Belvedere College SJ The Belvedere News - August 2020
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Belvedere College SJ
The Belvedere News
August 2020
The second of two this summer
Contents
Where To Find… What!
Recent News & Notices – Pages 1 to 16
Second Half Of Traditional Newsletter Stories & Articles* – Pages 17 to 42
Page 1 Letter From The Headmaster
Page 4 Welcome To Elements 2020!
Page 5 Return To School Planning
Page 8 New College App: Setup
Page 10 Student Uniforms - Info
Page 13 Camp Belvo
Page 15 New Classroom Block
Page 17 News & Achievements
Page 21 Music
Page 26 Drama – Senior Musical
Page 29 Sport
Page 33 Trips
Page 37 Faith & Services
Page 38 Parents Association (In Case You Missed It)
Page 40 Theatre (In Case You Missed It)
* The first half of the traditional newsletter content can be found in the June edition.
Letter From The Headmaster
Endlessly our people gathered their strength to face another day and they never stopped encouraging their leaders to find the
courage to resolve this situation so that our children could look to the future with a smile of hope... We must now shape a future
of change that will be truly radical and that will offer a focus for real unity of purpose: harnessing new forces of idealism and
commitment for the benefit of Ireland and all its people… I want to see an Ireland of partnership where we wage war on want
and poverty, where we reach out to the marginalised and dispossessed, where we build together a future that can be as great as
our dreams allow.
Extracts from John Hume’s Nobel Peace Prize speech 1998
1937-2020 R.I.P.
Dear students, parents, Old Belvederians and friends of the College,
I hope that you and all in your family are well and that the sunny showers have not hampered some summer activities. I know that
many members of our community are experiencing unprecedented and challenging consequences of the pandemic. Our thoughts
and prayers are with those who have lost family and friends, and are grieving.
I opened with a quotation from the late John Hume’s speech accepting the Nobel Peace Prize, as I feel every student should read
the full text and learn about him. In the darkest days of the Troubles, those of us who lived through them could never imagine
there would be peace. Yet, imperfect as it may be, that smile of hope became a reality because of the dedication of John Hume and
others who refused to believe that they could not overcome the bitter reality and bring about a better future. Similarly, the
pandemic challenges us to bring hope, to face the challenges, to make sacrifices and to work like never before as a community
where every individual behaves unselfishly for the greater good of society. As a school community, we will need everyone’s
cooperation and relentless commitment to ensuring an outstanding standard of education in a safe and happy environment.
Building a “future as great as our dreams allow” is achievable, when we work tirelessly together to make it happen.
We are really looking forward to returning to school. It will be very different and challenging, but the essence of Belvedere,
endeavouring excellence in all things, will remain at the heart of all we do. We have been very busy during the summer, initially
dealing with the calculated grades for the Leaving Certificate, then the building programme and preparing for returning to school.
The Department of Education have issued a return to school roadmap “Reopening Our Schools” and a link is included in the
relevant section below. In spite of not being included in the automatic support funding by the Department of Education as one
would have assumed from the Minister of Education’s letter to parents, we will ensure that everything possible is done to provide
our students and staff with a safe environment in which to work.
1
Letter From The Headmaster
A Covid-19 Team is led by Mr. Colin McCarthy and as part of the return to school planning that has taken place over the summer,
several staff have been trained specifically to deal with Covid-19. This group has been working on a comprehensive response plan
ensuring that we are adhering to the guidelines and putting every necessary measure in place for a safe reopening.
The timetable schedule maximises teaching time and limits unnecessary movement of large student numbers around the College.
As you will appreciate, everyone has to assume responsibility to take every precaution to prevent transmission of the virus.
Students will remain in their Form Classroom as much as possible, only moving when needed. As you can imagine with over 1,000
students, more than 100 staff and so many variables, we are doing everything possible to ensure that we look after the health and
wellbeing of all our community. This timetable will be under review and any necessary modifications will be made after the first
midterm.
Belvedere College SJ is a large site with outstanding facilities and yet limitations which currently prevent social distancing in all
situations which require a full teaching group. Therefore, we are using many of our larger rooms or venues around the school. We
will also reconfigure some areas of the school including the Jesuit Library in Belvedere House, The Study Hall in No 3, The Old Ref
and The O’Reilly Theatre to ensure that where possible students can be accommodated fully. There are implications and over the
next week we will tease these out fully. As per usual, student will receive their detailed timetable as part of the return to school
programme.
I would ask that between now and the return to school that you would acquire face masks for your son(s). Please buy masks
appropriate to a school setting rather that something that may be amusing in another, less formal social setting. Please take the
time to practice using them properly. There are multiple online videos giving excellent instruction on preventative measures (for
example).
We are in uncharted waters in terms of full school re-opening for secondary students, so we will adopt the highest level of
preventative measures, masks, hand washing, social distancing, cough etiquette, from the outset. These measures will be regularly
reviewed and it is easier to relax measures than step them up. Therefore, where at all possible, students will be wearing masks.
This is far from ideal, but given that the recommendation is to wear masks on public transport and in crowded places, it is a
sensible precaution to take when we have a class group of teenagers. Undoubtedly advice will change as we progress and as I write
this matter is being reconsidered in relation to students returning to secondary and third-level. There are many vulnerable
members of the College community and each of us has an immense responsibility to do everything we can to protect them from
transmission. It is imperative that if a student has been abroad that they not attend school and isolate from other Belvedere
students (and indeed their peers/friends) for 14 days to ensure that we do not endanger the health of others. Further information
will be provided in the coming weeks and in the College Newsletter. Please remember that social media is not conducive to …
2
Letter From The Headmaster
… helpful communications in many instances. There are correct procedures for communications and I would remind all of their
responsibility to use the correct means of communication with members of the College community.
