been made by everyone and it has paid off.I want to express my gratitude and appreciation to the teachers, who have helped our students perform to such a high standard. The vast majority of our A level students will gain entrance to their first choice University.” Irene Fanthorpe and Deirdre Rooney who received excellent A level results  with Mr.Scally (Principal) and Mrs. Delargy         Edel English , Debbie Mc Cann , Stephanie Grey and Ciara Murphy who all received high A level results with MRS. Mc Mahon (Head of Sixth Form ) and MR Scally (Principal)       Sean Mc Geeney being congratulated by Mr. Scally on his A level results         Edel Cannon and Orla Loye with Mrs. Millar (Head of Senior School) who received their AS results         Maeve Conlon, Laura Crilly , Michelle Keenan  who received excellent A level results with Mrs Mulligan (Vice Principal)         Sinead Hanratty, Lauren Morgan and Caoimhe MC Combe who were delighted with their results with Mrs. Mc Mahon (Head of Sixth form and Mr. Jones(Vice Principal)

Posted by Admin on Monday 22 September 2008

YEAR 11 Pupils from St. Joseph’s , Crossmaglen Visit Stormont

The Citizenship Department at St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen recently took their Year 11 pupils to the Northern Ireland Assembly in Stormont. Head of Department, Mrs Burns, has made this an annual trip for all year 11 pupils as the topic of ‘Democracy and Local Government’ is part of GCSE Life & Work. The pupils were met by the Assembly’s Education Officer and were given a tour of the building as well as having the opportunity to take part in mock elections. They were also met by local MLA’s who explained their role in the Assembly as elected representatives. This trip was extremely interesting and enjoyed by the pupils.

Posted by Admin on Monday 11th August 2008

Street Collection Raises funds for Children in Ethiopia

Mr. Gary Mc Loughlin , a teacher at St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen recently organised a street collection in Newry for the Missionaries of Charity in Africa. A fantastic total of £1100 was raised and will be used for the education of poor children in Ethiopia. Mr. Mc Loughlin is delighted with the money raised and wishes to sincerely thank all who helped on the day and also those who generously contributed to the collection. Mr Mc Loughlin with Sionan Murphy and Lisa MC Gahon year 10 pupils who helped with the collection

Posted by Admin on Monday 11th August 2008

St Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen Gets Employability Award

At a recent ceremony held in the Harbour Office in Belfast, St Joseph’s High School was presented with an award for being an Employability compliant school. This prestigious award is granted to schools, who deliver the Employability programme as part of the Revised Curriculum. Picture are L-R Mr Ken Belshaw (Head of Grafton Recruiting), Mrs M.Mulligan (V.P St Joseph’s), Mr G. Doherty(Head of Careers , St Joseph’s) and Mr Neil Anderson ( Acting Chief Executive of CCEA)

Posted by Admin on Monday 11th August 2008

Paris Trip for Crossmaglen Pupils

It certainly turned out to be a 'bon voyage' for third year pupils from St Joseph's High School, Crossmaglen who have just returned from a 'once in a life time trip' to Paris. Teachers Mr Shields, Mrs McMahon, Mr Mulholland, Miss Rooney and Mrs Burns accompanied the 43 pupils on their 5 day trip where pupils visited all the main sights (Louvre Museum - home of the Mona Lisa - Notre Dame, Eiffel Tower, Arc de Triomphe & Champs Elysees). They also spent a day in Eurodisney, a day in Universal Studios and got a tour of the famous Stade de France. On their last day they managed to squeeze in some shopping in the out of town shopping complex Val d'Europe. The group arrived home exhausted but exhilirated after a unique and very worthwhile experience. pupils inside the 80,000 capacity Stade de France           At the entrance to Eurodisney

Posted by Admin on Monday 11th August 2008

St. Joseph’s Pupils Participate in Junior Mathematical Challenge

Recently First and Second year students took part in The Junior Mathematical Challenge. The pupils performed very well with some achieving certificates. Recipients of Bronze Certificates were: Calvin Beattie, Mark Hanratty , Sinead Hughes, Aoife Mc Eleavy, Aoife Wills (year 9 ) Recipient of a  Silver Certificate was Ciaran Walsh (year 8) Recipients of Gold Certificates were : Amy O’Connor, Aaron Burns, Peter Og Mc Donnell , Miceal Carragher and Hannah Morgan who also achieved the  best in school result. Certificate winners from the Junior Maths Challenge         Hannah Morgan who achieved a Gold certificate and Best in School

Posted by Admin on Monday 11th August 2008

Crossmaglen Rangers Support St.Joseph’s PupilsTrips to the Gaeltacht

Gary Reel and Shauna Rogers both received a cheque from Mr Short on behalf of Crossmaglen Rangers. This was donated to help with their funding as they attend the Gaeltacht this summer. Mrs Ridley in the Irish Department wants to say a big Go raibh maith agaibh to Crossmaglen Rangers for their generous donation. Gary Reel receiving cheque from Mr. Ollie Short, on behalf of Crossmaglen Rangers with Mrs. Karen Ridley (Head of Irish Department) Absent from Photo Shauna Rogers

Posted by Admin on Monday 11th August 2008

CHARITY WORK AT ST. JOSEPH’S, CROSSMAGLEN

St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen has had a very busy year with regards to charity work. At Halloween one hundred and eighty five pupils travelled to Belfast for an evening of great excitement at Planet Fun. This trip raised £830 pounds for the local Spina Bifida and Hydrocephalus society. At Christmas over one hundred and thirty shoeboxes were filled with gifts for boys and girls of the pupils’ ages in Eastern Europe. These were collected by Lorraine Wilson from the charity Samaritan’s purse which organises the transportation of the boxes. On the 14th March, one hundred and fifteen pupils completed a sponsored walk at Gosford Forest Park for Action MS. A fantastic total of £2051 was raised for the charity. Also during the season of Lent Trocaire boxes were placed in each classroom. In addition to this a cake sale was organised by the first years.  Together these events raised £771 . Paul Cain from Trocaire came to receive the cheque. As part of an on going project St.Joseph’s High School sponsors two children from Ethiopia. Girum Belete a fourteen year old orphan boy and Libanouze Sirna Desta is a 17 year girl from a very poor family. Each student at St.Joseph’s is asked to give one pound towards the sponsorship program. This will clothe, feed and educate these children for a year. Last summer a Mr. Mc Loughlin, a teacher at St.Joseph’s , spent four weeks in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia doing voluntary work for The Missionaries of Charity.(Mother Teresa’s Order) On Friday 23rd May, Mr Mc Loughlin has organised a street collection in Newry to raise money for The Missionaries of Charity. The collection will take place between 3pm and 9pm. should anyone like to help with the collection or donate to the charity, please contact Mr.Mc Loughlin at St.Joseph’s High School on ph 30861240. Cystic Fibrosis  Mr.Mc Loughlin with Cormac Burns (this one will be forwarded sepertately)         Paul Cain with Mr. Mc Loughlin and first year students.

Posted by Admin on Monday 11th August 2008

Art exhibition and technology and design exhibitions

Amy Goodman with some of her excellent GCSE Art work                   Some year 11 pupils enjoy the GCSE art DISPLAY           Year 10 pupils with some very creative GCSE art work         Mrs Mullen with Lauren Booth and Orla Donaldson year 12 pupils and their hurley/camoige stick and ball stand         Some year 10’s admire GCSE technology and design work         Year 9 pupils viewing A level work

Posted by Admin on Monday 11th August 2008

Extended Schools Initiative Showcase Evening  at St. Joseph’s

Wednesday 23rd April saw the fruits of a joint initiative between making music workshop and BEAM, as part of the extended schools programme. The theme of community and inclusion was chosen. This fitted well as it is  what extended schools is about, where the school is the central part of the community, facilitating not only young peoples education but also a facility to be used by parents, adults , primary schools. Five primary school pupils (P.7) from each school (in total 25 children) in the cluster worked in Rock school for one week. They worked on composing the music, writing the lyrics, recording a song. They spent from 3:30 -6:00 pm each evening. They were ably assisted by tutors from The Making Music workshop, including John Wilson and Nicky Scott.  The final edited version was played to the audience on Wednesday evening. Each pupil received a final edited copy of their song on CD, presented by John Wilson. The song was accompanied by a dance routine performed by the primary school drama group. Pupils from the extended schools drama club in St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen showcased a drama based on the theme of inclusivity. The Primary school also showcased their piece on inclusivity, focusing in particular on a school situation. Both groups spent 6 hours working with the tutors, Jim Ryan and John Mc Keown from BEAM. During this time they, with the tutors help, devised their own short piece which they performed on the night. A remarkable achievement that was well received by the audience. To date extended schools in St. Joseph’s have had flower arranging, art classes , English as additional language classes  , as well as activities for the young people in school, proving that it is central to the community.

Posted by Admin on Monday 11th August 2008

Orienteering Success For St. Joseph’s, Crossmaglen

The Year 11 GCSE class from St. Joseph’s H.S., Crossmaglen “mapped” their route to success recently at an Inter Schools Orienteering festival held in Drum Manor Forest in Cookstown. Organised specifically for GCSE pupils studying orienteering as part of the CCEA curriculum, schools from all areas of Northern Ireland took part. There were three different categories to enter and the pupils from St. Joseph’s were well represented in each category. The medal winners from St. Joseph’s H.S., Crossmaglen in their respective categories were:             Aoife McArdle – 1st                                     and       Orla Casey – 2nd                                     Well done to the girls and to all who took part and we look forward to the next orienteering competition held in Armagh in May. Photo: Pictured are Year 11 pupils Aoife McArdle  and Orla Casey  who finished 1st and 2nd respectively at the GCSE NI Orienteering competition held recently in Drum Manor, Cookstown.

Posted by Admin on Monday 11th August 2008

P6  PUPILS ENJOY TASTE OF SECONDARY SCHOOL AT ST. JOSEPH’S CROSSMAGLEN

Friday last, 4th April saw St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen open its doors to P.6 pupils from the area. This innovative idea is an opportunity for students to get a taste of secondary school.  Pupils had the opportunity to experience exciting lessons in Technology and Design, Science, Home Economics and P.E. They were expertly guided and helped during these lesson by KS3 pupils from St. Joseph’s .The day was extremely successful and enjoyed by all. Schools that attended were: St. Oliver’s , Carrickovaddy. Anamar St. Brigid’s ,  Glassdrummond St. Mary’s ,Mullaghbawn St. Oliver Plunkett, Forkhill St. Patrick’s ,Crossmaglen Clonalig Primary School St. Patrick’s ,Cullyhanna Shelagh National School  Clonalig enjoying T and D                                   007 Mullaghbawn students in Science Cullyhanna students in P.E.                                 Mullaghbawn students in IT Crossmaglen students making cakes in H.E.

Posted by Admin on Monday 5th May 2008

WORLD BOOK DAY

St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen , celebrated ‘World Book Day’, by running a competition to design a new cover for a book. The entries to the competition were of a very high standard and the decision for the judges was difficult. The winners of joint first prize were: Orla O’Hanlon and Daniel Mc Donnell (year 8), runners up were: Ciara Largey, Micheal Rooney and Claire Mackin. A raffle also took place to celebrate the day and Sebastian Evans (year 9) was the lucky recipient of a copy of ‘The Guinness Book of Records’. Both events were run by Mrs. Mc Namee the School Librarian. Back row Ciara Largey, Claire Mackin and Orla O’Hanlon ( Joint first prize winner) Front Row Micheal Rooney and Daniel Mc Donnell (Joint first prize winner)         Sebastian Evans (year 9 ) with Guinness Book of Records

Posted by Admin onMonday 5th May 2008

St. Joseph’s Crossmaglen Students take part in Rural Abode Project

Twenty students from St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen recently participated in The Rural Abode Project. This was organised by the Newry and Mourne Local Action Group with co-ordinators Martin Reel and Mairead Hearty. This project aims to promote a positive future for farm families by providing information, training and advice on rural issues. It also seeks  to enhance better communication and cooperation within the farming community. The students took part in a series of workshops and met other ‘rural’ students from different schools. The day focused on exploring the issues and challenges facing those who live in rural areas. The students were accompanied by Mrs Burns (Head of Citizenship). They day was very engaging for the pupils. Mrs. Burns (Head of Citizenship) with pupils who participated in Rural Abode Project

Posted by Admin on Monday 5th May 2008

‘Blood Brothers ‘Workshop in St.Joseph’s Crossmaglen

English Literature pupils from St. Joseph’s High School , Crossmaglen , participated in a Musical Theatre Workshop based on ‘Blood Brothers’. The pupils worked on specific dramatic scenes and explored the play with the professional support of Director Alison Goldie and Music Director Shane Mc Vicker from Youth Music Theatre UK. The project was partly funded by Creative Youth Partnerships. The day was a great success and ended with an excellent performance  by the pupils. Pictured: Pupils with Director Alison Goldie and Musical Director Shane Mc Vicker

Posted by Admin on Monday 5th May 2008

SOUTH ARMAGH SINGS IN ST. JOSEPH’S HIGH SCHOOL, CROSSMAGLEN

The South Armagh Extended Schools cluster recently organised a night of great entertainment in St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen. The event was run in aid of Cystic Fibrosis and ably compared by Mr. Joe Darragh. . The South Armagh Singers provided excellent entertainment putting on a fabulous show of song and dance. The concert was a great success raising £ 800 for the charity. The event was organised by Mrs. Geraldine Cunningham co-ordinator of the cluster group and special thanks must be made to the members of the South Armagh Singers for giving of their time and talent. l-r  Micheal Moley,Leo Quinn, Maria Kelly, Roisin Mc Guiness, Mary Daly, Cara Quinn, Larry Crilly, Liam Hoey,Pauline Smith, Aisling Conlon and Dearbhla Mc Coy

Posted by Admin on Monday 5th May 2008

St.Joseph’s hosts ‘Stars in Yer Eyes’

This year,  St.Joesph’s Secondary School, Crossmaglen, under the guidance of Mrs. Marie Griffin (Head of Music) took part in the River rock ‘Stars in yer eyes’ competition. This is Ireland’s leading talent competition for schools. The response in St.Joseph’s was great with eleven very talented acts taking part. The competition took place on Tuesday evening 11th December. The acts, who had been rehearsing diligently, got the chance to perform in front of a packed school hall. Teachers, pupils and parents all came to see the show.  All acts performed brilliantly and the competition was fierce. The judges had a very difficult task in selecting the three acts to go on to the regional finals. However, a decision was made and the winning acts were: 1st place      Gary Keenan as Garth Brooks               2nd place    Shannon Murphy,   Lisa Mc Gahon, Anna Mc Creesh,  Laura Mc Shane as the Spice Girls       3rd place       Coleen Mc Mahon, Natasha Hughes, Kerry O’ Callaghan, Tara O’ Callaghan as S Club Juniors.               Mrs. Griffin said she would like to commend all the acts for their hard work and dedication shown. The eleven acts were: 1.  Emma Fallon                                 Avril Lavine 2.  Jessica Mc Quillan      Christine  Greville                        Destiny’s Child      Sabrina Mc Quillan 3.  Gary Keenan                                Gareth Brooks 4.   Rebecca Russell                          Evanescense 5.   Shona Daly                                  Kim Wild 6.   Michelle Reel                              Celine  Dion 7.   Aoife Burns       Niamh Burns                               The Supremes       Eva Conlon 8.   Coleen Mc Cann       Natasha Hughes       Kerri  O’ Callaghan                     S Club Juniors      Tara O’ Callaghan 9.   Jade Fitzpatrick                            Carrie Underwood 10.  Shannon Murphy        Laura Mc Shane                          The Spice Girls        Anna McCreesh        Lisa Mc Gahon 11.  Lauren Grant                                Celine  Dion

Posted by Admin on Monday 10th March 2008

6TH FORMERS IN ST. JOSEPH’S ACTIVE THROUGHOUT THE SCHOOL

Sixth form students from St. Joseph’s, Crossmaglen are not only working hard, studying for AS and A levels , they are also very active throughout the school. A number of students are involved in a mentoring programme with pupils lower down in the school. This has proved very successful and is a great pastoral support within the school. On the academic side a number of students have been involved in a reading partnership programme whereby pupils get the chance to read one to one with their partner. This has been run in conjunction with the English department and Mrs. Mc Namee, the school librarian and has clearly enhanced the pupils reading skills. On a more administrative level, some are involved in the day to day running of the school , completing tasks such as distributing registers and dinner tickets. Also undertaken by the sixth form, was a charity event in aid of The Alzheimer’s Society.  Pupils from St. Joseph’s went to Super Valu in Crossmaglen, where they packed bags for customers in an effort to raise money. A remarkable nine hundred was raised. Mrs. Noreen Mc Mahon , Head of Sixth Form said “The sixth form students are role models for our younger students.  Those that do not have a formal role within school, still unselfishly give of their time and experience to assist students and teachers alike.  They have enhanced the school and continue to do soon a daily basis.” L-R Irene Fainthorpe, Edel English, Aine Cumiskey, Kiera Mc Kinley , Aveen Donaldson, Laura Crilly, John Toner, Stephanie Gray, Michelle Mc Entee, Debbie Mc Gee       l-r Shauneen Mc Govern, Michelle Mc Entee, Laura Crilly, Edel English, Mrs. Mc Namee(School Librarian),    Irene Fainthorpe, Stephanie Gray, Debbie Mc Cann and Kiera Mc Kinley       Pupils with Mrs. Delargy who coordinated the bag packing event and Mrs. Frances Mc Mahon from the Alzheimer’s Society

Posted by Admin on Monday 10th March 2008

St Brigid's Crosses

Ryan Watters, Sean Og Mc Shane, Ryan Carville , Sean Mc Evoy and Mrs. Ridley (HOD Irish department)         Mrs Ridley, Micheal Connolly, Micheal Bellew, Joe Robb, Shannon Liddy and Michelle Hamill           Showing their finished products are Micheal Bellew, Seana Mc Evoy and Shannon Liddy

Posted by Admin onMonday 10th March 2008

Romance is in the air in St, Joseph’s School , Crossmaglen

Romance was certainly in the air, on Valentine’s Day in St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen. The school was awash with roses on Thursday last, as the school ran its annual charity rose sale. The sale of roses and their distribution was organised by Mrs. Karen Ridley and Mrs. Majella Hatzer with the wonderful assistance of Year 14 students. Over nine hundred roses were sold, raising more than seven hundred pounds which will be donated to a local charity. This event which has been running now for three years was a great success, proving that romance is not dead rather it is alive and kicking in St. Joseph’s School, Crossmaglen. Mrs. Karen Ridley with the students who helped run the event         Mrs. Karen Ridley and Mrs. Majella Hatzer who coordinated the event

Posted by Admin onMonday 10th March 2008

St. Josephs High School Crossmaglen hold very successful Open Night

Thursday evening last , St. Joseph’s school, Crossmaglen held its open night. The attendance was excellent with one of the largest crowds seen arriving in recent years. Prospective pupils and parents were treated to a musical delights from a group comprised of both staff and pupils from St.Joseph’s. This was followed by some very effective mime performed by some of the drama students at the school. Mr. Scally (principal) addressed the hall, and clearly outlined what St.Joseph’s has to offer not only academically but also holistically. He highlighted the school’s great strides in its academic result and also highlighted achievements in sport and the many trips that occur in the school year. Also identified were the many extra –curricular activities that the school has the offer. Prospective parents and pupils were ably guided around the school and were afforded the opportunity to experience the school first hand. A competition was run for visiting pupils and this was won by Shane Conlon who received a voucher kindly sponsored by Short’s Sports Crossmaglen. The event was a great success. Drama group who performed a mime on the night with Mrs. Hamill Some of the music group that entertained the prospective parent and pupils Mme .Burns and some of the French student’s offer visitors a taste of France Finding out about volcanoes in the Geography department   Looking under the microscope with MR. Nugent in the Science department In the prayer room with Mrs Hollywood-R.E. dept. Some pupils enjoy the science department dissecting a rat in the biology display in the Science Department the Art department shows off its talents Solving some shape puzzles in the Maths department Parents and pupils enjoying smoothies made in the Home Economics department Some culinary delights being made in the Home Economics Department Some Technology and Design Students show their work Trying a fitness test in the P.E. Dept. with Mr. Reel Some boys examine some sketches in the Art Department In the library with Mrs. Mc Namee Some pupils enjoy a good read with Mrs.Hamill and Mrs Carleton from the English Department Mrs MC Donnell from the I.C.T Dept. and pupils enjoying the IC.T suite Enjoying open night in the Geography room Mrs. Mulligan (Vice Principal) presents the winner of the competition Shane Conlon from St. Patrick’s Primary School with the voucher kindly sponsored by Short’s Sports , Crossmaglen

Posted by Admin on Monday 11th February 2008

FAMOUS STORYTELLER VISITS ST.JOESPH’S HIGH SCHOOL, CROSSMAGLEN

St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen was delighted to welcome famous storyteller, Mr. Niall De Burca to school on Wednesday 9th January. Niall de Búrca is one of Ireland’s finest traditional storytellers. He was raised in Galway and displayed a talent for narrative from a young age. He has featured in theatre, radio and at many festivals including Féile Earraai, the CS Lewis Festival, and The National Children's Book Festival. Niall enthralled the pupils from St.Joseph’s with his excellent delivery of engaging stories. The diversity of his stories enabled him to reach all pupils from year 8 through to 10. His visit, arranged through the librarian Mrs. M. Mc Namee and the English department has certainly enthused the pupils and raised awareness of the value of the oral tradition in our culture. Both pupils and staff enjoyed his visit immensely and are eagerly looking forward to his return to the school.

