Click Here - St. Francis College Rochestown

Awards Night
Warren Stone For Ireland Rowing Championship Junior 14 Scull. David Cussen Winner of the
R.O.I.Youth Climbing Series Indoors
Soccer Award Presented by
Neal Horgan to
Cathal Dole, Cian Murphy
and David O'Leary
Junior Cert Award 2010
Presented by
Mr. A. Dwyer to
Darragh Connell.
KWP Print & Design Ph.021 4373096
St. Francis College
Rochestown
10/10/09 Photo taken by Dan O’Regan
with Louis Delahunty 6th year (pilot)
St. Francis College, Rochestown, Co. Cork Tel: 021 4891417 Fax: 021 4361254 Email: rococoll.ias@eircom.net
An Introduction
The Summer Edition of the Roco Report always
causes amazement due to it’s broad and varied
content. This issue is no different, apart from the
fact that the range and diversity of activities in
which the pupils and teachers are engaged
continues to grow. Congratulations to all involved.
Mixed Emotions
The 2010-2011 academic year has had a mixture of
highs and lows. The untimely passing of Gavin
Kavanagh(5th yr) touched the whole school
community and certainly caused everyone to
review their perspectives on life. Gavin was a very
positive, fun-loving, gifted pupil whose popularity
with his peers and teachers alike bears testament
to the huge contribution he made to St. Francis
College in the short time he was with us. Former
pupil, Fr. Berchmans, and Fr. Benjamin, former
teacher and recent Chaplin to the college also
passed away during the year. Huge losses to the
Capuchin community.
Success
The 2010-2011 year will also be remembered for
much happier events. The sports trophy count was
the highest ever, with great victories in GAA,
Soccer, Basketball, Tennis, Swimming etc. We also
acknowledge great individual performances in
Feis Mathew, Debating, Music, and Art. As the
school continues to grow it is natural that
expectations academically and otherwise
regarding pupil achievement rise also. It is a credit
to all concerned that these expectations are being
met.
Mr Groeger D.P
Mr Adrian Groeger our Deputy Principal moves
on to fresh pastures at the end of this academic
year. His energy, organisational skills and work
ethic has contributed in no small way to the
present success of the College.
Mr Groeger began his teaching career in St. Francis
College in 1976. In addition to his teaching duties
he has organised tours, was Transition Year
Coordinator and worked as Chief Advising
Examiner for the D.E.S.
Commitment, attention to detail and
professionalism are the hallmarks of any task
undertaken by Mr. Groeger. Since his appointment
as Deputy Principal in 1998 he has worked
tirelessly to ensure that St. Francis College would
become the success it is today. We wish Mr
Groeger, his wife Nora, his son David and his
daughter Sandra and her family health and
happiness in the years ahead.
School Partners
The Parents Association certainly raised some eye
brows this year. Not only was the Annual Tablequiz
enjoyable but the B.B.Q cookery
demonstration and the Health and Beauty night
were much appreciated by parents and teachers.
Our gratitude to Malachy Mc Elroy (Chairperson)
and his committee for their continued work.
The Board of Management steers the college
through legislation, budgets and building
applications. Much work is done on our behalf
behind the scenes and we are grateful to them.
The Trustees, the Capuchin Franciscan Order
continue to support the college, not only
financially but Spiritually also. I know that the
success of the college is a source of pride to them.
Mar fhocal scoir, guímíd gach rath ar lucht
scrúdaithe 2011 agus ar háirithe do lucht na
hArdteiste. Guímíd sláinte, suaimhneas is sonas
orthu sna blianta atá rompu amach.Go dtuga
Naomh Prionsias cabhair agus treoir dóibh i rith
na scrúdaithe.
Diarmuid Ó Mathúna
Summer Newsletter

Football
A year to remember
on the football field
2011
St. Francis College, Rochestown recorded a year to
remember on the football pitch with three wins in the U
14 Cork Colleges, U 16 1/2 Munster and Senior Cork
Colleges grades. Usually a victory in any competition,
hurling or football would be considered a successful
year for GAA in the College, but three
competitions won in the same year is
a remarkable achievement and much
credit must go to the players for their
hard work and commitment this year.
The U 14’s won an “A” Cork Colleges
for the second year running, beating
Colaiste Chríost Rí in the final. The 16
1/2 footballers won the first Munster
title in living memory defeating
Mounthawk of Tralee in a thrilling
final. The Senior footballers also
played with some style this year
winning a Cork College’s final and
reaching a Munster semi-final, only
to be ultimately be defeated by
Carrigaline after extra time. Indeed,
the achievement of the College was
noted and commented upon by a very
gracious letter from another record
breaking Rochestown team of the past, (please find
below).It is refreshing and encouraging to know that our
efforts on the pitch are part of a proud tradition for the
school and hopefully further successful chapters will be
written in the coming years as the College goes from
strength to strength on the GAA field.
Under 14 Cork
Colleges A Football
Champions
We began our campaign on the 12th of October away to
De La Salle Macroom and came away with a comfortable
victory on a scoreline of 3-14 to 1-4. We followed that up
with a win at home in Rochestown against St. Colman’s
Fermoy. We really worked hard as a team on the day and
put up a big score finishing with 4-13 to Colman’s 0-4.
We followed that up with an excellent victory against
Coláiste Choilm Ballincollig on a wet November
morning winning by a margin of ten points. We had a
long journey down to Skibereen for our next league
game against St. Fachtna’s. Our trainers Mr Ó Murchú
and Mr. Sheehan knew that it would be a tough game
against the local side and that is the way it turned out. In
the end we were lucky to get away with a draw finishing
on a scoreline of 2-8 to 1-11. Even though we didn’t win
we still went into our last group game against Críost Rí
in a strong position knowing that we had already
qualified for the final. Due to injuries and illness our
coaches had to make a few changes to the team and
Críost Rí defeated us on a scoreline of 3-10 to 2-6. We
were disappointed after the
game but we knew that we
would have a chance to redeem
ourselves against the same
opponents in the final a week
later.
On the morning of the final we
left school at 12 to go to the C.I.T
sports grounds. There wasn’t
much talk on the bus as you
could sense that people were
nervous. The opening half was
very tough with Críost Rí racing
into an early lead but we kept
within touching distance and
went in three points down at half
time. The 2nd half was incredibly
tense and exciting with both
teams displaying great skill and
determination. A goal mid way
through the half added with some tremendous points
from distance helped us to a hard fought and
tremendous victory on a scoreline of 3-12 to 2-10. We
were delighted when the final whistle went and there
were some great scenes when our parents and
supporters ran onto the field to celebrate winning the
Cork Colleges title for the 2nd year in a row. We trained
hard all year and produced some great football along the
way. The goalkeeper and defenders worked very hard as
a unit and were very tenacious while the midfield and
forwards got some great scores, without doubt saving
their best performance for the final. Hopefully this
group of players will stick together and bring more
success to Rochestown College in the years ahead.
