Pictured on graduation evening at Killarney Community College were: Caoimhe Fleming and Ben Herlihy joint winners of Living the Ethos of the School Award, with Principal Stella Loughnane and Marcia Kissane, LCA Coordinator. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

Stefan Lajtar (centre), received the Principal's Award at Killarney Community College, pictured with English and Sports Teacher Brian OÕReilly (left) and Principal Stella Loughnane (right). Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

Winner of Contribution to the Life of the School, Sinead Gleeson (centre) pictured with Music Teacher Johanna Hughes (left) and Principal Stella Loughnane (right). Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

STUDENT OF THE YEAR: Pictured at Killarney Community College on graduation evening receiving the Student of the Year Awards were Alex Quinn (left) and Aoife O'Brien (right) with their Principal Stella Loughnane. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

It was a star-studded occasion in Killarney Community College last week as teachers, students and parents assembled for the annual awards ceremony via an online link to honour and recognise Sixth Year students in the college.

The awards night at Killarney Community College was always an annual tradition in the college which gives the whole school community an opportunity to reflect on some of the achievements of the Sixth Year students.

“Due to COVID-19, this year’s celebrations were a little different but nonetheless it did not overshadow or deter us from celebrating the achievements of some of our remarkable and worthy students,” awards coordinator Tara O’Shea said.

"Awards were presented across a range of categories: academia, leadership, ethos, amongst others. It is always a great evening and an opportunity to honour those who have excelled."

Principal Stella Loughnane commended all award recipients and the wonderful teamwork of the teachers and staff for the awards night.

Alex Quinn and Aoife O’Brien were voted by the teachers as the Students of the Year. Alex was described by teachers as a gentleman, who is warm, kind and helpful to all. He was given the award as he sees ways of overcoming obstacles and is excellent in adapting to change. He is seen to be supportive and empathetic towards his peers and is often seen to be helpful to others in a quiet, subtle and unassuming way.

Aoife won the award as she fully embraced her time in Killarney Community College. She volunteered herself wholeheartedly for all school events. She shone a light with sheer enthusiasm and interest in the school and committed herself one hundred percent in every activity, subject and module that she participated in.

The prestigious Principal’s Award went to Stefan Latjar. Stefan has lead the way by showing his commitment to his studies, demonstrating that dedication, hard work and a sense of purpose is a lifelong skill that can achieve so much.

“Since starting in Killarney Community College this student has gone about their work and studies in a quiet unassuming mature way. Always interested in the task at hand, this student has lead the way academically demonstrating that dedication, hard work and a sense of purpose is a lifelong skill that can achieve so much,” Ms Loughnane said in her speech.

Contribution to the Life of the School award was presented to Sinead Gleeson. She has excelled in many aspects of school life, especially music. She has been a wonderful musical addition to the college, and has been both generous with her talent and her time. She was chosen for this award for her total commitment to the life of the school.

Caoimhe Fleming and Ben Herlihy were presented with the award for Living the Ethos. Both students have been constantly involved in promoting the school ethos of “Respect, Responsibility and Inclusion” throughout their years studying in the college. Over their time in Killarney Community College they have both been involved in many projects. Their passion, innovation, dedication and care is an inspiration to all students in this school.