By Michelle Crean

It was an occasion to dress up as it was one of the biggest nights of their lives so far when Killarney Community College (KCC) students said farewell to school life for good.

CLASS OF 2022: The Class of 2022 pictured at Killarney Community College on their graduation day last Thursday with Vice Principal Eilish O'Leary (left) and Principal Stella Loughnane (right). Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

BURSARY AWARD: Tadhg Quinn (centre) pictured with Principal Stella Loughnane and the family of the late Carmella Sheehy as the winner of the Carmella Sheehy Bursary Award. From l-r were: Eddie Sheehy Stella Loughnane Tadhg Quinn Triona Sheehy and Daire Sheehy. Photo: Marie Carroll-O'Sullivan

Last Thursday, the Class of 2022 came to the end of their KCC journey with an emotional graduation ceremony in the school hall which was streamed live via Zoom to those unable to attend.

Principal Stella Loughnane stated how proud she was of this particular group of students, how the adversities they overcame will stand to them in the future and most importantly encouraged everyone to follow their dreams.

Students Ethan McKeon and Tia McNabb gave an entertaining speech full of emotion, nostalgia and praise for their time in the school.

And it wouldn't be a grad ceremony without the annual student awards.

The roll of honour and award winners were as follows:

Student of the Year went to Tia McNabb, while the Principal's Award was given to Daniel S T, School Ethos Caithlin McEnteggart, Contribution to Life of the School Ethan McKeon, and the Carmella Sheehy Bursary was received by Tadhg Quinn.

The students were treated to lunch kindly provided by the school and the culinary genius that is Noel. They hung around afterwards to take photos with loved ones, friends and teachers.

"Well done to the main organisers especially Ms O'Riordan, Fr Niall for his usual words of wisdom, Ms Huges and our wonderful choir to give the Class of 2022 the best send off ever," Principal Stella Loughnane said.