Roco maestro in classic pose
The U16 Champions
The Team for the final was: Daniel O’Mahony, David Stack,
Peter Stack(c), Adam Geaney, Seán Powter, David Griffin, Liam
O’Sullivan, Liam Dineen, Shane Kingston, Adrian Daly, Cathal
Dold, Evan Ryle, Sam Collins, Conor O Regan, Ciarán
Cormack.
Subs: Cathal Sheehan, Ryan Cantwell, Ross McCormack,
Darragh Leen, Niall Quirke, John Cashman, Cian Marnane,
Diamaid O’Mahony, Liam Dinneen, Cian Fitzgerald, Ronan
McCarthy, Daniel O’Sullivan, Fintan Ward, David Power, Cian
O’Callaghan, Cathal O’Connor and Eoghan O’Brien.
Debating Award Presented to Andrew Healy Deputy Principal's Award winner Kevin Power and Mr Groeger
Tadgh Fanning Recieves the Principals award
Entrepreneur Award
Presented to
Brian Twomey and
Shane Morgan
Transition Year Award Presented to Conor
O'Brien
Awards Night

Awards Night
Our Deputy Principal, Mr. A. Groeger, with his wife Nora at the Rochestown College
Awards Night
1st Year Merit Awards,
Billy Horan, Paul O'Mahony,
Joseph Carroll,
Daniel O' Flaherty,
Ian O'Shea, presented by
Mr. McDonnell
3rd Year Academic
Awards, Aidan Marnane,
Craig O'Shea,
Luke Harris,
Joshua McMahon,
Peter Stokes,
Stephen O'Callaghan
and Dermot Lyden
Senior footballers
have tremendous
success
This has been one of the greatest seasons in recent years for
football in the school and the first silverware of the year was
brought back by our senior footballers.
The first game of the cork colleges campaign was a hard
fought battle with our near rivals Carrigaline CS as Roco
proceeded to the next round with a 5 point win. The next
encounter was against Rocascarbery in terrible conditions,
Kevin Hodgins securing the win with a last gasp goal. The
final, a convincing win over St. Aidans; Roco showed their
class with a fine first half performance which ended with
captain Seán Collins lifting the cup for Roco for the first
time in many years.
But the success unfortunately didn’t last in our Munster
campaign after victories in the opening two rounds we
came to face our familiar foe Carrigaline CS in the semifinal.
In an epic encounter that went to extra time, Roco
were unlucky to be on the losing side this time around.
Even with the bitter defeat at hand, Coaches Mr Sheehan
and Mr Hennessey were proud of our achievements and we
hope that Roco’s success will continue for many years to
come.
Conor O’ Brien & Conor Deasy.
U16 1 /2 Munster
Football Champions
From a players perspective this year’s U16 1/2 Munster
football campaign was very satisfying as we won the
Munster Colleges competition, but there was also a great
atmosphere at training and at matches. There were a
number of players from the senior panel available for this
grade and with the addition of players from the U16 and
U15 panels it made for a very complete and balanced group
of players.
We were well prepared for our opening game against St.
Caimins from Clare as we had been training for it since
December. Players had been looking forward to this game
but despite this it was a quiet affair that never really came
to life. We got a few scores early in the second half and we
Victorious U16 1/2 Munster Football Champions team captain
Andrew Murphy, with the Championship trophy
pushed on from there and it finished up with a score line of
5-5 to 0-4.
The quarter final was played in Ballygiblin against the
Munster senior football champions, Abbey C.B.S. so we
were expecting a hard game. It was a cagey first half with
both sides sizing each other up and at half time there was
nothing in it. The second half was like two different teams
were playing as we both went out and played free flowing
attacking football. The score line resembled that of a street
leagues u10 hurling match with goals being scored as
regularly as points, and the game concluding on a score line
of 6-7 to 5-7.
Our semi-final was played in Knocknagree against
Killorglin. The old cliché that semi finals were all about
winning and getting to the final came to fore and we played
very well despite missing midfielder and captain Andrew
Murphy. The defence had learned their lesson from the
quarter final and only gave away 6 points while our
forwards were dominating and scored 3-13.
Mr. O Murchu and Mr. Hennessy had us well prepared for
the final against Mounthawk Tralee that was played under
a scorching sun in Knocknagree. It was a close game at half
time with both teams conceding goals. For the first 15
minutes of the second half we got on top and erased our
two point deficit from half time. Mounthawk launched a
comeback but our defence held out and when the dust
settled we were two points to the better, 3-7 to 1-11. Players
and mentors were overjoyed at the final whistle as it had
been several years since the school won a Munster Colleges
competition. With the proper training and commitment
there is no limit to the possibilities for this team and it gives
great hope for the future.
Alan O Donovan 4th Year
A Blast from the Past
Roco boys are we,
Our title is our glory,
Fearless and bold.
Whatever the danger be,
Onward we go
To flinch or fight we ne-ver
Roco boys together
The Brown and white forever.
In 1950 the boys from Roco created a bit of footballing history
when they won the Corn na Mumhan – now known as the Corn
Uí Mhuirí (Senior) and the Frewen Cup for U 16 ?. Add to them
the Simcox Cup (Cork Colleges Senior Football). As well as
winning those cups we reached the final of Cork Colleges (under
18) Junior Cup, but, due to the proximity of exams it wasn’t
played.
Incidentally, we defeated St. Breandans Killarney in the final of
the Corn na Mumhan and we beat Wilton College in the Simcox
Cup Final. It was a unique period of great success and makes us
very proud to say we wore the brown and white of Roco with
such honour and distinction.
However, that’s all in the past and we are delighted to know that
we won’t go down in history as the only team from Rochestown
to win a Munster Cup. The long awaited breakthrough has
finally been made. We read with pride in the Irish Examiner
dated 7/4/11 about the Munster Colleges U16 ? BFC final,
Rochestown College 3.7 Mercy Mounthawk Tralee 1.11:
“Munster joy for dogged Rochestown”. These headlines were a
sight for sore eyes!
We the surviving members of the 1950 teams are delighted to
extend our sincere congratulations to the 2011 team on a
marvellous victory. We would also like to pay tribute to their
trainer/coach, college authorities and anyone else who had an
input in any way towards this great achievement. From now on
let it be upwards and onwards. We look forwards to seeing
Rochestown College appearing in headlines on a regular basis in
the times ahead.
