Deputy principals Ms Kinsella and Ms O’Donoghue then presented the academic and extracurricular awards which not only celebrated individual achievements but also marked the collective dedicated of those involved in the school’s various groups and committees.
The Students’ Council, Class Prefects, Green Schools Committee, Ember Committee, Headstrong Committee, and Meitheal leaders were all commended for their commitment and tireless efforts throughout the year.
Tribute was also paid to the exceptional achievements in sports activities with Roisín Alouf, Scarlett Ramsey, Sophie O’Leary, Hannah Kehoe, Aoife McEldowney, Polly Redmond, and Megan Dee all honoured for their outstanding contributions to their respective sports.
The Parents’ Council sponsored the Sporting Achievement Awards, which were presented to sixth-year students who had represented the school throughout their six years of education. These prizes aimed to acknowledge their dedication and commitment to their chosen sports.
Members of the Parents’ Council presented these awards to 28 students, while a bursary for professional development and further education was awarded from the past pupil’s union PPU to Anna Sinnott, Cáit Whitmore, and Heidi Rowlands.
Hannah Kehoe received a Sporting Achievement Award in recognition of her “commitment, dedication, and passion” for various sports throughout her six years at the Loreto. Roseanna Brooker received the Art Award, while Cáit Whitmore was recognised as the Modern Languages Student of the Year.
Anna Benson was presented with two awards, the Justice and Peace Award and the Rotary Leadership Award. Caoimhe Tobin was granted the Corn na Gaeilge for her “outstanding proficiency and enthusiasm” in the Irish language, and Alisha Sheppard was honoured with the Spirit of Inclusion Award for promoting an inclusive and supportive environment at the school.
Robyn O’Connor, Eppie Gainford, Áine Fortune, Ailbhe Cullinane, and Orla Banville also received special awards for their hard work and dedication throughout the year.
One of the highlights of the evening was the presentation of the Spirit of Marianne MacGonagle Award to Grace Grannell. This award, presented by Brian MacGonagle, honours the memory of Marianne MacGonagle, a beloved teacher at Loreto, who sadly passed away in 2014.
Marianne was known for her kindness, thoughtfulness, helpfulness, and good humour. Each year, a student demonstrating these qualities receives the Spirit of Marianne MacGonagle Award. Grace received this award for her “positive attitude, cheerful disposition, and willingness to lend a helping hand”.
Another notable recognition was the Una Hickey Perpetual Cup for English, bestowed upon Yvette McDonnell. This award commemorates Ms Una Hickey, a dedicated English teacher who served at Loreto for many years. Upon her retirement, Ms. Hickey presented a perpetual cup to the school, which is now awarded annually to a student exhibiting exceptional flair and creativity in writing.
The ceremony culminated with the presentation of the Sr. Mary Walshe Memorial Cup for Music. This accolade is awarded to a Leaving Certificate music student who has demonstrated remarkable skill and talent in the subject. This year, the award was presented to Eve Donohoe in recognition of her outstanding musical abilities.
The Loreto Education Trust Award, one of the most anticipated awards of the day, was presented to a sixth-year student who exemplified one or more of the Loreto core values, particularly spreading joy to others. Ailbhe Cullinane was the deserving recipient of this award.
The Principals’ Prize is awarded to a student who displays commitment to their studies and upholds the values of the school. This year, for her positivity, kindness and efforts throughout her time in Loreto, the award was presented to Roseanna Brooker.
The final moments of the ceremony were marked by applause and celebration, as students were honoured for their contributions and achievements throughout the year. The event served as a testament to the dedication and hard work of the Loreto Secondary School community, providing a fitting end to a year of hard work and dedication.