Posted by Admin on Monday 10th March 2008

Young Enterprise work with Year 10 Students

Year ten students at St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen , were given the opportunity to develop their entrepreneurial skills when Young Enterprise visited the school to deliver their project business seminar. During an intensive day, the students got a chance to reflect on business concepts through a series of activities and games. The day culminated with pupils developing a product out of limited resources. This was very challenging but pupils rose to this challenge by developing interesting  products using the skills they had learned. The day was a great success.

Posted by Admin on Monday 10th March 2008

A-LEVEL PRESENTATION NIGHT AT ST. JOESPH’S CROSSMAGLEN

St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen was delighted to welcome back their former A-level students on Wednesday (19th) night to celebrate their phenomenal success in their examinations.   The evening was a great success and extremely well attended not only by parents , pupils and teachers but also by the Governors and a representative of the Newry and Mourne district council .The guest speaker for the night was Mr. Colum Clarke. Mr. Clarke formally taught at St.Joseph’s and held the post of Head of Junior School before leaving for St.Mark’s School, Warrenpoint. There he moved from Vice –Principal to the role of Principal. Mr.Scally Principal, welcomed the pupils and congratulated the pupils on their excellent academic achievements, achievements which have placed St.Joseph’s High School amongst the top group when compared with similar schools in Northern Ireland.  He also commended the work of the staff in particular and parent’s in aiding the pupils in their development into mature, educated young people. In particular he highlighted the encouragement and hard work of Mrs. Noreen Mc Mahon, Head of Sixth Form. Mr. Pius Tierney from the Board of Governors also spoke of his pride as a Governor of St. Joseph’s of their achievements. Guest speaker, Mr.Colum Clarke spoke to the pupils about the value of education. He implored them to use this opportunity well. He commended them on their high achievements. He also spoke passionately about how the success of these pupils is  a reminder that non-selective schools such as St. Joseph’s are delivering high quality education and achieving excellent results.  He encouraged them to take pride in their achievements and to continue to work hard to achieve their dreams. The presentation of certificates was officiated by Mrs. M. Mulligan and Mrs. Noreen Mc Mahon. Mrs. Mc Mahon in her address said it was a pleasure to work with the pupils and that the prizes were very difficult to award as each pupil did well. All pupils were presented with certificates. The following received special awards : Maria MC Namee received the Biology award. Louise Watters recieived the award for Business Studies. Catherine Keenan received the award for Chemistry (this is sponsored by Mc Conville’s Chemist ,Crossmaglen) , Health and Social care award went to Sandra Conlon, ICT award went to Charlene Mc Shane, Religious Studies to Ciara Rushe and the Sports award which was presented by Mr. Malcom Robertson from Newry and Mourne District council. The evening was a great success. MR SCALLY, CATHERINE KEENAN (Chemistry award winner), MARIA MC NAMEE( Biology award winner), SANDRA CONLON( health and social care award winner), CIARA RUSH (Religious studies award winner), MRS. N MC MAHON (head of 6th form), MRS MULLIGAN (vice principal).     MR COLUM CLARK, TINA LE NAGHAN (Sports award), CHARLENE MC SHANE (ICT award), LOUISE WATTERS (Business studies) AND MRS MULLIGAN.         MR COLUM CLARK, MRS N MC MAHON, CHARLENE MC SHANE (Student of the year award), MR SCALLY.         MR COLUM CLARK, TINA LENAGHAN AND MR MALCOM ROBERTSON (Representing Newry and Mourne district council)         THE WHOLE A LEVEL GROUP WITH GUEST SPEAKER COLUM CLARKE ,MRS.N MC MAHON AND MR.K.SCALLY (PRINCIPAL)

Posted by Admin on Monday 4th February 2008

Mrs. Kathleen Gartlan Honoured For Thirty Years Service with the SELB

Mrs. Kathleen Gartlan was honoured last week at a special reception for SELB employees who had completed thirty years service with the  Board. She attended a special function in Board Headquarters, attended by Senior Officers and Board members. She was presented with a Tyrone Crystal Bowl by the Chief Executive, Mrs Helen Mc Clenaghan, who thanked her for her hard work and dedication to St Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen. Kathleen, originally from Crossmaglen and a former pupil of the school, was initially appointed as a clerical officer in 1967. This appointment was made by the late Mr McMullan, who was the first Principal of St Joseph’s. She has worked continuously since with all of the other Principals - Mr Bernard Crilly (1981-1997); Mr Frank McCreesh(1997-2002) and the current Principal, Mr Kevin Scally, who took up post  in 2002. Mr. Scally paid tribute to Kathleen's contribution to the development of St Joseph’s "I want to thank Kathleen for her loyalty to this school, where she made a valuable contribution for so many years".

Posted by Admin on Monday 4th February 2008

St. Joseph’s Champions Receive Gift From Crossmaglen Credit Union

Crossmaglen Credit Union recently attended a special assembly at St.Joseph’s School with the boys who won the Ulster Colleges Herald Cup. They generously presented a silver engraved watch to each boy on the team. St.Joseph’s School and in particular the football team would like to sincerely thank Crossmaglen Credit Union for their very generous gift. Photograph:  Peter Caragher, Marie Duncan (Secretary of the Credit union) and Thomas Mc Kenna (Chairperson of the Credit Union) and Ryan Conlon

Posted by Admin on Monday 4th February 2008

GCSE Prizegiving

Photo 001 Grainne Hughes, Kevin O Neill, Lorraine Murphy, Mary Farrelly and Emma Quinn Photo 003 Teresa Judge and Pierce Mc Geough Photo 006A Tomás English, Kevin Mc Parland and Aisling Casey Photo 007 Orla Mc Creesh, Louise Casey and Shahara Hall Photo 008 Ciara Moley, Adam Walsh and Lisa Hearty Photo 010 Edel Mc Nulty, Emma Quinn, Christina Murphy, Laura Mc Shane and Sinead Mc Gahon Photo 013 Tomás English, Niamh Mc Namee, Kevin O Neill and Niall Begley Photo 015 Ciaran Mines and Teresa Judge Photo 016 Orla Loye, Ciara Moley and Aileen Murphy Photo 018 Caitriona Ruane with the Board of Governors, Mr. Scally, Mrs. Mulligan and M. Jones Photo 021 Caitriona Ruane, Ciara Moley (Student of the Year) and Mr. Scally Photo 028 Pupils who received their Records of Achievements’ Photo 032 Pupils who received their Records of Achievements’

Posted by Admin on Monday 4th February 2008

JUNIOR PRIZEGIVING AT ST.JOSEPH’S CROSSMAGLEN

This week year 11 pupils were gathered to celebrate their success at Key Stage three. The school was particularly pleased to have renowned Armagh footballer, Mr. Oisin Mc Conville as guest speaker at this event. Oisin spoke to the pupils about his success and encouraged them to work hard to achieve their potential. Mr. Scally presented each pupil with a certificate of achievement. He congratulated them on their success and encouraged them to build on this solid foundation at Key Stage 4.  Special awards were given for endeavour. Awards were also given to the highest achievers in English, Maths and Science with one final award being given to the overall student of the year. This year’s recipient was Rosemary Loye.  Rosemary made a presentation to Oisin Mc Conville to show the schools appreciation for his presence. Photo 02 –Oisin Mc Conville with Junior student of the year Rosemary Loye Photo 05 Mr K .Scally (Principal), Oisin Mc Conville, Mr .Tom MC Kay (Governor) Front row: Shane Canning (KS3 Science winner), Clare Murray (KS3 English winner) and Niamh Gernon (KS3 Maths winner)   Photo 09 Back row: Mr. K .Scally with Sean Mc Ardle and Mr. Tom Mc Kay Front row: Patrice Murphy, Oisin Mc Conville and Rosemary Lye (all endeavour winners) Photo 011 Form Class 11P1 with Oisin Mc Conville and Mrs. Sinead Brennan (Head Of year) Photo014 Form Class 11P2 with as above Photo 015 Form class 11P3 with Mr. K Scally and Oisin Mc Conville Photo 019 Form class 11P5 with their form teacher Ms. F. Cunningham and Mrs. S. Brennan   Amended photo – the top one Form class MMP4 with form teacher MR. Gerry Doherty and Head of Year Mrs. S Brennan

Posted by Admin on Monday 4th February 2008

New Permanent Appointments at St. Joseph’s

St. Joseph’s are pleased to announce the appointment of a new Head of Technology and Design Department and a new Head of Year. Mr. Paul Mulholland has been working at St. Joseph’s for two years and is very pleased to be appointed as Head of Department. He is excited to be working at a time when the technology department in the school is developing and striving for success. Mrs. Sinead Brennan has been appointed Head of Year 11.  Mrs. Brennan has been teaching at St.Joseph’s for seven years and was acting Head of Year last year. She is delighted to be involved in the pastoral care team and very much looking forward to working with her year group caring for their pastoral and academic needs. Mrs.Sinead Brennan and Mr. Paul Mulholland

Posted by Admin on Monday 4th February 2008

St. Joseph’s Crossmaglen Emerge Gael Linn Quiz Champions

St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen emerged victorious from the annual Gael Linn quiz. This event was held at Newry Sports Centre on Wednesday last. This event is very popular and there was an impressive turnout from schools in Newry and the surrounding schools in Down and Armagh. Given the high standard of the competition, it is a great accolade to the four Year 10 pupils who took first place. They were Niamh Ni Broin , Dearbhla O’Fearghaill , Sean O Maoligan and Aine Mc Raois.  Mrs. Karen Ridley, their Irish teacher was delighted and very proud of the team. She feels the event, which was enjoyed by all pupils who participated is a great way of promoting the Irish language. PUPILS IN PHOTO ARE:  FROM LEFT TO RIGHT Niamh Ni Broin , Aine Mac Raois , Dearbhla O’Fearghaill,  Sean O’Maoligan

Posted by Admin on Monday 4th February 2008

Action Cancer Visit St. Joesph’s

The Life & Work Dept at St. Joseph’s School Crossmaglen was delighted to welcome Paula Fegan , Health Promotions Officer for Action Cancer to their school recently. The school has been availing of Action Cancer’s Health Action Programme for the past three years. Mrs Burns, Head of Life & Work, explained that the Programme covers a number of topics relevant to GCSE Life & Work and has proven to be a huge success with the 4th year pupils involved in it. The programme is run in response to continuing demand from secondary schools. For both boys and girls from 11-18 years old, these sessions cover strong, core messages on early detection and cancer prevention including the dangers of smoking and alcohol, the importance of exercise and a balanced diet. In appreciation of the work done by Action Cancer, the pupils donated a fantastic one hundred pounds for the organisation. Paula Fegan ,Health Promotion Officer  with year 11 pupils

Posted by Admin on Monday 4th February 2008

St. Joseph’s Pupil Goes onto Study Medicine

Catherine Keenan an outgoing pupil of St. Joseph’s Crossmaglen has a lot to smile about. Having achieved fantastic A-level results (three grade A’s and one grade B), she is off to study medicine at Lancaster University. She is the first pupil from St. Joseph’s to go on to study medicine and the school is extremely proud of this achievement.  Catherine is the daughter of John and Margaret Keenan from Newry Road, Mullaghbawn. Her older siblings are past pupils of the school and her younger siblings, John and Michael are currently students at St.Joseph’s.  Catherine's parents are both involved in education, her mother Margaret is Vice-Principal of St Oliver Plunkett's Primary School in Forkhill. Her father works in St Patrick's High School, Keady. An extremely proud Principal, Mr.Kevin Scally said, "I want to wish Catherine every success for the future. She has been an outstanding student at this school and her success can be attributed to her own hard work as well as the support she has received from her family, and the excellent teachers at St. Josephs.”

Posted by Admin on Monday 4th February 2008

ST. JOSEPH’S CROSSMAGLEN WELCOMES MINISTER FOR EDUCATION TO THEIR AWARDS PRESENTATION EVENING

St.Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen was delighted to have as Guest of Honour, Ms. Catriona Ruane, Minister for Education, to their presentation of awards and records of achievement on Wednesday last. This event was an opportunity for the class of 2006/2007 to reunite and celebrate their wide range of achievements. The evening was a great success and extremely well attended not only by the pupils and parents but also other distinguished guests such as the Board of Governors, representatives from the SELB and CCMS. Also in attendance were many primary school principals. Mr.Scally, Principal of St.Joseph’s acknowledged his appreciation of such attendance. In his address Mr.Scally congratulated the pupils on their excellent academic achievements, achievements which have placed St.Joseph’s High School amongst the top group when compared with similar schools in Northern Ireland.  He also commended the work of the staff in particular and parent’s in aiding the pupils in their development into mature, educated young people. In particular he highlighted the encouragement and hard work of Mrs. Marie Millar , Head of Senior School and Mrs. Bronwyn Traynor who was Year Head for this group since they stated in school. Those who came first in each subject were acknowledged. A range of other achievements were also celebrated such as sporting prowess, musical ability and attendance. Awards were given for endeavour and also to pupils who contributed in a positive way to school life. Each pupil was commended and presented with their own Record of Achievement. Presentations were made by the Guest of Honour, Ms. Ruane, who spoke passionately of her belief in education. She encouraged all the pupils to follow their dreams and not to let anything hold them back. She urged them to take pride in themselves and their work, whatever path they take in the future. She spoke about a time of change, of revision and development and reminded the pupils that the future was theirs. The night was extremely enjoyable and refreshments were served afterwards.

Posted by Admin on Monday 19th November 2007

Prize Night 2007

Award Name of Student Music Teresa Judge Art and Design Pierce McGeough ICT Sinead McGahon Work Experience – Careers Kevin McParland / Aisling Casey Business Studies Adam Walsh French Christina Murphy Irish Lisa Hearty w Technology and Design Louise Casey Geography Ciara Moley Mathematics Aileen Murphy Mathematics – Maura Cumiskey Liam Donnelly Life and Work Emma Quinn Double Award Science Laura McShane Single Award Science Edel McNulty PE Orla McCreesh Boys Sports Niall Rowland Girls Sports Maurica McCooey/Caroline O’Hare Paddy Short Footballer of the Year Colin Hoey Child Development – H Econ Shahara Hall Religion Niamh McNamee English Ciara Moley Attendance Tomas English Student of the Year Ciara Moley Silver Jubilee Award Aileen Murphy Archie McMullan Cup Orla Loye Cardinal O’Fiaich Award Sean Liddy Maria Loye Award Teresa Judge Barry McGuinness Award Niall Begley Declan Reel Kevin McParland Bernard Crilly Cup Tomas English Frank McCreesh Cup Kevin O’Neill Endeavour Awards   12P1  Mr McLoughlin Mary Farrelly 12P2  Mrs Hamill Emma Quinn 12P3  Mrs Carleton Grainne Hughes 12P4  Mrs Gibbs Lorraine Murphy 12P5  Mr Mulholland Kevin O’Neill

Posted by Admin on Monday 19th November 2007

St. Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen Present Endeavour Awards

St. Joseph’s High school presented endeavour awards to its year 8 and year 9 pupils this week. Endeavour awards are there to acknowledge the achievement of pupils across all academic ability ranges. Points are awarded to pupils according to the place they achieve in each subject.  The winners were as follows: YEAR 8 Overall winners were: Shannon Booth, Emma Mc Shane, Michelle Cannon , Aoife Mc Parland and Tara O’Callaghan. Other high endeavour winners were: Hayley Carragher, Rebecca Russell, Shauna Bradley, Sinead Hughes, Micheal Murphy, Orlagh Flynn, Ciara Gartland, Aoife Wills, Jade Fitzpatrick, Jordan Hearty, Danielle Gollogly, Paul Rafferty, Ciara MC Keever, Lyzovas Gelgaudes, Mark Hanratty, John Kelly, Brian O’Connell, Eoghan Harvey, Daire Kearns and Eoin Meegan. The year 9 endeavour awards were equally highly contested and co-ordinator Mr. Short Head of Junior School said it was the closest award ceremony he had officiated at. Year 9 The overall winners were: Dearbhla O’Farrell, Siobhan Gernon, Laura Mc Guinness, Shannon Lyons and Gary Mc Shane. The other high endeavour award winners were: Laura Mc Shane, Anne Nolan, Conor Walsh, Michelle Reel, Nicole Stuttard, Ryan Connolly, Simon Murphy, Aisling Martin, Brenda English, Patrick Reel, Laura Judge, Clinton Mc Keever, Ciaran Duffy, Stephen Mc Coy, Kym Liddy and Daniel O’Neill. Mr.Short acknowledged the excellent achievements of all the students and paid tribute to the excellent work done by the teachers and classroom assistants. The secretarial staff Majella Hatzer, Seaneen Reel and Aimee King ensured the ceremony went flawlessly. It is hoped that the excellent results and high standard of endeavour shown by the pupils will be reflected in future KS3, G.C.S.E. and A level results in the future. Back Row Mrs.Mulligan (Vice Principal) and Mr. Short (Head of Junior School) Front row L-r Aoife Mc Parland, Michelle Cannon, Shannon Booth, Tara O’Callaghan, and Emma Mc Shane       L-r Rebecca Russell, Sinead Hughes, Hailey Carragher, Shauna Bradley, Shannon Booth and Mr Short Front row Eoghan Harvey, Daire Kearns, Tara O’Callaghan. Brian O’Connell and Eoin Meegan       Back Row  Mr. Short, Ciara Mc Keever, Jade Fitzpatrick, Aoife Mc Parland, John Kelly, Emma Mc Shane, Ciara Gartland Front row: Orlagh Flynn, Danielle Gollogly, Micheal Murphy, Jordan Hearty, Michelle Cannon and Aoife Wills       YEAR 9 ENDEAVOUR Back row  Mr Short. , Stephen Mc Coy, Gary Mc Shane, Daniel O’Neill, Ryan Conlon and Ciaran Duffy Front row: Patrick Reel, Laura Judge, Brenda English, Aisling Martin, Nicole Stuttard, Sionan Murphy, Clinton Mc Keever       Mr. Short, James Mc Shane , Seamus Morgan, Patrick Grant, Dearbhla O’Farrell Front: Laura Mc Shane, Conor Walsh, Michelle Reel, Patrick Boyle and Aine Nolan         Mr. Short, Siobhan Gernon, Laura Mc Guinness, Gary MC Shane , Shannon Lyons , Dearbhla O’Farrell

Posted by Admin on Monday 29th October 2007

St. Joseph’s Rocks Crossmaglen

The week of October the 8th to 12th saw St. Joseph’s pupils participate in a completely new, fun and exciting initiative funded by the South Armagh Extended Schools cluster group.  Eighteen pupils from Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 piloted this scheme, aptly named ‘Rock School’. In conjunction with the fantastic tutors from ‘The Making Music Workshop’, pupils participated in a one week intensive course. This lasted daily for four hours after school. Three bands were formed and each band wrote the lyrics, composed the music and recorded their track. The pupils were aided by some very experienced musicians including Linley Hamilton, John Wilson, Ivan Gilliland and Nicky Scott. The final showcase of this exciting work took place on Friday 12th. At this event pupils, parents and invited guests heard the final product, which had been expertly edited by sound engineer Sam Davidson. Each pupil was presented with a professionally packaged c.d. of the three songs.  The school was given two presentation packs with songs and photographs mapping the whole week. Mrs. Geraldine Cunningham, Extended Schools Coordinator said, “It was the first time we had worked with Making Music Workshop and it will definitely not be the last. It was amazing to see pupils after a long day at school, so enthused and enthralled by what they were doing. This event encapsulated the whole idea of extended schools and has certainly afforded these pupils an insight into the complexities of the music industry.” (LEFT TO RIGHT) Niamh Burns, Aoife Burns, Shannon Savage, AnneMarie Duffy and Sinead Bellew             GROUP SHOT Back row (left to right0 Aisling Mc Creesh, Orla O Hanlon, Pamela Toner, Michelle Conlon, Clare Murray Middle Row Sinead Bellew, Annemarie Duffy, Zoe Mc Shane, Natasha Hamill and Hannah Morgan Front row Shannon Savage , Shona Daly, Gary Keenan, Aoife Burns and Niamh Burns Absent from photo is Lauren Grant   “Gazza’s Girls”  being recorded. Two tutors are Sammy Wilson and Nicky Scott

Posted by Admin on Monday 29th October 2007

St. Josephs High School, Crossmaglen Marathon Challenge

Pupils at St.Joseph’s High School Crossmaglen have been participating in a sporting challenge recently. The Marathon Challenge is a new venture in the school this year. It has been organised by Mr. John Mc Mahon, P.E Teacher at the school. The purpose of setting up the Challenge is to increase the physical activity of the pupils attending the school. It also shows them that exercise is both beneficial and fun. The aim of the Marathon Challenge is for the pupils to complete the distance of a full marathon (twenty six miles) within a thirteen week period.  ‘Run, Walk or Crawl’ is the motto and as many pupils as possible are encouraged to take part in this fun run.  Each week the pupils are set a target to complete two miles and this takes place after school on Tuesdays and Thursdays.  To date fifty pupils have signed up for the Challenge and before Halloween they will have completed half of the target distance. Members of staff have also joined up, demonstrating you’re never too old to take part!! The overall atmosphere is one of teamwork and support with staff and students encouraging each other. Mr Mc Mahon would like to acknowledge the help and support of Mr Reel and Mr Short in organising this activity. He would also like to thank Principal Mr. Kevin Scally & Miss Mc Carron (PE HOD) for their encouragement. Mr. Mc Mahon and Mr. Short plus staff and pupils who are up for the challenge