I want to thank the many parents who contacted teachers to encourage and thank them for making a very successful transition to
online learning last term. Staff will continue to work hard to ensure that we build on an excellent foundation of what we all learned
during lockdown and embrace the challenges and opportunities of having student back in school. As a nation we have handled this
pandemic well. Together we will ensure that our students engage in an education of the highest standards in an environment
where everyone feels safe. There are many unanswered questions as yet and the cohesion that John Hume referred to is what is
required to win this battle against such a life threatening virus. It is apt to end this note by quoting from that speech;
I will now end with a quotation of total hope, the words of a former Laureate, one of my great heroes of this century, Martin
Luther King Jr. “We shall overcome”.
The next newsletter will provide further details on our return to school. In the meantime, I hope you all continue to be well, look
out for one another and get an opportunity to enjoy the remainder of the holidays.
Yours sincerely,
Gerry Foley
Headmaster
3
Welcome To Elements 2020!
A warm welcome to all new parents to the College community!
Please see the final induction details that were sent
directly to your email accounts.
The email also contained a link to a video,
which for your convenience is included here.
4
Return To School Planning
Overview
Our return to school has been changed to ensure that we can train our staff fully and comprehensively. We are also
staggering a return for students so that we can adequately explain the necessary changes and demonstrate what they
need to do to adopt new behaviours which will help prevent infection.
The timetable for the return is as follows:
Friday 28th August Covid Training and Protocols 9.00-3.30pm
Monday 31st August Staff Training and CPD – return to school 9.00-3.30pm
Rhetoric Students only 9.00-11.00am
Tuesday, 1st September Grammar Students only 10-12.00noon
Staff CPD/Dept Meetings 1.00-3.30pm
Poetry Students only 9.00-11.00am
Wednesday 2nd September
Rudiments Students only 10-12.00 noon
Elements Students only 9.00-12.00am
Thursday 3rd September Syntax Students only 10.30-12.30pm
Staff CPD/Dept Meetings 1-3.30pm
Friday 4th September School for all 8.45-3.30am
* Please also note that our Year Information Meetings as per the schedule attached will be held virtually. Year group
Assemblies will also be held virtually.
Prefects & Elements Induction
The Prefects & Elements induction will proceed as planned – Mon 24th – Thurs. 27th August
5
Return To School Planning
College Response Plan
On June 12th The Department of Education & Skills published a framework for reopening and operating
schools. The full document can be found here.
As part of the return to school planning since June, a Covid-19 Team has been established with 1o members who have
undertaken the necessary training and is led by Colin McCarthy, Steve Gamble and Aisling Feiritear.
This group have been working on the College Response Plan in ensuring that we are adhering to the guidelines and putting
all the measures in place for a safe reopening.
Some of the many measures already introduced are:
• Plans put in place for all staff and students to receive a COVID-19 induction on their return as well as a walk-through of
emergency procedures.
• The College contract cleaning company have a full COVID-19 Response Plan that has been developed with the team. The
school buildings have been deep cleaned. We have arranged for the College including all equipment, desks, benches,
doors and frequently touched surfaces points, to be thoroughly cleaned before reopening. Water systems, mechanical
ventilation and all equipment have been checked and maintained.
• Hand sanitizing stations have been installed in every class, at all entry points and in black-out areas such as the toilets.
• We have displayed COVID-19 posters in suitable locations around the school highlighting the signs and symptoms of
Covid-19 and the importance of physical distancing.
• We have identified all available school space to be used to maximize physical distancing. We have revised the layout of
rooms and furniture as per the Department guidelines.
• A new timetable is being worked on and will maximise the opportunity to teach groups socially distanced, while
minimising student movement around the College buildings
• Cabra and Distillery have been set up to adhere to the guidelines.
• Lockers have been emptied, deep cleaned tied and will not be in use. Using of e-books and copy books/hardback books
will ensure boys’ school bags will not be heavy.
• Additional spacing for staff work areas and the staff room has been reconfigured.
6
Return To School Planning
Rugby Training – COVID-19 Protocol
The Senior rugby programme began on July 7th, and has been adhering to strict COVID-19 compliance measures. All
students and coaches have been vigilant in ensuring a safe return to rugby as outlined by World Rugby, IRFU and Sport
Ireland. All students training have completed the World Rugby COVID compliance certificate that can be accessed here.
It is required that all rugby playing students complete this certificate prior to a return to training. Please download the
certificate so it can be sent to your coach when asked.
Following on from this safe and successful return for Senior Rugby, Junior training commenced for a small preliminary
group on Friday 7th August.
Training for other year groups will be rolled out closer to commencement of school year.
7
New College App: Setup
Overview
Our new College communications app will be available on the Apple and Google Store from next week. Please follow the
information below to download. Further details to follow.
8New College App: Setup
9Student Uniforms - Info
Uniform, PE Kit and Sports Gear
Students should be clean and neatly dressed at all times, they are required to wear the College uniform to and from
school every day. We are continuing to improve the standard of our uniform. Students not in full uniform will be sent
home (unless it’s deemed an exceptional circumstance by the Deputy in charge). Please ensure that your son leaves
home every morning in full uniform.
Essential College Uniform
Jacket* Black College Crested Jacket (available from uniform supplier)
*A crested College jacket can be worn. Plain black jackets are also acceptable
Shirt Plain white, long sleeved (short-sleeved acceptable in summer) button-to collar, suitable to be
worn with a tie. The shirt must be tucked into trousers at all times. If you purchase a shirt which
is too short, it is not an acceptable uniform shirt as it is impossible for the student to keep it
tucked in!
Tie College Crested Tie (available from uniform supplier) or Coloured Crested Award Tie
Jumper Navy, round-neck with College crest (available from uniform supplier)
Trousers Grey, classic, traditional, plain trousers with a crease and belt
Shoes/Socks Plain black/brown formal shoes of a conventional style must be worn. Runners or trainer type
shoes are not acceptable so do not buy them in the hope that they will be accepted. Regular,
formal socks must also be worn and not short sports socks or trainer liners.
Grey school trousers, white shirt and the College crested jumper must be worn by all students.
10Student Uniforms - Info
If a student is not wearing the College jumper he must
wear the College tie with the white school shirt.
Hoodies must not be worn when entering or on the
College campus and any hoodies worn in school will
be confiscated. It is advisable for students to have
more than one pair of grey trousers and more than
one white shirt.
