Naomh Pol News Issue 3

Naomh Pól News
Dia Dhaoibh a chairde go léir! As we come to the end of another year in the life of
our great school, we look back on the strange year that has passed and of course,
forward to the new group of students who will wear the famous maroon blazer over
the next seven years. It is sad that we are losing two wonderful members of teaching
staff, Mrs. Bridget McConville and Mrs. Theresa Magee and we wish them every
blessing on their well-deserved retirement. There will be many generations of pupils
who will have fond memories of Theresa and Bridget and I know that you will all join
with me in saying how much we will miss them and how much they contributed to our
school over the years. We also say a fond farewell to our classroom assistant, Joan
Keenan, who has given many loyal years of service and of course to Briege in the
canteen who was loved so much by all our pupils.
We are now at the stage of looking forward to our new Year 8 pupils who will come to the
school in September and all I can say is that if you’re half as good as our current Year 8 group, we will be
delighted. Please God by then we will not have to wear masks and we will be able to see those beautiful bright,
cheerful faces that light up the corridors between classes and at lunchtime.
This is also the time of year when we wish all of our Year 12 and 14 pupils who are saying the long goodbye, all
the best for their future. It’s been an amazing seven years for our leavers and I know it is heart-breaking that
you were denied the signature events which make your year special, such as the formal and the end of year
Mass. However, you had a wonderful last day with us and the way you organised it has left us with plenty to think
about as we start looking at our plans for next year’s leavers.
As the days lengthen and the summer sunshine drips into our classrooms, we know we are ready for the long and
lazy days of summer. Enjoy them, cherish these memories of childhood and as I always say – never drop litter!!
Le meas mór
Mr J. Burns
Principal
I am delighted to welcome you to the third edition of Naomh Pol News! It has been a
pleasure to work on this edition of the magazine with our newly formed Year 10 Junior
Leadership Team, who you will meet on the following pages. These pupils have brought
their own unique passions, talents, and creativity to the magazine. Amidst all the
meetings with tea and biscuits, they have created something which they should be
extremely proud of.
I would like to extend our sincere thanks to our Study Supervisor, Georgina Larkin,
who has put a tremendous amount of time and effort into this project. I would also
like to thank our ICT Support Technician, Ryan Freeburn, for helping us to put it all
together. We are extremely grateful for all of your work.
The St. Paul’s school community welcomed the return to school for term three, and through this magazine, our
pupils showcase the broad range of events and school achievements celebrated over the past three months. We
look forward to sharing an insight into life in St. Paul’s with you and hope that you enjoy reading our magazine!
I wish you and your families a lovely summer break.
Miss L. McIntyre
Head of Year 10
Cover Design:
Tara Trainor
10/54

Naomh Pól News
My name is Annie Stanfield. I am a past pupil of St.
Moninna’s Primary School, Cloughoge. My favourite
subjects are P.E., Home Economics and Maths. I love
being part of the Junior Leadership Team as I feel
more involved in school life and I enjoy the
responsibilities it brings. A fun fact about me is that
I am a very competitive person, especially when it
comes to sports!
Hello! I'm Davin Harris. I went to Dromintee P.S and now
I'm a member of the Junior Leadership Team. I joined the
JLT for all the opportunities that it gives me. I enjoy
playing football for my club, playing music and drawing. I
would like to welcome all the P7s and tell them that St.
Paul’s is a lot of fun!
My name is Aoibhe Hoey and I am a member of the Junior
Leadership Team. I thoroughly enjoy this role because I
love having a say in important matters regarding my
school. I am in class 10/42 and my form teacher is Mrs
McConville. I am a past pupil of Jonesborough Primary
School and my favourite subjects include English, History
and Spanish. I play football for Dromintee and I am a
huge sport enthusiast.

Naomh Pól News
Meet the Junior Leadership Team
Hi, my name is Erin McCullough and I am part of the
Junior Leadership Team. I am in class 10/42 and I went
to St. Malachy’s Primary School, Carnagat. I love music,
sports, spending time with friends and drama. My
favourite subjects are History, Maths and English. I
enjoy being part of the Junior Leadership Team because
it is a great responsibility and improves my team-working
skills. A fun fact about me is that I have three amazing
dogs, all named after superheroes.
Hello, my name is Fionnán Quigley and I went to St.
Peter’s Primary School, Cloughreagh. My favourite
subject is Drama. I am happy to be on the Junior
Leadership Team so I can help plan fun events
within the school. A fun fact about me is that I can
play the guitar.
Hello! My name is Caitlin Quinn and I went to St.
Malachy’s Primary School in Camlough. I am on the
Junior Leadership Team and in Class 10/54. I love to
play football. I play for Carrickcruppen and my
favourite subject is P.E.
No act of kindness,
however small, is
ever wasted.

Naomh Pól News
Meet the Junior Leadership Team
Hello! I am Kian Rigley and I am a proud member of Mrs
Killen’s 10/25 form class. I came to St. Paul’s from St.
Brigid’s Primary School, Drumilly and I am now part of
the school’s Junior Leadership Team. Being part of this
team opens up countless pathways for me to follow. I look
out for pupils and try to make school better for
everyone. A piece of advice I would give P7s is to be
confident, showcase your talents and, above all, enjoy
yourself. I like Soccer and Gaelic and I am on the
school’s team which is amazing for me.
Hi, my name is Jennifer Collins and I am a part of the
Junior Leadership Team! I am in 10/60 and Mr McKenna
is my Form Teacher. My favourite subjects in St. Paul’s
are English and Irish!
My name is Katie Rice and I attended St. Joseph’s
Primary School in Meigh. I am now in class 10-17 and
I’m on the Junior Leadership Team. I wanted to be
on the JLT because it is an amazing opportunity to
develop as a person, gain experience in leadership
skills and voice my humanitarian views. My favourite
subjects are Maths, History and Religion. A fun fact
about me is that I love debating, reading and
politics.
Hello, my name is James Molloy and I am part of the
Junior Leadership Team. I am a past pupil of St. Oliver
Plunkett Primary School in Forkhill. I am currently in
class 10/54 and my form teacher is Miss McIntyre.