Posted by Admin on Monday 29th October 2007

New Permanent Appointments at St. Joseph’s

St. Joseph’s are pleased to announce the appointment of a new Head of Technology and Design Department and a new Head of Year. Mr. Paul Mulholland has been working at St. Joseph’s for two years and is very pleased to be appointed as Head of Department. He is excited to be working at a time when the technology department in the school is developing and striving for success. Mrs. Sinead Brennan has been appointed Head of Year 11.  Mrs. Brennan has been teaching at St.Joseph’s for seven years and was acting Head of Year last year. She is delighted to be involved in the pastoral care team and very much looking forward to working with her year group caring for their pastoral and academic needs. Mrs.Sinead Brennan and Mr. Paul Mulholland

Posted by Admin on Monday 29th October 2007

St. Joseph’s Crossmaglen Emerge Gael Linn Quiz Champions

St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen emerged victorious from the annual Gael Linn quiz. This event was held at Newry Sports Centre on Wednesday last. This event is very popular and there was an impressive turnout from schools in Newry and the surrounding schools in Down and Armagh. Given the high standard of the competition, it is a great accolade to the four Year 10 pupils who took first place. They were Niamh Ni Broin , Dearbhla O’Fearghaill , Sean O Maoligan and Aine Mc Raois.  Mrs. Karen Ridley, their Irish teacher was delighted and very proud of the team. She feels the event, which was enjoyed by all pupils who participated is a great way of promoting the Irish language. PUPILS IN PHOTO ARE:  FROM LEFT TO RIGHT Niamh Ni Broin , Aine Mac Raois , Dearbhla O’Fearghaill,  Sean O’Maoligan

Posted by Admin on Monday 29th October 2007

Action Cancer Visit St. Joesph’s

The Life & Work Dept at St. Joseph’s School Crossmaglen was delighted to welcome Paula Fegan , Health Promotions Officer for Action Cancer to their school recently. The school has been availing of Action Cancer’s Health Action Programme for the past three years. Mrs Burns, Head of Life & Work, explained that the Programme covers a number of topics relevant to GCSE Life & Work and has proven to be a huge success with the 4th year pupils involved in it. The programme is run in response to continuing demand from secondary schools. For both boys and girls from 11-18 years old, these sessions cover strong, core messages on early detection and cancer prevention including the dangers of smoking and alcohol, the importance of exercise and a balanced diet. In appreciation of the work done by Action Cancer, the pupils donated a fantastic one hundred pounds for the organisation. Paula Fegan ,Health Promotion Officer  with year 11 pupils

Posted by Admin on Monday 29th October 2007

St. Joseph’s Pupil Goes onto Study Medicine

Catherine Keenan an outgoing pupil of St. Joseph’s Crossmaglen has a lot to smile about. Having achieved fantastic A-level results (three grade A’s and one grade B), she is off to study medicine at Lancaster University. She is the first pupil from St. Joseph’s to go on to study medicine and the school is extremely proud of this achievement.  Catherine is the daughter of John and Margaret Keenan from Newry Road, Mullaghbawn. Her older siblings are past pupils of the school and her younger siblings, John and Michael are currently students at St.Joseph’s.  Catherine's parents are both involved in education, her mother Margaret is Vice-Principal of St Oliver Plunkett's Primary School in Forkhill. Her father works in St Patrick's High School, Keady. An extremely proud Principal, Mr.Kevin Scally said, "I want to wish Catherine every success for the future. She has been an outstanding student at this school and her success can be attributed to her own hard work as well as the support she has received from her family, and the excellent teachers at St. Josephs.”

Posted by Admin on Monday 29th October 2007

CROSSMAGLEN SCHOOL WIN NEWRY & MOURNE NETBALL BLITZ

There was great excitement in St. Joseph’s in June 2007 when the Netball players from Year 8 won the annual Newry & Mourne Netball Blitz for the first time. Eight schools took part in the competition with four teams in Sections A & B striving to finish in the top two in their group. Section A saw St. Our Lady’s G.S., Newry finish top of the group after victories against St. Joseph’s., St. Columban’s College and St. Louis’ G.S. St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen were runners-up by virtue of the fact that they beat St. Columban’s College and St. Louis’ G.S. In the other Section, St. Paul’s H.S., Bessbrook were the winners of their group and St. Mary’s H.S. Newry was in runner-up position. St. Paul’s had beaten Sacred Heart G.S., St. Mark’s H.S., Warrenpoint and drawn their game against St. Mary’s H.S. At the Semi-Final stage, this meant that St. Joseph’s H.S. played St. Paul’s H.S. and St. Mary’s H.S. were up against Our Lady’s G.S. After two entertaining games, St. Joseph’s H.S. and Our Lady’s G.S emerged as the finalists and were to play each other for the second time that day. In a tight and exciting final, it was the players from St. Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen  who held on to win on a 6 – 3 scoreline and claim the title for the first time. At the presentation Ms Paula Magill awarded the shield to the winning captain, Natasha McLoughlin, and medals to both sets of players. Photograph:- The victorious team from St. Joseph’s H.S. pictured with the Shield: Back Row (L. to R.):- Jessica King, Keri O’Callaghan, Siobhan Conlon, Pamela Toner, Aoife McParland. Front Row (L. to R.):- Tara O’Callaghan, Danielle Mackin, Natasha McLoughlin, Colleen McCann, Natasha Highes.

Posted by Admin on Sunday 31st August 2007

Crossmaglen Celebrates Success!

St Joseph’s High school Crossmaglen is celebrating yet another year of exceptional GCSE results. Over 100 boys and girls received their results on Thursday morning. Over one third of the pupils achieved an astonishing 7 A*-C grades. Half the students achieved high enough grades to pursue A level studies – a large number of these students have opted to follow vocational courses. The top performer was Ciara Moley from Dorsey who achieved two  A* grades and eight A grades. Another top performer, Aileen Murphy from Glassdrummond, gained four A* grades, three A grades one B and one C. Adam Walsh from Mullaghbawn got one A*, 4 A grades and  2 B grades. The Principal, Kevin Scally said that “These results place us in the top 5% of comparable schools in Northern Ireland – a position we have held for the past three years. The people of South Armagh can be pleased with the quality of education that we provide. The exceptional achievements of the students have made this yet another good year for us” Mr Scally congratulated the students and paid tribute to their work ethic. He also paid tribute to the hard working staff – teachers and support staff – and thanked them for all of their efforts and. dedication. He acknowledged the strong parental support that helped the pupils to achieve their best. Mr Scally also referred to the upgrading of the PE facilities that had taken place over the summer, and looked forward to the better opportunities that  the returning students would have to participate in school sport. Mary Farrelly (centre) shares her good news with her family flanked by friends Niamh McConville (left) and Sarah Murtagh         St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen Principal Mr Kevin Scally congratulates the school's best ever male student at GCSE, Adam Walsh, from Mullaghbawn       Some happy students with their GCSE results: Adam Walsh, Lisa Hearty, Aileen Murphy & Ciara Moley who was the top female performer in St Joseph's this year

Posted by Admin on Sunday 31st August 2007

Crossmaglen Pupils 'Aim Higher'

The 'AIM HIGHER ROADSHOW' came to town recently following an invitation from Head of Junior School at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, Mr Oliver Short. Third year pupils find themselves in the difficult position of having to make difficult subject choices at this time of year so the 'ROADSHOW' aims to ease pupils through this difficult time by offering professional advice and support so that they can make informed career choices. Mr Short is pictured with some of the pupils who attended the show. Also pictured is the Aim Higher Facilitator

Posted by Admin on Sunday 10th July 2007

Staff Presentations at St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen

PHOTO: L-R Mr Colin Quinn, Mrs Ann Rogers, Mrs Pauline O’Donnell who have retired from teaching with school Principal Mr Kevin Scally The Board of Governors along with teaching and ancillary staff at St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen recently attended a special thanksgiving mass in the school to mark the end of another successful year. School chaplain Fr Rory Coyle officiated at the mass and paid particular tribute to the work of three members of staff who are retiring this year after many years of dedicated service to the teaching profession. The Principal, Mr Scally, spoke warmly and at length about their hard work and loyalty throughout their careers and acknowledged the significant contributions they have made to the education of children in South Armagh. All 3 have the distinction of working with the first Principal of St Joseph’s Mr Archie McMullan Mrs Pauline O’Donnell joined St Joseph’s in 1975 as an Art teacher and went on to become Form Teacher and Head of Department. Her exceptional artistic skills proved to be an invaluable resource in St Joseph’s not least in the Art Department but indeed in innumerable school activities, events and productions. Mrs O’Donnell’s particular contribution to St Joseph’s will be very greatly missed by all those who worked with her. Mr Colin Quinn joined St Joseph’s in 1979 as a PE Teacher and has taught both PE, Geography and General Subjects. He has been involved in many extracurricular sporting activities and has always been keen to develop the sporting talents of his pupils. He has also carried out the roles of Form Teacher and Year Head throughout his career and leaves St Joseph’s with many warm tributes and good wishes. Mrs Ann Rogers has been developing the ‘Home Economic’ skills of her pupils since starting her teaching career in 1979. She has taught Home Economics, General Subjects, Science and GCSE Childcare and held the position of Catering Coordinator. She has taken part in many extracurricular activities, events and school trips. Her roles additional roles as Form Teacher and Year Head were always carried out with great flair and dedication and her presence in St Joseph’s will certainly be greatly missed. Other leavers included Mrs Michelle Loughran who joined the Maths Department in 2000 and who also worked as a Form Teacher. She was a popular, enthusiastic and hard-working member of staff and is offered every good wish by all her colleagues. Miss Martha O’Hagan spent 2 years at St Joseph’s teaching Science and Girls’ football. She was a very popular and totally dedicated member of staff and leaves St Joseph’s with many warm and good wishes. Miss Bronagh McAteer is also leaving having working as T&D Technician since 1996. Miss McAteer was a very popular and highly valued member of staff and will be missed by all those who knew her. Good wishes were also extended to T&D Teacher Mr Cathal Rice who moves to a new permanent teaching post in Armagh and to Irish teacher Miss Carol Marley who will be taking up a permanent post in the Meanscoil in Belfast.

Posted by Admin on Sunday 10th July 2007

Pupils organise Jumble Sale for Charity

Mrs Geraldine Cunningham, Head of Geography at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, recently ran a number of jumble sales in the school. She was ably assisted by a number of pupils on the day and in total £670 and 100 Euro was raised. Mrs Cunningham is extremely grateful to all the pupils, parents, teachers, staff and the wider school community who either donated items or contributed on the day. The huge support by all concerned is clearly indicative of the large sum raised. The proceeds will be distributed to local charities in the very near future so watch local press for details.

Posted by Admin on Sunday 10th July 2007

School fundraises for Breast Cancer

At their recent Sports Day, the pupils of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen enjoyed glorious weather and refreshments. Local supermaket SUPERVALU very kindly sponsored the icecream refreshments and on the day the mighty sum of £150 was raised. Mr McLoughlin, who organised the event, is pictured with 2nd year pupils who helped him on the day and has donated the money to Breast Cancer research. Mr McLoughlin organises a number of charity events in the school and is spending 4 weeks during the summer in Africa working for the Missionaries of Charity. He will gladly accept any donations for the work of the Missionaries and will be available in the school until the middle of July. L-R: Michelle Reel, Aisling McCreesh, Dearbhla O'Farrell, Aisleen Tierney, Aine Nolan, Anne Martin, Mr McLoughlin.           Pupils enjoy the refreshments on Sports Day

Posted by Admin on Sunday 10th July 2007

PROSPECTS Workshops for Crossmaglen Pupils

PROSPECTS is a Christian voluntary organisation for people with learning disabilities. It offers a number of services which aim to promote inclusion and fulfilment in everyday life. Some of these activities include: Adult Education, Sport, NVQ, Performing Arts, Arts & Crafts and Work Skills. Raising awareness of their work and the services they offer is an ongoing challenge and recently they were invited to talk about their work by the Citizenship Department of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen. Second and fourth year pupils took part in workshops where they were given the opportunity to swop places with people with learning disabilities and experience life from a different perspective. The workshops were particularly valuable for all concerned and will be a permanent fixture in the citizenship Dept calender at St Joseph's. PROSPECTS Facilitators Aisling Curran and Eve Carragher (back right) with members of PROSPECTS seated and 4th year pupils Kieran McCann, Danielle Doherty, Laura Norton and Stephen Mackin

Posted by Admin on Sunday 10th July 2007

'Bon Voyage' to Crossmaglen Pupils

Third Year pupils at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen are bade 'Bon Voyage' by school Principal Mr Kevin Scally (second from left)  The pupils are heading off on a 5 day trip to Paris with teachers Mrs Hollywood, Mr Mulholland, Mrs Burns, Mr Shields (Chief Organiser) and Mrs McMahon. The group will be visiting Eurodisney and the Universal Studios as well as the main attractions such as The Eiffel Tower, The Louvre Museum (home of the Mona Lisa) Notre Dame Cathedral, the Arc de Triomphe and the Champs Elysees. 'Bon Voyage' to one and all!

Posted by Admin on Sunday 10th July 2007

Pupils donate to Motor Neuron Research

Kathleen Shields receives a cheque for MOTOR NEURON RESEARCH from St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen pupils Damian Hamill yr 12 and Ryan Conlon yr 11. The money was collected during a charity gaelic match organised by Mr Short and Mr McMahon which featured 'All Ireland' star past pupils Cathal Short, Aaron Kernan, Stephen Kernan, Brendan & Kevin McKeown, Jonny Hanratty and John Murtagh who all play for Crossmaglen Rangers

Posted by Admin on Sunday 10th July 2007

Counselling Service for Young People

In response to and in recognition of the many demands on young people in today’s society, St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen has responded by offering a counselling service to its students. Two fully qualified counsellors, David Small and Nuala Woods offer their services one day a week each (Tuesdays & Wednesdays). David Small  is an employee of NIFFCIE (Nothern Ireland Forum for Counselling in Education) and Nuala is from Contact Youth. Both of are fully qualified and experienced counsellors. They aim  to help young people: ·         focus on their particular concerns ·         help them to make choices ·         cope with crises ·         work through feelings of inner conflict and ·         improve relationships with other. The  student/Counsellor discussions are fully confidential, and details are not passed on to teachers. All of the pupils at  St Joseph’s can make use of the service - they have the opportunity to refer themselves by making an appointment which they attend during school time. Alternatively they can be referred by a teacher, providing the teacher has obtained permission from the student. A parent can also make a referral, but the young person must be willing to attend the sessions during the school day. The counsellors have been in the school for several months and are very busy due to the high demand on their services. This reflects the fact that they have gained the confidence of the students as well as meeting a need that clearly exists for many young people.

Posted by Admin on Sunday 10th June 2007

Extended Schools Programme

St. Joseph’s High School has extended its range of after-school activities which  take place each day. They will be provided free of charge to all participants. School Principal Mr Kevin Scally said “ This is a new departure for us, and we are able to do so through a combination of voluntary effort, school resources and resources raised from grant-making organisations. It will meet the needs of students and their  families and eventually the wider community” There will be  clubs for Technology , Speech and Drama, Music and an after schools café as well as mentoring, a school counselling service  and summer scheme activities. The school canteen will open each afternoon, after school, to provide a snack for those who participate – this will be charged at a nominal fee. Moreover, the school will provide a free taxi service to take children home at the end of the afternoon. The “Extended Schools” programme will run alongside current after school provision for gaelic games, basketball etc. and will be in addition to existing activities, not replacing them. Mr Kevin Scally, School Principal said “This is a very exciting new initiative which gives every child access to a variety of activities beyond the school day. “Well organised, safe and stimulating activities after school provide young people with a wider range of experiences and make a real difference to their chance at school. “It gives them an opportunity to keep fit and healthy, to acquire new skills, to build on what they learn during the school day or simply have fun and relax”. “We believe that this is what parents want for their children.  At St. Joseph’s we feel passionately that we have a big impact on children’s lives, and we wish to extend this”. “These initiatives will enable children and young people to fulfil their potential”. “We intend to develop these services further – this will be challenging for us – but I believe that eventually we will have something for which we will be really proud”. MRS CUNNINGHAM, Extended Schools Coordinator at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, supervising pupils at the Homework Club                         MRS GIBBS with some members of the Music Club           The Drama Club practise a routine               Pupils enjoy a snack in the school canteen before the activities begin             Tech Club: Busy at work in the Technology Club           Pupils from junior and senior school enjoy activities in the Technology & Design Club

Posted by Admin on Sunday 10th June 2007

End of an Era for Crossmaglen Pupil

The 5th Year pupils at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen attended a special end of year mass recently to mark the completion of 5 years at the school. The school chaplain, Fr Coyle, officiated at the ceremony and afterwards pupils were presented with their Records of Achievement. Mrs Traynor and Mrs Hollywood of the RE Dept organised the mass while Mrs Millar (Head of Senior School) coordinated the distribution of the Records of Achievement. Form teachers were also in attendance for each of the Form Groups. A number of training and employment opportunities await many of the pupils next year whilst a number of the pupils will be returning to St Joseph's  to continue their studies at A Level. Pupils can study Design & Technology, Biology, Chemistry, Health & Social Care, Sociology, Religion, English, ICT & Business Studies PHOTOS OF THE FORM CLASSES: Mr McLoughlin (Form Teacher) and Mrs Traynor (Head of Year 12)             Mrs Traynor               Miss Hanna (Form Teacher) and Mrs Traynor               Mrs Gibbs (Form Teacher) and Mrs Traynor         Mr Mulholland (Form Teacher) and Mrs Traynor

Posted by Admin on Sunday 10th June 2007

Romance brings help to patients

The upper sixth pupils at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen made the most of the generous romantic spirit surrounding Valentine's Day recently in order to raise funds for the 'Patient Home Care Fund' Pupils could buy roses in the school and get them delivered to their 'loved one' on Valentine's Day. The whole event certainly caused a romantic stir in the school and proved to be even more popular than last year. Mrs Majella Hatzer (School Secretary) and Mrs Bronwyn Traynor (RE Dept) were the chief coordinators and were amply assisted by a large number of A Level volunteers. The eventual sum of £540 was presented to Nurse Ann Murray of the Patient Home Care Fund. The money raised will be used to purchase a wound measuring device for the local community.

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th April 2007

Crossmaglen Pupils share in Stormont History

The Citizenship Department of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen recently accompanied all of its 4th year pupils to the Northern Ireland Assembly in Stormont. The trip coincided with the recent power-sharing developments between Sinn Fein and the DUP and pupils were welcomed to Parliament Buildings by a number of Newly elected MLA's

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th April 2007

DETAILS ANTIRACISM WEEK

During  INTERCULTURAL AND ANTIRACISM WEEK (19 – 25 March 2007) Mrs Rosie Burns (Head of Citizenship) at St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen launched a cross-curricular initiative. A number of Departments in the schools drew attention to various aspects of culture and its challenges. In Maths, there was a focus on some of the names used in Text Books printed in the UK. In Northern Ireland we have less exposure to multiculturalism and certain names appear alien to many of our pupils eg ‘Jawinder from Coventry buys two pompadoms at a cost of ….’ etc making them aware of the global part that Maths plays. In Technology the Key Stage 3 groups looked at technological structures in other cultures including the Great Wall of China, the Egyptian Pyramids and skyscrapers and highlighted the cultural significance of certain aspects of these structures. They  also created reports about famous structures and buildings around the world including the Taj Mahal and Buckingham Palace. The English Dept did a feature on a number of aspects of  'Opening Worlds', a book based on other cultures and traditions and used as part of their GCSE programme. Within the whole Citizenship Dept, there was a particular focus on  attitudes and stereotypical images of travellers. Some junior classes were shown the film ‘Into the West’ which deals with challenges facing the Travelling Community  Pupils Fearghal Bellew, Seamus Duncan, Aoibheann Traynor, Aidan Murtagh and Cathal O'Brien promote the event at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen       First Year pupils at St Joseph's show off their posters which were then displayed throughout the school

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th April 2007

Theatre Experience for Crossmaglen Pupils

'The Walking Forward Theatre Group' recently brought their show to the pupils of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen.  Launched in 2003, in association with Transport for London, it has been 'walking forward' ever since. The performance focuses on young people's attitudes to road safety and uses a variety of media to get its message across. With flashbacks and a feast of multi-media presentation, this fast-paced 50 min production captivates the target audience from the start, with a mixture of anarchic comedy and moving drama. All the performances are fitted with radio microphones, a 50 inch plasma monitor, quality set, sound ststen, lighting rig and 5 professional experienced actors! Mr Cathal Mc Keever (Senior Road Safety Education Officer for the DOE) is pictured on the left with members of the cast and pupils Niamh Watters, Megan Sheridan, Conor Moley and Brendan Kelly

Posted by Admin on Monday 5th March 2007

AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL visits Crossmaglen

The Citizenship Department of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen were delighted to welcome Mr Gerard Bourn from AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL, to the school recently. Mr Bourne spoke to 2nd and 4th year pupils about the work of AMNESTY in promoting human rights and humanity to thousands of men, women and children throughout the world. AMNESTY aims to raise our awareness of human rights abuses and encourages us to get involved in whatever way we can so that these abuses can be dealt with. Mr Bourn is pictured with Joanne Duncan, Joanne Donnelly, Seamus Duncan & Aaron Mostyn. Seamus Duncan is holding AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL'S logo, a candle wrapped in barbed wire, signifying hope amidst persecution.