On Behalf of the 1950 teams: Michael Berkery, Gabriel Curran
Football

Soccer
Soccer
2011
Soccer continues to grow
from strength to strength in
St Francis College with
another successful year after
a narrow defeat in last years
All-Ireland final. There are
now four school teams
competing at first year, U-14,
U-16 and U-18 levels at
Munster level as well as the
local Cork schools cup
competition. We also saw
David O Leary from sixth
year being called up to the
Irish U-17 International
squad and had several
students represent Cork in
every age group.
First Year Munster Cup
For the third year running, our first years qualified for
the final of the First Year Cup which is a very difficult
competition to win, comprising of 42 teams playing at an
A level.
In the group stages our first years beat Colaiste Mhuire
of Cobh 4-2 before losing 1-0 to Ballincollig CS in which
all of our 28 man squad got a run out. In round 2, a hattrick
from Cathal Dold rounded off a 5-1 beating of
St.Colmans, Fermoy before the same player scored twice
against Cashel in a 5-0 win in round three.
Rochestown were drawn against Ballincollig CS again in
the Munster Quarter Final and after a very tough game
and extra time, went through 2-1 after Cathal Dold
scored with 2 minutes of extra time left. It was extra time
again in the semi-final against Crescent Comprehensive
from Limerick with captain Shane Kingston scoring a
wonder goal in the first half from 25 yards. It finished 1-
1 in normal time but the character, desire and belief of
this team shone through once again with Cathal Dold
and Sam Collins finishing the Limerick side off with two
goals in the last five minutes of extra time.
In the final against De La Salle, Waterford, Rochestown
were twice in the lead through goals from Shane
Kingston and Cathal Dold and looked to be heading for
a second successive Munster Final
win. However, a strong and pacey
De La Salle side came back to draw
2-2 and then take the lead in quick
succession to break Rochestown
hearts. A cruel blow but these
players have performed
magnificently, none more so than in
the final itself and should be very
proud of the effort they gave the
Roco jersey.
Congratulations to Cathal Dold
who gets the first year Player Of
The Year with David Griffin getting
the Most Improved Player award
throughout all soccer teams.
U-14
In the Munster Cup, our U-14’s
U18 Football. Mr. Eoin O’Flaherty and Mr. Pat Croke with Rochestown College’s 1st Year soccer
team. Finalists in Munster Schools’ Competition
travelled to Kinsale and won by before beating Spioraid
Naoimh 2-1 in round 2 with goals by.
In round 3. Roco beat a physical Clonakilty team 2-1 with
both goals coming from Cork player Eoghan Daly. In the
quarter-final, despite going a goal up through Eoghan
Daly again, Roco were very lucky to go out to eventual
All-Ireland finalists Clonmel CBS by 2-1.
The Cork Schools Cup saw Roco take on in round one
and win convincingly.
Congratulations to Luke Carroll, our captain, who gets
the U-14 Player of the Year
U-16
Our U-16 started of Munster with a great win against
Spioraid Naoimh, winning 3-1 with goals from. Round 3
saw Roco have a much tougher tie against Colaiste
Mhuire, Cobh and went down 4-0.
Congratulations to Cian Murphy who gets the U-16
Player Of The
U-18
Congratulations to Cathal Dold who gets the first year
Player Of The Year with David Griffin getting the Most
Improved Player award.
‘Cork School’s Champions’ St. Francis College U14 soccer team with Mr. Croke
Adrian Groeger
I really want to record in this Roco Report what I have come
to realise more and more every day that our school is such a
special place with a great academic and sporting tradition,
not just today but it has been for a long, long time. Since 1884
in fact, there have been legions of lads educated by
Capuchins and lay staff. Yes, it was a much smaller school
but it was so much sought after, that pupils came from the
four corners of Ireland, to be boarders and to be educated by
the teaching staff.
Through various Chapter changes there were many
Capuchin priests and brothers who came and went and who
employed their own particular zeal and dedication to their
ministry and teaching. Rochestown College, back then and
now, always brings out the best in people.
Yes, of course the school has grown, facilities have improved
and so on but in essence, we, colleagues, have got hooked
into this great Franciscan tradition.
I have been teaching here since 1976, I know it’s a long time,
and I have been privileged and grateful for the opportunity
to have been able to play a part in the education of so many
young men who have taken their place in so many walks of
life at home and abroad.
My first Principal here was a Fr. Nessan Shaw. I still
remember vividly, after the interview he brought me outside
his office, which was down the main corridor at the time, and
pointed to the inscription on the floor which read ‘failte’. It is
still there today, at the church entrance. This `’failte’ is
something I think we do very well in Saint Francis, to
parents, new teachers, new pupils, and indeed to all visitors.
So many people say it is special when you come in the main
door. Although our numbers are now big, we still have
managed to hold on to the ‘everybody-knowing –everybody’
atmosphere. We can call it culture or ethos, in some ways it
is indescribable, but it is the source of so many good things
which we reflect in our behaviours, in our trust, and in our
respect every day. This is the school where everyone counts
and everyone cares. On bad days we grumble and find fault
with it but in truth we quickly recharge and plug back into it
for more. And it sustains us. Our every day concerns, both
pastoral, academic and discipline seem hugely important at
the time, we deal with them, and they all go into the mix in
creating this special atmosphere which is ostensibly fair and
affirming and welcoming to us all.
When I joined in 1976 as a teacher of French Margaret
O’Callaghan was the only female on the staff at the time. I
always took my teaching seriously. Looking back there were
some marvellous success stories with high calibre students
getting the best jobs here and abroad.
I became aware that there were legends who had been but
were now gone. In time, I was introduced to stalwarts like
Jamsie, the VP, I was introduced to Aengus, Ned, Gilbert,
Danjo, Donatus, Bill, Richard, Pat, Victor, Eolan, Jim, Roddy,
Joe and Colin. They cared for their pupils just like we do
today. They taught their pupils assiduously. They grafted
long and hard, in the old style, chalk and talk, in the
Boarding school, having to write everything out long hand,
on blackboards or greenboards, this was before white boards,
laptops and digital pedagogy, Victor running copious notes
and exams off on the gestetner, all involved in
extracurricular activities way and beyond the call of duty.
They worked hard, because they too, empathised almost
intuitively and almost unconscionably with this special
atmosphere and culture. Many of them have gone to their
eternal reward but thank God, some are still in the land of the
living. And in reminiscing on former esteemed colleagues,
secretaries and ancillary staff, we won’t forget Johnny, with
his ubiquitous presence, teaching colleagues, Tom, Jack, and
Peter, when we pay tribute to them all this evening for their
quality service and personal contributions to the school. We
remember too, the Barretts, Jack and Martin, Neans, former
colleagues like Oliver, Sean,
and Frs Kevin and Brian, our
own Diarmuid, Dan, Liam
and David, and the many lady
teachers who arrived early on,
like Sharon, Olive, Marion,
Deirdre, and who quickly
established themselves not
only as skilled practitioners in
their own subjects, but also as
significant and personable
members of the school
community..