It may be difficult to find the correct shoes but it is expensive to get it wrong! We hope this list gives you the right
options, pupils will be asked to change any shoes that are not part of the required correct uniform.
Examples Of Correct Shoes Examples Of Incorrect Shoes (No Trainers)
11Student Uniforms - Info
Please Note!
Each morning there will be a Deputy on duty as students enter the College.
Students are expected to be in full uniform. Form Tutors and Year Heads have a responsibility to sanction students who regularly
flout the uniform rule. We expect parents/guardians to support this fully and ensure that their son has the correct uniform and
wears it when leaving for school every day. Unique School App excuses regarding the uniform are not acceptable. In exceptional
circumstances only, contact needs to be made with the Form Tutor and Year Head. If your son is not wearing the full uniform, the
parent/guardian should provide a note in the College Journal for the Deputy on duty. This is essential in order for the student to be
permitted into class. Students who repeatedly flout the uniform rule will be sent home, given detention or suspended until an
undertaking is given by parents/guardians and students that the correct uniform will be worn.
Essential PE Uniform
Shirt Black College Crested PE Shirt (available from uniform supplier)
Shorts Plain white shorts (available from uniform supplier)
Socks Plain black/white socks
Shoes Runners with non-marking soles
Students may wear any other appropriate College sports kit when
they are representing the College in other sports.
• All uniform and clothing that your son wears to the
College should be clearly labelled.
• Hoodies must not be worn in the College at any time.
They will be confiscated and may only be collected by a
parent/guardian at a date agreed with the Year Head.
• Uniform Supplier and College crested uniform items are
available from Lynch’s of Marino, D03 H7F8
12Camp Belvo
We are delighted that Camp Belvo is going ahead, as planned, in Cabra. If you are in Elements, Rudiments or Grammar and
wish to apply please contact Colin McCarthy on rugby@belvederecollege.ie.
The Camp Belvo Rugby course 2020 will be held on:
Camp 1: Monday 10th – Friday 14th of August Camp 2: Monday 17th – Friday 21st of August
(Elements) (Elements, Rudiments and Grammar)
Please note: boys who have not played before, who have stopped playing but want to return or who want to be associated
with any of the panels in their year group are encouraged to attend.
What To Expect?
• The course will run from 10am until 3pm each day. On Friday we will finish at 1pm
• The course content will change slightly to include activities other than rugby – fitness, rounders, football etc
• Both courses will be held at our Rugby Grounds on the Navan Rd in Cabra
• Toilets will be in use
• Although changing rooms will not be used the boys will be able to leave their lunch / bag inside
• The cost of the camp is 100 euro which can be paid on the first day of camp. If there is any issue with payment, please get
in touch with Colin McCarthy to discuss.
Please hand in payment in a sealed envelope with your son’s name and year clearly written on it.
Before Attending:
• Each boy must submit a Personal Health Declaration each day
• You will be sent this link
• If any boy is feeling unwell he should remain at home to be safe
13Camp Belvo
On Arrival:
Day 1:
• Registration will begin at 9am to allow more time and have less queueing. Boys who register early can help set up!
• Parents can park in the car park
• Registration tables will be highlighted by surname. Your son’s name will be ticked off and payment can be made. Please
hand in payment in a sealed envelope with your son’s name and year clearly written on it.
• Your son will be escorted to an open space where he will meet the rest of his group. Bags with a change of clothes / lunch can
be left in a changing room
All Other Days: Please just drop off your son and exit the car park
During The Day:
• Your son will work in small groups of 14-16. He will stay in the same group each day.
• There will be two coaches assigned to each group with a Lead Coach co ordinating the session.
• There will be a short break and a longer lunch break.
• Elements will focus on basic skills and making friends.
• Rudiments and Grammar will focus on skill progression including team formation.
• In the event of a boy becoming unwell parents will be contacted and asked to collect him immediately.
• If a case of COVID-19 is confirmed, we will follow the latest HSE advice and all options will then be explored up to and
including the camp being brought to an end prematurely.
To Bring/Be Aware Of:
• Please arrive from 9am on monday so we can register
• Sports gear: any jersey/t-shirt, shorts, football/rugby everyone.
boots, (tracksuits can also be worn). • We will finish at 1pm on Friday.
• GUM SHIELD • HAND SANITISER
• Be prepared for all kinds of weather. Bring a change of kit
if its wet. Extra jumper if cold.
• Sun Cream.
• Packed lunch and plenty of water.
• No jewellery should be worn.
1415
New Classroom Block
Temple Street Classroom Block Construction
The new Temple Street block is taking shape and although the site was closed it is anticipated that, without further closes, it will
be ready in late 2021. This new Teaching and Learning environment will further add to the students learning experience, We
have also renovated the art rooms on the top floor of Finlay building providing a more creative environment for our students.
Most crucially, these new facilities will provide much needed additional space – an increasingly important part of school life.
Thanks again to all of you who continue to support the College and have made these vital new developments possible!
The view from Temple Street The view from the car park
exit
The view of the side of the Foundations complete!
Science & Tech Building
16News & Achievements
Looking Back At 2019/20
Please note that the majority of images in the following sections
were taken pre-pandemic and before social distancing was
required!
We are very much looking forward to returning to this, but in the
meantime we are fully focused on doing everything possible to
continue to adapt and to provide outstanding educational and
sporting co-curricular experiences to all of our students.
17News & Achievements
Excellence in Junior Certificate Business BT Young Scientist
Studies Awards
Congratulations to
Belvedere College SJ was represented by Ciaran Downes (SS) Brian Kelleher (SS) who
and Ms Norma Shanhan at the Excellence in Junior Certificate won a highly
Business Studies Awards at Maynooth University. commended and
special award from IE
Domain Registry at the
Belvedere had three students receive Distinction and 70
2020 BT Young
students receive Higher Merit in the Junior Certificate last
Scientist & Technology
academic year. 62% of our Business students scored a
Exhibition for his
Distinction or Higher Merit compared to 28% nationally. Well
project titled “We are
done to the students and to the entire Business Department.
not safe.”