Naomh Pól News
Meet the Junior Leadership Team
Hi everyone! My name is Kym Ward and I am in class
10/42. I attended St. Teresa’s Primary School in
Tullyherron. My favourite subjects are History, Maths
and Spanish. I also love playing football and going
farming! Being a part of the Junior Leadership Team is
such a privilege. The role comes with many
responsibilities but my aim is to make everyone feel
comfortable and safe in the school.
Hello! My name is Sean O’Hare and I am a member of the
Junior Leadership Team. I went to St. Joseph’s Primary
School in Meigh. St. Paul’s is a lot of fun and there’s so
many things to learn and do. St. Paul’s is a really good
school. It’s safe and all the teachers are nice. My
favourite subjects in school would be PE, Technology and
Maths.
My name is Tara Trainor. I am in class 10/54 and I am
a member of the Junior Leadership Team. Being
involved in the JLT is a great privilege, as it gives me
the opportunity to communicate with other students
and discuss important issues in our school. I went to
St. Joseph and St. James’ Primary School in
Poyntzpass and my favourite subjects in St. Paul’s are
English, Maths and Irish. I also play Gaelic football for
Redmond O’Hanlon’s and I play the piano and the violin,
which I really enjoy.
Leadership is not about a title or a destination. It’s
about impact, influence and inspiration.

Naomh Pól News
Banana Bread
Ingredients
100g Margarine
100g Sugar
2 Eggs
200g Self-Raising Flour
1 Medium Banana
Equipment
Wooden Spoon
Large Bowl
Sieve
Plate
Fork
Spatula
1 Loaf Tin
1 Tala Measure
Good things come
to those who bake.
Method
1. Collect equipment and weigh out ingredients.
2. Cream margarine and sugar.
3. Fold in the flour.
4. Gently mash in the bananas.
5. Break eggs into tala measure, pour into bowl and mix together.
6. Place in loaf tin.
7. Bake in oven for 30-35 minutes.
8. Leave to cool in tin.
Sean O’Hare 10/63
{With thanks to Mrs McConville in Home Economics]

GCSE Art Work
Naomh Pól News
Joe McClelland
Sophie Ward
Emma Laird
Aislinn Carragher

Naomh Pól News
Year 13 Art Work
Lee McClelland
Marlena Olkowska
Rachael McKeown
Shaun O’Hare

Goodbye Mrs McConville
We will miss you!
As she prepares for her retirement, we interviewed Mrs McConville to ask her
about her time in St. Paul’s.
Did you have any difficulties as a teacher?
“I was really lucky to get a full-time job straight out of college. Even then there
were very few jobs on offer. It was tough as I started teaching at just 21,
apparently, I looked 16! Some classes did give me a hard time but once I got
established, we all settled. My colleagues were Mr O’Connor, Mr McKevitt and
Mr McGleena.”
What are you going to miss most about out daily routine?
“I think I will miss just talking to so many different people; as a teacher,
colleague and friend. During lockdown I think we all realised just how many
others you have contact with in a big school like ours. There is such a massive
network of support and good friends here, I will miss being part of that.”
Do you have a different job in mind?
“I had looked at Physiotherapy and Pharmacy but I have no regrets that I made
the right choice for me. I was able to do both careers in a different way; make
people stronger as a chemist of a different sort. I got to wear the white coat!”
Do you have any highlights from your time in school?
[Mrs McConville found it hard to pick one!]
“Where do I start? I have so many; the first one is working with the pupils in St
‘Paul’s and I loved everything about them, lovely ‘country kids!’

Mrs McConville also enjoyed hatching eggs with non-exam classes and watching
their utter amazement. She loved helping pupils get grades that they didn’t
think they could achieve. Mrs McConville co-ordinated our outreach programme
and enjoyed going on school trips including: Kenya, Brazil, Romania, Russia, India
and Lourdes.
Mrs McConville’s Favourite Experiment is..
The Flaming Hands. She even set Mr Burns on fire with that one!
Would you have wanted to work in any other school?
“Never! No other school could measure up to St. Paul’s, simply the BEST!”
By Caitlin Quinn and Tara Trainor
10/54

Naomh Pól News
St. Paul’s High School
Sports Day

Naomh Pól News
A special well done to the overall winners in each
year group, who were presented with the Victor
Ludorum prize:
Year 8: Erin Davidson and Tomas Fox
Year 9: Sinead McSorley and Shea Loughran
Year 10: Annie Stanfield and Miceal McCoy