Posted by Admin on Monday 5th March 2007

Behaviour Awarded at St Joseph's

First Year pupils at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen recently received certificates in recognition of their excellent behaviour and positive work ethic at school. At a special awards ceremomy, the Principal Mr Scally commended the pupils on their exemplary behaviour and positive and mature approach to their studies. "You are an example not only to your peer group but also to students throughout the whole school. The teachers here at St Joseph's want you to achieve your potential and join me today in congratulating you on your attitude and commitment." commented Mr Scally The pupils also received a bookmark which happened to coincide with WORLD BOOK DAY in the school. Mrs B Hollywood (Head of Year 8) and Principal Mr Kevin Scally with a group of recipients             Mr John Jones (VP) and some certificate winners

Posted by Admin on Monday 5th March 2007

Pupils Celebrate INTERNATIONAL WOMEN'S DAY

International Women's Day was recently marked in St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen when Mrs Burns in the French Dept organised a 'Focus on Famous French Women'. Some second year pupils carried out some research and the 4 pupils pictured put their findings onto posters which were displayed in the school. Nicole McGlade, Niamh Burns, Eva Conlon and Denise Rowland show off their work on 'Famous French Women'

Posted by Admin on Monday 5th March 2007

SCIENCE MAGIC SHOW FOR CROSSMAGLEN PUPILS

Miss Martha O'Hagan from the Science Department at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen was delighted to welcome an interactive Science Magic Show to the school recently. 'THINK DIFFERENTLY'   a company which encourages students to look at science in a different way and offered pupils the chance to take part in experiments and  see at first hand how science is all around us. Both Junior and Senior pupils learnt about 'magic science and mystery' and ' the wonder of waves' Mrs Brennan from the Science Dept takes part in one of the experiments           Blane Carragher tests out the hovercraft             Pupils help out facilitator PAUL McCRORY  with some of the activities

Posted by Admin on Monday 5th March 2007

St Joseph's pupils Read On for Charity!

Pupils from St Joseph's High School Crossmaglen embarked on their first ever sponsored Read On week in March.  By reading their way through as many books as possible from the school's library, pupils helped raise a fantastic £911 for the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children. At lthe Cheque presentation Margaret McNamee, The School's Librarian and Mrs Siobhan O'Hare, Literacy Co-Ordinator were "absolutely amazed" at the dedication and motivation of all the pupils who took part in this reading project.  They also commented "We are delighted to have taken part in Read On.  It has been such a success in our school.  Not only has Read On encouraged our pupils to read for enjoyment, at the same time it allowed them to raise money for their peers who are living with cancer.  The School would also like to thank Glen Pac Bacon Products Ltd who very generously donated £200 to the Fund" Two children a week are diagnosed with cancer in Northern Ireland.  Monies raised from Read On will provide practical support to children and young people with cancer. One form of support is Narnia, a 24-bedded log cabin facility located at the foot of t6he Mourne Mountains in Newcastle.  It is the first of its kind in Northern Ireland and is the perfect base to equip young people living with cancer with the skills that can help them cope with their illness.  In the past year, 600 young people with cancer and their siblings have received support from qualified youth workers at Narnia. For more information on the Northern Ireland Cancer Fund for Children, or to donate money to the charity, call Rachel Smyth on 028 9080 5599 Mrs Margaret McNamee, Mrs Siobhan O'Hare, Mr Kevin Scally (Principal) and Miss Rachel Smyth (Schools and Youth Fundraiser).

Posted by Admin on Monday 5th March 2007

Pupils raise funds for NSPCC

The Numeracy Coordinator at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, Mr Garry McLoughlin, recently held a 'Number Day' where a series of fun maths activities were organised for some KS3 pupils. The fun day is just one element of an overall strategy at St Joseph's to raise literacy standards across the school. In total, £525.00 was raised for the NSPCC and some of the 1st year pupils who helped with fundraising are pictured with NSPCC representative Joan Withers. In Photo:  Joan Withers (NSPCC) Ciara McKeever, Ciara Gartland, Maddison Hadland, Garry McLoughlin (numeracy co-ordinator)

Posted by Admin on Monday 5th February 2007

CROSS COUNTRY IN ST. JOSEPH’S HIGH SCHOOL, CROSSMAGLEN

During January 2007 enthusiastic and talented athletes from St. Joseph’s H.S., Crossmaglen took part in two cross country events held in Lurgan Park. The first event was called the Lakeside Inter Schools’ competition and schools from all over Ulster were invited to participate. In what was an outstanding performance, Year 8 pupil, Jessica King ran a brilliant race to win and was presented with her winner’s medal by the Mayor of Lurgan (see photograph). Two weeks later, the District Cross Country Championships were held at the same venue and although there were no medal winners this time some pupils ran very well and qualified for the Ulster Finals in Mallusk last Wednesday. The pupils who qualified for the Ulster Finals were as follows: Minor Girls: -    Jessica King                         Tara O’Callaghan Minor Boys : -  Martin Morgan Junior Boys : -  Ronan Finnegan. These pupils represented their school very well at the Ulster schools’ Finals and we say well done to them and all who participated in cross country throughout the year.

Posted by Admin on Monday 5th February 2007

Students explore the Web

Mr Diarmuid Sloan (pictured right) Managing Director of Kpoint Internet Solutions based in Warrenpoint, recently gave a talk on web page creation to  A Level ICT students  at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen. The talk was organised by Mrs Marian Hearty of the ICT Dept. Mr Sloan's talk was highly informative and very much appreciated by the ICT students who were given the opportunity to pose questions and avail of Mr Sloan's expertise and experience in this particular area of technology.

Posted by Admin on Monday 5th Febraury 2007

School Christmas Card Competition Winners

St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, in conjunction with the NORTHERN BANK, hold an annual Christmas Card Competition. The competition is very generously sponsored by the Northern Bank and invites first year pupils to design a card which the school then uses to send its seasonal greetings. The most creative ideas are rewarded with gift vouchers. The winning entrants Eoghan Harvey and Hailey Carragher are pictured with Northern Bank representative Miss Patricia Savage (left), Mrs Edele McMahon(Art Dept) and Mr Kevin Scally (Principal). (Absent from photo Shannon Booth)

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

Crossmaglen Pupils speak out!

Four 4th Year pupils from St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen were highly commended for their participation in a public speaking event in Newry Arts Centre last week entitled 'OPEN YOUR MIND'. The aim of the event, organised by MENSSANA, was to raise awareness of mental health issues in our community and to highlight the services available to anyone in need. The 4 girls were accompanied by their teacher, Mrs S O'Hare, from the English Dept at St Joseph's and HAD TO SPEAK FOR EXACTLY 12 MINUTES ON THIS TOPIC. PHOTO L-R: Deborah Gray, Amy Goodman, Moira Boyle, Aoife Connolly

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

Crossmaglen Pupils donate to Shoe-box Appeal

A shoe-box may not change the world but to the 47 million children who have received a shoe-box since 1990 it has made a world of difference to their lives. This annual project, coordinated by SAMARITAN'S PURSE and called OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD enables caring individuals, families, schools, churches, businesses and other organisations to fill ordinary shoe-boxes with small toys, school supplies, hats, scarves and other gifts for needy children throughout the world. As soon as pupils arrived back in school last September, OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD was put into action at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen. A steady stream of gifts were brought into the school by pupils from every year group and shoe-boxes were colourfully covered with Christmas paper and filled for boys and girls of all ages. Mr Garry McLoughlin (pictured) , Charity Coordinator at St Joseph's, said he was not at all surprised by the huge generosity of the people of the locality. A representative of OPERATION CHRISTMAS CHILD was absloutely delighted to receive the gifts from the pupils of Crossmaglen and thanked everyone at home and at school for their huge efforts. 'Pupils help to load up the shoe-boxes'                   'Mr McLoughlin helps some pupils with the boxes'           'Shoe-boxes ready for delivery'

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

Fundraiser for SPINA BIFIDA

Mr Garry Mc Loughlin, a teacher and fundraiser at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, presented Mr Cormac Burns with a cheque for £1136 after a range of funraising activities in the school. Cormac was delighted to receive the very much needed funds so close to Christmas and said he would be delighted to pass the money on to the Louth/Armagh Spina Bifida Association Photo l - r: Mary Farrelly, Mr McLoughlin, Mr Cormac Burns, Siobhan Moley

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

GCSE AWARDS EVENING at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen 1ST BATCH

BEST RESULTS EVER CELEBRATED AT CROSSMAGLEN SCHOOL PRIZEGIVING Staff and students celebrated the best GCSE results in the school’s history at the Annual Prizegiving last week. The Principal, Mr Kevin Scally, welcomed the successful students back to the school. He said: “These are the best results in the school’s history. The numbers of students gaining 5 or more A* - C grades is now 53%, which places us in the top 5% of similar schools. The results have more than doubled in 2 years. It is a fitting reward for the students and their teachers. Our students have worked extraordinarily hard to achieve this success” “I am thrilled with these results. These are impressive and important as we continue to improve standards in all aspects of school life. “They are the product of sustained hard work and commitment “An enormous effort has been made by everyone and it has paid off. “I am delighted that these results have come just as we celebrated an outstanding Inspection Report “I want to express my gratitude and appreciation to the teachers, who have helped our students perform to such a high standard Outstanding Inspection In his review of the year Mr Scally quoted from the recent School Inspection. The school had been described as having an ‘excellent caring and supportive ethos’. The Inspectors had been fulsome in their praise of the school. They highlighted the ‘quality of pastoral care provision’ as being a particular strength of the school. The behaviour of the pupils was described as ‘exemplary’. The teachers were described as ‘hard working and committed’. Inspectors described the GCSE results as ‘well above the average for similar schools’. St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen was delighted to welcome guest speaker Conor Murphy MLA at their Annual GCSE Awards Night recently. Specially invited guests in the podium party were l-r: BACK: Pius Tierney (Board of Governors), Fr Cullen, Tom McKay (Chairman of the Board of Governors), Maire Mulligan (VP), Lorna Bullick ( SELB), John Jones (VP) FRONT: Kevin Scally (Principal), Helen McClenaghan(SELB), Terry Hearty(Councillor), Geraldine Donnelly (Councillor), Conor Murphy MLA, Owem Kelly (BoG) STUDENT OF THE YEAR MISS IRENE FANTHORPE (left) with Michael McLoughlin, winner of the Edel Garvey Memorial Award for Simgle Award Science Award         Conor Murphy MLA addresses the students and their parents           Benedict Savage and Brendan Sloan receive the Music Award           Fergal Carroll (Attendance Award), Sinead Clarke and Sean Larkin with the Masters Choice Award for Work Experience         Tomas McCabe (Patrick Rogers Award for CDT) and Caoimhe McCombe (Watters Electrical Award for T&D) AND the Silver Jubilee Award for Endeavour & aAcademic Excellence         Michelle Keenan (Newry Democrat Award for Citizenship), Stephanie Gray (Bank of Ireland English Award), Debbie McCann ( Fr Moran Perpetual Cup for RE)         Dermot Bellew (Progressive Building Society Award for Maths) Sean McGeeney (The DECLAN REEL Memorial Cup for outstanding personal qualities), Maeve Conlon ( The Maria Loye Award for outstanding personal qualities)         Pupils who received their Records of Achievement

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

Drugs Talk for Crossmaglen Pupils

Mr John Nugent and Miss Lucinda Love from the Drugs & Alcohol Community Project 'DON'T BLOW IT' based in Kilkeel, recently visited St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen. They delivered a number of drugs and alcohol workshops to Year 11 & 12 pupils where pupils could explore the reality behind substance abuse. The event was organised by the Life & Work Department at St Joseph's. John and Lucinda are pictured with some of the pupils who attended the talks

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

St Vincent de Paul Appeal in Crossmaglen

Representatives of St Vincent de Paul were delighted to collect gifts from the staff of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, as part of their annual Christmas Appeal. Mr Garry McLoughlin, Charity Coordinator at St Joseph's, presented the gifts to Mrs Evelyn McKeown and Mrs Annie Hearty who have worked for St Vincent de Paul in the South Armagh area for many years.

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

'Banjo' applauds Pupils on Reaching their 'Everest' (St Josephs High School Crossmaglen A Level Prizegiving)

Staff and students of St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen celebrated excellent ‘A’ level results at the Annual ‘A’ level Prizegiving Ceremony last week. The Principal, Mr Kevin Scally, welcomed the successful students back to the school. He was also delighted to welcome guest speaker Terence ‘Banjo’ Bannon to the Awards Night. He said: “These results come at a time of great debate in education; particularly about the future of the 11+ and of Grammar Schools. “The 11+ is about to be 60 years of age next year. It was introduced in 1947 at a time when few people had access to post-elementary education; it existed before there were good secondary schools like St. Joseph’s High School – which produces the excellent students we have here tonight, and whose success we are here to celebrate “The 11+ purports to be able to tell us whether a student is capable of an academic education or not – and therefore capable of a Grammar School education. Many of our excellent students here tonight did not even sit that test and yet have succeeded outstandingly well in school. Others sat the test and did not do as well as they wanted”. “They have proved that it is the test that has failed – not our students. “For years parents, pupils and teachers have complained about the 11+. They have complained about the pressure it places on both children and families. “In 2004, in his last days as Minister of Education Martin McGuinness took the courageous step of abolishing this divisive and unnecessary exam. Since then the supporters of the test have waged a high-profile campaign to keep it. “They have accepted that it is flawed, but have argued that it can be tinkered with and improved. “These supporters of selection need to be reminded that they have had almost 60 year to get it right: they have tinkered with it on at least 37 different occasions – and they still have not got it right. “It is shameful that in a Christian society we have employed this test. This society needs to embrace inclusion – and particularly in the Catholic community we need no lessons in the dangers of institutionalised exclusion. “Many of old inequalities which were such a feature of Northern Ireland society are being swept away – in order to move Northern Ireland forward the 11+ needs to go the same way. “These are impressive results. We take great pride in the achievements of our student’s, I commend all of them on their achievements. It is a fitting reward for both the students and their teachers. Both students and teachers have worked extraordinarily hard to achieve this success” “I want to express my gratitude and appreciation to the teachers, who have helped our students perform to such a high standard “I am thrilled with these results. These are impressive and important as we continue to improve standards in all aspects of school life. “They are the product of sustained hard work and commitment “An enormous effort has been made by everyone and it has paid off”. Mr Scally went on to welcome Terence ‘Banjo’ Bannon as Guest Speaker. In spring 2003 ‘Banjo’ became a household name all over Ireland. He successfully conquered the highest mountain in the world – Mount Everest – becoming the first Northern Irish man to do it. In summer of 2006 he again grabbed world headlines in his attempt to climb K2 but he had to abandon it 50 metres from the summit when 4 of his fellow climbers were killed in an avalanche. When Mr Bannon addressed the students, he congratulated them on their hard work, commitment and dedication. He went on to say: ‘Let you aspiration be your inspiration!’ He told the students. ‘We all have dreams and goals in life. When I was 14, my dream was to climb Mount Everest. I was 35 when I achieved my goal and it took a lot of sweat and tears along the way! We all have our own, particular ‘Everest’ in life, be it a certain job or role in life or whatever – the important thing is to is keep trying and be positive . It won’t be easy but you’ve got to keep trying. I remember hearing it said: ‘Our greatest glory is not in never falling but in rising every time we fall.’ As you continue on your journey in life, I want you to remember these words.’ Banjo said. ‘I’m sure that you have been told many, many times to do your best and try your hardest. Well, it’s true – and you are living proof here tonight that hard work, commitment and dedication do pay off, so well done!’ Awards Catherine McKevitt Award for Business Excellence Shauna Conlon (right) ICT Award – sponsored by Carragher Oils Siobhan Hughes (left)         Gerry Brown perpetual cup for English Leanne Reel (right). Biology Award sponsored by Lee Opticians Michelle Murphy (left)       The Traynor Financial Planning Award for Religious Studies Erica McNamee (left). Sociology Award and Health & Social Care Award Niamh Murphy (right)       St Joseph’s High School – ‘A’ Level Student of the Year Peter Mulligan. Pictured with Banjo Bannon and Principal Mr Kevin Scally STUDENT OF THE YEAR Mr Peter Mulligan, joined St Joseph’s in 6th Year and went on to excel in his studies. He achieved straight A’s at A Level in English, ICT and Business Studies. He is furthering his studies at St Mary’s College, Belfast where he is training to become a primary school teacher.   The successful group of A Level students from St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen who attended the Prizegiving Night. Back: Mrs Noreen McMahon Head of Sixth Form, Catherine Martin, Leanne Reel, Tracey McKeown, Niamh Murphy, Fiona Leonard, Michaela McEvoy, Shauna O’Neill, Mr Scally, Banjo Bannon Seated: Erica McNamee, Siobhan Hughes, Shauna Conlon, Peter Mulligan, Marie Luckie, Michelle Murphy, Sheena Buckley. Absent: Blaithin McCooey, Edel McNeill

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

Crossmaglen TROCAIRE CHRISTMAS APPEAL

The annual Trocaire appeal in St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen raised the mighty sum of £1429.75 in sterling and 787.50 in Euros which is an overall total of almost £2000!!! From the start of Advent, pupils and staff were encouraged to empty their pockets and donate their lose change to the TROCAIRE APPEAL. Mr McLoughlin and Mr Shields were the principal organisers of the Appeal and in consultation with pupils, decided to purchase the following ‘GLOBAL GIFTS’ which will benefit families and communities in Africa: 8 HOUSES @ £140 EACH = £1140 2 Water kits @ £100 each = £200 10 Seeds/Tools@ £21 each = £210 Kits 6 Goats @ £28 each = £168 9 Birth Certs @ £7 each = £63 2 Homecoming Kits@ £18 each= £36 1 Grain Store@ £50 each = £50 1 Care of Children kit@ £70each = £70 2 Olive Trees @ £10 each = £20 PHOTO: Mr Gerry Shields (left) chief organiser of the TROCAIRE APPEAL at St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen presents a cheque to Trocaire Representative/ Education Officer Rosie Murray.

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

Key Stage 3 Awards for Crossmaglen Pupils

St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen recently held its annual Presentation of Key Stage 3 Certificates. Head of Junior School, Mr Oliver Short, congratulated pupils, teachers and parents for their role in the overall success of the Key Stage 3 results. The Principal, Mr Scally, spoke of the importance of constantly striving to achieve one's potential and congratulated the pupils on their hard work and dedication throughout Year 10. Miss Aoife Burns achieved the highest number of distinctions in all her subjects in the school in Key Stage 3. She came 2nd in Maths, 4th in English and 5th in Science. These pupils came first in Key Stage 3 Maths, English and Science: Back l-r: Lisa Reel, Orla Grant Seated: Deborah Gray, Sinead Carragher     These 8 pupils achieved the highest number of Distinctions in all their subjects at Key Stage 3: Back l-r: Mrs Ridley (Year Head), Aoife Burns, Deborah Gray, Sinead Bellew, Sinead Carragher, Mr Short ( Head of Junior School) Seated: Amy Goodman, Moira Boyle, Lisa Reel, Fiona Murray Pupils who successfully completed Key Stage 3 Information Technology                           Overall winners of Endeavour Awards per class group: Back l-r: Mr Short (Head of Junior School), Gemma Carroll, Mrs Ridley (Year Head), Laura Norton, Mr Scally (Principal) Seated: Amy Goodman, Roisin McShane, Mary Rooney. ABSENT FROM PHOTO: Paulius Lyzovas and Patricia Rooney Junior Certificate Recipients

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

Anti-Bullying Art Competition

The Art Department at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen recently oprganised an anti-bullying poster competition for 1st, 2nd & 3rd year pupils. The issue of bullying is dealt with in a pro-active way at St Joseph's and the competition generated a huge response from the pupils. All the entries for the competition have been displayed throughout the school as a constant reminder to the pupils that bullying will not be tolerated. The winners from each year group each received a selection box and are pictured with their winning entries and Art teacher Mrs Edele McMahon

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

Enterprising Day for Crossmaglen Pupils

Mr Oliver Short, Head of Junior School at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, recently accompanied a group of pupils to an Enterprise workshop entitled “Entrepreneurial Masterclass”. The event was held in the Canal Court Hotel, Newry and was also attended by Classroom Assistant Mrs Geraldine Duffy. The purpose of the event was to encourage and inform young people on how to recognise opportunities, plan actions, set targets, work as a team and how to enrich and expand their thinking through enterprise. The pupils who attended are studying GCSE Business and Communications. The Principal, Mr Kevin Scally is pictured with the enterprising pupils

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

3rd in Northern Ireland!