RTÉ Youth Assembly on Climate
Garret Molloy (GX) was one of the Dublin delegates
selected for the RTÉ Youth Assembly on Climate.
On Friday, 15
November the group
convened for the first
ever Youth Assembly on
Climate at Dáil Éireann
to discuss and
determine their
proposals for next steps
for Ireland on Climate
Action.
18An Gaisce
Congratulations to Sam Lynch (PS) who received his Silver
Gaisce Award at The Silver Ceremony here in our very own
O'Reilly Theater.
The Silver Award is primarily undertaken in Fifth Year, but is
by no means limited to Fifth Year students.
Upon completion of the bronze award, students must commit
to learning a new skill, participating in a sporting activity and
News & Achievements
helping in the community for an hour a week for a period of 26
weeks.
Alongside this the students must take an active part in a 3-day
adventure journey, organised by the participants through the School. This usually takes place in the second week of
Easter break.
Sam has now begun his Gaisce Gold Award -we wish him the best of luck! To learn more about The Gaisce Award
Scheme at Belvedere, please click here.
Chinese New Year
Students took part in a celebration of a number of games in the gym in honour of Chinese New Year.
19News & Achievements
German Ambassador to Ireland Model European Parliament
Visits Belvedere 2019
The German Department was delighted to have A group of students from Belvedere visited
the German Ambassador to Ireland, Frau Deike Malta this year to represent Ireland in the
Potzel, visit Belvedere. Students had the Model European Parliament.
opportunity to showcase their German, to which
she was very impressed! The week was full of debating, meeting new
people and learning about different cultures.
Special thanks to Ms Anna Nig Fhloinn The group also had the opportunity meet
and Ms Joan O'Connor for organising. with the Irish Ambassador to Malta, Mr
Patrick Duffy at Europe House in Valletta.
For more photos from the day, please click here.
20Music
You Raise Me Up | The Belvedere College Choir Downtown Tango | The
Belvedere Jazz Band
The Belvedere College Choir came together with the help of their directors
Frances Stoker-Phelan and Ruaidhrí Ó'Dalaigh to perform this very special Please enjoy this video of the
virtual rendition of You Raise Me Up. This performance premiered at the Belvedere Jazz Band performing
Rhetoric 2020 Virtual Final Assembly on 15th May 2020. This performance is Downtown Tango by Rick Hirsch -
also dedicated to all essential workers. recorded during COVID-19 school
closures. Special thanks
Video by: Conrad Oppermann (OB 2018). Sound mastered by: Garret Farrell.
to Mr Daniel Dunne
Click here to watch.
for organising and well done to the
Belvedere Jazz Band!
From a Distance | The
Belvedere College Jazz
Band
The Belvedere College SJ Jazz
Band would like to dedicate this
performance (link) as a tribute to
all frontline and essential workers.
For this song, the Jazz Band were
joined by the exceptional voice of
Jennifer Yusuf from St. Patrick’s
Cathedral Grammar School.
21Music
Junior Choir Experience 2019-20
By: Gavin O’Brien (Elements Kenney)
I always loved singing, but with it being a new school and environment I wasn’t sure about joining the school
Junior Choir. However, I decided to take a leap of faith and it was one of the best decisions of my life!
Joining the Choir
When I first decided to sign up I was still a bit nervous. I was called out of French class to do the vocal placing
and that was where I first met Fran and Ruairi. It was a new experience singing in front of people I didn’t know,
but they soon put me at ease. After singing as high and low as I could go Fran and Ruairi told me I was an alto
and welcomed me to the choir.
For the first few weeks the Junior Choir had separate rehearsals from the Senior Choir which was a great idea
as we got to know each other really well and I also got to meet boys from other forms. In our first choir
rehearsal, the altos sat on one side and the trebles sat on the other and we sang songs like the Pink Panther
theme song and “A Million Dreams” from the Greatest Showman. This was a really pleasant surprise as these
songs were really fun and upbeat and I had thought the songs might be very gloomy. So, after this positive first
rehearsal I found myself wanting to go back the next week! During October we also learnt other great songs
with “Wade in the Water” being my favourite.
Christ Church Cathedral and the College Carol Service
After the mid-term break we got to working on the highly anticipated Carol Service which took place in early
December. Fran explained that we would also have a chance to sing in Christ Church Cathedral a few days
before the Carol Service and our family could come in and see us!
Singing in the oldest cathedral in Dublin was surreal as I had previously only been there on a school tour as
part of visiting Dublinia. I certainly never thought I’d get to sing there. My grandparents and parents along with
lots of other boys families were sitting waiting when we arrived. While we were all nervous it was a great dress
rehearsal for the Carol Service where the audience would also include our teachers!
22Music
Junior Choir Experience 2019-20
By: Gavin O’Brien (Elements Kenney) (cont’d)
… On the day of the Carol Service we went to the Old Ref to have pizza and then made our way to wait outside the
Chapel holding candles. The Chapel was in darkness, but full of our family and teachers so it was very exciting. To
the sound of the Senior Choir’s amazing singing, we walked in a candle lit procession up to the altar where, after
blowing out our candles, the Carol Service began. It was a great experience to be part of a group making these
beautiful sounds, not to blow our own trumpet, but there is no better feeling! The final highlight of the event was
that all of the choir, our families and teachers went to Belvedere House to have drinks and treats- it was a brilliant
start to Christmas.
Singing at the College Sleep Out at the GPO and College Green
On December 22nd we had a great opportunity to sing outside the GPO in support of the Belvedere students doing
the Sleep Out where we sang a great arrangement of joyful Christmas songs. Later that evening, we met again
outside College Green where we got to sing with players from the Irish Rugby Team which was great craic and
also helped raise funds for the Sleep Out. Our families also got to join in which they loved.
Wesley School Choir Competition
After the Christmas break, we quickly got back in the groove preparing for the Wesley School Choir Competition
which took place in March. As the Junior, Senior and Chamber Choirs were all in separate competitions, as well as
the Full Choir Competition, there was a lot of work to do! The song for the Junior Choir competition was the Pink
Panther theme tune which was great. On the day of the competition we were all set to go!
