Comenius Trip
On 3rd April, eight students and three teachers went on a trip to Hungary, as part of the Comenius programme, to meet with Hungarian and German students, who had visited our school last September. On arriving in Budapest, we visited Hero Square, which pays tribute to legends of Hungary. Later, we met the German students and travelled with them by train to Bekescava.
On a wet Tuesday morning, we went to the school to meet our Hungarian counterparts. The school choir welcomed us in song, with a concert. Then we got our itinerary for the rest of the week. The remainder of that day was spent sightseeing. The following morning, we met at the school and taught the Hungarians and Germans mini-bridge. They, in turn, taught us Schoolopoly. We all went swimming in a waterpark and to a spa in Gyula. Next day, we visited a historical building where the Mayor lived and we watched a video on Bekescava. There was more sightseeing around the area on a small train. That evening, in the school, they showed us their traditional folk dances. On Friday, we returned to Budapest by train. While we were there, we saw an Irish Government delegation, who were there on official business. We visited St. Stephens Cathedral where we saw the 1000 year old mummified hand of the saint. We went on a funicular train for more sightseeing and visited the labyrinth of Budova which were underground caves under the city of Buda. On Sunday morning we went to the local market to sample some homemade breads and sausage. Then we went to the House of Terror, a historical museum, where we saw a piece of the Berlin Wall. It was then time to say goodbye to the German students and leave for the airport to return home, with many happy and lasting memories. Thanks to Ms. Naughton, Ms. Frazer and Mr. Scanlon who were our wonderful guides for the week.
Ministers Visit
On Monday 11th April, Mr. John Perry, Junior Minister for Small Businesses visited the school to speak to the 1st and 2nd year students, on the invitation of the CSPE class. He spoke to them on a wide range of topics, beginning with his interest and involvement in Community Development from an early age, which lead him into politics and to his election in 1997.He spoke of his hopes to re-establish the trust of the public, in politicians and to support the creation of small businesses, which are the backbone of the country. He encouraged the students to avail of the educational opportunities that are available to them and the importance of giving something back to their schools and communities. He emphasised the importance for young people to be interested in and understand the political system. He was then brought on a tour of the school by Mr. Carolan, Principal and Ms.Frazer, Deputy Principal.
Basketball
On 15th April, the Senior Boys basketball team took part in a blitz in Sligo Grammar School. There were three teams playing, St. Marys Ballisodare, Sligo Grammar and Ballinode. Each team played two matches. Ballinode’s first match was against St. Marys, which Ballinode won but we lost our next match against the Grammar School by 3 points. There was only a difference of 5 points at the end, with Ballisodare the winners. Thanks to Sligo Grammar School for hosting the event and to Anthony Flores for refereeing on the day.
Gaisce News
The 4th years are busy planning their adventure to Lough Allen Outdoor Pursuits Centre where they plan to go camping on an island as part of their adventure for their Gaisce Awards.
Gaeltacht Scholarships
Congratulations to 1st year students Savannah Gorman and Aimee McCallion who were the winners of the VEC scholarships to the Gaeltacht this year. They are going to Coláiste Camus in July for three weeks.
Faith Celebration
Some 4th year students attended a Pre-Leaving Cert Celebration of Faith and Life on the 8th April in Four-Mile-House community centre. They joined with over 400 other young people from all over the diocese, at the event which was organised by the Director of Youth Ministry. Bishop Jones welcomed the young people and advised them to seek happiness not only in material wealth but in relationships with God and with their families and their communities. Fr. Benny McHale gave an inspiring talk which touched everyone present. He talked about coping with disappointments in life and the importance of developing a friendship with Jesus. A young woman shared her personal story of her recovery from alcohol addiction. Leading the gathering in music and praise was Elation Ministries, who got an enthusiastic reception and added great joy to the day.
Youth Sport West
Good luck to all the 2nd years who are soon to go to Donegal Adventure Centre, where they will team up with two second level schools from Northern Ireland, to enjoy a day of activities, which will include surfing and archery.
French Soirée
A very enjoyable French evening took place in the Iruna Café on Tuesday, 10th May. Fourth year students of French from Ballinode, Grange, Coola and Ballymote ,met with some young French students who are visiting Sligo. The main part of the night was a French quiz, which tested our knowledge of France, French language and culture. Each team consisted of students from each of the schools and a person from France. We were served some beautiful food and drinks while we chatted en francais. Representing Ballinode were Tristan McKenna, Thomas Feehily, Adam Balogh, Alex Savage and Jason Scanlon. It was a very close contest and medals were presented to the winners.
Big Brother Big Sister
To mark the end of this years’ Big Brother Big Sister mentoring programme, the 1st years and their mentors had a table quiz on Wednesday last. On the winning team were Thomas Feehily, Brandon Beatty, Jason McLoughlin and Koray McGowan.
Speech and Drama
First years are currently taking part in Speech and Drama classes with Ms. Vanessa Byrne. Second years have completed their sessions of public speaking.
Graduation
Students from Ballinode Community College on a Comenius trip to Budapest in Horoes Square Budapest: A Tucker, D McLoughlin, A Farrell, A Savage, T McKenna, N Gethins, K Kennoy and K Kelly.
As the end of year approaches, Leaving Certs are busy preparing for their graduation and awards ceremony which takes place in the school on Thursday,26th May. On Tuesday 31st May, there will be an Awards Ceremony in the Clarion Hotel for all the other classes. Best wishes to all our exam classes as they prepare for Junior and Leaving Cert.