Miss Niamh Murphy from Mullaghban and a past pupil of St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen, achieved phenomenal success in her A Level Health and Social Care by coming 3rd in Northern Ireland. She is pictured being congratulated by the Principal, Mr Kevin Scally. She also achieved a grade A in Sociology, A* in PE and a B in Religion. She is now attending St Mary’s College in Belfast training to become a PE teacher . Niamh’s teachers: Mrs Doherty, Mrs Brennan and Miss McCarron are delighted with Niamh’s success and have all said that they are not unduly surprised. Niamh has always had a keen interest in sports and Miss McCarron, Niamh’s PE teacher, was delighted when she achieved her potential in GCSE P.E. by gaining an A* grade. She is confident that Niamh will have a very successful future as a dedicated and committed P.E. teacher and wishes her every success in St. Mary’s College. Miss McCarron, said: “Niamh had lots of sporting talent and during her time in St. Joesph’s H.S. performed to a high standard in both Netball and Ladies Gaelic Football. She captained the school netball team and when she was a Year 12 pupil was selected for the SELB Netball Regional Squad. She was also a prominent member of the Ladies Gaelic team and represented her county at U.16 level. In her Junior years she also played for the school camogie team.” Mrs Brennan (Health & Social Care) said: “I found Niamh to be a very dilligent, cooperative and hard working pupil who strived to reach her full potential. She was enthusiastic about the subject and this was reflected in all the work she produced. She set herself a goal and she worked extremely hard to achieve it. A very popular girl who had great presence and a very healthy and positive attiitude to her studies. A pleasure to teach.” Niamh’s other Health & Social Care teacher Mrs Dopherty commented “Niamh was always a pleasant and co-operative pupil who took her role as a senior pupil very seriously . From the beginning of her A level studies she put her heart and soul into her work, always striving to improve where possible.”

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

6th Form

St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen has now firmly established its recently reintroduced 6th form provision and continues to go from strength to strength. The Principal, Mr Kevin Scally is pictured with Head of Sixth Form, Mrs Noreen McMahon