Living a healthy
lifestyle is so
important. It is the
foundation for your
mental health and
physical health.
Important aspects
include exercise,
healthy eating,
mindfulness and
POSITIVITY!
Healthy eating is a massive slice of the cake that is leading a healthy
lifestyle. However, it is not the typical ‘healthy eating’ you hear about, where
people cut out all junk food and just eat vegetables. Healthy eating involves
balance; stopping when you are full and allowing yourself to have the food you
crave, even if it is not the healthiest choice. It is important not to label
foods as ‘good’ or ‘bad’ because food is simply fuel. It fuels your body for the
days ahead. If you are not giving your body enough fuel, it will be tired and
prone to injuries. Here are some healthy eating tips:
Eat more fruit and vegetables.
Drink 2-3 litres of water a day.
DO NOT completely cut out chocolate, sweets, or any foods you love.
Always eat breakfast- breakfast gives you energy for the rest of the
day.
Eat more protein because it is the most satiating nutrient.
It is important to realise that you can have things like chocolate, takeaways
or cake, as long as it is in moderation. You should never feel bad about the
foods you eat. Remember, food is fuel!
Daily exercise should be an important part of everyone’s day. Not
only is it enjoyable, but it is beneficial for our mental and physical
health. Exercise prevents disease and cancer. It also keeps your
learning and judgement skills sharp as you age, improves your sleep
and makes you stronger! Moreover, it lifts your mood because
exercise releases endorphins and dopamine into your body which
makes your brain happy. Here are some tips to make exercising fun
and consistent:
Do exercise you enjoy. Do not go for a run if you do not like
it, this will only lead to hating the activity and not doing it.
Join a sports club so you are less likely to miss your
exercise and to add a social aspect to exercise.
Try doing exercise with a friend; go for a mountain walk or
a cycle.

Taking care of your mind is just as important as your body. Your
mind gives you motivation to do things. To live a productive
lifestyle, you need to be in a good mental space. Eating healthy,
exercising, and getting enough sleep will help your mental state but
it is essential that we take direct care of our minds.
A big issue for teenagers in secondary school is stress relating to
schoolwork. However, you can combat this by making a schedule to
do your work and taking regular breaks. It is also beneficial to
avoid leaving work until the last minute and try to get it done as
soon as you get it. We do need to keep in mind that it is important
not to overwork yourself, because then you can burn out and be
mentally exhausted. Seeing friends will help your mental state
also.
Some tips to help take care of your mind:
Have a pamper night- do your nails, take a bath, do your
hair.
Talk to someone - a friend, teacher or parent. It is better
to get your feelings out instead of bottling them up.
If you do not want to talk to someone, you can keep a
journal to write down your thoughts and make sense of
them.
Meditating is very good for our mental health. It will make
you more patient, productive and happier.
It is important that we learn to love ourselves and practice
self-care. This means taking time out for you.
We are all beautiful, our bodies are all perfect and it is
important that we learn to feel comfortable in our own skin.
Healthy eating and exercise should be done for health purposes,
not to reach some unrealistic body standard that has been
planted in our brain through social media. A lot of what we see on
social media is fake and photoshopped. The human body is meant
to have rolls and ‘blemishes’. We are all beautiful as we are!
remember this!
Erin McCullough and Annie Stanfield,10/42

Naomh Pól News
Goodbye Mrs Magee
We will miss you!
Mrs Magee kindly shared some memories with us about her
time in St. Paul’s.
I actually came to St. Paul’s in September 1970 as a first
year! At that time, it was known locally as “the new school at
the Green Road.” There were only seventeen teachers and the
school was a fraction of the size it is now. I came back in 1981
to cover Mrs I. Hughes’ [RIP] maternity leave and have been
here more or less ever since.
The most interesting and memorable things about school are never taught in the
classroom. I remember the day Stormont fell. It was the period after lunch and
we were all sitting in the room awaiting the arrival of Mr. P. Aherne, our Irish
teacher. Without warning, he burst into the room declaring he had “great” news.
He never got to deliver it because suddenly, the whole school erupted. Desks
were banged, feet stamped and the cheering was deafening.
Obviously St. Paul’s has been a big part of my life so what will I miss? People.
Certainly not the marking or the stress. As for the future……who knows. Let’s
just wait and see!
What advice do I have for students? I think Emerson said it more eloquently
than I ever could: “Make the most of yourself for that is all there is of you.”

Naomh Pól News
Scone Based Pizza Recipe
Ingredients
Base
200g Flour
1 Tsp of Baking Powder
1 Level Tsp Herbs
25g Margarine
100mls Milk
25g Grated Cheese
1 Tbsp of Pizza Toppings
Method
1. Set up unit and collect
ingredients.
2. Sieve dry ingredients into bowl;
add in the mixed herbs. Rub in
the margarine [Rubbing
Method].
3. Pour in milk slowly to make a
stiff dough and knead.
4. Shape into circle on your foil
tray.
5. Spread pizza sauce onto base
and sprinkle cheese.
6. Add selected toppings.
7. Cook for 10 minutes.
8. Serve hot.
Equipment
Mixing Bowl
Dessert Spoon
2 Small Bowls
Measuring Jug
Wooden Spoon
2 Plates
2 Foil Trays
ENJOY!
Sean O’Hare 10/63
[With thanks to Mrs McConville in Home Economics]

CELEBRITIES WHO DON'T DRINK
ALCOHOL
Some of our favourite celebrities, have chosen to abstain
from the act of drinking alcohol all together. Although it
can be hard to imagine a glamorous Hollywood party scene
without sipping on glasses of champagne, these 3
celebrities have proven you can still party and enjoy
yourself too while embracing the sober life.
Jim Blake Brad
Carrey Lively Pitt

Naomh Pól News
Healthy Breakfast -Overnight Oats
Ingredients
One Quarter Teaspoon Ground
Cinnamon
50g Porridge Oats
100ml of Water or Milk
Two Tablespoons of Natural
Yoghurt [Optional]
50g Mixed Berries [Strawberries,
Raspberries, Blueberries]
Drizzle of Honey
Method
1. The night before your breakfast stir the cinnamon and 100ml of
water [or milk] into your oats with a pinch of salt.
2. Place in fridge.
3. The next day add more water or milk, if needed.
Top with the yoghurt, mixed berries and a drizzle of honey
ENJOY!!
Annie Stanfield 10/42

Naomh Pól News
Can you guess which
teachers are pictured below?
Find the answers on Page 35
A
B
C D E
A teacher takes a hand, opens a
mind and touches a heart.

