Waterford School News: Celebrations as students mark milestones in school and community life
Sean Cremin, Sean Baldwin and Mark Galvin with their Junior Cert Results at St Declan's Community College.
There were smiles, celebrations and plenty of memorable moments across Waterford this week as students marked significant achievements both inside and outside the classroom.
From the release of Junior Cycle results to sporting successes, creative projects and hands-on learning experiences, it was a busy and rewarding week for students at schools throughout the county.
One of the biggest milestones came for Junior Cycle students, who received the results of three years of hard work and study as schools across Waterford celebrated the achievements of the Class of 2026.
Students at schools including Abbey Community College, Ardscoil na Mara in Tramore and St Declan’s Community College were among those collecting their results and reflecting on an important chapter in their educational journey.
At Abbey Community College in Ferrybank, there was particular pride in the achievements of the Junior Cycle Class of 2026, with a large number of students attaining distinction grades, the highest award at Junior Cycle level.
Principal Michelle Jefford congratulated students on their success and praised the dedication and determination they demonstrated throughout their three years of study.
“We are incredibly proud of each and every one of our students,” she said.
“These results are a testament to their hard work, commitment and willingness to embrace every opportunity presented to them.
“At Abbey Community College, we strive to create a culture where excellence in education is valued, celebrated and accessible to all. Today’s results reflect the dedication of our students and the strong partnership between home and school that supports their success.”
Ms Jefford also thanked staff, parents and guardians for their support throughout the students’ three-year journey.
Students at Ardscoil na Mara, Tramore, also celebrated receiving their Junior Cycle results and marking an important milestone in their education.
Celebrations were equally evident at St Declan’s Community College, Kilmacthomas where students, parents and staff gathered to mark the publication of the Junior Cycle results.
The school congratulated students on their hard work and thanked teachers and Special Needs Assistants for the support they provided throughout the three-year programme.
The results form part of each student’s Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement, recognising not only examination performance but also classroom-based assessments, participation, personal development and the development of key skills.
Away from the examination hall, students at St Declan’s Community College were also making their mark in several other areas during the week.
A group of Transition Year students took part in a creative workshop as they began developing ideas for the Rubbish Film Festival. Working alongside members of the festival team, students spent two days brainstorming concepts, planning storylines and acting out scenes for a short film competition due to take place in the new year.
The project gave students an opportunity to develop creativity, teamwork and communication skills, while learning about the filmmaking process.
Sporting activity also featured prominently in the school calendar.
St Declan’s Under-19 soccer team produced a spirited second-half comeback despite suffering a 4-2 defeat to Ardscoil na Mara. Trailing 4-0 at half-time, the team showed considerable determination after the break, with Peter Power and Dylan Murphy finding the net. The side also narrowly missed further scoring opportunities, including a missed penalty and an effort that struck the post.
Attention now turns to the Challenge Cup campaign, where the team will be hoping to build on the positives from their second-half display.
There was better news for the school’s Under-17 soccer team, who secured an impressive 3-2 victory over Dungarvan CBS.
Matthew Masterson opened the scoring before Thomas Kirwan added a second. Masterson then completed his brace with a spectacular long-range effort from 35 yards to secure the win and cap off an excellent team performance.
Students also enjoyed a unique educational experience when local butcher Joe O’Reilly visited the school to give a practical demonstration to fifth and sixth-year Home Economics students, as well as Agricultural Science students.
The session focused on the journey of food from farm to fork, the importance of the farming industry, different cuts of meat and the realities of running a successful family butcher business.
Students had the opportunity to learn about food production and agriculture directly from an industry professional and even got the chance to make and bring home their own sausages following the demonstration.
Meanwhile, first-year students took part in a football blitz in Ballygunner, where four school teams represented St Declan’s.
The event provided an excellent opportunity for students to develop their football skills and enjoy friendly competition, with Transition Year students acting as coaches and mentors throughout the day. School staff also praised the efforts of organisers and coaches who helped make the blitz a success.
The wide range of activities taking place throughout the week highlighted the many opportunities available to students both inside and outside the classroom.
For many students, the week will be remembered for the excitement surrounding Junior Cycle results. For others, it was the chance to score a goal, create a film concept, learn a new skill or represent their school in competition.
The Junior Cycle Profile of Achievement, commonly known as the JCPA, reflects a broader approach, recognising not only examination performance but also classroom-based work, participation, key skills and other aspects of student learning.
Schools across Waterford have increasingly emphasised the importance of developing well-rounded students who can succeed both inside and outside the classroom. As a result, Junior Cycle places a strong focus on communication, teamwork, creativity, critical thinking and independent learning.