Posted by Admin on Thursday 5th January 2007

News Archive Crossmaglen Principal Honoured at No 10 Mr Kevin Scally, Principal of St Josephs High School attended an evening reception at No 10 Downing Street last week. One hundred and twenty Head Teachers from primary, secondary and special schools around England,Scotland, Wales and N Ireland were invited, having been nominated by the Chief Inspector on the basis that their schools were doing exceptionally well. Five secondary schools from N Ireland were represented. In addition to Mr Scally, also present were Mr Harpur (Ballycastle High) Mrs Ward (Cross and Passion, Ballycastle) and Mr Flanagan (Portadown College). The Prime Minister mingled with the Headteachers and addressed those assembled, saying " As anyone who is used to managing change knows, it can be challenging - I know that myself - and so I thank you for the work that you do in your schools, day in day out. It is the teachers and the schools who are always ready to be creative and to innovate who are really successful. He went on "All of you have been invited here tonight because you are doing something remarkable in your schools. I remain as passionate about education today as I have ever been. Everyone has someone who inspired them, and what you are doing with your pupils will be with them for the rest of their lives. So thank you for doing what is not necessarily a 9 to 5 job" Prior to the main reception in Downing Street Mr Scally was invited to participate in a small discussion on educational issues with the Prime Minister and nine other selected Head Teachers. Last November Inspectors described St Josephs as having an 'excellent caring and supportive ethos'. They highlighted the 'quality of pastoral care provision' as being a particular strength of the school. The teachers 'hard working and committed' and Mr Scally described as providing 'strong leadership'. Inspectors described the GCSE results as 'well above the N Ireland average'. Posted by Admin on Monday 10th October 2006 Conflict Resolution Workshops Mrs R Burns, Head of the Citizenship Department at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, has recently coordinated a number of activities relating to 'Conflict Resolution'. One of these activities was the recent visit of Mr Lawrence McKeown,(pictured with some 5th Year pupils)  former hunger striker and prominent playwright.  Mr McKeown spoke to 5th Year pupils about his approach to conflict resolution and the lessons learnt from that experience. The workshop also focused on acknowledgement and acceptance of the past. By harnessing these abilities pupils will have the basis to effectively deal with conflict in all areas of life. Posted by Admin on Monday 10th October 2006 Dental Talk Mr Oliver Short, Head of Junior School at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, recently invited the Area Dental Nurse to speak to all first Year pupils about the importance of good dental hygiene. Mrs Daphne Calvin (pictured) also spoke about wearing correct mouth guard protection when practising contact sports and how to administer basic first aid. Posted by Admin on Monday 10th October 2006 'BIG SCHOOL' Seminar for First Years Making the transition from primary to secondary school can leave students feeling stressed, says YOUNG ENTERPRISE NORTHERN IRELAND. So the organisation is conducting seminars to help make the transition easier and make 'big school' a positive experience for 11 & 12 year olds.  Mr Oliver Short, Head of Junior School at ST JOSEPH'S HS CROSSMAGLEN, invited YENI to deliver its 'Big School' seminar in the school recently.  'Facing a new situation, meeting new people and understanding new expectations can leave students feeling isolated and scared' says Valerie Ingram, Chief Executive of Young Enterprise Northern Ireland. 'We've developed a way to ease the stress and make the experience a positive one for students.' YENI conducts seminars in the classroom that focus on skills students need to be successful in their new school - skills like communication and teamwork. The seminars team up new students with 6th formers and prefects so that they have an older pupil to call on. The seminars also offer students the chance to make new friends and meet other students who have experienced transition themselves. YENI is a cross-community not-for-profit organisation dedicated to inspiring young people to develop attitudes and skills for personal success, life-long learning and employability through participation in practical business programs. The organisation derives 30% of its funding and employs over 1,200 volunteers from private business.. Its core programmes are supported by InvestNI as part of its Accelerating Entrepreneurship mandate FIRST YEAR PUPILS AND 6TH FORMERS ENJOY THE 'Big School' ACTIVITIES                             Cathy Morrison, Facilitator with YENI, with first year pupils at the seminar in Crossmaglen             Posted by Admin on Monday 10th October 2006 'Great Fun' on European Languages Day  Mrs R Burns of the French Dept at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, together with Language Assistant Monsieur Nicolas Vivier, recently celebrated European Day of Languages with a number of first and second year pupils. They prepared displays depicting flags and words from a number of countries across Europe and played 'word bingo' with Monsieur Vivier. French breakfasts were also organised where pupils sampled hot chocolate, croissants and crusty baguettes - 'delicieux' Overall, a fun and thoroughly enjoyable day! French Breakfast photos: 'Bon Appetit' for Crossmaglen Pupils         French Assistant Nicolas Vivier with pupils and their work           Posted by Admin on Monday 10th October 2006 InterSchool RE Conference in Crossmaglen The RE Department of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen recently hosted an INTERSCHOOLS CONFERENCE on the differences and similarities in the Catholic and Protestant denominations. The Conference facilitators, Sr Margaret Agnew and Sr Rose Devlin of the Christian Education Movement, organised workshops with 5th Year pupils from St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen and St Paul's HS Bessbrook. Sr Agnew at the Conference             Sr Devlin hosts a debate Posted by Admin on Monday 10th October 2006 Health Workshops for Crossmaglen Pupils All 4th year pupils at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen took part recently in a series of Workshops organised by the Life & Work Dept. In line with their GCSE Life & Work course, the pupils learnt about issues relating to healthy lifestyles and mental health. ACTION CANCER  and AWARE DEFEAT DEPRESSION worked with pupils in class-size groups and delivered presentations to the pupils in order to heighten their on these important topics.  Catherine and Arlene from ACTION CANCER with 4th pupils from St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen           Posted by Admin on Monday 10th October 2006 Special Presentations at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen Mrs Teresa Donnelly has completed 16 years service as Classroom Assistant in the Learning Support Centre at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen.She also supported children throughout the school as a whole. She received a special presentation from school Principal, Mr Kevin Scally (right). Also pictured is Mr Tom McKay, Chairman of the Board of Governors. Since starting in 1990, Mrs Donnelly has worked with all the Principals at St Joseph's - Mr Archie McMullan, Mr Bernard Crilly, Mr Frank McCreesh & Mr Kevin Scally. "Mrs Donnelly is one of the most popular members of staff in St Joseph's and will be sorely missed. She is loyal, hardworking and totally dependable - a lady who is supportive of all staff and pupils. We wish her many happy years of retirement and hope she keeps in touch with her many friends in St Joseph's." said Mr Scally Mrs Maire Mulligan received an Award from Mr Tom McKay, Chairman of the Board of Governors, for 25 years service. She has taught in the Crossmaglen school since 1981 and held a number of prestigious posts in the school including Head of Science and Head of Senior School. She currently holds the post of Vice Principal at St Joseph's. "Mrs Mulligan is a highly respected professional who is totally dedicated to St Joseph's HS. I value her not only as a colleague but as a good friend." commented Mr Scally There were also a number of presentations to departing staff in appreciation of their varied periods of loyal service at St Joseph's over the past year: (L - R) Miss Nicola McCreesh(RE Dept), Miss Helena Morgan(Music Dept), Mr Kevin Scally (Principal), Miss Mairead Smith (RE Dept), Mrs Sinead McLaughlin (English Dept). Mr Scally wished everyone well in their future careers in education and thanked everyone for their huge and significant contributions to St Joseph's. Posted by Admin on Monday 10th October 2006 Second Year scores tops in GCSE A* success in GCSE Irish for Miss Shauntelle Murphy, a second year pupil at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen.  The Mullaghban girl is pictured being congratulated by the Principal, Mr Kevin Scally. Shauntelle's Irish teacher, Mrs Karen Ridley, described Shauntelle's exceptional achievement as an inspiration for other Irish students at St Joseph's. Posted by Admin on Monday 10th October 2006 Remarkable GCSE Results in Crossmaglen St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen has this year exceeded all expectations in its GCSE results. The number of pupils who achieved Grades A - C has doubled in the last 2 years and a particular feature of this success has been the increase in boys achieving 5 top grades. Girls continue to perform very well at the Crossmaglen school which has been moving from strength to strength in recent times. These latest successes follow on from the outstanding DENI Inspection Report on the school last year, and Mr Scally’s visit to Downing Street in May  to receive a  commendation from the Prime Minister, Mr Blair. Mr Kevin Scally, Principal of St Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen, described  last week’s GCSE results as “absolutely outstanding”. Mr Scally attributed the success to the hard work of the students – “a great group of young people ....I wish them every success in their future career choices”... He also paid tribute to the parents of all of the students, who had supported their children through their schooling and were entitled to be very proud of their achievements. Equally, Mr Scally thanked the teaching staff for their hard work and steadfast commitment throughout the . He was only too aware of how much work this entailed but he felt the results had vindicated them. He congratulated all of the staff and said that he was proud to work alongside such a dedicated team. Josephine Murray, Aine Cumiskey & Ciara Murphy receive the much awaited 'brown envelope'             Mrs Durnin congratulates her  daughter Siofra on her results         Aaron Kieran & Ciaran Nugent on results day             Sinead Hanratty, Ladean Rowland & Julie Collins are delighted to share their delight for the camera         A success story for Tony Donnelly & Michael McLoughlin         Two happy students - Gary McCooey & Stephen Sheridan           Mrs Mulligan, Vice Principal, with some of the successful Crossmaglen students: Stephen Sheridan, Tony Donnelly, Aine Cumiskey, Ciara Murphy, Stephanie Gray, Michael McLoughlin, Debbie McCann Posted by Admin on Monday 10th October 2006 Continued Success for Crossmaglen School Mr Kevin Scally, Principal of St Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen, described  last week’s A level results as “truly outstanding”. Remarkably, all of the students obtained grades which will admit them to higher education. After a gap of twenty years A levels were reintroduced in the Crossmaglen school in 2003, and this is the second cohort of students to have completed the A level courses since then. The Principal said that he had always been confident that excellent A levels would be achieved, but was nevertheless surprised that they had achieved significant success so quickly. The top students were Peter Mulligan, Erica McNamee, Siobhan Hughes and Michelle Murphy. Mr Scally attributed the success to the hard work of the students – “a great group of youngsters”... He also paid tribute to the parents of all of the students, who had supported their children through their schooling and were entitled to be very proud of their achievements. Equally, Mr Scally thanked the teaching staff for their hard work in establishing the new A level courses. He was only too aware of how much work this entailed but he felt the results had vindicated them. He congratulated all of the staff and said that he was proud to work alongside such a dedicated team. Finally he wished all of the departing students success and happiness. He urged them to live by the values that they had learned at St Joseph’s and that he would always be proud of their contribution to school life. ‘They are without doubt worthy ambassadors from Crossmaglen.’ Commented Mr Scally. The A level success follows on from the outstanding DENI Inspection Report on the school last year, and Mr Scally’s visit to Downing Street in May  to receive a  commendation from the Prime Minister, Mr Blair. A delighted group of students after receiving their A Level results. L - R: Fiona Leonard, Michelle Murphy, Siobhan Hughes, Tracey McKeown, Catherine Martin, Edel McNeill & Shauna Conlon         Mr Scally congratulates Siobhan Hughes & Edel McNeill         Mr Scally congratulates Peter Mulligan who was the top performing A Level student at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen               Michaela McEvoy and Erica McNamee show their delight on results day   Posted by Admin on Monday 10th October 2006 A NEW BEGINNING The 1st Sept is traditionally 'back to school time' and for these first year pupils at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, it was an especially exciting and long-awaited day Posted by Admin on Monday 10th October 2006 Crossmaglen Girl Volunteers in Africa Crossmaglen girl, Miss Aoibhinn Loye, a past pupil of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen now studying Community Youth Work at the University of Ulster, is spending the months of June and July in St Theresa's AIDS Orphanage in Durban in South Africa doing voluntary work. St Theresa's Orphanage works with children and young people who have been orphaned by the AIDS epidemic and is highly reliant on volunteer workers to carry out its development programme. Funds for the programme are severely stretched at present and prior to her departure, Aoibhinn received a number of donations from family members, friends, local groups and businesses and her former school. Aoibhinn's sister, Orla, is pictured receiving a cheque for £300 from the Charity Coordinator at St Joseph's HS, Mr Garry McLoughlin. Anyone wishing to make a donation can do so by contacting Mr McLoughlin at the school. All contributions will be sent directly to Aoibhinn at St Theresa's PHOTO: St Joseph's HS Charity Coordinator, Mr Garry McLoughlin, presents a cheque for £300 to Aoibhinn Loye's sister, Orla Posted by Admin on Monday 3rd July 2006 Crossmaglen Rangers donates to Canteen Fire Fund Shortly after Christmas, the canteen at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen was devastated in a fire. The local community rallied around to raise funds for its refurbishment and reconstruction and the school has been overwhelmed with messages of support and donations. The latest organisation to contribute to the Canteen Fund was Crossmaglen Rangers GAC. The Club donated £1000 to school Principal, Mr Kevin Scally, who has described the overall reaction to the fire as "exceptional". He is pictured receiving a cheque from Mr Dessie Rooney, Schools Liaison Officer for Crossmaglen Rangers GAC. Mr Tom MCKay, Chairman of the Board of Governors in the Crossmaglen school is pictured on the left along with Armagh County star and past pupil Aaron Kernan Posted by Admin on Monday 3rd July 2006 Bon Voyage for Crossmaglen Pupils 41 Third Year pupils from St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen are off to Paris on their annual European trip. Throughout their 5-day excursion, they will visit all the main attractions of this wonderful cosmopolitan city, such as the Louvre Museum, the Eiffel Tower, the Pompidou Centre, the Champs Elysees, Notre Dame Cathedral, the Sacre Coeur and of course Eurodisney. They will also have the chance to go shopping in the huge Val d'Europe Shopping Complex which includes a number of designer outlets and an underwater seaworld. They are pictured with group leader Mr Gerry Shields (left) and the Principal Mr Kevin Scally. Posted by Admin on Monday 3rd July 2006 Breast Cancer Donation following SPORTS DAY Fundraiser At their annual Sports Day, the pupils of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen enjoyed glorious sunshine and purchased icecream to help them cool down. Local supermarket SUPERVALU generously donated the refreshments to St Joseph's and the money raised (£90) was donated to Breast Cancer. Mr Garry McLoughlin, who organised the event with one of his first year classes, is pictured with (L - R): Paddy Reel, Michelle Reel, Conor Walsh, Jack Kirwin and David McCann       Michelle Reel & Aisleen Tierney serve the ices           Colleen Crilly and Sean McArdle enjoying the icecreams Posted by Admin on Monday 3rd July 2006 UK Maths Challenge Winners A number of first and second year pupils from St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen entered the UK JUNIOR MATHS CHALLENGE and came up trumps. In second year, Miss Claire McEntee was rated best in her year group and was the only pupil to receive a Gold Certificate whilst Aisling McCreesh was tops in first year. The successful pupils were awarded either Silver (S) or Bronze(B) Certificates (L-R) Grainne Garvey(B), Jack Kirwin(B), Dearbhla O'Farrell(B), Conor Walsh(S), Sionan Murphy(B), David McCann(s), Laura McShane(B), Aisling McCreesh(S) absent from photo Michelle Reel(S)       (L-R) Niamh Gernon(B), Pauline McGahon(S), Aoife McArdle(S), Sinead Mackin(B), Shane Canning(S), CathyAnn Murphy(S), Christopher McShane(B), Laura Largey(B), Claire McEntee(Gold), Rosemary Loye(S), Aidan McVerry(B), Patrice Murphy(B), Clare Murray(S), Sarah Finnegan(S), absent from photo James Garvey(S) & Jennifer Reel (S) Posted by Admin on Monday 3rd July 2006 First Years enjoy ‘Moving On’ Activity Day in Crossmaglen Young Enterprise offers 13 different programmes to suit a variety of age groups and time scales. The programmes are delivered in schools by YENI staff and business volunteers. Its mission is to provide the most comprehensive suite of business education programmes to young people in Northern Ireland. Its values involve:  - encouraging personal responsibility, innovation and competition to achieve quality peformance;  - providing and encouraging the opportunity for students, volunteers and staff to grow personally and professionally;  -  never being satisfied with the status quo. The YENI team, with Facilitator Mrs Ann Fegan, were invited to St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen by Head of Junior School, Mr Oliver Short, to deliver their ‘Moving On’ Programme to all first years. Pupils spent an entire day doing group-based activities to encourage them to look back critically at their achievements throughout their first year at the ‘Big School’. They also looked at ways to help them prepare for the exciting, new challenges of second year PHOTOS: Niamh Burns, Denise Rowland and Nicole McGlade at the ‘Moving On’ Activity Day           Enjoying the activities are (back) Aoife Burns, Laura Judge, Evelyn Kelly and (seated) Declan Burns, Barry Maguire, James McShane           YENI Facilitator Ann Fegan with some first year pupils and their 3rd year helpers         Niamh Burns, Denise Rowland and Nicole McGlade taking a break from their busy schedule Posted by Admin on Monday 3rd July 2006 Valentine Roses benefit Patient Mrs  Karen Ridley, St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, and some 6th andf 7th formers sold roses in school for £1 and delivered them with great excitement throughout the school on Valentines day.The money raised -  £570 - was donated to the Patient Homecare Fund which they, in turn will use to buy an syringe driver for terminally ill patients in the locality. There was a great response from the pupils from first year through to 7th year as well as  local florists some of whom donated the roses to the school to sell. Mrs Ridley is pictured on the left with some of the pupils who helped raise the money. Also pictured are Nurse Rose Carragher (centre) and Nurse Anne Russell accepting the cheque for £570 on behalf of the Patient Homecare Fund     Pupils organise the delivery of the rose Posted by Admin on Monday 3rd July 2006 St Joseph's Launch A Level Courses St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen is looking forward to its 3rd successful Year of A Level provision and has launched its new A Level Prospectus. St Joseph's has created a Sixth Form in which academic pursuits are carried out in an invigorating and stimulating atmosphere. The class sizes are much smaller and the relationship between staff and students is relaxed, although the academic rigours demanded are more intense and exacting than previously experienced. Within this climate, St Joseph's students can experience more freedom which will allow them the opportunity to develop further the skills of self-discipline and organisation. Study to Advanced Level, of course, provides the qualifications required for entry into the professions and into courses at universities and other institutions of higher education. The Advanced Level system is very flexible with most courses offering modular exams in January and June. All courses have external exams and qualifications at the end of both years of the 2-year programme. At the end of one year, when 3 Modules have been completed and examined, students can claim an Advanced Subsidiary (AS) qualification. AS is a one year programme in its own right for post-16 pupils. It is also the first half of an A Level. A full A Level consists of 6 Modules - 3 AS modules and 3 A2 modules. At St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen,  a number of vocational/applied & traditional subjects are on offer: Applied Business, Applied ICT, English Literature, Applied Health and Social Care, Religious Studies, Biology, Chemisrty & Design and Technology The Principal Mr Kevin Scally is pictured with Students from St Joseph's and the Head of Sixth Form, Mrs Noreen McMahon. Posted by Admin on Monday 3rd July 2006 Spanish Exchange for Crossmaglen Pupils Miss Geraldine Kelly, Geography teacher at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, has recently organised a very successful pupil exchange with a secondary school in Spain. The 8 Spanish pupils come from Almenara Secondary School in Velez-Malaga and stayed for a week with pupils'  families in the Crossmaglen area. The  pupils took part in the exchange so as  to improve their English skills and experience the culture and lifestyle in Ireland. Throughout their week-long stay, pupils got a taste of school life at St Joseph's and went on a number of organised trips to Belfast, The Palace Stables in Armagh and Navan Fort. A number of the host families also made some exceptional efforts to welcome the Spanish pupils and organised additional activities which made their stay a truly memorable experience. Mrs Karen Ridley, a colleague of Miss Kelly, organised some ceili dancing and a traditional music session for everyone involved in the exchange. To cover just some of the cost of the exchange, Supervalu allowed St Joseph's a one day bag pack, which raised over £200 sterling and 200 Euro. The school is particularly grateful toSupervalu and all those who contributed to the bag pack. The Crossmaglen pupils involved in the exchange will be heading off to Velez-Malaga in Spain on 9th May along with Miss Kelly so here's to a wonderful trip and ADIOS! Crossmaglen pupils at Navan fort with their Spanish partners             Both Spanish and Irish pupils strike a Spanish pose           The Spanish pupils who took part in the Exchange at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen Posted by Admin on Monday 3rd July 2006 New Hotel gives 'enterprising' advice Mrs Burns, Head of the Citizenship Department at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, invited the management of the new and thriving Cross Square Hotel into the school recently to host a discussion on the theme of 'Enterprise'. Pupils studying GCSE Life & Work (Citizenship) cover a number of business-related topics including setting up your own business. Fiona Kieran (Marketing Manager) and Margaret Carragher (Duty Manager) answered a number of questions prepared by the pupils on the many aspects of setting up a new business, from market research, location, promotion policy, business planning and staff training. The ensuing discussion generated a lot of interest amongst the pupils and gave them a very rounded and informative view of the rewards and challenges of running your own business PHOTO: MARGARET CARRAGHER, DUTY MANAGER AT CROSS SQUARE HOTEL, WITH SIMON DONEGAN, SHAUNEEN MCGOVERN, SIOFRA DURNIN & AINE CUMISKEY, JUST SOME OF THE PUPILS WHO TOOK PART IN THE DISCUSSION ABOUT RUNNING YOUR OWN BUSINESS Posted by Admin on Monday 3rd July 2006 First Year 'Top Readers' Rewarded / JIGTIME visits Crossmaglen 1. The English Department and the Library of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen held a number of events recently to celebrate World Book Day. In Year 8, the 'Top Reader' in each class group received an Easter egg in recognition of their efforts. Mrs Margaret McNamee, Librarian, is pictured with the winning pupils: Back (l-r): Michelle Reel, Megan Sheridan, Aine Nolan Front (l-r): Conor Walsh, Catherine Kearns, Brendan McCoy       2. Another significant event was an afternoon of storytelling and traditional music. Year 8 and 9 pupils were entertained by John Campbell and Len Graham with members of JIGTIME and local storyteller Jim McAllister. John and Len have represented Ireland in festivals in Europe and USA with their storytelling accompanied by traditional music PICTURE: The members of JIGTIME who entertained the pupils of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen recently Posted by Admin on Monday 3rd July 2006 RSA Certificates for Crossmaglen Pupils A  group of 4th year pupils from St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen recently completed their RSA Initial Text Processing Computer Course. Pupils achieved either a Pass (P) or a Distinction (D) and are pictured with their teacher, Miss Martha O'Hagan. Left to right: Christopher Conlon (P), Paul Murray (D), Siobhan Moley (P), Natasha Durnin (D), Fergal Murphy (P), Eugene McCooey (P), Kyle Murphy (D) and absent from photo Kevin O'Neill who achieved a Distinction Posted by Admin on Monday 27th March 2006 Young Carers Project visits Crossmaglen Mrs Marie Millar (pictured back right), Head of Senior School at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, recently invited The Young Carers Project (part of Newry & Mourne Carers) to speak to senior pupils. The project caters for young people between the ages og 8 - 18 who care for someone on a regular basis such as a family member who is ill , disabled, suffering mental health problems or struggling with alcohol or drugs. Mr Tom Bogues (left) and Ms Carie Crawford (centre) are pictured with some of the pupils who attended the very informative talk. The Young Carers Project can be contacted at info@carers-nm.org Posted by Admin on Monday 27th March 2006 SENTINUS VISIT ST JOSEPH’S CROSSMAGLEN On Friday 10th February SENTINUS visited St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen and provided Years 13 and 14 with training in how to deal with interviews for University and job applications. The mock interviews went most successfully and all the pupils felt enriched by this experience which will stand them in good stead as they begin their Application process in the near future. Pictured here are students and interviewers who participated in this event. Back row, L to R. Margarita McDonnell, Aisling Rooney, Mr Pius  Tierney (Board of Governors), Mr Tom McKay (Chairman of the Board of Governors), Mr Gerry Doherty(Careers), Tiffany Liddy, Seaneen Reel, Charlene McShane Front row, L to R, Miss Joanne Reel (Bank of Ireland), Mr Dominic McCartan (Sentinus), Mr Kevin Scally (Principal), Mr M Casey (Financial Consultant), A. Muckian (Northern Bank) Posted by Admin on Monday 27th March 2006 Pupils fundraise for Trocaire A number of pupils from the Learning Support Centre at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen along with teachers Mr Shields and Mr McEvoy, collected their loose change over the Christmas period and donated the proceeds to the Trocaire Global Gift Plan. The Plan encourages communities in parts of Africa to become more self-sufficient by purchasing seeds, animals, tools etc. The following pupils are pictured with their certificates showing their various purchases. Left to right: Padraig Rosato, Eimear Murtagh, Gary McShane, Patrick Boyle, Roisin Hamill and Patrick Grant Posted by Admin on Monday 27th March 2006 P6 Enjoy Activity Day at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen P6 pupils from around the Crossmaglen area enjoyed a break from their normal routine when St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, under the guidance of Head of Junior School Mr Oliver Short, organised an ACTIVITY DAY. Pupils were able to get a glimpse of the day to day activities in the following departments - Technology and Design (Miss McGlinchey & Mr Mulholland), PE ( Miss McCarron & Mr Reel), Home Economics ( Mrs Rogers & Mrs Doherty), Science (Mrs Brennan & Mr Nugent) and IT (Miss Eakins & Miss O'Hagan) Posted by Admin on Monday 27th March 2006 DENI Inspectors describe St Joseph’s High School as ‘Excellent’ Department of Education inspectors have described St Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen as having: ‘…an excellent caring and supportive ethos’. The school was inspected last November and the subsequent report was published in January. It was one of the most positive Inspection Reports published about any school in Northern Ireland. The inspectors were copious in their praise of the school which celebrated its 40th anniversary last year. They highlighted the ‘…quality of the pastoral care provision as being a particular strength of the school’. The behaviour of the pupils was described as ‘exemplary’ and the teachers as ‘hard working and committed’. GCSE results were ‘….well above the NI average for similar schools. Last summer, St Joseph’s celebrated its most successful results in the school’s history with the number achieving top grades up by 75%. The inspectors also said that the Principal provided ‘…strong leadership’ and that ‘he, with the support of the Senior Management Team, has effected significant improvements in the behaviour and attainment of the pupils’. In all, the inspectors listed thirteen strengths and one area for improvement. Notably, there will be no follow-up inspection, as happens in over 80% of schools inspected. The inspectors also expressed full confidence in the management of the school. St Joseph’s relaunched its A Level provision just two years ago and the inspectors commented that ‘….the standards achieved by 6th form pupils compare very favourably with those achieved by pupils in similar schools’. The pupils told the inspectors that ‘…they feel safe within the school and know whom to turn to in the event of a concern’. The response to the parental questionnaire was also very positive, indicating the high regard with which the school is held in the community. On all of the issues on which their views were canvassed, parents showed high levels of satisfaction with the school – higher than the NI average. In the Learning Support Centre at St Joseph’s, children with learning difficulties were well catered for with the inspectors commenting that ‘…the quality of the learning provision in the LSC and the management of Special Education Provision’ were particular strengths. The Principal, Mr Kevin Scally, said that he was very pleased that the Department of Education had confirmed what everyone in the school and wider South Armagh community had always known - that St Joseph’s was indeed an excellent school.                 