Underage Drinking and Vaping
Naomh Pól News
One of society’s largest issues regarding teenagers is the misuse and abuse of alcohol and
nicotine. Instead of mentioning the fact that it is illegal, I am going to talk about the life
threatening and damaging effects that these substances can have on users.
Underage Drinking
Alcohol isn’t the worst thing in the
world, but it is harmful when young
teens, whose bodies are far from
able to cope with the impact of
alcohol, begin to take advantage of it.
As a young and developing human being, your body needs the correct nutrients and care to
be able to develop to its full potential.
Teenage brains are also still developing and alcohol can cause permanent damage to areas
that control judgment, impulse control and memory. Teens are also more likely to
binge drink when they consume alcohol, which can lead to violence, injuries
and alcohol poisoning. 35% of underage, alcohol consuming teenagers have been recorded
to suffer from severe liver problems due to alcohol consumption. Some short term effects
include bad breath, bad skin, bad oral hygiene and excessive weight gain. Some long term
effects include chronic physical and mental issues, liver damage, cardiovascular disease
and multiple types of cancer. Studies have shown that someone who decides to drink at a
younger age is much more exposed to the risk of addiction than someone who decides to
drink at 18. Do you really think that it’s worth the risk?
Alcohol: Temporary
fun with permanent
consequences!

Naomh Pól News
Vaping
Vaping is commonly used by adults who are trying to
become less addicted to cigarettes. However,
teenagers, and most other people, have confused this
and taken it as a ‘healthy alternative’ to the actual
cigarette. What they have failed to recognise is that it isn’t healthier; it isn’t
‘better for you’ and it most certainly does cause multiple health complications.
Vaping exposes teenagers to highly addictive nicotine, which makes those in this
age group more likely to become addicted to other, more dangerous substances
as they age. Nicotine also negatively impacts mood, attention span, ability to
absorb content, concentration and memory, as well as brain development. At the
ages of 13-18 our education is so important, as it sets our paths in life, and with
all these side effects, our mental capacity is affected greatly.
In the present-day society, both drinking and vaping have become extremely
normalised amongst teenagers. It is important that we remain educated and
informed and avoid any long-term damage to our bodies.
Aoibhe Hoey
10/42
Never allow yourself to be defined by someone else’s opinion of you.

Naomh Pól News
A Very Big Welcome to Our New Year 8s!
Some of new Year 8s introduce themselves!
My name is Ryan McAleavey and I am a pupil of St. Malachy’s
Primary School, Camlough. I am looking forward to becoming a Year
8 pupil in St. Paul’s School in September. What I am looking forward
to most is trying out new subjects such as Technology and Art. I
play football and hurling for my local club, Carrickcruppen and
Craobh Rua, and look forward to taking part in after school
activities such as football and hurling. I am a bit nervous to be
starting a new school as big as St. Paul’s but am glad that I have an
older brother and sister already at the school. I hope they will be
able to show me the way so I won’t get lost!
My name is Olivia Ward. I am a pupil of St Peter’s Primary
School Cloughreagh. I am very excited to join St. Paul’s as
a Year 8 pupil in September. I have been a student of
Morgan Theatre Arts from the age of 3 and currently train
in Ballet, Tap, Modern dancing and Speech and Drama. I
take singing lessons and play the piano and violin. I recently
joined Whitecross Girls Gaelic team as I’ve always enjoyed
being part of the girls Gaelic club in St. Peter’s. The
subjects that I am most looking forward to are Music, PE
and Drama. I can’t wait to get involved with the dance
department and hope to play netball too. I have lots of
musical theatre experience and performing on the Grand
Opera Stage in Belfast has been the highlight so far.
After seeing the fantastic St. Paul’s musicals over the
years, I am really excited about taking to the stage in St.
Paul’s. It feels special to be going to St. Paul’s as both my
mum and nanny are past pupils. I love hearing all their
happy memories. I’m not too nervous about starting in
September as everyone tells me so many great things
about St. Paul’s.
This is the beginning of anything you want!

Naomh Pól News
A Very Big Welcome to Our New Year 8s!
Emma Rice is from St. Joseph’s Primary School in Meigh. She is
looking forward to making new friends, meeting new teachers
and discovering new subjects. Emma would love to join the dance,
football and netball teams. She is also excited to study Religion,
Home Economics and French. Emma is nervous about getting lost
and will miss her old teachers, friends and seeing her sister
around Primary School but cannot wait to come and join us in St.
Paul’s.
My name Darragh McCreesh and I am a pupil of St.
Laurence O’Tooles Primary School, Belleeks. I am looking
forward to becoming a Year 8 pupil in St. Paul’s school in
September. I am looking forward to trying new subjects
such as Technology and Art. I play football for my local
club, Loughgilly Gaels and Belleeks, and look forward to
taking part in after school activities such as football and
hurling. I am a bit nervous about starting a new school as
big as St. Paul’s but I have a twin brother that is going to
the same school, so I won’t be starting on my own. I also
have a little sister too. She is two years younger than me
and will be going to St. Paul’s when it is her time.
My name is Anna McKeown and I am a pupil of St. Malachy’s
PS, Camlough. I am really looking forward to continuing the
next part of my educational journey in St. Paul’s High School.
I play the piano and have represented my primary school in
various football tournaments so I am looking forward to
developing these talents. I am also eager to try new
subjects, especially Home Economics and learning different
languages.

