Summer Newsletter

Head Prefects Address to 6th year students

Well lads, It’s strange writing this knowing that our time in school is nearly over. After these years that somehow felt both very long and very short, the Leaving Cert is around the corner and the end of our journey in St. Pat’s is in sight. In a few years, when we look back on our time here, I’m sure many of the details will be forgotten, but the moments we shared and the people we met definitely won’t be. Looking back, it’s hard to believe how much has changed since First year. We arrived not knowing where anything was, walking around with a map of the school and trying to adapt to a completely new environment. Somewhere along the way, without really noticing it, we grew into the people we are now. The end of sixth year has a way of making you realise that the years in between weren’t just about exams or results, but about the friendships, the laughs, and the small moments that made our school experience what it was. Each year group has its own unique character, and ours was no different. What I’ll remember most isn’t just the trophies or achievements, but the everyday things: the conversations before class, the noise in the corridors, the constant debates about who’ll win on the weekend, and the general craic that somehow made even the longest days go quicker. Those moments might have seemed ordinary at the time, but they’re the ones that will probably stick with us the longest. Over the years we’ve had our fair share of successes, whether on the pitch, in competitions, or in the classroom. But what really stood out was how everyone supported each other along the way. School isn’t just about individual results, it’s about the group you go through it with. The encouragement before matches, the help before tests, or even just someone keeping the mood light during stressful times all played a part in getting us to where we are now. As Head Prefect, I’ve been very grateful to represent this year group. It’s been a privilege to work with the prefects and student body as a whole. More than anything, it reminded me that the strength of the school comes from the people in it, the students, the staff, and the sense of community that connects everyone who has walked these halls.  Soon we’ll all head in our different directions whether it’s college, apprenticeships, work, or whatever path comes next. But no matter where we end up, we’ll always share the same starting point. The years we spent here shaped us in ways we probably won’t realise for a long time. Before we go our separate ways, it’s worth taking a moment to appreciate the journey we’ve had together. The friendships formed here, the memories made, and the lessons learned will stay with us far longer than any exam result. I wish every one of you the very best for what comes next. Cheers lads, Bobby Gaffney 

On Wednesday, April 29th, the St. Patrick’s Classical School community came together for a high-energy celebration of fitness and mental health. Organised by our dedicated Wellbeing Coordinator Mr. Molony and Student Wellbeing Team, the Collective Student Marathon saw our Junior classes (1st through 3rd Year) trade their school shoes for runners to take on a unique physical challenge. The concept was simple but powerful: each student ran a targeted 85-meter sprint on the all-weather pitch. While 85 meters may seem short on its own, the power of the collective meant that by the time the final student crossed the line, the school had completed a full 42.2km marathon distance!

"This event wasn't just about running; it was about showing our students that when we all contribute a small part, we can achieve something massive together." — Bobby Gaffney, Head of the Student Council

The initiative aimed to highlight the vital link between physical activity and mental wellbeing. The atmosphere on the pitch was electric, with year groups cheering each other on and demonstrating the fantastic school spirit that St. Pat’s is known for. Of course, no marathon is complete without a post-race recovery! To celebrate their hard work and participation, every student was treated to an ice cream on the pitch—a well-deserved reward for a morning of teamwork and advocacy. A massive thank you to the Student Wellbeing Team particularly Bobby Gaffney and Jack Shorten for their organisation and to all the staff and students who made the day such a success. This event served as a great reminder that looking after our mental health is a team effort.

The 1st years played their Leinster final on Monday the 18th of May in Wicklow against Abbey Community College. The final score was: St Pats 2-9    1-10 Abbey CC Well done to all students and staff involved.