Posted by Admin on Monday 27th March 2006 New ICT Suite for Crossmaglen School St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen is yet again to the fore in its provision of information and communication technology for its students. The school officially opened a new ICT Suite – the third in the school – equipped with the latest in communication systems in the whole of the SELB area. Students will be trained to use all the latest IT programs which have become such an integral part of so many aspects of the world of work. Technology is constantly changing and these changes bring about a change in the jobs and skills that are required in a workforce. As a result there are now more jobs in the service sector so it is vital that young people leave school armed with up to date IT skills which will maximise their chances in the labour market. St Joseph’s is clearly at the cutting edge in  preparing all its students for the many demands of working life They will also have access to the internet and email in the new suite. The Principal of St Joseph’s, Mr Kevin Scally, was delighted to welcome various guests from industry , education and the local community, viz. Mr Tom McKay, Chairman of the Board of Governors Mr John McKevitt (Architect) Mr Gerard McQuillan  (Building Contractor) Ms Avril Morrow, Mr Bertie McCrum & Mr Ciaran McCrumish (SELB) Ms Helen Agnew & Ms Scott Hillen (Northgate) Fr McKeever (School Chaplain) Fr Cullen Mrs Patricia Buckley (Board of Governors) Mr Eoin Kelly (Board of Governors) Mr Denis Lavelle (Lavelle & McAlinden) Ms Denise Murphy (C2K) Ms Nuala McKay ( C2K) The Vice Principal, Mr John Jones, assisted by VP Mrs Moira Mulligan, then addressed the assembled guests, teachers and support staff and welcomed all present to the official opening of this new state of the art facility. Mrs Hearty, Mrs McMahon and Mrs Delargy of the Business Studies and ICT Departments expressed their delight at the opening of this long awaited suite and thanked everyone involved for their hard work in making this day possible Mr Jones commented: “It has been a roller coaster of a year for St Joseph’s, starting with an outstanding DENI Inspection Report. Just a few weeks ago, however, we had the devasting fire which ruined our kitchen and canteen facility. Today, we stand undeterred in our pursuit of the best educational opportunities for our students as we gather to officially open our new state of the art ICT suite. In the wake of the fire, the school has been besieged with messages of support and goodwill from various individuals and groups throughout the community as well as the district Inspector, Ms Karen Caulfield. Once again in the face of adversity this community has come together to support us with many donations which we gratefully acknowledge and which will be used to improve the education of our pupils” The suite was officially opened by  Mr Tom McKay, Chairman of the Board of Governors and blessed by the school chaplain Fr McKeever.       Photo captions L – R : Mr Denis Lavelle, Mr Gerard McQuillan, Mr Tom McKay, Mr John McKevitt         Mrs Catherine McKevitt, Mr John Jones, Fr Mc Keever, Mrs Marian Hearty, Mr Tom McKay, Mrs Moira Mulligan, Mrs Noreen McMahon     Mr Tom McKay, Mrs Avril Morrow, Mr Ciaran McCrumish, Mrs Denise Murphy, Mrs Nuala McKay Posted by Admin on Monday 27th March 2006 Crossmaglen Pupils visit Stormont The Citizenship Dept of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen took its 4th Year pupils on a trip recently to Parliament Buildings in Stormont, home of the Northern Ireland Assembly. Pupils took part in a number of activities to help them understand the role of the Assembly and were given a tour of the Great Hall, the Senate and the Assembly Chamber. They also received an Activity Pack which will be particularly useful to them in their forthcoming exam in this area of citizenship. A number of prominent politicians from the Newry and Armagh Constituency were on hand to chat to the pupils and answer any queries. Pupils pose for a photo on the famous stairway of the Great Hall                                   Pupils take part in mock elections         Pupils sit in 'members' seats in the Senate and learn about proceedings Posted by Admin on Monday 27th March 2006 Crossmaglen Pupils attend Eurodisney Science Conference 16 students from the Science Department of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen have just returned from a 5 day European  Science Conference held in Eurodisney in Paris. Mr Francie Nugent, Mrs Sinead Brennan and Mrs Genevieve Woods accompanied the 16 GCSE & A Level pupils who met with other students from various schools across Europe and explored themes common to their science Programmes of Study. They also attended a number of workshops where they experienced 'science in action'.               Posted by Admin on Monday 27th March 2006 Huge Support following Canteen Fire Following the recent devastating fire in the canteen of St Joseph's HS, Crossmaglen, the school has been inundated with messages of support from the local community. The fire caused tens of thousands of pounds worth of damage and work to refurbish and refit the canteen has been ongoing on a daily basis since the fire on 30th January. School funds are already severely stretched and in recent months we have seen the withdrawal of bus services in a number of areas as well as various cutbacks across the whole education sector. School funds simply cannot provide the money needed to foot the huge repair bill so the school urgently needs to fundraise in order to meet the many costs as a result of the fire.  The SELB will bear the main cost of the fire, however, this will mean a shortfall in other vital areas of the educational budget for the pupils of Crossmaglen. Two local businesses have come forward with donations towards the refurbishment of the canteen. Mrs Marie Duncan of Crossmaglen Credit Union donated £1000 and Mrs Roisin Mc Conville of SPAR, Crossmaglen organised a raffle and raised £650. Mrs Attracta Clarke was the lucky winner of the main raffle prize. The Principal, Mr Kevin Scally, and the entire school community are sincerely grateful for these expressions of support and generosity and vow to continue to strive to meet the educational needs of its students regardless of the challenges it meets along the way. Posted by Admin on Monday 27th March 2006 Crossmaglen Pupils raise money for breast cancer Mr Garry McLoughlin, Maths teacher and charity coordinator at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, poses with his 5th Year pupils who carried out a 'BAG PACK' in aid of 'Breast Cancer' at Marks & Spencer in the Buttercarane Shopping Centre, Newry. Sincere thanks to all those who contributed towards the eventual sum of £600. Back l-r: Lauren Morgan, Sinead Hanratty, Julie Collins Front l-r: Siobhan McSorley, Caoimhe McCombe, Shireen McConville Posted by Admin on Monday 23rd January Inaugural A Level Awards for Crossmaglen Pupils Another significant milestone has been reached by St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen following its recent Sixth Form success. The school reintroduced its A Level provision just 2 years ago after a lapse of 25 years. In the words of the ETI (the Education and Training Inspectorate) which carried out a general inspection in the school in November: "Standards achieved by 6th Form compare very favourably with those achieved by pupils in similar schools" ie schools offering A Level courses. In its Upper Sixth Awards Night, the Principal, Mr Kevin Scally, was delighted to welcome back such an outstanding group of pupils and paid tribute to the hard work and commitment of all the teachers concerned as well as the support of parents. Mr Scally also welcomed guest speaker JOHN TOAL of Radio Ulster, Presenter of 'Saturday Magazine', Mr Tom McKay, Chairman of the Board of Governors, Fr Clark (BoG) and Mrs Moira Mulligan & Mr John Jones (VP's). He also thanked the 'behind the scenes' personnel for making the night possible: Mrs Delargy (Exams Officer), Mrs McMahon (Head of Sixth Form), Mrs Burns (PR), Mr Loye (Reprographics), Mr McAvoy (Sound/Lights) and the catering & caretaking staff. There were 5 subject awards: 1. Miss Vanessa McVerry won the RE Award sponsored by Mr Nicholas Traynor of TRAYNOR FINANCIAL PLANNING LTD 2. Miss Aisling McDonnell won the Business Studies Award sponsored by recently retired Bus St teacher Mrs Catherine McKevitt 3. Miss Arlene Finnegan won the ICT Award sponsored by CARRAGHER OILS 4. Miss Laura Walsh was the winner of the Science Award sponsored by LEE OPTICIANS 5. Miss Teresa McCreesh won the English Award sponsored by Mr Gerry Brown, former VP Student of the Year went to Mr James Meegan from Cullaville who came 2nd in Northern Ireland in A Level Religion. His teachers Mrs Traynor and Mrs Hollywood are extremely proud. He will be attending a special Awards Ceremony in February organised by CEA (the Council for Examinations and Assessment) to acknowledge his remarkable success in A Level RE James achieved 3 A's in Biology, English Literature and RE and an AS in Chemistry. In addition he undertook GCSE Double Award Science in less than 6 months and achieved double A grades. James is a member of the Institute of Biology as he has a passion for exotic marine life, invertebrates and reptiles, and completed an Open University Diploma in Ichthology. He now attends Brunel University in London where he is reading Medical Biology. He was described by Mr Jones (VP) as "simply an inspiration with the world at his feet". Of the 21 pupils who sat their A Level examinations at Joseph's, 5 achieved staright A grades: Charlene Fanthorpe, Aisling McDonnell, Arlene Finnegan, James Meegan and Teresa McCreesh Captions for photos The Podium Party (back) Mr John Jones(VP), Mrs McMahon (Head of 6th Form), Mrs Delargy (Examinations Officer), Mrs Mulligan (VP) (FRONT) Mr Tom McKay (Chairman of the Board of Governors), Mr John Toal Radio Ulster (guest Speaker), Mr Kevin Scally (Principal), Fr Clarke (Board of Governors Miss Laura Walsh winner of the Science Award sponsored by LEE OPTICIANS with Michael Gilsenan of Lee Opticians       STUDENT OF THE YEAR JAMES MEEGAN with guest speaker John Toal and Principal Mr Kevin Scally       Miss Vanessa McVerry winner of the RE Award sponsored by Mr Nicholas Traynor of TRAYNOR FINANCIAL PLANNING LTD, with John Toal and Mr Scally     Miss Teresa McCreesh winner of the English Award sponsored by Mr Gerry Brown(left) former VP and Mrs Mulligan VP     Miss Arlene Finnegan winner of the ICT Award sponsored by CARRAGHER OILS, with Mr Jones (left) VP and John Toal       Some of the students who received Records of Achievement       Additional Awardees       Mrs Mc Kevitt with her Business Studies students Posted by Admin on Monday 23rd January KS3 Awards at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen held its annual Key Stage Awards Ceremony recently. They were delighted to welcome guest speakers and Award presenters Aaron Kernan ( past pupil, Senior Armagh panelist, member of the Railway Cup squad and All Star nominee) and Aileen Matthews (member of the victorious Amagh Ladies All-Ireland Football team 2005 and Development Officer for Ladies Gaelic Football), Mr Scally opened his address by welcoming the invited guests and paid tribute to the wonderful results achieved by the pupils in their Key Stage 3 examinations. He also thanked the teaching staff for their hard work and dedication as well as all those involved in the day to day life of St Joseph's Year 10 Awards: Technology & Design Winners with Teacher Miss Roisin McGlinchey. (Back) Shauna Ward (Year 10), (front left) Niamh Gernon (Year 8) and Orla Donaldson (Year 9)           Year 10 Awards: Key Stage 3 subject winners Orla Loye (joint English) Shauna Murphy (Science & Maths) and Ciara Moley (joint English) pictured with guest speakers and Award presenters Aaron Kernan and Aileen Matthews , Mr Kevin Scally (Principal), Mr Oliver Short (Head of Junior School) Year 10 Awards: Miss Ciara Moley, overall winner of the KS3 Junior Certificate. Ciara achieved 12 distinctions, 2 credits, came joint 1st in English KS3 and 3rd in both Maths and Science. Ciara is pictured with invited guests Aaron Kernan and Aileen Matthews from the Armagh squads   Year 10 Awards : Mr Short and Form Teacher Mrs Hamill with her Form Class and ICT Certificates       Year 10 Awards: Mr Doherty and Mrs Carleton with Sentinus Career Planning Certificate recipients       Special Distinction Certificates were awarded to: (Front L - R) Brendan Hoey, Sinead McGahon, Orla Loye, Edel McNulty, Teresa Carr, Aileen Murphy (back centre) Adam Walsh, Ciara Moley. (absent Niamh McNamee) Also pictured Mr Oliver Short, Miss Aileen Matthews, Mr Aaron Kernan, Mrs Sinead Brennan (Year Head) Mr McLoughlin and his Form Class displaying their Junior Certificates along with Head of Junior School Mr Short       Mr Doherty and Mrs Burns with some of the French Certificate recipients]       Miss Ciara Moley, overall winner of the Key Stage 3 Junior Certificate, receives her Award from Sponsor Mrs Elizabeth Murray of the Crossmaglen Examiner, assisted by Mr Short           Key Stage 3 Endeavour Winners from each Class Group pictured front (left to right): Kyle Murphy, James Hughes, Edel McNulty, Aileen Murphy, Orla Loye. Orla overall achieved 12 Distinctions, 2 Credits, joint 1st in English and 5th in both Science and Maths Back (left to right) Mr Mc Loughlin (Maths), Mr Aaron Kernan, Miss Aileen Matthews, Mrs Hamill (English), Mrs Gibbs (Music), Mr Doherty (Acting Careers) Year 10 Awards: Key Stage 3 Endeavour Runners up with Curriculum VP Mrs Moira Mulligan and Year Head Mrs Brennan       Year 10 Awards: Mr Short and Mrs Gibbs with Junior Certificate recipients Posted by Admin on Monday 23rd January Charity donations at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen Mr Garry McLoughlin (left) and Mrs Karen Ridley (right) from St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen pictured with Evelyn and Eileen from St Vincent de Paul. Staff at the school donated gifts and pupils from each form class donated money. Over £600 was eventually collected and presented to the 2 St Vincent de Paul representatives Posted by Admin on Monday 23rd January New Appointments at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen Mr Kevin Scally, Principal of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, is delighted to announce 3 new appointments at the school. (Left to right): Mrs Marian Hearty has been appointed Head of ICT and e-learning; Mrs Karen Ridley has taken up the post of Head of Irish; and Mrs Noreen McMahon is now Head of Business Studies. Congratulations to all concerned Posted by Admin on Monday 23rd January Christmas Baking by Crossmaglen Pupils Some of the pupils from St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen proudly pictured with their Christmas cakes which they prepared under the guidance of their Home Economics teachers Mrs Rogers and Mrs Doherty. Posted by Admin on Monday 23rd January Career Planning Roadshow visits Crossmaglen Mr Oliver Short, Head of Junior School at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, recently invited the AIM HIGHER ROADSHOW to St Joseph's. All Year 10 pupils who will be making all-important subject choices in the very near future, were given some guidance and advice about their career choices. Mr Short is pictured with Head of Year 10 Mrs Ridley (Centre back) along with a representative of Aim Higher and some 3rd Year pupils     Posted by Admin on Monday 23rd January Open Night Success for St Joseph's St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen opened its doors last week for 'OPEN NIGHT' to welcome P7pupils and their parents. The event attracted much interest and gave prospective pupils the chance to view the excellent facilities on offer at St Joseph's. The Principal, Mr Kevin Scally, spoke about the recent success of the school in the DENI inspection and reminded pupils of the remarkable results achieved by the school at both GCSE and A Level. Posted by Admin on Monday 23rd January 'Don't Blow it' visits Crossmaglen 'Don't Blow it' is a community initiative established in 1999 to address the disturbing increase in the abuse of alcohol and drugs in the South Down and South Armagh area. The aim of the project is to make available community wide impartial information so as to educate and increase awareness on drug and alcohol misuse among our young people. There is also a counselling team made up of both male and female counsellors who are highly trained and qualified as regards working with young people. Miss Lucinda Love, a project worker with 'DON'T BLOW IT', was invited to St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen by the Life & Work Department, to carry out some workshops with some of its 4th Year pupils. She is pictured with some of the pupils during one of the workshops. Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October OPPORTUNITY EUROPE for Crossmaglen pupils A group of Year 8 pupils, accompanied by Mrs Burns (French Department) and Miss Kelly (Geography Department) attended 'OPPORTUNITY EUROPE', an exhibition and fair in St George's Market in Belfast highlighting language, culture and opportunities in Europe. The whole event was coordinated by the British Council for Northern Ireland. Pupils received information packs, completed a walk-around quiz, played French 'boules' and learnt how to salsa - amongst other things. They also met pupils from schools all over Northern Ireland and visited Belfast City Hall. Some Latvian ladies in national costume with Leah Mallon and Aine Nolan       Edward English and Conor McArdle at one of the exhibition stands           Niamh Burns, Eva Conlon and Grainne Garvey at the BBC stand           The pupils enjoy a game of French 'boules'           Michelle Reel and Laura McShane learning the Salsa         St Joseph's pupils outside Belfast City Hall Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October NICCY visits Crossmaglen NICCY (The Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People) recently held a workshop for first year pupils in St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen. The workshop was coordinated by the Citizenship/Life & Work Department in the school. NICCY's job is to promote and safeguard the rights and best interests of children and young people, and to make sure that young people know and understand their rights in the UNCRC ( The United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child). The pupils enjoyed a range of fun activities designed to heighten their awareness of the promises outlined in the UN Convention. Two NICCY representatives, Mr Eugene Donnelly (left) and Mr Eamon Keenan are pictured with some first year pupils who attended the workshop Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October New Appointment at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen Mrs Joan Doherty, a teacher in the Home Economics Department at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, has just been appointed Head of Year 8. The Principal, Mr Kevin Scally, congratulates Mrs Doherty on her new post. Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October Milestones reached for Crossmaglen Teachers At an end of year thanksgiving mass at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen celebrated by school chaplain Fr McKeever, there were a number of special presentations made to a large number of staff. The Principal, Mr Kevin Scally, spoke with great warmth about the 3 retiring members of staff and paid tribute to those who have completed 25 years service. A particular group of teachers were also thanked for their contributions to various posts within the school. The Principal also thanked all of the teaching and ancillary staff for their hard work and dedicated service throughout the year, as well as the work of the Board of Governors Firstly, the 3 long-serving members of the teaching staff who retired, ( Mr Clarke, Mr McKevitt & Mrs McKevitt), have accumulated a total of 87 years of service between them. Mr Phil Clarke has been associated with the school for 38 years, starting out as a pupil in 1965, later progressing to Head Boy and then becoming the first past pupil of St Joseph's to take up a teaching post in the school. Throughout his teaching career at St Joseph's, he has achieved notable success in the Technology & Design Department and made a singular contribution to many extra-curricular activities. His particular talents and skills will always be fondly remembered by those who came into contact with him. Mr Gerry McKevitt was the longest serving member of staff, having joined St Joseph's in 1973. He has taught English, History and Irish throughout his career and became Head of Irish in 1975. He also took up the post of Year Group Coordinator in 1995. A keen sportsman, Mr McKevitt has taken part in numerous athletic events over the years and intends to continue his sporting pursuits in the future. He will be remembered as a highly valued and well-respected colleague at St Joseph's. Mrs Kathleen McKevitt joined the Business Studies Department of St Joseph's in 1980. In 1995 she was appointed Head of Department for Business Studies and in the same year was appointed Coordinator of Economic Awareness. When St Joseph's reintroduced their A Level provision in 2003, Mrs McKevitt took up the post of Head of Sixth Form. She will be missed in many, many ways by those who encountered her over the years not least for her professionalism, her enthusiasm and her warmth. Mrs McKevitt also received a presentation to mark 25 years service along with Mrs Marie Griffin, Head of Music. 3 Retiring Members of Staff receive their Presentations. L-R Mr K Scally (Principal), Mr G McKevitt, Mrs K McKevitt, Mr Tom McKay (Chairman of the Board of Governors), Mr Phil Clarke, Mr Owen Kelly (BoG)         Recognition of 25 Years Service for Mrs Marie Griffin & Mrs Kathleen McKevitt, pictured with Principal Mr Kevin Scally.           Other departing members of staff whose contributions to English, Maths & Irish were also marked: L-R Miss Brenda McCumiskey, Mr Scally (Principal), Miss Maria Lema Moriera, Miss Christine McSorley, Mrs Elizabeth McArdle Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October Crossmaglen Pupils visit Stormont 4th Year pupils from St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen went on a trip recently to the Northern Ireland Assembly in Stormont. The trip was organised by the Citizenship/Life & Work Department in St Joseph's, as part of their GCSE Life & Work Syllabus covers 'Democracy' and in particular the structures of government in Northern Ireland. The pupils were addressed by local politicians Conor Murphy MLA and Dominic Bradley and given a tour of the Great Hall, Senate and Assembly Chamber. They learnt about the work and structure of the Assembly, the Executive, the role of an MLA, how decisions are made and how young people can get involved. Each pupil received an information pack specifically designed to meet the requirements of their GCSE qualification. Conor Murphy MLA and Assembly Education Officer Mairead Corrigan pictured with a selection of pupils from St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, in the Great Hall.         Margaret Hughes, Stephanie Gray, Fergal Carroll, Niall Mulholland and Irene Fanthorpe take part in some election campaigning in Stormont. Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October Reading Awards for Crossmaglen Pupils Prolific readers from first, second and third Year at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen were presented with certificates in recognition of their commitment to their English studies. The English Department at St Joseph's undertakes a number of initiatives to continually promote literacy across the curriculum and seeks to recognise good practice particularly in the world of literacy. Miss Patrice Murphy in Year 8 received an Award for Top Reader in Junior School       Pupils from Year 9 with their Reading Awards                   Top Readers in Third Year L-R Brendan Hoey, Lorraine Murphy, Ciara Moley, Aoibheann Moley   Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October Relaunch of A Levels brings Success to Crossmaglen Mr Kevin Scally, the Principal of St Joseph’s High School, Crossmaglen, described last week’s A level results as “truly outstanding”. Five students received straight A grades in all their subjects, and all of the students obtained grades which will admit them to higher education. After a gap of twenty years A levels were reintroduced in 2003, and this is the first cohort of students to have completed the A level courses since then. The Principal said that he had always been confident that excellent A levels would be achieved, but was nevertheless surprised that they had achieved success so quickly. In speaking about their success, Mr Scally described the students as – “ a great group of youngsters”. Equally, he praised the tireless hard work and dedication of the teaching staff who had worked hard to establish the new A Level Courses. He was only too aware of how much work this entailed but he felt the results had vindicated them. He congratulated all of the staff and said that he was proud to work alongside such a dedicated team. He also paid tribute to the parents of all of the students, who had supported their children through their schooling and were entitled to be very proud of their achievements. Finally he wished all of the departing students success and happiness. He urged them to live by the values that they had learned at St Joseph’s and that he would always be proud of their contribution to school life. They were worthy ambassadors from Crossmaglen. Elaine Martin, Arlene Finnegan and Aidan McKeown with the all-important slip of paper.             Some A Level students pose for a celebratory photo with the Principal, Mr Kevin Scally, Mrs Patricia Buckley (front right) from the Board of Governors and Mrs Delargy, (left) Examinations Officer           Alene Finnegan, James Meegan & Aislinn McDonnell contact friends and family with the good news       A Level student Aislinn McDonnell delights in her good news Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October GCSE's put icing on 40th Anniversary Cake! Staff and students at St Joseph’s High School are celebrating their best ever GCSE results in their forty year history of the school. The number of students gaining five or more top GCSE grades is up 50 per cent compared to last year. It is rare for any school to experience such an improved achievement over one year. One of the top performing students was Charlene McShane who gained 5 A* grades and 3 A grades. Charlene lives in Clonalig and intends to continue her A level studies at St Joseph’s. Another high achiever was Louise Watters, from Tullydonnell who gained 4A* and 4A grades Mr Kevin Scally, School Principal, was thrilled with the results: “These are very impressive and important results. We are very proud today – the results are a product of sustained hard work and commitment. An enormous effort has been made by everyone and it has paid off. They are the best results ever achieved in the history of the school and I am delighted that they come just after we celebrated the 40th Anniversary of the school, which was opened in 1964. It is the icing on the cake”. Mr Scally paid particular tribute to the teaching staff at St Joseph’s .“ I want to express my gratitude and appreciation to the teachers, who are committed and enthusiastic and help our students perform to such a high standard” Just one week ago, the school celebrated outstanding A level grades, having reintroduced a number of A Level Courses in the school in 2003. Five students achieved straight A’s, and all of the candidates gained entry grades for higher education. Kieran Hoey and Ciaran McCann clearly happy with their results       Mr Oliver Short (Maths Dept) congratulates some pupils on their excellent results       The Principal, Mr Kevin Scally, with pupils Margarita McDonnell and Charlene McShane. Also, Mrs Marie Millar (Head of Senior School) Niamh McDonnell, Ciaran Casey and twins Cathal & Rosemary McShane with Mr Scally Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October A New Beginning at St Joseph's, Crossmaglen Some first year pupils on their first day at the 'Big School' in St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October 'Mouth Injuries in Sport' Talk for First Year Pupils Mrs Pauline Doyle (front left), Dental Health Facilitator, assisted by Mrs Daphne Calvin, Dental Nurse, visited St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen to speak about the prevention of mouth injuries in sport and the importance of wearing a mouth guard. Also left to right: Edward English, Niall Ward, Sabrina McQuillan, Brenda English, Nicola Gray, Oisin Meegan, Stephen Murphy Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October 'Action Cancer' holds workshops for youth The Life & Work Department of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, in conjunction with ACTION CANCER, has been holding a series of workshops with all its 4th year pupils in the school. The pupils are studying GCSE Life & Work, part of which covers 'Health Education'. Throughout the workshops, pupils learn about, smoking, alcohol & sexual health and healthy eating and exercise. L-R: Sinead McGahon, Teresa Carr, Lorraine Murphy & Caroline O'Hare enjoying the activities at the ACTION CANCER workshop at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen.     Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October New Appointment at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen Mrs Noreen McMahon, Business Studies & ICT Teacher at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, has been appointed Coordinator of Sixth Form Studies. She is pictured being congratulated by the Principal, Mr Kevin Scally Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October St Joseph's Girls head for Croke Park Two first year pupils at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen have been chosen to play at half-time in Croke Park during the all-Ireland Ladies Football Final on Sunday 2nd October. Miss Grainne Garvey (left) and Miss Laura McShane (right) both play on the U14 team at Silverbridge GAC. Mr Short (Head of Junior School) congratulates the two delighted pupils along with Danielle Doherty (Year 10) who also played at half time during the final 2 years ago. Enjoy your day, girls! Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October European Day of Languages in Crossmaglen To celebrate European Day of Languages on 26th September, Mrs R Burns (French & Citizenship teacher) organised a number of displays and activities throughout the school. Vilius Vaiciulis, Shauna Duffy, Sabrina McKeever and Declan Judge, are pictured showing off one of the displays with 'hello' and 'thankyou' written in a number of different languages. Posted by Admin on Friday 14th October Crossmaglen Girls ARMAGH CHAMPIONS TWICE OVER! The Ladies Footballers from St. Joseph’s H.S., Crossmaglen had real reason to celebrate last week, when they captured their second County title this academic year. A significant number of the victorious U.14 players were also members of the U.16 team that lifted the County title just before Christmas, in a year that saw the historic double come to the Crossmaglen school. Having achieved victories over St. Catherine’s College, Armagh; St.Mary’s H.S., Lurgan; St. Patrick’s H.S., Keady, and Lismore Comprehensive, Craigavon, the U.14 team now go on to represent Co. Armagh in the Ulster ‘C’ Quarter-final against the winners of a preliminary round played by the Down / Cavan Champions. This game will be played next week and we wish the players well. A word of congratulations also to the U.16 team who brought great credit to the school earlier in the term. They proved worthy champions in Armagh, with competitive wins over St. Michael’s G.S., Lurgan and St. Catherine’s College, Armagh. They then went on to meet St. Aidan’s Voc School, Cootehill in the Ulster Quarter-final. Despite St. Joseph’s H.S. holding a narrow lead at half time, two crucial goals for the Cavan team in the second half saw St. Aidan’s, Cootehill claim victory with a two point margin on a score-line of 3-5 to 0-12. Below are the photographs of the County Champions from St. Joseph’s H.S. at both U.14 and U.16 level. U.16 LADIES’ FOOTBALL TEAM COUNTY ARMAGH CHAMPIONS & ULSTER QUARTER FINALISTS 2004/2005 Back Row (L. to R.) : Miss A. McCarron (P.E. Teacher), Danielle Doherty, Laura Crilly, Siobhan Moley, Sinead McGahon, Louise Casey, Ciara McKinley. Middle Row (L. to R.) : Sandra Conlon, Marissa McCooey, Sinead Murtagh, Sinead Boyle, Caroline O’Hare, Edel McNulty, Shauna Ward. Front Row (L. to R.) : Adrienne Hoey, Jade Teelan, Aileen McCooey, Tina Lenaghan (captain), Erin Martin, Roseanne McShane, Shauna Martin.     