Naomh Pól News
A Very Big Welcome to Our New Year 8s!
My name is Eva Markey and I am a pupil of St.
Laurence O’Toole’s Primary School, Belleeks. I
am looking forward to being a first year in
September. What I am looking forward to
most is doing PE and playing football. I play
for Whitecross girls. I’m half nervous about
going into St. Paul’s but I do have an older
brother at the school already. My brother will
hopefully show me where to go if I get lost.
Conor is a student in St. Joseph and St. James’ Primary
school Poyntzpass, currently in primary 7. He enjoys sport
whether it is Gaelic, rugby, hurling or soccer and is really
excited for all of the after-school activities that will be
available next year. Conor is looking forward to meeting new
friends and having lots of different classes throughout the
day. He is especially looking forward to learning about
technology and improving his creativity skills in the process
of designing and making new things. In his spare time, Conor
loves to build lego and help his dad in his garage, repairing
and fixing cars and other machinery. Conor is a bit nervous
about getting lost around St. Paul’s and not knowing many
people as, out of the 19 students in his class, only 2 will be
attending St Pauls next year. He is also very excited for next
year and the many years ahead of him.

Naomh Pól News
We are so excited to welcome all of the new Year 8s
into our school and hope everyone enjoys the curriculum
and after school activities. If you have any questions
please do not be afraid to ask, as one of the Junior
Leadership Team, Mentors or a member of staff are
always happy to help. We hope you are all looking
forward to coming to our school in September. You will
love it here!
Be Kind
Be Brave
Be Honest
Be Creative
Be Humble
Be Thankful
Be Happy
BE YOU
Katie Rice 10/17

Naomh Pól News
KS3 Breakfast Club
Are you KS3?
Do you have time for
breakfast in the morning?
No?
Then, why don’t you come
along to the Study Hall for
some breakfast?
Benefits of a breakfast club:
Improved concentration
Improved nutrition
Opportunity to make new
friends
Provides a safe and calm
place where all pupils are
welcome
We have:
Toast
Pancakes
Tea
Apple Juice
Orange Juice
Cereals
We are open from
8.15- 9am
James Molloy 10/54

Naomh Pól News
The Benefits of Learning a Different Language
Here at St. Paul’s, our language departments are exciting, special and uniquely fantastic
areas of our school. The three languages that we have on offer are Spanish, Irish and
French. Our teachers across all of these subjects are so supportive and talented, guiding
all students to becoming amazing.
So, why should you learn a different language?
Well, learning a language will open up so many doors for
you and your career. With any language you learn, it is
scientifically proven that your brain will be smarter. By
learning a different language, not only are you learning
how to understand the words, but you also get to
understand the country's culture and how their people
see things. For example, in languages like French and
Spanish, there are masculine and feminine words. This will
show you how different cultures view these objects and
help you understand why they are used.
If you are good at another language, your job prospects will improve. Language is a vital
part of human connection. If you want a job, learning a different language will improve
your communication skills. Many jobs require multitasking and studies have shown that
learning another language helps you to become a better multitasker. Having the ability
to speak another language gives you so many more job opportunities and it will make your
trips to foreign countries easier. There is no better place to start learning a new language
than St. Paul’s!
Kian Rigley 10/25

Our School Trips
In St. Paul’s, we are lucky
enough to have amazing
opportunities to travel
the world and to see and
experience local and
international landmarks.
From the Gaeltacht in Donegal to skiing down the slopes in Italy, St. Paul’s High
School has gone on a huge number of trips that take their students worldwide.
Some of our trips involve charity work and helping men, women and children
from different countries. An example of this is a common trip that our Year 13
pupils make to Kenya, as a part of our aid mission. Students visit the parish of
Londiani and work within the local communities. They are accompanied by
teachers and our school Priest, Father Seamus White. We have also had charity
trips to Romania and India.
The Gaeltacht is an extremely popular trip for St. Paul’s students. It is an
annual trip that takes place every summer, inviting students to Donegal
where they can stay for a weekend, a week or 3 weeks! During this time,
they will learn Irish, socialise with a number of students from all around the
country and play exciting and fun games in the sun.
St. Paul’s are constantly running trips, all year round, so keep an ear out and
you may be lucky enough to be able to go on one!
Davin Harris 10/25

Naomh Pól News
I do believe
it’s time for
another
adventure!

