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Irish Independent
4 days ago
- General
- Irish Independent
Wexford student's ‘perseverance and creativity' results in outstanding first place in Ireland
New Ross Standard Today at 20:00 A Wexford student has been commended for his outstanding achievement having received top marks in last year's Design and Communication Graphics (DCG) Leaving Certificate exam. Staff and parents of CBS New Ross gathered recently to celebrate Shane Duhig, who was awarded joint-first in the state examination. Speaking about the achievement, school principal, Sarah Rice said: 'We are immensely proud to celebrate Shane's incredible accomplishment, which places him among the very best in the country and reflects his exceptional talent, creativity and dedication.' Ms Rice added that Shane's success is a testament, not only to his hard work and commitment, 'but also to the support and guidance of his teachers, Ms Mary O'Hanlon and Ms Ellen McCarthy, who nurtured his skills and passion for design throughout his time in CBS New Ross. Their expert teaching and encouragement helped Shane develop the precision, problem-solving ability and visual communication skills that DCG demands.' This national recognition is a source of 'great pride for the school community' and, Ms Rice stated that achievements as such 'highlight the standard of teaching and learning at CBS New Ross'. "Shane's achievement serves as an inspiration to all students, showing what is possible through perseverance and creativity. We warmly congratulate Shane, his family, Ms. O'Hanlon and Ms. McCarthy on this remarkable success,' concluded Ms Rice.
Irish Independent
20-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Fitness, glam and furry friends at the centre of well-being week at Wexford school
Those in attendance that week, experienced a programme of fun, relaxation and personal growth, carefully co-ordinated by teachers Ms Whelan and Mr Curran, which was enthusiastically embraced by all. 'At CBS New Ross, we believe that academic success goes hand-in-hand with physical and mental well-being. This special week allowed us to highlight the importance of self-care practices and provide students with tools they can use throughout their lives,' a spokesperson for the school said. To kick the week off, the school community was greeted by furry friends with an animal therapy session in the form of a petting zoo visit from Nore Valley, which brought a variety of friendly animals to the school grounds. The smiles and laughter that filled the area were testament to how effective animal interactions can be in reducing stress and increasing happiness. Tuesday's event included a session to get the students moving with a Zumba dance class, and according to Ms Whelan, 'they were a huge hit'. The session was led by professional instructors, and the high-energy dance sessions got hearts pumping and endorphins flowing. 'It was wonderful to see students of all abilities joining in and enjoying the experience,' she said. Wednesday's hair and makeup workshops explored self-expression through personal style and the workshops continued the trend of being extremely popular among students. Professional stylists were welcomed to the school and shared tips and techniques while discussing how outward appearance can reflect and boost inner confidence. Many students discovered new talents and interests during these sessions. The following day, students were captivated by guest speaker, David Power, the former manager for Tipperary Gaelic football team, as he delivered a talk on building resilience. Mr Power shared valuable insights on developing mental toughness, coping with challenges, and bouncing back from setbacks. "The question and answer sessions that followed, demonstrated just how engaged our students were with these important topics and how they can relate to them in their own lives,' said Ms Whelan. When the session concluded, a bouncy castle obstacle course awaited the students for a 'fun and fitness session'. The competitive streak was strong among the students as they challenged themselves and each other to complete the inflatable obstacle course, while combining physical exercise with plenty of laughter. Thursday's events didn't end there, as the Transition Year (TY) students showcased their mini-company products at the Well-being Week market, and a wide variety of fantastic products were on sale, while later, TY student, Roan English, took on the role of fitness instructor. Roan was leading English classes with 40 students at a time, in a challenging but fun workout. They took to the yard outside to get the best of the good weather while working out. 'Roan really rose to the occasion in leading his fellow peers in this exciting workout. Roan is a rugby star and definitely one to watch for the future,' Ms Whelan commented. To round-off Well-being Week, students and staff enjoyed a whole school walk, embracing the outdoors and the benefits of physical activity together. Adding to the excitement, it was also bring your dog to school day, where several teachers introduced their furry companions to the school community. Ms Whelan explained the impact of the activity on the students. ADVERTISEMENT 'The dogs brought smiles, sparked conversations, and created a warm, joyful atmosphere, highlighting the positive impact animals can have on mental well-being. It was a memorable end to a week dedicated to health, happiness, and connection.' In highlighting the importance of Well-being Week in the school community, Ms Whelan said 'it wasn't just about taking care of ourselves, it was also about supporting others,' as charity activities also took place for the Irish Cancer Society. 'Students enthusiastically participated in our Splash the Teachers event, where they had the opportunity to soak their favourite teachers with water balloons and buckets. The laughter was contagious, and teachers were great sports for this worthy cause,' she continued, adding that the event raised over €500 for cancer research and support services. Given the overwhelmingly positive response to Well-being Week, the teachers have confirmed they are already planning similar events for next year's events. "The valuable lessons learned about self-care and mental health will continue to be incorporated into our school culture, and we would like to thank everyone who participated in the week including our external providers, staff volunteers, and the student well-being ambassadors who supported tirelessly,' Ms Whelan concluded.