In the 80’s the Boarding school
closed and the numbers
increased. New classrooms
were added, extra toilet
facilities provided, and the
famous Sports hall was added.
Our numbers rose to the 300’s. And then after a while it all
fell flat. Public perception of the school changed. In their
view there was a better school somewhere else. We were no
longer flavour of the month. But I can tell you, we knuckled
down.
We reflected big on whole school improvement and
evaluation, new ways of thinking, responding and acting.
We sent out leaflets, canvassed door to door. We welcomed
the new and innovative into our classrooms while continuing
to protect the unique values and traditions of the old school.
We worked harder at explaining that special atmosphere,
always supported by loyal Trustees, a vibrant Parents
Association and a teaching staff who see their job as an
opportunity, yes, to teach and unlock the potential of every
child we deal with but also as an opportunity to try to
include every person in this culture and atmosphere, we
talked about earlier. The culture of strong values and a love
of learning.
And then in June 1998 I was appointed Deputy Principal and
Diarmuid was appointed Principal in December the first lay
Principal after a long line of eighteen friars who all in their
different ways with their various talents, promoted the
College into the 90’s.
In a way we had a rebirth. We got a new dynamic Leader
with a clear vision but who also gave me the support and
space to grow as a person and as an educator. The areas
around the school had become densely populated. Their
families were now old enough to come to secondary school.
As a learning community we were poised to capitalise if only
we kept our heads. And that we did. Enrolments increased,
so new teaching appointments were made over the years,
committed, enthusiastic and experienced educators, both
male and female, who added hugely to the school. And we
got a new secretary. Later we got a new care-taker. Some
teachers retired, after toiling long and hard, new building
programmes started, parents voices came to the fore, and
Rochestown became flavour of the time again.
Next August you will have a pupil enrolment of 648 that is a
300% increase in over a decade. No mean achievement. More
and more teachers have been made permanent. We are
improving our methodologies so as to light the fire of
lifetime learning. And I have been honoured and privileged
to work alongside you, to witness some of my former pupils
like Denis, Eoin and Ronan, now come back and be teachers
in this great tradition and to witness continued success on
the field of play and in school results. Colleagues, you are
responsible for this happy school and you know a happy
school is a good school and a good school is a happy school.
You are responsible for the value-added. Treasure this unique
sense of community and `place`¬ and thanks again for your
support on this wonderfully unique journey.
Adrian Groeger. Deputy Principal.

Guest speaker from
AWARE
Soon after the Christmas holidays, as everyone settled
back into their routines, Ms Foley organised a guest
speaker from AWARE to come to talk to us about one of
the greatest problems facing Irish teenagers today:
depression.
We covered all aspects of the illness, from the causes,
the cures and the recognisable indicators of depression.
5th year students during the aware talk at Rochestown
We learned what to do if a family member is depressed.
It was an interactive talk where we split into groups
and discussed our idea of what causes depression and
how to recognise it. Then we shared them with the rest
of the class. At the end of the session we were asked to
anonymously evaluate and review the talk to help
improve it for other schools. Altogether it was a very
interesting and informative talk.
Gavin Shanahan
3rd year CSPE students at
Cork Courthouse during outing organised as part of their Junior
Cert CSPE exam with Ms. McMorrow and Ms. Henchion
Details of Extra
Duties Undertaken
as Part of Croke
Park Agreement
The Croke Park Agreement involves the provision by
Second Level Teachers of an additional 33hrs per
annum. The central purpose of this additional time is to
provide for activities such as School Planning, Subject
Planning, Staff Meetings, Parent Teacher Meetings etc.
to take place without reducing tuition time and to
eliminate school closures arising from these activities.
These hours will be undertaken outside of normal
school hours and on a whole school basis.
Activity Dates Hours
School Planning 26th August 2011 6
Policy Development 22nd September 2011 3
Professional Development 4th October 2011 6
Staff Meeting &
Subject Planning 24th October 2011
13th December 2011
22nd February 2012
29th March 2012
11th May 2012 9
Parent – Teacher Meetings See Below 9
TOTAL 33
Parent Teacher Meetings 2011-2012
6th Yr - November 22nd 4.15pm - 6.45pm
3rd Yr - December 1st 4.15pm - 6.45pm
5th yr - Jan 23rd 4.15pm - 6.45pm
1st Yr - Jan 31st 4.15pm – 6.45pm
2ndYr - March 2nd 4.15pm – 6.45pm
T.Y - March 22nd 4.15pm – 6.45pm
School Calendar 2011-2012
Thursday 25th August 1st year Assembly 9.30-11.00
Monday 29th August 2nd & 3rd Year Assemblies 9.30-11.00
Tuesday 30th August 4th Year Assembly 9.30-11.00
Wednesday 31st August 5th & 6th Year Assemblies 9.30-11.00
Thursday 1st September Class for all.
School Closures
Feast of St. Francis 4th October 2011
November break: 31st October – 4th November 2011
Christmas: School ends 22nd December 2011 School reopens 9th January 2012
February Break: 13th February-17th February 2012
Easter: 2nd April-13th April 2012
May Bank Holiday 7th May 2012
Summer: School Ends 1st June 2012
1st Year - Mr O Flaherty & Mr Croke in their technical area
1st Year - Ross O Neill & David Griffin competing for every ball
1st Year - Shane Kingston celebrates scoring in the Munster Final
1st Year - Sam Collins in action in the
Munster Final
Soccer

Basketball & Hurling
1st Year Basketball
Season 2010-2011
The season started off with the trials. The coaches had a
wide variety of people to choose from, but they could only
pick fourteen. The trials went on for two weeks and then
the final team was chosen. The members who were chosen
were Dylan Burke, Conor Flynn, Conor Ryan, Jonathan
Tyrell, Alex Murphy, Ryan Cantwell, Simon Darcy, Jason
Caroll, Jack Fielding, Shane O’Callaghan, Stephen Barrett,
Anthony Marinos, James Twomey O’Leary and Gary
Cremin.
The first game we played was against Douglas
Community School. We didn’t play our best because it was
our first game together, but we still had a comfortable win.
Next we played Crosshaven, we beat them also. Then
because we had won all our matches we automatically
qualified for the semi-finals of Cork, we had to play
Skibereen at home. It was a tight game, but we came out
winners in the end. Then it was on to the finals.
There we had to play Carrig na bhFearr at Neptune
Stadium. We were all very nervous before the game, but
we came out of the locker rooms with confidence. The
game started off close, but in the second quarter we started
to pull away. In the end though we only won by 6 points.
We were on our way to the All-Ireland qualifiers in Dublin.