On Friday 15th May, Royal Tara Golf Club hosted our annual St. Pat’s Golf Classic, which proved to be a hugely successful and enjoyable day for everyone involved. Thanks to the generosity and support of our sponsors, local businesses, families, players, and supporters, the event was a fantastic occasion in support of the continued development of educational resources and facilities for our students. We would like to extend a sincere thank you to everyone who sponsored teams, holes, prizes, and raffle items, as well as all those who took part on the day. A very special word of thanks must go to our Parents’ Council, who played a huge role in making the Golf Classic such a success. Attached are some sponsor boards and results from the day, highlighting the many businesses and individuals who supported the event. There will also be many more photos shared on our Facebook page over the coming days. Thank you once again to everyone who helped make the day such a memorable occasion for St. Pat’s.

St. Patrick’s Classical School celebrated an incredible achievement after Student Enterprise team Leon Egan and Aodhan Finnegan won the Intermediate Category at the National Final of the Student Enterprise Awards with their patent-pending invention, the ‘Smart Shovel’.  The Smart Shovel has depth markings etched along the blade helping gardeners measure planting depth accurately. This feature ensures seeds, bulbs, and plants are placed at the proper depth, improving growth consistency and germination. Their innovative product impressed judges and stood out among entries from over 500 schools, where they competed against all second and third year students from around the country.  Leon and Aodhan showed outstanding creativity, teamwork, and entrepreneurial talent throughout the competition, earning national recognition for their hard work and dedication. Their success highlights the high standard of innovation and entrepreneurship within the school community.  This is the third time in four years that our school has tasted success in the National Final having won the Senior Category in 2022 and 2024 and 1st place in Innovation and Intellectual Property in 2025 in the Intermediate Category. All students interested in getting involved are encouraged to attend Mr. Mc Mahon’s Enterprise and Innovation lunch time club when we return for the academic year 2026/2027.

1st years on their School Tour at Alton Towers.  155 students with 14 leaders went at 11pm on Friday night on the ferry. They toured Anfield, visited Alton Towers, played Adventure Golf amd Bowling. Most importantly they went to see Aston Villa play Sunderland in a thrilling 4 – 3 encounter. Thanks to their leaders for bringing them on such a memorable trip. 

I know half Eleven sounds late, but no one cared we were so excited to get on our bus and start our drive to Dublin port. Once we arrived at  the port everyone got on the boat and had an amazing experience for example  just relaxing with your friends or playing games in the arcade.  We arrived in England and st off for breakfast and heading to Anfield. As someone who supports Chelsea, I hate to say it, but Anfield is amazing. The grass was so well kept, and we were even lucky enough to see the real premier league trophy. After a great time in Anfield, we set of for Alton Towers. We parked up in Anfield and had a great time. Even if you aren’t to big on scary coasters you could go for food try to win a prize or even go for a walk in the beautiful gardens. We stopped on the way home for food before checking in to are wonderful hotels. We were in two hotels holiday inn and the travel lodge two gorgeous hotels. The next morning after a great sleep we headed off to Birmingham where we played mini adventure golf (can’t say I was great at that). Next, we headed off to Aston Villa against Sunderland. We first went into the villa shop were people got jerseys or other cool souvenirs for friends or family. We went into the stadium, and we had the best seats right on the halfway line. After a goal packed game ending 4-3 to villa thanks to a late Abraham goal, we headed to bowling Lazer tag and a tasty dinner.  As it was our final day you would guess we were sad which we kind of were, but we had so much to share with friends and family. Looking back at it I really makes me think of how lucky we really are, so I would like to give one huge thank you to Mr. Cathal O’Reilly and MS. Elaine Duffy.

Congrats to our first year basketball panel who returned from the University of Limerick Sunday evening as All-Ireland Winners in the 2026 Minor ‘A’ Schools Basketball Plate Competition. Having traveled to Limerick as the North-East Regional Champions our lads faced the top teams in the country.  They placed 2nd in their group on Saturday, narrowly missing out on topping the group on a margin of 3 points.  The lads qualified for the All-Ireland Plate Competiton on Sunday and faced St. Andrew’s, Blackrock in the Quarter Final. 