2pm- We all travelled together on a bus over to Sandyford. We had plenty of time, but as soon as we arrived we were
bustled onto the stage and had to sing. It was interesting, but anyway we didn’t let it faze us and we came a very
respectable 3rd Place.
4pm - We still had to sing in the Full School Choir Competition, so we then all headed to McDonalds for food…
23Music
Junior Choir Experience 2019-20
By: Gavin O’Brien (Elements Kenney) (cont’d)
…which we loved. When we returned to Wesley, a few of us went to watch the Chamber Choir sing - they were absolutely
magnificent and came 3rd Place.
6pm- Now this was what we had prepared for long and hard – it was the Full Choir Competition which was a very tough.
We sang really well and also got to hear the other amazing choirs sing. Unfortunately, we weren’t placed but that didn’t
take away from the day. Overall, the Wesley School Choir Competition was one of the most enjoyable experiences, not just
in choir or in Belvedere, but in my life.
Les Voix Boréales Visit
The following week a French Canadian choir, Les Voix Boréales, came over and they sang an album of songs in the College
Chapel. It was excellent to listen to such great singing. We got to go to the Ref for food first and then sing a few songs too.
It was another great experience!
COVID-19 and the Choir Video for the Rhetoric Graduation and in Honour of Front Line Workers
In March 2020, all schools across Ireland were closed suddenly due to the outbreak of COVID-19. As the country went
into lockdown, to our disappointment, we didn’t get to participate in Feis Ceoil or the annual Belvedere Musical Evening,
and we also missed out on the choir going to Blanchardstown at year end for some food and bowling.
However, Fran and Ruairi had a fantastic idea to record a video of the choir singing “You Raise Me Up” for the Rhetoric
virtual graduation and also in honour of front line workers. The whole process was very time consuming as each of us had
to individually record our vocals and then record a video of singing the song ( twice!). In the end, with the help of Conrad
Oppermann it all worked out really well. Seeing the video was amazing and a brilliant memory of lockdown.
Conclusion
Many thanks for a wonderful year to everyone in the choir but especially to Fran, Ruairi and Ryan the pianist! I would
heavily recommend choir to any first years who want to try it. DO! As it was for me, it could be the best decision of your
life!
24Music
Les Voix Boréales Performance Some Additional Photos
On Monday 9th March, the Belvedere College S.J. choirs had the great
pleasure of welcoming the exceptional school girls choir Les Voix Wesley Interschools Music
Boréales from the French speaking Quebec in Canada. This was a Festival:
wonderful opportunity for both musical and cultural exchange between Belvedere Chamber Choir
the two choirs.
The Belvedere College Junior Choir opened the concert with The Pink
Panther, followed by the Full Choir singing Wade in the Water. Then the
Senior Choir treated us to a rousing version of Rocky Road and finally the
Chamber Choir brought the house down with their cheeky rendition of
Sold.
Les Voix Boréales then took to the stage. We were all literally blown away
by their flawless sound and spell binding performance. The boys can
aspire to this level of performance and professionalism.
For a glimpse of the concert, please click here to watch.
Wesley Interschools Music
Festival:
Belvedere Junior Choir
25Drama - Senior Musical
2627
Drama - Senior Musical
28Sport
SCT Rugby
Belvedere began their Senior Cup campaign at Donnybrook on Tuesday, 28th January with a win against St Mary’s College. It
was a close match which happily resulted in Belvedere achieving victory with a final score of 17-13.
On Monday, 10th February Belvedere faced Castleknock in the quarter-final and unfortunately, were defeated with a
disappointing one point loss, final score 15-14. We can be proud they fought right up to the 70th minute. Thank you to the SCT
for their commitment and dedication to the programme. Special thanks also to the coaches for their time and hard work, and to
all the supporters who attended to cheer on the team.
29
1Sport
JCT Rugby
By Patrick O’Grady (Grammar Xavier)
From the very first gym session in Summer 2019 the team trained with 100% commitment and dedication. This
dedication was prominent through trainings and matches in near storm conditions and the winter freeze.
There have been some great memories, beating St Michael’s in Cabra and coming close in Blackrock after a savage
performance are two of them. A massive thanks to Mr Wood, Karl Curran, Mr O’Donnell, Mr McKenna, Alex
O’Grady, Ruadhán Byron and Mr Hennelly for training us day in, day out and providing us with the best possible
coaching throughout the year.
Going into the Cup game against a strong St Michael’s side, we were well prepared. For the full 60 minutes we gave it
our all and never gave up. Unfortunately, it wasn’t to be our day, but we were proud of our efforts and respected our
opponents who came out on top on this occasion.
As Ollie Campbell mentioned to
me, his Junior Cup Team lost in
the first round and went on to win
the Senior Cup. This year wasn’t
ours results wise, but I believe
there are better days to come for
this team.
30Sport
J2 Rugby Report TY Rugby Report
By Josh Lawless (Grammar Aylmer) By: Daragh Braniff
(Syntax Xavier)
As a player of the J2 team this season, I’ve experienced at first hand the highs and
the lows with frequent and enjoyable but challenging training sessions. The squad Big thanks to Mr Doyle
has grown and developed tremendously. Alongside the coaching staff always and Mr O’Brien for their
testing our ability as a team we have had to overcome some serious challenges continued work with
which has brought the squad closer together. organising training
sessions and matches for
Speaking on behalf of the whole team we have nothing but respect and gratitude for TY Rugby.
the coaching staff, which included: Mr Wood, Mr O’Donnell, Mr McKenna, Mr Karl
Curran, Alex O’Grady and Ruadhan Byron. I would also like to thank Mr Hennelly Even in the beginning
for putting in a vast amount of time and dedication to help us physically develop. when numbers were too
Devoting his own personal free time to come in a hour early Monday and low to field for matches,
Thursdays to do gym sessions which were professionally run and were very they stuck with it to the
beneficial for the whole squad. point where we have a
good chance of making it
Everyone gave everything they had for the jersey and the chance to represent the to Donnybrook, and
school in the best way possible. Everyone put in a shift and we always played as a leaving the Socials in
team. Win, lose or draw we always took it as a team and never singled anyone out doubt for their position in
or blamed an individual. We tried to stay positive while still pointing out the final.
weaknesses in our play and resolving them, further progressing our ability to play
fluid rugby as a team. At the end of every game we would huddle up and point out
what went well and where we didn’t perform up to the standard that we would have
liked. Being part of J2 Rugby this season was such an amazing and powerful
experience. It allowed me to build better bonds with my peers while playing the
sport I love.