We were very excited but nervous at the same time. All
that training had paid off.
On the Saturday before the All-Irelands we got
the train to Dublin. We weren’t in the best shape as one of
our team members, Gary Cremin, had broken his collar
bone and was unable to travel or play. It was a comfortable
trip. Upon arrival in Dublin we were very hungry so we
went to get some food in the train station. We then got a
coach to our hotel, which was called the Aspect hotel. It
was a very nice hotel and the rooms were very
comfortable. We went to sleep as early as we could because
of the day that lay ahead.
The next morning people struggled to get up but we
eventually got to the hall where we played our first match.
Our first game was against St. Clements. It was an easy
enough game and we got the win with ease. Our next
game was against St. Declans. We were lifted in our spirits
as Gary Cremin had made the journey to Dublin to support
his fellow team members. As we were very confident going
into this game, it was no surprise that we were victorious
once more.
Our final game was against Borris who had also won all
their games, which meant this was an All-Ireland quarter
final. We were a little too confident going into this game
Rochestown College 1st Year Basketball team, Cork Champions with Mr. Barry,
Ms Leahy and Mr. Lucey
and we were down by nine points going into the final
quarter. But we showed that we had the determination and
the belief that we could win this game and in the end we
won by 11 points.
Our next game was in one of the best arenas in Ireland, the
University of Limerick. We had to play Killorgan from
Kerry. They were a very skilled and experienced side and
we knew this was going to be a challenge, which it was. We
were behind for most of the game but we drew level in the
final quarter and took it to over time. In the end we just lost
out by a point. We were all gutted but we knew we would
come back more experienced next season. And we would
also like to thank Mr. Barry, Mr. Lucey, and Ms. Healy for
all the work and effort they have put into this season.
By Conor Flynn and Dylan Burke.
Rochestown Hurling
2011
We started our campaign off well in the under 15 Munster
competition by defeating Killmacthomas (Waterford) with
a great display of hurling to clinch our first victory in the
2011 championship. We then set off to St. Vincents G.A.A
where we faced our next challenge against the North Mon.
We started excellently killing off the game with a few quick
goals and by then the Mon players had already dropped
their heads and allowed us to a comfortable win. We then
faced Blarney in the quarter finals which was a very tough
match Roco fought bravely and came out with a winning
result.
Then came the semi-final where we played a very good
and determined Youghal side. We were down by 5 points
at half time but we were encouraged by Mr. Lonergan and
Mr. Fahy to keep fighting and never give up and we did
just that.
In the second half we got 3 goals without reply and
managed to gain victory and to be in a Munster final. In the
final we played Tulla (Clare) who were a very good hurling
team and a physical side. We found it hard to break down
their defence, missing narrowly, and they took advantage
of this by scoring long range points and a few lucky goals.
Unfortunately we lost this final to a good Clare side but I
know that we will be back stronger next year.
Also in the under 16 Cork championship we played Scoil
Chriost Ri in a quarter final clash up in the school pitch this
year. We played lovely hurling and put many scores on the
board while our defense defended superbly. We were up a
few points at half time and decided we were
going to play until the final whistle. Finally
the ref blew his whistle and we were through
to a Cork A semi-final. In the semi final we
played a good Midleton CBS team. The game
was fast flowing and very intense which was
what we hoped would happen before the
game. As the game went on we tired and they
scored 2 lucky goals but we still fought to the
final whistle. We were knocked out but were
happy we got this far as we had a few main
players injured or sick.
Our first years beat Chriost Ri and were
unlucky to go out of the competition to a last
minute goal against the North Mon AG. Also
our Seniors had a great win against Tramore
before bowing out of the Munster B
competition against eventual winners Caoler.
All and all it has been a good hurling year for
the school.
Mark Dolan 3B
Day time New York
Rochestown Tour Group on Liberty Island
Dylan McSweeney, Conor O'Brien , Daniel Calnan Walsh and
Graham Sheehan Atop the Empire State Building
Rochestown Staff on Liberty Island
New York At Night
Eric Van Hoppe, Graham Sheehan and
Ciaran Coulstock
4th & 5th Year students provide photo opportunity for the N.Y.P.D. (Group mug shot)

4th and 5th Year Students on historic Ellis Island
Times Square
Mr. J. Barry and Mr. P. Croke admire the Jackson Pollocks at the Museum fo Modern Art
Riding the ‘A’ train to Yankee Stadium, the Bronx
Connor Lyden and Tomas O'Donovan in front of the Statue of
Liberty
New York
1948
Back garden grass feels soft.
His neck aches, craning upwards.
From the kitchen window
A voice comes buzzing
Over the static it shoots
Fighting for freedom,
Rights and country.
Radio switches off
His eyes fix on butterflies above.
Big, red and black.
Their wings scarred with
Hateful, ignorant words.
Then the birds are in flight,
In many colours and sizes,
They flee together
His mother cradles him,
Her eyes so big and,
Full of worry.
They stare together,
at the city in the distance.
It holds their dreams,
Their freedom,
Their family.
Two storks, grey and dead
Scream overhead
Their babies engorged
On the minds of man,
Whistle above the word
The eyes of God open.
Their light terrible,
Beautiful.
The city is gone, the foundations
Boil white hot.
He and his mother
Are shadows on their doorstep,
Forgotten for eternity,
Along with humanity.
First Year
Entrepreneur
Competition
Recently, the first years had an
entrepreneur competition. The rules were
simple; come up with a new idea, hand up
your business plan and, finally present
your idea using whatever materials
necessary (power-point, business charts,
you could even make prototypes of your
product). The prize was €100. Not everyone got
through to the final round, but those who did were all
fantastic. In the end myself (Shane Morgan) and Brian
Twomey won with our idea for a new music social
network called “Musique”. Both Ms. Mc Carthy and
Mr. Croke (the judges) said that it was an incredibly
difficult decision to make, and they went on to say how
they had judged these styled competitions many times
before but this was one of the best they had ever seen.
In fact, they said everyone was so great, that for the first
time they were going to give everyone who entered a
runners-up prize! You can take it from me that is only
the first you’ve heard from all of these future
entrepreneurs!
Shane Morgan
Robot Workshop
In honour of Science Week Ms Foley organised a Robot
Workshop for second years. On that morning we went
up to the blue room. There we met a lecturer of
electronics from a university in England. In this
workshop we were taught how to build a robot using
Lego Mindstorms.
It was good fun and we missed a lot of class time. The
instructor explained the basics of building a robot. He
explained things like how to make it faster and more
powerful.
We learnt a lot about design and how to put things
together. It was very enjoyable. At the end of building
the robots there was a test to see whose one was the
best. The test was a course with obstacles on it. The
Robot Workshop
5th yr students visit the CSO in Mahon
objective was to find the bodies which were aluminium
so that the robots were able to see them. There was also
a ramp for the robot to climb.