The St. Pat’s lads secured a spot in the semi-final with a 33-17 over St. Andrew’s.  The semi-final was played against Mercy Ballymahon with the lads once again coming out on the winning side of that fixture on a scoreline of 53-22.  The All-Ireland final took place at 3pm on the main court with our lads facing a tough Castleisland Community College side.  The fixture was the highlight of the weeked for our lads and after four close quarters our lads secured their spot as All-Ireland Plate Winners on a scoreline of 28-20.  This was our school’s first All-Ireland ‘A’ title since our promotion to the top-tier of schools basketball and brought an end to the school’s most successful year on court which included an unbeaten run in the regional competition and our first Regional ‘A’ Title.  We would like to thank the lads for their dedication, diligence and positive work-ethic both on and off the court. 

They should be extremely proud of their achievements as we look forward to the many years of basketball they have ahead of them here in St. Pat’s.  We would like to acknowledge the sponsorship given to the team by DK Motors and Paul Nelson Coaches which the coaches and lads were very appreciative of in the run-up to this competition. We would also like to thank the parents and guardians for organising lifts home after training sessions and providing the lads with the opportunity to be a part of this team.  Their support in Limerick, along with that of the teachers who travelled down, is greatly appreciated by both the lads and coaches. A huge thank you and congratulations to our coaches Mr. Darren Bellew and Mr. Ryan Murphy for all their time, dedication and expertise in guiding this wonderful team to an extraordinary victory for Basketball in St. Pat’s.

Match report St. Pat’s vs Knockbeg Junior Football Leinster final 21st Apr Match Report Thomas Connell TY It was a fantastic feeling to wake up Leinster champions. Our incredibly resilient and talented Junior team wrote their names in history when they defeated Carlow team Knockbeg in a resounding and comfortable win in Kildare. It’s unfortunate that this is where the football season will end as with the performance that Pat’s gave in the final, I have no doubt they could match and even better any team in the country!  It was the dream start for the lads as Conn Brennan rose high to win the throw up cleanly. A direct run through the centre of the pitch put Knockbeg under unprecedented early pressure. A short pass into Harry McGuirk at corner forward and there was only one thing on his mind. Putting the ball in the back of the net on the first play of the game gave Pat’s the confidence they needed to take control of the game in any way they wanted. They didn’t decide to settle down though as just a few minutes later Eanna Kenny had the keeper picking the ball out from his net for the second time in five minutes. The first half was a complete domination from Pat’s in all areas of the game. They held onto the ball with confidence in the middle of the park and worked scores like a team who had been playing together for years. Knockbeg gave us a few scares early on with a couple of high quality frees and open play moves but Pat’s ended the first half the same way they started with another fantastic team goal.  With the wind behind them in the second half, Pat’’ put away some glorious two point scores, Brennan and McGuirk being heavily involved once again. A final goal sealed Knockbeg’s fate against a side that seemed much hungrier for the trophy. Pat’s slowed the game down and took their last few scores well knowing they just had to get over the line.  Stand out performers completely dictated the game for the Navan lads. Harry McGuirk was unplayable from start to finish, scoring 1-9 while also being substantially involved in the lead up to many important scores. Niall Rogan was as solid as ever being the leader in the full back line. Most impressive was his ability to get forward and impact both the attack and defence. Conor Larkin had to leave the field of play due to an injury late on but that takes nothing away from the relentless work rate he showed in the game. At times it was just what Pat’s needed to lift their spirits back up.   This year’s team will be remembered very fondly after Tuesday’s win. An incredibly talented group of players who came together and produced a fine display worthy of a trophy win. All we can do now is hope that they stick together for a little longer and we could be witnessing a very successful senior team in a few years time. 