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Collect moments,
not things

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Congratulations Paul!
Paul Stanfield won the Chris Riddell Library Story Competition for World
Book Day
The boy and the nose #10
It was a beautiful mid-summer’s day and Jacko, (the youngest of a family of four) was
out doing his normal Sunday morning chores. For many months Jacko had been visiting
the hidden cave at the end of the long twisted lane that led to the back of his house. This
was his secret hideout, a place he always went on his own, a cave no -one else knew about
apart from him and his special friend Earie!
Earie was a large living ear, and every day Jacko went alone to play his flute to Earie the
ear, but today Earie was missing. Earie was nowhere to be found. In his place was
Nosey-a large living nose. Nosey appeared to be sleeping and was making large snoring
noises. Jacko did not know what to say or do. Should he tell his siblings? Should he tell
his parents? He couldn’t possibly do either. They would think he was an absolute
fool. They wouldn’t believe him if he told his story of his adventures with Earie or about
the unexpected arrival of Nosey.
He had to do something. Earie was missing and he needed to find out how to help
Nosey. What could possibly please him? Music was pleasing to Earie but Nosey wouldn’t
hear his fantastic flute playing. Something to fulfil his sense of smell may do the trick.
Jack ran to the lavender patch, the rose bush and the mint plant. He gathered stems
from each and took them back to the cave. Firstly, he waved the mint in front of the
snoring nose and instantly the snoring stopped. Then he waved some lavender in front of
the nose and the nose began to move. Lastly he presented the rose and to his surprise
Nosey began to gently dance around the cave with Jacko. Jacko had great fun but it was
now time for him to go home before someone came to look for him.

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The following day Jacko returned to the cave and to his surprise he was faced with two
large sad eyes glaring at him. He instantly needed them to see happiness. Jacko began
to direct the eyes out of the cave to see the beautiful countryside that surrounded the
cave. Eyes were amazed at the beautiful sights: the sun, the blue sky, the mountains and
the stream. He spent some time with eyes and showed them flowers, butterflies and tall
trees. Eyes loved all that they saw but unfortunately after a time Jacko had to direct
them back to the cave as it was time for him to go home.
The next morning Jacko woke really early, eager to see what would be in the cave
today. He got dressed and rushed down the lane with his breakfast in his hand and some
treats in his bag so he wouldn’t have to hurry home before lunch. When he reached the
cave he walked in slowly only to find a large tongue in place of eyes. Again, Jacko was
amazed. His friend Earie had not returned but every day he was surprised with his
findings in the cave.
How would engage with tongue? What
would he like? Firstly, Jacko thought of
the breakfast in his hand. He threw a small
bit in front of Tongue and instantly Tongue
licked it away, he took some fruit from his
bag and the same thing happened. Jacko
let Tongue taste all the treats he
had. Tongue appeared really grateful and
started to lick Jacko’s face in a friendly
manner. Jacko and Tongue had so much fun
and in a flash it was lunchtime and Jacko
had to go home.
The night dragged as Jacko couldn’t wait for the next day to come. He twisted and turned
in bed all night wondering what would be in the cave the next day and hoping that he
could get there as early as possible. When the sun finally came up, Jacko had done his
chores in record time. Carrying his flute, he took off down the lane towards the cave. He
was super excited when he reached the edge of the cave and his heart was beating so
fast. Jacko crept slowly into the cave and to his amazement he saw two hands waving at
him.
Hands, what was he to give these hands? All he had was his flute! Jacko didn’t know what
to do. With his two hands he waved and the large hands waved back. Jacko thought of
playing a game with the hands to see if they would co-operate. To his enjoyment they
actually did. As Jacko raised his hands to the air they so did as well, and as Jacko placed
his hands on the floor they too lay on the floor. Jacko and hands had so much fun.

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When the game ended and he was about to leave, Jacko stretched out his arms and to
his surprise hands approached him and wrapped around him giving him a loving
hug. Instantly Jacko could feel something magically happen. As he looked around the
cave, he could see Earie, nosey, eyes and tongue appear from all different parts of the
cave. The cave was alive with fireworks and smoke; it was like a fantastic magic
spell. Jacko couldn’t see what was happening but he knew all his friends were joining
together and something very special was taking place.
And then suddenly from all the smoke, a large friendly figure appeared. It began to walk
slowly towards Jacko. Jacko stared in amazement. Who was this and where were all his
friends? The friendly Giant knelt down in front of Jacko and he recognised the ears,
the nose, the eyes and the tongue straight away. Then the friendly giant began to talk.
He said.
‘You my friend, have unlocked the magic that had been cast on me many hundreds of years
ago, you have fed my senses and brought me together again after all these horrible years,
I now will be your friend forever.’
Jacko was stunned and he visited the friendly giant every day for the rest of his life and
they had many heart-warming adventures together.
The End
Paul Stanfield 8/62
‘Words are the most
inexhaustible source of
magic’
J. K. Rowling
Answers to Guess the Teacher
A. Miss M. Toner
B. Mr S. McKenna
C. Mrs M. McShane
D. Miss C. King
E. Mrs J. Murphy

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A2 ART
Lauren Higgins
Phoebe Tyreman
Katie McAlinden