Each group had lots of different designs and we were
able to examine the best bits of each robot. All the class
had great fun.
Oscar Morehead
Cian Mc Dermott
Forensic Science
Workshop
Rochestown College submitted a successful application
to Eli Lilly who were funding school science activities
in honour of 2011, the International Year of Chemistry.
Many thanks to Eli Lilly!
A matter of weeks into our term after Christmas we
were given the opportunity to attend a chemistry
workshop. A refreshing break from the regular school
routine, this workshop brought us up to the science lab.
Here we were introduced to two women who we
assumed to be the forensic scientists. After an
intriguing lecture from a greying wise-looking lady
about various cases that have been solved with the help
of forensic science, we were given the opportunity to
conduct our very own “case” of sorts. We were made
aware of the second girl standing in wait. She –
Chantelle – a very pleasant Canadian lady, humoured
us with the tale of the murder of Marguerita, lead
singer of the Pizzas. We had to take a list of equally
cheesy suspect names down and collect the samples
that they had, apparently, left at the scene of the crime.
We were entertained with back stories providing
ulterior motives as to why each suspect might have
committed the heinous crime. The real purpose was to
use chromatography and acid/base testing to see if the
colours of each sample/suspect compared with the
sample found on the scene.
It turned out it was Colonel Mustard, to me delight. I
knew he had done it all along, the grumpy old bugger.
Science was achieved, experiments were satisfactorily
completed, but most important of all the students of
Rochestown College have found a new friend of
Canadian origin.
Ciaran Daly
Business & Technology

Business & Technology / Arts & Culture
Fota Wildlife Park
Ecology Trip
We began our journey on a warm spring morning on the
final day of April. We were accompanied by two
teachers, Ms Foley and Mr Lucey. Our journey took
about 25 minutes.
When we arrived we were greeted by a young zoologist
called Aisling. Immediately we were brought into an
amazing lecture about wildlife and conservation. Soon
after we were given an hour and a half to explore the
park and have our lunch. Highlights for me were the
Copybara and the extremely endangered European
Bison. After lunch we were called upon by Ms Foley to
see if everybody was there.
Ms Foley along with Mr Lucey escorted us to a forest
area where we conducted some fascinating ecology
experiments. Soon after, we went searching for bugs to
suck up using an instrument called a pooter.
I was teamed up with my friend Lorcan Desmond and
we found some species such as the aphid. Once finished
we had another quick look around the zoo as we headed
back to the bus. It was a hard but brilliant day’s work in
Fota.
Aaron Byrne
Aaron and Lorcan using a pooter!
Mr Lucey enjoying the day at Fota
First Year Trip to
Tutankhamen
Exhibition
King of the Singers
Sam Wade in 1st Year
Egyptology Expedition
It was a cold Wednesday morning
when all of the first years in
Rochestown got on board two
buses. They were going to Dublin,
to see an exhibition in the RDS,
Dublin.
It was about the mysterious
Pharaoh, Tutankhamen. We left at
8.00 a.m. sharp. On the way up to
Dublin we had a bit of a sing-song.
We stopped at Midway near
Portlaoise for some food for
twenty minutes, and we were on
our way again. We arrived to a
sunny day and a packed RDS. We
were brought inside and given
headphones as audioguides.
We walked around the start of the
exhibition as our audioguides told
us all about what we were looking
at (small reconstructions of the underground tomb,
hieroglyphics, pictures of the Nile, etc).
After that we watched a movie about Tutankhamun’s
ancestors and another one about Howard Carter and
Lord Carnivon discovering his tomb.
Then we were brought into a room filled with
breathtakingly detailed replicas of objects found in
Tutankhamen’s tomb. We went straight from there to
Bewley's Hotel for food and we were on our way home.
On the way back we had a singing competition. Sam
Wade won and was crowned Pharaoh. We got off the bus
at 8.00 p.m. with smiles on our faces. We’d had a
fabulous day.
Shane Morgan
Donacha Murphy, Simon Darcy, Conrad lynch and Evan Ryal
First years at the Tutankhamun exhibition at the RDS in Dublin
6th Years share an emotional moment at the end of their last Rochestown College
Sports Day.Well done lads!
Alan Murray shows silky soccer skills
Mr. Groeger
Alan Cadogan at the long puck
Irregardless of dignity, David Hogan bursts into Swan Lake
Senior students sprint for the finish line
Sports Day

Sports Day
1st years at the sports day
4th years at the Sports day
5th Years during Stretcher race
6th year tug of war team
receive quiet encouragement
from Mr. Lonergan
4th years during the
crocodile walk
Rochestown College
Debating Club.
Rochestown College Debating Club was re-formed last
year. It has enjoyed a great surge of interest since then
with numbers increasing at senior and junior level. The
club is co-ordinated by Ms. Farrelly and Mr. Weldon.
Activities throughout the year included friendly visits
from schools like Mount Mercy and Colaiste an Spiorad
Naomh and others are planned for next year with
Rochestown College going into more competitive
debating territory.
Cork Printmaking
Cork Printmakers delivered a workshop to our
Transition Year and Portfolio Preparation art students as
part of their ’Artists in School’ programme.
Students at the Art print making workshop
The workshop took place over three days. It began with
a talk which covered a brief history of printmaking
through to contemporary printmaking. Work from
printers who use the equipment and facilities of Cork
Printmakers situated in Wandesford Quay was
showcased also.
The following day, we were divided into two groups;
one group was to do Silkscreen Monoprinting and the
other group would do Collograph. The talk and work
showed to us the day before gave us a good insight to
the work we’d be doing over the next two days.
Silkscreen Monoprinting involved
using oil-based crayons and dyes to
draw directly onto a mesh screen.
Paper is placed under the screen
frame and a transparent gel is used to
press the image onto paper.
Collograph requires dry, textured
materials to be glued onto
hardboard, which is then sealed on
with varnish. When the varnish set
the following day, it was coated in a
solid colour and printed onto a sheet
of paper through a printing press.
I was part of the group that did
Collograph. The printers from Cork
Printmakers helped us through the
printing step by step and offered a
wide variety of materials for us to use.
It is rare to get the opportunity to do Collograph in a
school, due to the large and expensive equipment
involved to print the finished result. It was a memorable
experience and a great addition to my portfolio.