Dear Class of 2026, As your time in St. Patrick’s Classical School comes to a close, it is natural to pause and reflect on the journey you have taken and the young men you have become along the way. This moment marks the end of an important stage in your lives, the culmination of years of learning, growth, and shared experience. From your early days as first-year students, full of energy, curiosity, and perhaps a little uncertainty, to the confident and capable young men you are today, your journey has been both meaningful and memorable. You have contributed greatly to the life of the school, bringing with you a strong sense of camaraderie, humour, and spirit that has enriched our entire school community. Throughout your time here, you have embraced the values at the heart of St. Patrick’s Classical School. Respect, integrity, compassion, and resilience have not simply been ideals, but qualities you have demonstrated in your daily interactions, both inside and outside the classroom. Whether through your academic efforts, your participation in sport and extracurricular activities, or the quieter moments of support and encouragement you have shown to one another, you have left a lasting and positive impact. What stands out most, however, is the strength of the bonds you have formed. The friendships built over these years, through shared experiences, challenges, and successes are something unique to your year group. There is a shared story there that belongs only to you, and it is one that will remain with you long after you leave St. Pat’s. There is an Irish proverb which captures an important truth: “Ní bhíonn an rath ach mar a mbíonn an smacht”, which translates to “there is no success without discipline”. The achievements you celebrate this year are a testament to your hard work, your perseverance, and your willingness to apply yourselves. As you move forward, it is this same sense of discipline, combined with strong values and a respect for others, that will serve you well in whatever paths you choose. The road ahead will bring new opportunities, but also new challenges. There may be moments of uncertainty, changes in direction, and times when things do not go as planned. These experiences are not setbacks, but opportunities to learn, to grow, and to develop resilience. Trust in your ability, remain grounded in your values, and approach each new experience with openness and determination. As you take your next steps, surround yourselves with people who encourage you, challenge you, and support you. Continue to be mindful of the impact you have on others, and strive always to act with decency, kindness, and integrity. Success will not be measured solely by achievements, but by the way in which you live your lives and contribute to the world around you. In time, as life becomes busier and your paths take you in different directions, I hope you will look back fondly on your years in St. Patrick’s, the friendships, the experiences, and the values that helped shape you. These memories will remain an important part of who you are. Class of 2026, we are extremely proud of you. You leave St. Patrick’s Classical School as well-rounded, thoughtful, and capable young men. While your time here comes to an end, your connection to this school remains. You will always be part of our community, and St. Patrick’s will always be a place where you belong. Go forward with confidence, with purpose, and with a strong sense of who you are. Le gach dea-ghuí, Harry McGarry Principal

Five or six years ago, you walked into St. Pat’s  as wide-eyed first years—some of you barely able to find your classrooms and with schoolbags that were weighing you down. Now you’re leaving as young men, strong enough to carry those schoolbags,  but somehow still occasionally unable to find your classrooms. Along the way there were laughs, setbacks, friendships, and plenty of moments you’ll never forget (and a few you probably wish you could). Through it all, you’ve grown, supported each other, and kept going—even when it wasn’t easy. You have developed friendships that will last a lifetime. The Leaving Cert might feel like the biggest thing in the world right now, but it isn’t. It’s just one step. What really matters is the kind of person you are—your character, your kindness, and how you treat others. Now, a new chapter begins. So as you move on, believe in  yourselves, take chances. Don’t be afraid to get things wrong. And maybe… don’t leave everything until the last minute.  Like any new beginning, it brings uncertainty. Some of you are excited, some are unsure, and most are probably a mix of both. That’s completely natural. The important thing is not having everything figured out, but having the courage to take the next step. Remember that your story is your own. There is no single path you must follow, no one way to succeed. What matters is that you stay true to yourself, treat others with kindness, and keep moving forward—even when the road is not clear. Be proud of how far you’ve come—and excited for where you’re going. On your behalf I would like Ms.Bowens  and all of those lads on the yearbook committee , who have given their time to produce this keepsake  for us all . Also we must thank all of your tutors , subject teachers, Mr.McGarry  , Mr.  Kenny ,  Ms. Bannon, and Mr. Monaghan. You know how hard they have all worked for you. There are other groups too in the school who have worked very hard in the background to make sure that your experience of school has been a positive one, The care team led by Ms.O’Brien, the A.E.N. department led by Ms.Brady, the guidance counsellor Ms. Fallon and our chaplain Mr. Donnelly. The SNAs , office staff and caretakers, who have all worked tirelessly for you .  Comhghairdeas libh go léir. You’ve made it! Wishing you all the very best for the future.