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The Maths Dancer
Miss Murray joined our school family in
2019, beginning her very first teaching
role. You may know Miss Murray from
meeting her on the corridor or she may
even be your teacher, but did you know
that she is a world champion Irish
dancer?
Before coming to St. Paul’s, Miss Murray studied her Maths and Teaching degrees at
Queen’s University, Belfast. Prior to this, she attended the Sacred Heart Grammar
School in Newry. However, Miss Murray is originally from England. She visited Ireland
as a child as her dad is Irish. When she was three, on one of her visits to Ireland, Miss
Murray visited the Fleadh and that is where her love for dancing began.
When they returned home after their trip, Miss Murray started at a dancing school
beside their house, so really, she has been dancing as
long as she can walk!
Miss Murray with UTV presenter Rita
Fitzgerald, a St. Paul's past pupil.
When still at school, Miss Murray kept on top of
both her schoolwork and dancing. On balancing her
schoolwork and dance practice she says, “It’s
important to keep organised and to keep a schedule.”
Miss Murray says that during her school years, a
normal day would have entailed dancing before school
and completing her homework on her way to dancing.
Once she entered the dancing hall, all other work
flew out the window and all of her focus went to her
dance, which certainly paid off. Miss Murray says, “I
think it’s a shame when people give up their hobbies
as a result of school, especially when starting GCSEs,
as we all need a break from our schoolwork.”
After finishing school in 2015, Miss Murray attended
a week-long summer school in Riverdance. It was the first one they hosted. At the end
of the week, they got to dance with the Riverdance cast, which was her dream come
true. The day before she started her Maths degree in Queen’s, she performed in her
very first Riverdance gig. On completing her Maths degree, Miss Murray decided to
complete a PGCE in Queen’s University. At the same time, she was contemplating
whether to continue competitive dancing. By this stage, she had realised that the

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scores she achieved did not matter. When she realised that her scores did not define
her, her dancing actually improved, as she was able to focus on dancing for the love of
it. However, she decided that she would do one more year of competitive dancing; little
did she know that this would be the year that she would be World Champion!
From the age of 11, Miss Murray qualified for the World Championship every year,
which is an achievement in itself. In 2019, Miss Murray went to the championship in
North Carolina and not only did she have the privilege of once again making it that far,
but she won, gaining the title of World Champion. The very same year her sister, Caitlin
Murray, also won. They were the first sister duo to both win in the same year since
1980! When she won, Miss Murray said it was such an unreal feeling and that people
told her “I’m so happy to see you
win, because you’ve been so nice
every time you haven’t.” She soon
realised that even after winning she
was still the very same person and
that winning was not the most
important thing.
Miss Murray has been selected as a
dancer in Riverdance and has had
the opportunity to take part in
worldwide tours. Throughout Miss
Murray’s time dancing in Riverdance,
she has performed in many shows
but one that stands out is when the
Pope came to visit Ireland and she
danced for him in Croke Park. She
said that there were hundreds of dancers and that they had only practiced the dance
twice before performing it live. Another memorable moment was just before lockdown
when she performed in the 3 Arena, as all she could see was faces in the crowd.
While still at school Miss Murray’s careers teacher asked her what she wanted to be
when she was older and she said a professional dancer in Riverdance. Her teacher asked
her again what she actually wanted to be and Miss Murray did not know what to say
because that was her ambition and just look where she is now! Miss Murray is a prime
example that if you work hard enough and truly love what you are doing, you will
succeed!
Kym Ward and Lauren McNulty 10-42

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The Summer Top Five
As we all look forward to the summer break, here are some suggestions from
the Junior Leadership team to make your summer even better.
Top Five Summer Songs
1. Calvin Harris- Summer
2. Loud Luxury- Body
3. Lost Frequencies- Are You
With Me?
4. Dua Lipa- Levitating
5. Petit Lover- Sunset Lover
Top Five Local Places to
Eat
1. Camocha
2. La Dolce Vita
3. Gather and Brew
4. Deli Lites
5. 4 Star Pizza
Top Five Activities
with Friends
1. Go to the Beach
2. Movie Marathon
3. Camping
4. Mountain Walks
5. Theme Parks/
Amusements
Top Five Movies
1. Harry Potter
2. Mean Girls
3. Marvel Cinematic
Universe
4. Clueless
5. Mamma Mia

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Goodbye Joan and Briege
We’ll Miss You
This year we say googbye to two extremely valued staff members- classroom
assistant, Joan Keenan, and member of our cafeteria staff, Briege Finnegan.
Joan and Briege have been such a large part of our school life
and all of the staff and pupils in St. Paul’s will miss them very
much. Thank you for all that you have done for us.
Have a wonderful retirement!

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Our Safe Space
The Next Chapter
What would Mrs Morgan's job be if she
didn't become a librarian? Mrs Morgan's
dream job, ever since she was a little girl,
was to become a dancer; jazz, hip-hop,
ballet, anything to get moving! She loves
to learn about her ancestry and her
family's past. Mrs Morgan became a
librarian because she always had a love
for books and finding out information. She especially loves learning
about new people and their life stories. Mrs Morgan studied English
at Queen's University in Belfast, then went on to be a television
researcher for 10 years. She even worked in London for big names
like BBC and ITV! Soon Mrs Morgan wanted to come back home and
settle down. Eventually she found a job for a "part-time" librarian.

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Well 21 years later- she is now the amazing librarian that we all know
and love! Part of why she wanted to become a librarian is because of
her biggest hero: her mother. Mrs Morgan's mum is, as she
explained, the loveliest woman on earth. Not only was she a very
hardworking woman, but she always had time for all her children and
always read to them and took them to the library. This is where Mrs
Morgan discovered her love of reading and learned how to indulge in
a book, to leave all your stress behind. She says, "no matter what
place you're in, you can always travel in a book."
To celebrate Empathy Day on the 10 th
June, Mrs Morgan opened a dedicated
wellbeing space in the library. This is a
safe place to read quietly or take time
out if you are feeling anxious or
stressed. The wellbeing space houses a
wide range of new books on a range of
issues that young people are facing,
especially over lockdown! The wellbeing
area is a space where we can
relax and feel comforted from the
stress of school life. It is a sanctuary
if you need to talk, or not. Mrs Morgan is always there to listen to
you, no matter what is going on. This area is situated in the corner
of our school library. It has beanbags and encouraging photographs
and books to inspire you!
There is a diverse display of fiction books in
a section named "Walk a mile in my shoes."
There are books about how to cope with our
own difficult situations. These books aim to
teach people how to overcome obstacles in
life and to look after your mental health. The
books in this area encourage us to be proud