U.14 LADIES’ FOOTBALL TEAM COUNTY ARMAGH CHAMPIONS & ULSTER QUARTER FINALISTS 2004/2005 Back Row (L. to R.) : Louise Casey, Caroline O’Hare, Eimear Tasker, Orla McCreesh, Marissa McCooey, Laura McCooey, Ashling O’Callaghan, Yvonne Murchan, Sinead McGahon. Middle Row (L. to R.) : Stephanie Kirwan, Joanne Duncan, Sinead Reel, Carol O’Neill, Danielle Doherty, Sarah Finnegan, Fiona Murray, Aoibheann Moley, Miss A. McCarron (P.E. Teacher). Front Row (L. to R.) : Colleen Crilly, Niamh Gernon, Aoife Connolly, Marie Carr, Shauna Ward (captain), Kirsten McEvoy, Aoidin D’Arcy, Siobhan Moley, Edel McNulty. Posted by Admin on Monday 13th June Mini Soccer Awards for Crossmaglen Pupils Year 12 GCSE PE students at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen were presented with certificates recently for the completion of the MINI SOCCER LEADERS AWARD. The 12-week course was coordinated by PE teacher, Miss Aileen McCarron, in partnership with Mr Malcolm Roberts (Development Officer for Newry City Soccer Club) and is an integral part of their GCSE Course. Mr Ian Stewart, ex-soccer international, delivered the actual course, which covered organising and coaching children and basic techniques & fundamentals of soccer at grassroots level. Those who successfully completed the course are pictured L-R: Brian Donnelly, Connall Quinn, Cathal Fegan, Joe Robb, Daire Kelly, Stephen Campbell, Eamon McArdle Posted by Admin on Monday 13th June Racism featured by Crossmaglen Pupils A series of initiatives focusing on the issue of RACISM have been taking place in St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen. As our society becomes more and more multi-cultural, the school has been pro-active in hightening awareness of just some of the issues arising in our society today 1. This summer, 4 Senior pupils: Shauna O'Neill, Michaela Rowland, Teresa McCreesh and Leanne Reel (photo Racism 004), are going to Germany for 2 weeks on a World Youth Pilgrimage. The high point of the Pilgrimage will be the historic visit of POPE BENEDICT XV1 to his country of birth, his first since becoming Pope. One of the themes of the pilgrimage itself is RACISM and during the trip the girls, as well as meeting the new Pope, will be meeting with other young people from all over the world to show that RACISM can be conquered. The anti-racist slogan of STAND UP - SPEAK UP will be a feature of the Pilgrimage. 2. In order to support the girls during their Pilgrimage to Germany, the school organised a NON-UNIFORM BLACK AND WHITE DAY which was very enthusiastically supported by both staff and pupils Photo: Crossmaglen pupils John Toner, Christopher Murphy, Kelly Mulligan, Fergal Carroll and Stephen Sheridan show their support for ANTI-RACISM DAY.         Photo: First Year pupils standing against RACISM         3. A Year 9 'Racism Message Competition' was also organised The overall winners of the Competition (photo attached) created some very original slogans and posters to highlight the consequences of racism and to challenge some of our attitudes as we become more and more multi-cultural. PHOTO L-R: Colleen McCabe, Aoibheann Moley, Peter Carragher (OVERALL WINNER), Stephen Collins, Paula McShane, Principal, Mr Kevin Scally     4. Two GCSE pupils Lisa McCann and Shauneen Reel both from Cullaville, participated in an ANTI-RACISM PROJECT with SELB Youth Services where they were exploring issues of cultural diversity/identity etc. The girls study these issues in their GCSE Life & Work Course. They have just returned from an exchange visit to Nelson in Lancashire where they met with a group of rural Asian young people. The Programme in Nelson involved a visit to Edge End High School to meet their host group and explore issues of culture through various workshop and activities. They also attended a traditional Asian celebration and were given the opportunity to sample traditional Asian food, dance, traditional dress, henna painting etc. The Programme was an exciting and challenging educational experience for the girls who will be sharing their experiences with other pupils in St Joseph's at a later date. Posted by Admin on Monday 13th June Engineering Awareness Day in Crossmaglen Miss Roisin McGlinchey, Head of the Technology and Design Department in St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, recently organised an all-day workshop for all 3rd Year pupils to raise awareness of the links between school and the engineering industry in general. Mr Dominic McCartan, from SENTINUS, an organisation which promotes school links with industry, delivered the Workshop along with two Roads Service employees. Photo Standing: Mr Shane Grant (Roads Service Traffic & Transportation), Mr Dominic McCartan (SENTINUS),Mr Sean Gribben (Roads Service Traffic Management) Seated: Teresa Judge, Sinead McGahon, TeresaCarr, Kevin O'Neill, Kieran Grant, Niall Rowland   Photo Standing: Mr Dominic McCartan (SENTINUS), Miss McGlinchey (Head of T&D Dept), Mr Sean Gribben, Mr Shane Grant Seated: Paudi O'Callaghan, Christopher Campbell-O'Hanlon, Sean Quinn, Clare O'Callaghan, Shauna Ward, Frances McConville Posted by Admin on Monday 13th June Ciara reaches for the Stars (Ciara heads for NASA, TEXAS) Miss Ciara Martin, a past pupil of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, will shortly be departing on a 2-week trip to NASA's Johnston's Space Centre in Houston, Texas. She will be participating in an international summer school on space exploration, along with 40 other young people from around the world. Ciara is one of just 4 young people from the whole of Ireland chosen to take part in this remarkable Programme. She applied to take part in the Programme through Armagh FE College, where she is currently studying A Level Maths, Physics, Chemistry and Biology. Ciara is the daughter of Dolores and Larry Martin from Cullaville. She started her education at Clonalig PS, progressed to St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen where she studied for her GCSE's, and then to Armagh FE College to study A Level. Ciara is pictured with her former Form Teacher at St Joseph's, Mrs Ridley, who invited Ciara into the school to offer the school's congratulations and to wish her well during her visit to Houston in the summer. The Principal, Mr Scally, and the entire school community in Crossmaglen, are delighted to hear of Ciara's success and wish her a truly BON VOYAGE to Houston in the summer. They also look forward to having Ciara back in St Joseph's next year to recount her experiences. Posted by Admin on Monday 13th June Crossmaglen Girls in Ulster Final The U14 Ladies Gaelic Football Team from St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen have won a place in the Ulster Final. They overcame St Pius' of Magherafelt in a keenly-fought match with a final score of 6-9 to 3-8. The Captain, Shauna Ward, played a key role in defence. Team mates Caroline O' Hare, Louise Casey and Eimear Tasker also played pivotal roles to ensure victory for the Crossmaglen girls. PE Teacher, Miss Aileen McCarron, remarked that she couldn't have asked for more from the team. "Every girl played to her full potential and every girl played in true team spirit." The Final is due to take place in either Monaghan or Scotstown within the next 2 weeks. The girls meet St Comghall's High School from Lisnaskea in County Fermanagh. The girls are pictured with the Armagh County Shield. Photo details: Back l-r: Louise Casey, Caroline O'Hare, Eimear Tasker, Orla McCreesh, Marisa McCooey, Laura McCooey, Aisling O'Callaghan, Yvonne Murchan, Sinead McGahon. Middle: Stephanie Kirwan, Joanne Duncan, Sinead Reel, Carol O'Neill, Danielle Doherty, Sarah Finnegan, Clare Murray, Aoibheann Moley, Miss A McCarron (PE Teacher) Front: Colleen Crilly, Niamh Gernon, Aoife Cinnolly, Marie Carr, Shauna Ward (Captain), Kirsten McAvoy, Aoibhin D'Arcy, Siobhan Moley, Edel McNulty Posted by Admin on Monday 13th June Save the Children Miss Geraldine Kelly, a Geography teacher at St Joseph’s HS Crossmaglen, engaged the interest of a huge number of pupils in the “SEND MY FRIEND TO SCHOOL” Campaign SEND MY FRIEND TO SCHOOL is part of the wider Global Campaign for Education and Make Poverty History. This project is happening in 100 countries around the world and is supported by a coalition of organisations including Save the Children, Oxfam, Action Aid and Comic Relief and is a campaign for children to learn about the plight of the 100 million children around the world who cannot attend school. . On Wednesday 6th April Stella Murray from Save the Children arrived in St Joseph’s to collect no less than 350 “buddies” made by pupils in the school, one of the first schools in Northern Ireland to present their Buddies to the Campaign. Buddies were made to represent children around the world who do not get an education. The aim is to create a million buddies – just one hundredth of the real number of children out of school. The buddies will make their journey to Scotland in July and will be displayed along with thousands more from N Ireland and around the world at the G8 Summit where they will be seen by leaders of some of the world’s richest and most influential countries. The children will be asking these politicians and leaders to look at the buddies and then to take action. Geraldine Posted by Admin on Monday 9th May YOU! St Josephs High School Crossmaglen Student Paul Kernan played for Ireland, in the U17 International Rules Series, last weekend. Paul was at the centre of the drama, kicking the crucial scores, which sealed victory, and stunned the Australians with a scoring blitz. It was his contribution that ensured a sweet Irish success. With three minutes to go Paul seized on a goalkeeping mistake to shoot to the net from close range and Irish eyes began to smile. "It's great to be a part of the Irish team and I'm happy that I played my part" said Paul after winning his first International Cap. Paul is the son of Joe and Patricia Kernan , and brother to Ross also a student in St Josephs, as well as Aaron, Stephen and Tony. His early education was at St Patricks Primary in Crossmaglen where he was part of the team that won the Armagh Primary Schools league, under manager Conn Davey. For the past two years seventeen-year-old Paul has been a regular in the Armagh Minor Football team, whilst holding down a weekend job at 'Ma Kearneys'. At St Josephs he is undertaking A level studies in Business and Information Technology. Despite living a busy life he has achieved high grades in his examinations and hopes to study Property Investment and Development at the university of Ulster. Paul has high praise for his teachers "The teachers have been very understanding. They know that I have a lot of commitments and have always been willing to extend deadlines and give me an extra bit of time. All of them are very approachable and always helpful." The Principal of St Josephs, Mr Kevin Scally, said that the whole School was very proud of Paul whom he described as "a great role model for the younger pupils in the school. He has worked hard and achieved success both as a sportsman and as an A level student. I know that he will enjoy great success in both arenas in the future Posted by Admin on Monday 9th May Crossmaglen Pupils donate to ALMAS There are many worthy charitable organisations that many of us donate to in our own way. One such charity that is lesser known but equally deserving is ALMAS, a registered charity supporting the work of Religious worldwide in their efforts to alleviate the plight of the poor, especially children suffering from AIDS/HIV. ALMAS is a girl's name in Ethiopia meaning 'Precious Pearl'. Every child is a precious pearl and our hearts are drawn in a particular way to the children suffering from AIDS/HIV. Mr Garry McLoughlin, a Maths teacher in St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, read recently about the work of ALMAS and decided to do something about it. He invited Fr Brian Kavanagh into the school to speak about his work and is currently organising a 24 hr fast to raise funds for ALMAS. The school Formal Committee at St Joseph's presented Fr Brian with a cheque for £325, UPON HIS VISIT TO THE SCHOOL AND is pictured (PHOTO 001) receiving this initial sum with Mr Mc Loughlin (right), Louise Watters (Head Girl) and Miceal Murtagh (Head Boy) PHOTO: Third year pupils Shahara Hall and Teresa Carr are also pictured with sponsorhip cards with Mr Mc Loughlin (left) and Fr Brian Kavanagh. Posted by Admin on Monday 9th May Reading Rewarded for First Years! Reading reaped rewards for First Year pupils at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen. The following pupils topped the READING LEAGUE POLL in Term 2 and are pictured with their teacher, Mrs Hamill. L-R: Donal McEntee, Donna Norton, Keith McGroder, Keith Cannon (seated), Patrick McConville, James Garvey, Paula McShane. Posted by Admin on Wednesday 9th March World Book Day marked in Crossmaglen Picture: Mr Jones and Mr Short tell some stories after being 'kidnapped'             Picture: Year 8 and 9 Bookmark Competition Winners pictured with their English teacher Mrs Ridley (SEE PUPIL NAMES BELOW)           Picture: Christopher Reel (Yr 10) Winner of 'Complete the Rhyme', Harry Thornton (Yr 9) Winner of the Guinness Book of Records Competition and Orla Loye (Yr 10) Winner of 'Guess the Author'       St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen celebrated World Book Day recently with a number of events. The Second Hand Book Sale held throughout the day was a great success with pupils going home with a variety of quality second hand books that had been donated by their peers. There were a variety of competitions linked to reading and literacy in general. A number of classes created bookmarks to literally MARK the day - The winners are pictured left to right with their teacher Mrs Ridley: Aoibheann Moley, Laura Largey, Clare Murray, Aoife McArdle, Sinead Bellew, Cathy-Ann Murphy, Carol O'Neill, Colleen McCabe. (Absent from photo Year 9 pupil Peter Carragher) GUESS THE AUTHOR was won by Orla Loye Year 10 'COMPLETE THE RHYMES' was won by Christopher Reel Year 10 and THE GUINNESS BOOK OF RECORDS was won by Harry Thornton Year 9. Mr Short and Mr Jones were kidnapped and held hostage by a Year 8 and Year 9 group respectively. They were abducted and taken to the Library where they had to entertain pupils with stories before being released! Well done to all the participants whose input made World Book Day a very enjoyable and fun day Posted by Admin on Monday 9th May St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen 40th Anniversary Tournament Mr Ollie Reel, a PE teacher at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, recently organised a 7- aside Gaelic Football Tournament as part of the school's 40th celebrations. Seven schools from the surrounding area took part in an all-day knock-out competition. The schools in question (photos included)- St Patrick's Banbridge, St Paul's Bessbrook, St Brigid's Armagh, Castleblayney Tech, Lismore Comprehensive Lurgan, St Patrick's Dungannon, De La Salle Dundalk and of course St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen all enjoyed a highly competitive and thoroughly enjoyable day. There were two special Awards created to mark the occasion: firstly, the Anniversary Tournament Cup was eventually won by the host school in a thrilling and very close final between Castleblayney Tech. The team members for St Joseph's were: Tony Donnelly (Half Back), Danny O'Callaghan (Midfield and Team Captain), Shane Connolly (Corner Back), Dermot Bellew (Corner Back), Martin Quinn (Forward), Sean McGeeney (Corner Forward), Stephen Sheridan (Full Forward Line), Michael McLoughlin (Full/Corner Back), Aaron Kieran (Goalkeeper), Ciaran Nugent(Corner Forward), Dean Martin (Forward), Rory Mackin (Corner/Wing Halk Back) St Joseph's captain Danny O'Callaghan is pictured being presented with the 40th Anniversary Cup by the Principal Mr Kevin Scally         St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen School Team           The other Award, an Anniversary Shield, was won by Lismore Comprehensive, Lurgan. There have been and will be a number of events organised at St Joseph's to mark its 40th Anniversary. The Past Pupils' Committee has been working very hard to mark this particular event and the entire School Community at St Joseph's is very appreciative of the interest in and support for this particular occasion. Posted by Admin on Monday 9th May Crossmaglen Students buy a Boat for Sri Lanka Mrs Amanda Hughes of the Irish Sri Lanka Trust Fund was delighted to receive a cheque for £1,750 from the pupils, teaching staff and ancillary staff of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen. In the aftermath of the tsunami disaster in Southern Asia, the entire school community came together and through a series of fund-raising events (non uniform day, raffle and fun activities at school) raised enough money to purchase a boat for the fishermen of Sri Lanka. The generosity of parents, pupils and the entire staff of St Joseph's was truly remarkable. Mrs Hughes spoke about the overwhelming response she has had to her Boat Appeal and thanked everyone wholeheartedly for their wonderful efforts. Pictured L - R Louise Watters (Deputy Head Girl), Mr Jones Vice Principal, Miceal Murtagh (Deputy Head Boy), Mrs Amanda Hughes, Mrs Hatzer (Tsunami Coordinator) Posted by Admin on Monday 21st March Head Boy going from strength to strength The Head Boy at St Josephs High School, James Meegan,has achieved another set of top results in his A level examinations. James, who hopes to study a science subject at University, gained A grades in both Chemistry and Biology, as well as C in English Literature. In his AS levels, at the end of last year, James got 2 As and a C grade. James is among the first group from St Josephs to complete A levels, after a break of 25 years. He is full of praise for his teachers "The best thing about St Josephs is that the teachers are totally dedicated to getting results. The large number of A grades in all subjects is evidence of that" James lives in Concession Road, Culloville with his parents Alice and Padraig, and sisters Miranda and Tara, who is a second year at St Josephs. Clonalig School is where James gained his early education. He has very happy memories, particularly of Mr Christopher Murray's class. He played a lot of sport, but in recent years he has become more interested in Science. Aquarium keeping is James' s main interest outside school. "I like maintaining an environment in a closed space, and observing the interaction between the different species". Although his study of 4 A levels has been demanding, he has found time to gain a Diploma in Ichthyology (Fish Biology). When asked to outline his aspiration for the future James replied "I want to be successful in some type of scientific field. I hope to go to University and study a scientific subject." As James comes to the end of his time at St Josephs he says that his A level years have been the happiest of his school life. He enjoys warm relationships not only with fellow students but is universally popular with teachers. "The teachers can talk to us as well as teach us" he says. The Principal, Mr Scally, was delighted at James's success " James has worked hard and deserves to do well. He is one of a large number of very successful siixth form students who leave us to go on to Univerity this summer. However James, as Head Boy, has been an outstanding role model for our younger students and he has enriched the school by his presence" Posted by Admin on Monday 21st March Career Planning for Crossmaglen Pupils Third Year pupils at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen attended a CAREERS WORKSHOP run by Mr Dominic McCartan of Sentinus. Pupils were given the opportunity to explore the wide range of careers options available to them in advance of choosing subjects to study for GCSE next year. The practical nature of the activity ensured that every pupil was made aware of the subjects and qualifications needed for specific areas of work and armed with this information, pupils can make informed choices in relation to their GCSE subject choices. Photo: Mr Mc Cartan is pictured (back left) with Mr Doherty (Careers) and third year pupils Fiona Flynn, Declan Loye and Christopher Reel Posted by Admin on Tuesday 15th March AMNESTY INTERNATIONAL VISITS CROSSMAGLEN Mr Niall McEvoy, Chairperson of the Newry branch of Amnesty International, visited St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen last week and delivered a workshop on Human Rights. This topic is being studied by all Year 11 pupils at St Joseph's doing the Citizenship qualification GCSE Life & Work. Photo: Mr McEvoy is pictured with the Principal, Mr Kevin Scally. Posted by Admin on Wednesday 9th March Business Venture for Crossmaglen Pupils Third year pupils at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen spent a full day on PROJECT BUSINESS, a programme run by YOUNG ENTERPRISE, which aims to forge links between schools and business. The Coordinator of the programme, Mrs Ann Fegan, worked with pupils through a number of workshops and helped them to develop their business ideas into viable products. The pupils were divided into groups and worked in competition with one another, in conditions similar to a business environment. Some highly original ideas were explored and developed throughout the day but the eventual winners developed a mobile phone holder/charger. Mr Oliver Short, who brought Young Enterprise to St Joseph's, was delighted with the high level of interest shown by every pupil involved in the workshop. The activities of the day proved highly motivating and the involvement and enthusiasm of Mrs Fegan was a significant factor in the whole success of the day. Photo: The winning Team display their mobile phone/charger design       Photo: Mr Short and Mrs Fegan pose with some enterprising pupils Other photos Pupils display their business ideas             Posted by Admin on Wednesday 9th March Behaviour Awards for Crossmaglen Pupils St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen is very aware of the importance of rewarding good behaviour and exemplary application to study. In a recent award ceremony, a number of pupils were presented with certificates to recognise just this. The Principal Mr Scally congratulated the pupils on their enthusiasm and positive work ethic. Their families are also to be congratulated for their continued support of the school particularly with regard to the Code of Conduct and the many initiatives at St Joseph's to help each pupil achieve his or her potential Posted by Admin on Wednesday 2nd March P6 ACTIVITY DAY AT ST JOSEPH'S HS CROSSMAGLEN Over 160 P6 pupils from the locality were invited to sample just some of the classroom activities on offer at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen. Teachers from a number of Departments (Science, ICT, Technology, PE and Home Economics) gave the pupils a flavour of the type of work undertaken in their respective Departments. The organiser of the event, Mr Short, ensured that the pupils had a full and enjoyable day. The Principal, Mr Scally, having welcomed the pupils, also thanked the teachers involved for the extra work they put in both in preparing for and carrying out the various activities. Posted by Admin on Wednesday 2nd March Pupils explore business options Mr Michael Lyons from LIVEWIRE paid a visit to GCSE Business Studies and Life & Work students at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen and spoke about the option of setting up your own business. The young entrepreneurs showed a great interest in the information provided by Mr Lyons and received some useful information leaflets for future reference Posted by Admin on Wednesday 2nd March Wildlife comes to Crossmaglen School Miss McCullough of the Science Dept in St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen invited the Tact Wildlife Centre to visit the school in conjunction with National Wetlands Day. Pupils had the opportunity to see at first hand a number of species of wildlife. There was particular interest in the sly old fox and the wise old owl who in turn were quite bemused with all the attention they were receiving. The importance of protecting our wildlife and our environment are issues for us all. As a result of the visit, the children were made more aware of the importance of protecting our wildlife in our local environment. Posted by Admin on Wednesday 2nd March CROSSMAGLEN STUDENTS SEE ICT IN THE WORKPLACE A group of Year 12 students studying GCSE ICT from St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, accompanied by teachers Mrs McKevitt, Mrs McMahon and Mrs Hearty, visited the newly opened SUPERVALUE Store in Crossmaglen. The Manager of the store, Mr Damien Johnson, demonstrated the practical use of ICT in the workplace. Posted by Admin on Wednesday 2nd March FRENCH CERTIFICATE PRESENTATIONS AT ST JOSEPH'S HS CROSSMAGLEN Third Year Pupils who successfully completed relevant French Courses at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen last year, were awarded with Certificates in recognition of their efforts. Mr Doherty, Mrs Delarghy and Mrs Burns of the French Department were delighted at the standards achieved last year and look forward to even greater success in the future. A number of third year pupils will be availing of an opportunity to practise their spoken French later in the year when they visit Paris in June on the annual school trip to France. Posted by Admin on Wednesday 9th February Open Night St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen recently held an OPEN EVENING to allow P7 Transfer pupils, A level students and parents to view the huge range of subjects on offer. Teachers and pupils displayed samples of work and a variety of classroom activities in their respective departments and gladly answered any queries which which arose during the evening. The school's Group performed a repertoire of songs, dances and airs as part of the opening programme to the night's activities, followed by an address from the Principal Mr Scally. In his address to those present Mr Kevin Scally, reiterated his commitment to education for all. "St Joseph's is a school of family and community where brother and sister should be educated together. We are a Catholic school and an Irish school. Each child is important to us and we will strive to fulfil the individual needs of each child in our care." After hearing Mr Scally's address, pupils and parents were escorted around the school by various gudes. During the tour, some light refreshments were provided by the canteen staff. A busy, entertaining and informative evening was had by all. Posted by Admin on Wednesday 9th February Tsunami Poem This poem was composed by Year 11 pupils SHIREEN MCCONVILLE, LOUISE MEEGAN AND JULIE COLLINS in St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen following the Tsunami Disaster in South Asia TSUNAMI No words can explain the pain, we feel And what we have gained No celebrations on St. Stephen's Day Watching bodies being swept away We're doing our best to help those who survived To try and help the injured stay alive Our own worries are tiny if we compare Why did this happen?It's just not fair! The death toll continues to rise With all our hearts we sympathise The fifth of january 2005 We wait for the time of 11.45 We sit in silence - tears in our eyes Look out the window at our own lives That have stayed the same Yes we feel sorrow but nothing has changed We turn on the TV not believing that this is reality Children are hurt, parents have died There was nowhere to run and nowhere to hide As the bodies pile up people look at the top Loved ones aren't there, So they sit there in prayer They feel so alone, mixed up, lost and confused The ones who survived are mentally bruised Loved ones are dead forever gone It's hard to hope. It's hard to move on It's impossible to look in the future and see the light The great wave killed everything in sight We sent lots of money, clothes and food We wait each night for the Six 0'clock News One question is asked, for it's money they need We have our families and our home Whatever happens, we are not alone Think of those people left filled with fear, Wondering will they ever cry a final tear...... Posted by Admin on Wednesday 9th February P7 Quiz Winner During OPEN NIGHT last week, St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen organised a 'ROUND THE SCHOOL QUIZ' for all the p7's in attendance. The lucky winner was Miss Connie McGeeney, a pupil at St Patrick's PS Cullyhanna. Mrs Burns from St Joseph's is pictured presenting Connie with her Gift Voucher for £20 (courtesy of Short's Sports & Cycles, Crossmaglen). The Principal of St Patrick's PS, Mr O'Hanlon, is also delighted to add his congratulations to Connie. Posted by Admin on Wednesday 9th February HOLOCAUST REMEMBERED AT ST JOSEPH'S HS CROSSMAGLEN Posted by Admin on Wednesday 9th February Relationships & Sexuality Workshop @ St Joseph’s The Life and Work Department of St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, in association with the Women and Family Health Initiative based in Mullaghban, Co Armagh, organised a series of workshops on 8th December which focused on Relationships and Sexuality. This topic is a compulsory Module of the GCSE Life and Work Exam which all Year 11 pupils are sitting on 6th January 2005. The WFHI is an umbrella group solely run by women, with a focus on the promotion and development of community-based health projects for men and women. They provide support to as many groups as possible within the local community and help raise awareness of health isues which affect us all. The workshops at St Joseph's gave pupils an opportunity to find out about health issues which relate directly to them as young people and gave them some valuable information on where to seek information and advice. The entire day gave pupils a chance to discuss their fears and concerns and work with a range of trained professionals experienced in work with young people. The work of the WFHI is none other than invaluable and its association with St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen is an essential resource in the education of young people in the South Armagh area. Posted by Admin on Friday 24th December Environmental Winner Colleen Mc Cabe, a 2nd Year pupil at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, won the JULY section of the Newry and Mourne Environmental Calendar Competition. She is pictured with Head of Year 9, Mrs Ridley, who recently accompanied Colleen to a special awards ceremony at the Council Offices in Newry. Posted by Admin on Friday 24th November Advent Calendars As part of the Pastoral Care Programme at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, Mrs Hamill's class created some delightful Advent Calendars with the theme of''LENDING A HELPING HAND'. The school has been involved in the St Vincent de Paul Christmas Appeal and the Advent Calendars are part of an Awareness Campaign within the school to encourage pupils to focus on those less fortunate than ourselves at this particular time of Year Posted by Admin on Friday 24th November BOI Saver Sinead Bellew, a first Year pupil at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen, was the lucky winner of the Bank of Ireland Junior Savings Draw. She is pictured receiving her prize of a CD Walkman with Business Studies teacher Mrs McKevitt who operates a savings scheme in St Joseph's in conjunctuin with the Bank of Ireland. Posted by Admin on Friday 24th November Student Council A STUDENT COUNCIL has been elected at St Joseph's HS Crossmaglen. Every pupil in the school had an opportunity to cast their vote on 8th December and out of the 28 candidates, 14 have been elected to sit on the Council. The council will have an opportunity to air their views and grievances at special meetings with Senior Management. Congratulations to all our new councillors. Damian Hamill       David Pilkington       Dean Martin       Karla Murtagh       Leanne Reel       Mandy Reel       Neil McCann       Paul McEntee       Roseann McShane       Rosemary Loye       Sean McCreesh       Shauna O'Neill       Sinead Hanratty