31Sport
Athletics Ireland Invitational
Badminton Competition
Congratulations to team members Shane Brennan The Rudiments Team attended the Athletics Ireland
(PK), David Lambe (PL), Shane Meaghar (PK) and Invitational Competition at the National Indoor
Gavin Brennan (PF) on their success against Sutton Arena Abbotstown on 16th January.
Park.
For full results, click here.
32Trips
Boston Exchange
By Conor Carolan (Syntax Kenney)
In the middle of third year, everyone had the option of picking their trips for the next year. As usual there was high
demand for the Boston College High School (BC High) exchange. I handed in my form with Boston as my first choice.
In a matter of weeks I found out I was lucky enough to be accepted to go on the exchange with 19 other lads from my
year. We were all overjoyed with our luck. The next few months went slow, but the day finally came and on the 15th of
October we arrived at Dublin Airport.
After a seven hour flight, we finally arrived in Boston. When our bus drove up to BC High it was lashing rain as we
walked up to the front doors of the school. As we entered the building, we were welcomed with a round of applause
from our exchanges, their parents, as well as the Colombian exchanges. We were all shocked with the warm welcome,
but we all knew then that this trip was going to be a once in a lifetime experience.
That weekend everyone went and did different things with their host families, such as watching the Celtics
play, quading, visiting the Gillette Stadium –home of the beloved New England Patriots, out for dinner and some even
went apple picking.
We all arrived back to BC High on Tuesday morning, telling stories of our weekends. We then attended a class on Irish
and American Literature, and an American History class which focused on the Boston Massacre. We then headed to
the center of Boston to do the Boston Freedom Trail. We also had the opportunity to visit Fenway Park and the New
Bedford Whaling Museum.
While in Boston, we visited Boston College, where everyone was certainly wishing they could go to college one day. We
gained access to their stadium as well as their practice facility. We met Jack Dunne, the University Spokesman who
toured us around the facility and beautiful campus.
On the Monday morning we travelled to New York City. One of the highlights of the trip is when we went up to the…
33Trips
Boston Exchange
By Conor Carolan (Syntax Kenney) (cont’d)
…top of Rockefeller Centre. The views of the city lit up at night were spectacular. We also went on the Staten Island ferry
and saw the statue of the Charging Bull, which is meant to bring financial luck. While in New York, we also visited the 9/11
Memorial and the Irish Hunger Memorial. It was breath-taking to see the respect for both these memorial sites in such
busy areas of the city.
It was great to see familiar faces again once we arrived back to BC High. Once we returned, the next day we visited
Harvard where we actually bumped into a student who attend BC High and participated in the Irish exchange.
That evening, we headed back to BC High for a closing ceremony with our host families where we watched a small
presentation on our trip and what was to come when our host brothers come to Ireland. On Friday, we said our final
goodbyes to our host families. After a great trip to the States we arrived home to our parents at Dublin Airport.
Thank you to Mr Colohan, Mr Duggan, Mr Broderick, Louise Deane and everyone involved in making this trip a
wonderful experience.
34Trips
Kolkata 2019
By: Oisin Ward (Poetry Scully)
On November 8th, 2019, we set off for the City of Joy, however our journey to Kolkata started months previously –in fact, for me, the
journey started years previously. I wanted to go to Kolkata since before I even came to Belvedere, having heard about it from the brothers of
friends. My interest in the trip grew when I came to the school, catching snippets of information from students who went before. So, in early
February of last year, when the chance to apply for Kolkata came around, I had to grab it with both hands.
I submitted my application, did my interview, and waited with baited breath in the College Chapel to hear if my name would be called. We
lucky 15 came together for the first time that morning, and it wasn’t until May 2019 that the programme became very real for us. As we
stood in Dublin Airport, waiting for that year’s batch from St Xavier’s to arrive, unknown at what to expect of the next two weeks with our
Indian exchange brothers. Those two weeks passed so quickly, and we all thoroughly enjoyed both hosting our exchange partners and
completing our community care with them. When my exchange partner, Dhruv Kapoor arrived, he fit in seamlessly with our family, as
though he had been there all along. We worked in Christ the King Day Centre for two weeks. By the end of those two weeks, it felt as though
Dhruv had been part of the family forever, as it did for all of the others.
Exactly five months and six days later, we returned to Dublin Airport and 22 hours later we finally landed in Kolkata. I will always
remember the wave of heat and smells that hit me as soon as I stepped outside the door of the airport, into the unknown, to meet my new
exchange brother from St Xavier’s. When we first arrived in Kolkata, we landed into the tail end of a hurricane. I will always remember that
first drive to Tangra, my home for the following two weeks, a place that will stay in my heart forever. The car horns beeped and the streets
remained busy despite the incredibly heavy rain.
From that first day, I knew Kolkata was a special place, I could see why it is called City of Joy. The smiles the people wore were
infectious. During our time there, we visited such wonderful places as Howrah Station and Victoria Memorial, and we were able to meet the
beautiful people of Titagarh and Ramagan. Whilst there, we visited three different projects across the city, places such as Dum
Dum, Bowbazar and Tangra, places that remain very dear to all of us and helped us to understand why Kolkata is such a special place. It
really helped us to not only understand ourselves better, but also shaped our views on the world as a whole and gave us memories that we
will never forget for the rest of our lives.
