Congratulations to our Class of 2026!

Last week, Clonaslee College proudly celebrated the graduating Class of 2026. The Graduation Ceremony opened with Head Boy, Conor Reade, completing a final roll call for the Class of 2026. Each student came forward with a candle and placed it on the stage to represent the light and contribution each individual student brought to the school community.

Our principal, Mr. Sean Cotter, officially opened the ceremony by welcoming our sixth-year students, their parents, guardians, staff and members of the wider community. In his address, he expressed his gratitude for the support he has received since being appointed principal of Clonaslee College and spoke of the pride he has in our small, close-knit community. Reflecting on the journey this year group has taken, having begun secondary school during Covid restrictions, he praised the growth and resilience they have shown since.

He also shared a personal story about receiving a letter from his former principal, who had once reassured his father that he would find his path in life. Mr. Cotter said this reflected his own belief that every student in Clonaslee College will find their path with the strong foundation they have been given. The graduation theme, 
The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams, echoed Mr. Cotter’s message that each student will find their own path and future success.

Following this, the Lighting of the Candles ceremony took place. Parent Rose Kelly presented the Light of Love to her daughter, Aoibhín, while Ms. Fitzpatrick represented the school staff in presenting the Light of Wisdom to Katelyn. First-year student Conor Kelly presented the Light of Memory to his older brother, Shane, and finally, Ms. McLoughlin presented the Light of Community to Enda. Each candle symbolised the guidance, support and encouragement that has helped shape the students throughout their time in Clonaslee College, and the light that will continue to guide them as they move forward and find their own path. Next, Fr. Reilly spoke to the graduating students, offering them a blessing and best wishes as they prepare for their upcoming examinations.

Head Girl Ellen Delaney then addressed the audience, reflecting on the five to six years the students have shared together. She spoke fondly of the memories they created along the way, from school tours and chats with caretaker Tom to the laughter shared in classrooms and the friendships formed throughout their time in school.Ellen expressed her gratitude to our Principal Mr. Cotter for his approachable nature, to our Deputy Principal Mr. Lee for always listening and supporting students, and to Ms. Caplice for the important role she has played in their lives. She also thanked all of the teachers who gave their time and energy to ensuring students were both prepared for exams and enjoyed their school experience. Recalling something Ms. Gallagher often said, Ellen described the year group as pieces of a jigsaw, with each student bringing their own unique qualities. Together, she said, those individual pieces came together to create something truly special:  our Class of 2026.

Emmet Kelly-Cusack and Clodagh Daly led the Gifts Procession, during which students presented symbolic gifts chosen to reflect their journey, achievements and experiences throughout their time in Clonaslee College. Our Deputy Principal, Mr. John Lee, next addressed the graduating Class of 2026. He spoke about the importance of being part of our school community, a place where students are known, supported and cared for, and where many feel at home. Acknowledging the changes and challenges that lie ahead, he wished the students the very best of luck as they prepare for their upcoming examinations.

Following this, students were called up individually to the stage to receive their graduation certificates and a small token of appreciation from the staff of Clonaslee College. Senior Student Awards were then presented, recognising the many achievements, qualities and contributions demonstrated by students throughout their time in Clonaslee College. Congratulations to all of the deserving recipients.

The ceremony also included a reflection from Lauren Culleton, who spoke about the journey shared by the graduating class and conveyed words of gratitude on behalf of the students. Following this, members of the graduating class delivered individual messages of appreciation to their classmates, families, teachers and all those who supported them throughout their school journey. Special remembrance was also paid to those who are no longer with us, as well as former members of the year group. The students also expressed sincere gratitude to their Junior and Senior Year Heads, Mr. Lee and Ms. Fitzpatrick, for their guidance and support over the years.

Sincere thanks are extended to Ms. McLoughlin, Ms. Fallon, Ms. Harkin and the many staff members involved in the planning, organisation and preparation of the Graduation Ceremony.

Congratulations to the Class of 2026. We look forward to seeing the paths you take in the years ahead!