St. Mary’s College recently held a special event to celebrate the achievements of its upper sixth formers who leave the school this summer.

The leavers’ mass, held in the school’s O’Halloran Hall, was attended by the families and friends of the students.

This year’s service was particularly moving because Head of Sixth Form, Daniel Magill, is retiring from St. Mary’s in July after 30 years at the school. To mark the occasion, Mr Magill was invited to be the guest speaker at the event.

At the ceremony students were honoured for their efforts in a wide range of fields including sport, the school band, orchestra and choir, drama, debating, the Combined Cadet Force and for supporting younger pupils via the Guardians and Tutor Links programmes.

Earlier in the day they had attended a farewell buffet lunch with their teachers, provided by the school’s Parents’ Association.

Commenting on the event St. Mary’s Principal, Mike Kennedy, said: “The leavers’ mass is always a very poignant occasion and this was certainly the case again this year.

“Obviously we are sorry to be losing such an excellent group of young people, but at the same time the event is a great opportunity to salute their achievements and the contributions they have made to life at St. Mary’s over many years.

“As they move on to the next stage of their lives, I am confident they will put their talents to very good use in whatever career paths they choose to pursue. I wish them every success in the future,” added Mr Kennedy.

Bittersweet occasion - St. Mary’s Principal Mike Kennedy pictured at the leavers’ mass (second right) with Head of Sixth Form Daniel Magill, Head Boy Stephen Mallinson and Head Girl Alice Mackay.

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