Irish Independent
14-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Irish Independent
Devoted family man Jackie Stacey was a man of many talents
New Ross Standard The New Ross and Shanbogh communities are mourning the loss, and celebrating the life, of Jackie Stacey, who passed away peacefully at home on Sunday, May 4, at the age of 83. Jackie, who was born in 1941 and spent his entire life in Shanbogh, was a man of many talents, interests, and deep commitments. A beloved teacher, respected principal, founding member of local organisations, accomplished musician, and proud family man, Jackie's legacy is felt far beyond the confines of his classroom or community halls. At just 19, Jackie began his teaching career at CBS New Ross, a school that would become his professional home for decades. He eventually rose to the role of principal, leading with vision, compassion, and a belief in the potential of every student. Former pupils remember his love of music sneaking into lessons, and if you were lucky, a gentle request for a song might turn an afternoon of sums into an impromptu singalong, guitar and all. Education wasn't just his job; it was a calling. Even after retirement, Jackie continued as a substitute teacher, driven by his passion for learning and mentoring. But Jackie's contribution to the town extended well beyond the school gates. He was a founding member of the New Ross Musical Society, a regular on stage in productions and pantomimes, and a vital part of the New Ross Historical Society. His love for folk music led him to becoming involved in two of the best-known bands ever to come out of New Ross, Shanbogh Folk and Barrowside, as a guitarist and vocalist, Shanbogh Folk rose to stardom by winning the highly prestigious Kilkenny Beer Festival Ballad competition in 1970 which led them to being invited to perform on several RTÉ television and radio shows. Jackie played a comeback concert with Shanbogh Folk at the Eugene O'Neill Festival in New Ross in October 2023, not allowing his illness to stop him doing what he loved. The band received a rapturous welcome and standing ovation. They never lost their star quality. Barrowside came on the scene in the early 1990s and signed a five-album record deal with Round Tower Records, toured the UK, Europe and the US, as well as performing the Irish folk circuit. Among the highlights for Jackie and the band were the concerts they performed at the Royal Albert Hall in London and at the Winter Olympics in Lillehammer, Norway. Jackie also served on countless community committees, contributing to town twinning programmes, the Credit Union, church choirs, and more. When something needed doing, Jackie was the man people called, and he never said no. He was known for turning up, rolling up his sleeves, and getting the job done with a smile. Through it all, Jackie remained grounded in what mattered most: his family. He and his wife Yvonne, married in 1974, raised four sons in the very house Jackie was born in. Over many years, they built a life full of music, humour, and mutual respect. Jackie was immensely proud of his ten grandchildren, his 'pride and joy', and was known to anyone who'd listen as their greatest champion, quick to share stories of their talents and kind hearts. Even as illness gradually limited his mobility in recent years, Jackie remained active, curious, and engaged. He was still attending local meetings and printing out agendas for the New Ross Active Retirement Association right up to his final days, including one last reminder to his sons to 'make sure there's black ink in the printer', he always had one more job to do. Jackie leaves behind a lasting legacy: his students, who remember him not just for what he taught but how he made them feel; his fellow musicians and community members, who sang and served beside him; and above all, his wife, children, grandchildren, neighbours, and friends — for whom his presence was a steady source of strength and joy. His song may be over but his melody lives on. Jackie will be sadly missed by his wife Yvonne, sons Mark, John, Paul and Colm, daughters-in-law Mary, Elaine, Elaine and Hannah, his adored grandchildren Finn, Luca, Wil, Éinín, Ethan, Daimhin, Jonah, Elijah, Rob and Noah, his trustee companion Boxer, extended family, relatives and friends.