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of who we are and think about what we would like to become in the
future!
My personal opinion is that this new and
vibrant reading place is a spectacular
addition to St. Paul’s and a great place to
read, relax or talk to someone you can
trust!
Remember you are always accepted in St.
Paul’s, no matter who you are!
Jennifer Collins 10-60

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Crisis Café
The Crisis Café has become very popular in our local
community, with many St. Paul’s students working as
volunteers and ambassadors. I interviewed the founders
of the Crisis Café, Louise and Gráinne, to find out more
about their inspirational project.
What made you want to create the Crisis Café?
My own experiences of working with young people, seeing how unacceptable mental
health services are for them and identifying the need for a fresh approach to
mental health services for young people.
What do you plan for the future?
We have lots of plans that grow out of our discussions with people in the café.
Currently we are planning to develop strong links with other organisations for
young people to visit the cafe and offer new and exciting programmes. We plan
to develop more platforms for young people to have their voices heard on a range
of issues. We also plan to have more of a presence in schools, working with
teachers and students towards a non-stigmatising approach to mental health for
young people.
How can people reach out to you?
Currently we can be reached on social media. We regularly post on Facebook and
Instagram and we ask all of our ambassadors to like and share our posts. We are
planning to hold information nights in the café and we hope schools continue to
share on social media, posters and fliers in schools. We are due to open our Lurgan
cafe and we have a crisis cafe roll out across the North of Ireland.
Fionnán Quigley
10/63

Year 14 Leaving Day
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Year 14 Leaving Day
We’ll Miss You

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Congratulations to our Year 8-11 pupils who have been awarded Pupil of
the Month for May. A wonderful achievement!
8-20 Mia Murphy
8-38 Jessica Ban
8-03 Niamh Keenan
8-73 Matthew Morgan & Eva Hughes
8-09 Aaron Reavey
8-45 Tia McKee
8-68 James Hughes
8-43 Jamie Burns
8-62 Patrick Crilly
8-94 Cian O’Hare
8-23 Conor Byrne
8-97 Danny McKeever
9-22 Micheal Kane
9-06 Emma Rose Crawley
9-99 Cailum Lavelle
9-30 Ava- Maria McDonnell
9-19 Niall O’Hagan
9-11 Luke Connolly
9-74 Maria Silva Teiserskis
9-96 Daithi McCreesh
9-51 James McKernan
9-61 Corey Teggart O’Neill
9-64 Tiernan Robb
10-48 Sean McKinley
10-95 Leah Walsh
10-07 Dylan Mackin
10-54 Aine Osborne
10-12 Jake Lynch
10-72 Eireann Carragher
10-42 Cian Hanratty
10-17 Emma Mackin
10-60 Sophie Hughes
10-25 Kyle Harte
11/LS Sean Stewart
11/100 Kyle Lennon Mackin
11/84 Ben Magill
11/33 Tomas Byrne
11-27 Mollie Moran
11-91 Lucy McGinn
11-78 Hannah McGovern
11-41 Jake Hanratty
11-49 Sophie Hollywood
11-57 Ella-Rose Hope
10-63 Evin McKenna

Leo- This summer will be your best
one yet! Lots of fun in the sun and
spending time with your best
friends.
Sagittarius- Something very exciting
lies around the corner for you! It
may be a new friendship or
relationship. Trust your instincts.
Cancer- With your birthday around
the corner, you are going to have the
party of the century! You also may be
receiving a great birthday present.
Virgo- This summer try to let loose. You
and your friends are going to have an
amazing time!

Capricorn- In the month of July a lot of
importance will be on your
relationships. Check in on friends you
haven't talked to in a while.
Aquarius- Remember not everyone
has been enjoying life during COVID as
much as you. Remember to be
compassionate and kind to others!
Aries- This summer you are going to
be very productive and finally get
out of that burn out stage you're in
right now.
Pisces- During summer you need to
spend some time looking after
yourself; take a bath or do a face
mask. You need to start prioritising
yourself.

Taurus- During this summer you need
to let the stars guide you. You have a
lot of anger built up- let it go and you
will have a great summer.
Gemini- Start a new hobby this summer.
Lean into your inquisitive side and go on
more adventures.
Libra- this summer you will face some
difficult decisions. Use your logic and
trust in your own decisions, they will
lead you down the right path.
Scorpio- Someone full of love and
romance is going to come into your life
this summer. Don't push them away;
let them see the real you!

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PRAYER TO ST PAUL
Oh glorious St Paul, by your prayers and example, enable me to
become a better person. More considerate towards others, more
honest with myself, more faithful to God.
Give me the courage to accept the pains and problems of this day,
always rejoicing in the Lord.
Through my prayers may I be ‘rooted in love’, always loving God in
fidelity to Sunday mass and daily prayer; always loving my neighbour,
especially my family and friends.
Make me patient and kind, never jealous or rude. Give me the
strength to trust, to hope and to endure whatever comes.
May I always know in my heart what you taught so well; that there
are only three things that last – faith, hope and love and the
greatest of these is love.
Amen