St Xavier’s made all of this possible and were brilliant throughout. Teachers like Mr Ranjeet and his colleagues made us feel so welcome
and even put on a wonderful magic show. Special thanks to Ms Broderick, Mr O’Hanlon, Mr Meagher and Mr Murray all travelled with us to
Kolkata and helped us through the experience. A special mention must go to Mr Conor Doherty, who was a presence throughout the entire
process. I speak for all fifteen of us when I say that the value of their help was truly beyond measure.
35Kolkata 2019
Faith & Services
Lollipop Day 2020 Belvedere Christmas Trees
Wet weather did not dampen the spirits of the A group of Syntax students led by Conor Carolan (SK)
Belvedere Grammar students, as they took to the raised €2,870 for the SVDP selling Christmas trees at
streets to support the Oesophageal Cancer Fund Distillery Rd. Well done to the group and thank you to
(OCF) for Lollipop Day. everyone who supported
this initiative!
This is the 12th anniversary of Belvedere Grammar
students supporting the OCF as part of their social
justice programme. Despite the inclement weather
on the day, the spirits of the students were
particularly high!
Cheque Presentation to the SVDP
Well done to the student TY Committee who raised
€1102.50 for the SVDP from the "Christmas Jumper
Day" that took place in December.
Thank you to all
staff, students and
parents who
donated to this
worthwhile
appeal!
37By: Karin Ennis, PA Chairperson
2020 will always be known as the year that we had to face and overcome the challenges
of COVID-19 together. The mission statement of the Parents’ Association
(PA) accentuates part of this message- ‘The family, as the primary educator, through its
commitment to the values of the school, shares the responsibility for the students’
education’.
The role of the family has become even more important as students had to switch gear
and get to grips with learning from home. Parents worked closely with teachers to
ensure that the students got through their schoolwork in a positive home learning
Tom Doyle, Claire Burke, Karin Ennis and
Parents’ Association
environment.
Gerry Foley presenting new Student
It is important to highlight the role of the PA in accordance with the PA constitution. Council ties to Council members.
It supports and initiates activities which advance the aims and objectives of the College,
without interference in or with the process of governance and management of the College. It also promotes the role of parents and guardians
as the primary educators of their children.
The current PA was elected at the AGM in September and have worked hard all year to deliver many new and existing projects. I would like
to start by thanking Sharon Farrell the outgoing Chair for her commitment to the PA and the enthusiasm with which she inspired all of
us during her term. I would also like to thank the outgoing members of the PA from 2018/2019, Bairbre Higgins, Ann-Marie Birthistle, Dan
Egan, Orla Brennan, Mark Rutledge, Donal Birthistle and Margaret Flanagan. I was honoured to join the Committee last year and have
thoroughly enjoyed working with such a dedicated team.
We were joined by some new members who worked alongside some of the team from last year. Esther Hoban has done great work as
Secretary. Donal Walsh is the Treasurer, Claire Burke is the Vice Chair and also liaises with the Student Council. Ann Marie Carmody and
Denise Dillon look after Lost and Found with the help of the GAP students. Breda Broderick helps to arrange the PA talks. Frances Keegan
and Fiona O’Byrne organise the Rhetoric Graduation Photo Presentation. Tom Loomes is continuing to serve, Sean Bowes and Karen
Graham have been newly elected and all have actively helped with many different PA projects. It was also great to have the support of our
two newly elected Board of Management reps Sharon Farell and Suzanne O’Rahilly.
We had our Elements social evening in October which was a wonderful opportunity for new parents to get to know each other. The evening
was a great success and was also attended by Gerry Foley and Paul Bryce who gave a talk to the Elements parents. Many thanks to our PA
reps and parent volunteers who helped to run the event so successfully.
We were delighted to set up a team of parents to do library supervision every day before the College closed. This shows wonderful
commitment from our parent body who gave their time so enthusiastically. Ann Marie Carmody runs this very efficiently and coordinates all
of our parent volunteers who help out with many school activities.
In early November, I was honoured to represent the PA at the Annual Belvedere Union Dinner in the Mansion House, hosted by the Union
President, Mr John Darby. I am continuously impressed by the tireless work that the Union does. They are a true continuum of the Jesuit
ethos central to Belvedere College SJ.
38Parents’ Association
PA Talks
Each year the PA organises three PA talks. One of the most requested talks was on the subject of Drug Awareness. We were delighted to host our
first one of 2020 in February when Garda Greg McGovern gave a talk in the O’Reilly Theatre. We had very high numbers in attendance
which reflects the deep concerns parents have on this topic. Greg gave a very informed talk outlining the various types of drugs, along with their
makeup, origins, side effects and the physical signs of using them. Many expressed their shock about the young age at which our children are
exposed to drugs and how readily available they are on the streets of our city. There was a huge amount of information on the night with the
overriding theme being the importance of communication between parents and their sons, which includes checking in with them regularly to make
sure that they are okay. It was a very informative session and the talk was followed by a very frank and open discussion with parents.
We hosted our second talk of the year at the beginning of March. Professor John Sharry who is a social worker and family psychotherapist
presented the topic ‘Positive Mental Health for Teenagers’. Again this is a topic which is a continuous worry for parents as students struggle with
many pressures in an age where they are constantly faced with the challenges of peer pressure, exam stress, drug and alcohol abuse. John spoke
about building an ‘emotional piggy bank’ with deposits and withdrawals. As parents, the largest element that we can control is to build a warm
relationship with our children, but we also need to be a person of authority in their lives. Many thanks to Breda Broderick and Ann Marie Carmody
for organising the two talks and to the other PA reps for helping at the events. Unfortunately due to current circumstances we could not hold our
Spiritual talk in April but the PA will host three new talks during the Academic year 2020/2021.
The PA have also compiled a lot of information relevant to the talks held during the year. There are links to the various sites on the PA section of
the website where you will find information on Mental Health Awareness, Drug and Alcohol Abuse and many other topics.
PA Unveil New Piano
One of our highlights of the year was launching the new piano which was donated
by the PA in December. This was an idea which was initiated last year but we
were delighted to be able to make it happen this year. Special thanks to Fiona
O’Byrne for her help sourcing the piano. It was wonderful to see the boys playing
away during break times in the foyer with no inhibitions, happy to sing, play and
bring the spirit of community and wellbeing to life in the College. We look
forward to hearing the piano being played again when school life gets back to
normal and the foyer is full of loud, chattering students once again!