By Alan Sheehan
Seachtain na
Gaeilge 2011
Rinneadh obair den scoth do sheachtain na Gaeilge I
mbliana. D’éagraigh Roinn na Gaeilge eachtraí do gach
bliain ghrúpa agus bhain na daltaí go léir taitneamh,
tairbhe agus sult as imeachtaí ar nós ‘speedcomhrá’ agus
tráth na gceist. Scríobh cuid de lucht na cúigiú bliana
dánta chomh maith le linn na ranganna Gaeilge agus
d’éirigh go han-mhaith leis an gcéad agus an dara bliain
sa chomórtas ealaíne. Ar ndóigh fuair na múinteoirí deis
a gcuid Gaeilge a thaispeáint leis an gcomórtas labhartha
sa seomra foirne – Comhghairdeas arís don
leasphríomhoide An t-Uasal Groeger agus d’Iníon Ní
Chonchúir. Go raibh maith agat do gach éinne a ghlac
páirt sa tseachtain. Roinn na Gaeilge
Dán a scríobh dalta sa Chúigiú Bliain:
An Buachaill gan Bríste
Bhí ógánaigh sa teach tabhairne, trath,
Nuair a thit a bhríste de, níorbh fhios aige cén fáth,
Bhí na pótairí ag ithe a lóin,
Nuair a chasadar timpeall agus chonaic said a thóin,
Ach bhainfeadh an gheit as na daoine chun tosaigh,
Amach an doras leo a bhrostaigh,
Isteach ón gcistin a tháinig an freastalaí,
Ach lig sí scread nuair a chonaic sí An buachaill gan éadaí,
Na plátaí is na cupáin dá chaith sí síos,
Nuair a chonaic sí cad a bhí le feiceáil aníos,
Amuigh an doras leis an mbuachaill le naire,
Agus phléasc an teach tabhairne le gáire!
Amach leis lena briste timpeall a murnáin,
A aghaidh leis an naire; imithe bán,
Agus ansin tháinig na Gardaí Síochána,
Agus rug siad go tobann ar an mbuachaill dána,
Ach ansin d’oscail sé a shúile go mall,
Agus amharc sé ar an bhfuinneog thall,
Lig sé faoiseamh as nuair a chonaic sé crann,
Brionglóid a bhí ann!
Le Tomás Ó Donnabháin
Mr. Groeger, Deputy Principal with David Stack 1st Year, Gary O’Herlihy 2nd Year, Jack Cudihy and
Cian Fitzgerald 1st Year, winners of the inaugural ‘Seanfhocail’ Poster competition
Arts & Culture

Arts & Culture
1st Year Roman visit
Trocaire Guest Speaker at Rochestown
Andrew Healy playing during a
chess friendly at Rochestown
Oscar Morehead at Trinity College with the
trophy won in Finals of Mental Health Ireland
‘Design a Poster’ Competition
Texaco Childrens Art Special Award winners, with Simon Garbuz,Oscar Moorhead, Luke Rothwell and Brian O Sullivan (Mental
Health Ireland ‘Design a Poster’ Competition finalists)
David O'Leary, Ireland’s
U17 International
pushes for that
elusive equaliser
A 6th Year Team confident of victory
Teachers’ player / manager, Mr Liam O'Murchu,
explains tactics to his back four in preparation for
another attack
Mr. O'Flaherty shows off
his skills, during the
teachers’ victorious home
game against the cream
of 6th Year
The Teachers Team
emerged yet again
victorious over the students
in the Annual Challenge
Match against
6th Year opposition
7-6!
Teachers vs Students

Transition Year
Beat Box music class in Rochestown
TY students on Law Day at
Rochestown
Ciarain Fox at Kilcully
Conrad McGrath, Eoin O Callaghan,Kieran Sheehan,
Thomas Rossiter and Daniel Sheehan at the TY Beat
Box class
TY Mountain Biking group
TY Students at Kilcully
Transition Year
2010/11
Transition Year 2010/11 has been, without
doubt, an extremely busy one. With a
widely varied and inventive programme,
coupled with some innovative new
developments, we hope it has been a
rewarding experience for both students
and teachers.
With our largest group to date of 104
students, the boys were involved in a
whole variety of activities providing lots of
opportunities for their social, personal,
vocational and educational development.
The list of activities is far too exhaustive to
mention here but from mountain biking in
Rochestown to exploring the bustling streets
of New York City, from learning the Chinese language
and culture in the classroom to experiencing it
firsthand in Shanghai, there was something on the
programme to satisfy the most inquisitive of minds.
Students were involved in First Aid, Art, Poetry and
Anti – bullying workshops, they attended UCC open
day, participated in the ‘Prep for Med school’ in UCC,
the Exploring Technology Programme in CIT, wrote
and produced 4 short films, organised fundraising
activities, ran a school bank, participated in debating
competitions and spent 2 weeks on Work Experience,
just to mention some of their experiences and
achievements.
Of course, central to the Transition Year, like all other
years, is the academic progress of the students and in
all these activities, as well as in the work of the
classroom, academic progress was achieved.
I would like to congratulate Conor O Brien who was
awarded TY student of the Year at our recent awards
ceremony. Finally I would like to thank all the teachers
for their continued hard work and support of the
programme and to wish all the students a wonderful
summer.
Ms Catherine Slattery. (Transition Year Coordinator)
My Transition Year
Experience
Throughout the year we took part in many different
activities, academic activities, social activities and
vocational activities as well as having many guest
speakers in our school.
One such activity was First Aid. We completed a first
aid course where we learned basics such as C.P.R., how
to treat a broken arm and how to treat burns and
electric shocks.
Another activity was the Beatbox Drumming
Percussion. This was given by a man called Klaus and
involved all students playing some kind of drum. We
played to the same tune while attempting to keep
everyone to the same timing, which was much harder
than you might think as the other drums are booming
around you. This was certainly a good lesson on team
work.
TY film studies group
We took part in a Law day where two Lawyers came
into school to teach us about the Irish legal system, how
a criminal trail works and about the different types of
law. The day culminated in a mock trial where
everyone in the class took part in the trial of a man
accused of murder, this was a very interesting day
where we gained important insight into the work of
those working in the legal system.
One of the highlights of the year for me was the trip to
Oysterhaven. This took place back in September where
all 4th year students went on a day trip to Oysterhaven.
The day involved many activities such as kayaking, the
zip line and the tight rope walk across the mud. The
day was definitely a great one for all who took part.
Film studies was another favourite of mine. This
involved writing the script for a short film, shooting the
film and editing the recording. While we are a far way
off from Hollywood we still got a taste for acting and of
what is involved in the production of a film.
Overall the transition Year programme, which included
much more than I have mentioned here was a very
worthwhile and enjoyable one. Having come to the end
of Transition Year I certainly feel I have developed and
matured as a person.
Niall O Sullivan
David Mc Elroy during TY film studies
Transition Year

Transition Year
Exploring
Technology
Programme in CIT
Earlier this year, ten Transition Year students were
given the opportunity to spend a week in CIT.
