T

The students of St Brigid’s Secondary School celebrated their annual award ceremony last week in the school gym, which was packed to capacity with parents, students and staff. The audience was entertained by wonderful music and singing from the choir and music students including an amazing solo by Ora Mordant.

Guest of honour was Moira Murrell, past pupil and CEO of Kerry County Council, who addressed the audience with her memories of the time she spent in St Brigid’s, emphasising the importance of education. She also encouraged the students to return and settle in Kerry after they have travelled the world, reminding them that there are wonderful job opportunities in the county.

This year was the fourth year of the Ceist Award which is presented to students in 107 Ceist schools around the country. The award is a perpetual trophy and is awarded after a process of teacher nominations to a 6^th year student who best reflects the core values of Ceist, namely promoting spiritual and human development, achieving quality in learning, showing respect for everyone, creating community and being just and responsible. This year the award was presented to Siobhán Burns.

A special award was presented by Tom Tobin and Anthony O’Connor from Kerry Stars Special Olympics Club to Emma Quirke in recognition of her incredible contribution to Kerry Stars Special Olympics Club at the Castlerosse swimming club every Friday night.

Following the presentation of most of the awards, a  6^th year slide-show prepared by Mr Hughes entertained a captive audience. Principle Ms Moore then addressed the audience and congratulated each and every student on their contribution to the school in the past year. She also made special mention of those who work quietly behind the scenes to ensure the smooth running of St Brigid’s, with special mention of the office staff, canteen staff and the caretakers Kevin and Tim.

The final award was the Orla Benson Memorial Award. Orla was a past pupil who died tragically in 1995. Since 1997 her family generously sponsor a bursary in her memory. Aaron Benson, Orla’s brother, presented the award to Ciara Carroll who received a standing ovation from both students and staff.