Fortunately; I was one of the lucky 10. We would attend
lectures, explore the campus and get a taste of college
life in general.
Everyday we attended lectures, from Forensics to
Computer Studies. What surprised me most was the
sheer variety of engineering courses available;
Chemical, Biomedical, Electronic and Architectural to
name a few.
The classes themselves were highly interactive. We
were given the opportunity to guide a robot, design
posters and performed a forensic experiment. The
lecturers were very helpful: they told us as much as
they could on the pros and cons of each course and also
provided useful advice regarding our futures.
The facilities in CIT were amazing. High tech labs, a
huge library, great sporting equipment and one of the
cheapest canteens I’ve ever been too, with surprisingly
good food! During our breaks, we investigated the
various societies and clubs on offer for students and I
took full advantage of the Family Guy Society at 1pm
everyday.
My experience at CIT was invaluable, it opened my
eyes to a variety of courses I’ve never even considered
before and I would highly recommend it for next year’s
fourth years.
Andy Forsythe, 4B
My Trip to China
This year as part of our Transition Year program we had
Chinese language and culture lessons from the
beginning of the year until Easter. In February we were
told that we could go on a partially paid cultural trip to
China, our parents were to pay for flights, visa and
spending money. We were to be staying at Shanghai
University. I was very interested having thoroughly
enjoyed the Chinese Studies.
Including myself there were 14 students from various
schools around Cork. We left Cork airport at 7.15am on
April 13th and we didn’t arrive until 7.00am Chinese
time on April 14th. We then began our unforgettable 16
day trip to Shanghai and stayed at Shanghai
International University. The first thing I noticed on
arrival was that the air seemed much thicker and
harder to breathe. It was sweltering hot, yet all the
Chinese were wearing bulky jumpers as if it was still
spring. On the 45 minute bus journey from the airport
to the University I noticed that everyone drove like a
maniac, with no regards for the rules of the road
whatsoever.
We had a very detailed daily timetable prepared for us
by the Confucius Institute; Chinese lessons, learning
about Chinese culture and history, Tai Chi, River cruise,
City tours, visits to towns, meeting UCC students
studying there at the moment, meeting Chinese
secondary students, plus some of us went to the TV
show “China’s Got Talent” and many more. I enjoyed
every part of the trip. The fake markets are probably
the best thing going. You can talk them down to 10
times less than their asking price. I bought most of my
souvenirs there in the space of 2 hours it was so cheap.
The Chinese lessons really helped me in ordering food.
We found it very easy to get on the metro because of our
teachers clear instructions. As we had so much free
time that we were able to do lots of trips around the city
to the Bund, Pu dong and peoples square. Shanghai is
a massive city but it seemed so easy to get around
because of the brilliant public transport.
The City itself is very spread out. There are
massive sections of elevated roadway that run through
it. There seems to be no rules of the road. I later
learned that the car has priority over the pedestrian.
The taxis have even less regard for the rules of the road.
They will cut across traffic and they break every single
red light possible. There are also all manner of two
wheeled vehicles on the road. Electric scooters are
everywhere and you can see bikes piled high with
anything from empty bottles to furniture.
There are people selling cart food and fruit on every
corner. We were told not to eat the street food there
before we left in case we got sick but after
recommendations from the UCC students studying
there, I tried many different kinds of street food and
didn’t get sick once. The Chinese food is so different to
the Chinese takeaway we get here. It tastes so much
nicer and it’s healthier too.
I noticed that people are very active in China,
no matter how old they are. Every morning I could see
old people doing Tai Chi and running around a track
from my bedroom window (Sometimes backwards!).
Then the young people would turn up to play
basketball or to run. There were also outdoor exercise
machines everywhere that were always being used. It
was weird to see so many people exercising in the one
park.
While we were there we went out for a meal
with Chinese students. We soon learned that they
study nearly all week long. After a long day at school
they study from 5pm until 9pm or midnight and this is
for their Junior Cert. They have to study so much
because if they do badly they will have little chance of
getting into a university. I can’t imagine being under so
much pressure so early on in life.
This trip to China was one of the best experiences of my
life. I’d like to thank Dr. Yanwei Zhu of the Confucius
Institute UCC , Guo our Chinese teacher and especially
Ms. Slattery for writing my reference and organizing
the Chinese lessons.
Lorcan Fidgeon (TRANSITION YEAR
Chinese culture and language studies
Work Experience
On the 8th of November 2010 I was ready to start my
work experience. My work experience would consist of
two weeks and I had chosen to do one week in the
dental department of CUH and my second week in an
engineering firm.
I was nervous on the first day in the dental hospital
because I didn’t know what to expect. I had to be in for
ten the first morning but every other day I was to be
there at nine. I would go home at 5 and then the bus
home would take another hour so it was a much longer
day than I was used to. I had to wear a white coat so I
wouldn’t be confused as a patient! The hospital is a
teaching hospital so I spent my time going around with
different groups of students and in different sections of
the hospital.
The tutors and the student were all very friendly and
nice to me. At the start of the week I couldn’t find my
way around because every corridor looks the same but
as the week went on I stopped getting lost and started
to become familiar with the hospital. All in all I learnt a
lot and really enjoyed my time in the CUH.
For my second week I went to an engineering firm
called ARUP. ARUP is a big company with offices all
around the world including the one I went to on the
South Mall in Cork. ARUP employs different types of
Engineers so for my time there I spent half a day with
each type. There is also another office on Oliver
Plunkett Street and I spent some time in that office too.
On one of the days I went to a site in Little Island where
I saw more of the work that engineers do. I found the
week very interesting because previously engineering
was something I knew very little about.
Overall the work placement was definitely one of the
most exciting and worthwhile experiences of Transition
Year.
Brendan Lyden.
UCC Medicine Day
On Friday, May 13 2011, the first Preparation for
Medical School Programme was held in University
College Cork. Two Transition Year students, myself and
David O’ Callaghan, were given the opportunity to take
part in this programme, along with students from over
thirty other schools, and the day proved to be enjoyable
and beneficial for all who took part.
Throughout the day, we were introduced to different
clinical skills, including measuring blood pressure and
taking blood samples. We were also given the chance to
meet the lecturers and students studying medicine in
UCC. In the later part of the day, we were taken to Cork
University Hospital, where we received talks from
various doctors and surgeons as well as a talk on
forensics from Dr. Bolster, the State Pathologist. We
were also given the opportunity to watch a live
operation performed by Surgeon Matt Hewitt.
Overall, the Preparation for Medical School Programme
was an informative, interesting and enjoyable day and
I would strongly encourage next year’s TY students to
apply for this unforgettable experience.
Darragh Connell, 4C.
TY First Aid class
Declan Lucy with TY students at his annual poetry reading in the Blue Room
Transition Year