New Piano unveiled in the foyer with Dan Dunne,
Click here to listen to the hustle and bustle of a busy foyer and the boys singing Karin Ennis, Aisling Bridgeman, Fr Paddy Greene,
along to a student playing Bohemian Rhapsody. Esther Hoban, Claire Burke and Music students from
the College.
39Theatre News
The O’Reilly Theatre 2019 - 2020
The end of the 2019-2020 year has been tough for the whole Belvedere community. We look forward to welcoming you all again as soon as
possible to the O’Reilly Theatre. Until then, let us look back at some of the highlights of the past year. The O’Reilly has staged exciting
performances this year, from international debuts to Belvedere’s own show stopping performances.
In August, while the students were getting ready for the new school year, the theatre was getting ready for a new theatre season. The
O’Reilly began the year co-producing the arts council funded project, Gym Swim Party. During the summer, audiences were given a sneak
peak of the production during a talk in Belvedere House, with writers Jan Carson and Emilie Pine. Gym Swim Party brought together a
wealth of theatre talent. Louise Lowe (Director) Gavin Kostick & Danielle Galligan (Writers) Denis Clohessy (Composer) Aedín Cosgrove
(Lighting Design) and many more. Gym Swim Party opened during the Dublin Fringe Festival. The ORT was delighted to be part of the
expansive, modern telling of a Greek tragedy.
Next up was Dublin Theatre Festival. The O’Reilly hosted two productions for the 2019 festival. First on the stage was MÁM, the brand-new
production from Teac Damsa and Michael Keegan Dolan. It was the sold out hit of the festival. Teac Damsa previously created ‘Loch Na
hEala - Swan Lake’ which featured at the O’Reilly Theatre in 2016. MÁM mixed traditional Irish Music with contemporary dance to create a
dark and beautiful piece. MÁM received standing ovations every night and was nominated for an Olivier Award for ‘Best New Dance
Production’. The second Dublin Theatre Festival programmed performance was ‘SOPRO’. SOPRO focused on the perspective of the theatre
prompter from Teatro Nacional D Maria II, a background figure who is then thrust, with great reluctance, into the foreground. This
Portuguese production deeply moved audiences and capped another successful year for Dublin Theatre Festival at the ORT.
Belvedere Drama Department then took to the stage with the Junior Musical in late October. This year ‘High School Musical JR’ was the
production for the junior students. A fun week was had by the cast, crew, and audiences alike.
The theatre continued to be busy in November; the ORT hosted another year of ‘Show Choir Ireland’. Show Choir Ireland welcomes young
performers from all over the country to the live final at the O’Reilly Theatre. The teams perform for judges with one group being
crowned the winner. We love having the glitz and glamour return each year.
Next up was a talk with the International Literature Festival. The writer Marian Keyes interviewed chef and author, Nigel Slater. Nigel
Slater was promoting his hotly anticipated new book “Greenfeast: Autumn, Winter”. Marian Keyes had the entire audience in hysterics and
even presented Nigel Slater with a multi-pack of Tayto to remember his trip to Ireland.
In the same week, we also hosted Elizabeth Day in conversation with Amy Huberman. The conversation was recorded for Day’s widely
applauded podcast ‘How to Fail’. The podcast is named after her bestselling book of the same name. The podcast and book focus on the…
4041
Theatre News
The O’Reilly Theatre 2019 - 2020
… many ways in which we fail and become stronger for it.
Next up was the Senior Musical. The drama department went all out with their production of ‘Sweeney Todd’. The students even got a
master class from David Shannon and Cathal Synnott. Both were a part of the Sweeney Todd production that premiered at the Gate Theatre
and won ‘Best Opera Production’ at the Irish Time Theatre Awards in 2007. The Belvedere cast took to the stage for 4 marvellous, sold out
shows.
At the start of December, the auditorium seating got a re-vamp. 500 new seats for audience members to enjoy. They were put to good use
right away, with the second year of Causeway Productions Pantomime at the O’Reilly. This year saw the production of ‘Little Red Riding
Hood’. After each show, the audience got to meet the cast - lots of smiling faces after each performance.
January saw the ORT stage and No.3 used for preparations and rehearsals of the 24-Hour Plays. 24 Hour Plays are all created from start to
finish in 24 Hours, they are then performed at the Abbey Theatre in aid of ‘Dublin Youth Theatre’. Next up was Pat Kinevane
and Fishamble with ‘Silent’. This Olivier award winning play was on the ORT stage for one night only, all proceeds were in aid of ‘Mental
Health Reform Ireland’. The night was a massive success with a full auditorium both laughing and crying throughout the performance.
In February we welcomed back Trinity VDP for another year of pantomime fun. This year's adventure was ‘Hercules’. Trinity VDP work with
numerous groups around Dublin and we look forward to their uplifting performance every year. Right on the heels of Trinity VDP was the
return of the Metropolitan Ballet - this year they created a beautiful production of ‘Alice in Wonderland’. Jay Rayner took to the stage in late
February. The MasterChef judge was at the O’Reilly to launch his new book ‘My Last Supper’ a book all about hypothetical choices for last
meals. The audience got to ask plenty of questions and left with a few recipes as well as a signed book.
In March we had the second year of ‘Class Acts’ – four productions lead by students, with the help of a staff mentor. This year the
productions contained zombies, a desert island, a mystery at an airport and a dramatic piece about living in difficult circumstances.
Alongside the theatre, No.3 Studios continues to grow as a creative hub in Dublin. Many productions have used the rehearsal space in No.3
including: ‘Trad’ by Livin’ Dred (Abbey Theatre 2019), ‘Asking For It’ by Landmark Productions (Gaiety Theatre), Smashing Times and
many more. The No.3 tenants are also continuing their fantastic work at the national and international arts scene.
Thank you to all the audience’s members and to the Belvedere community for your support over the last year!
For further updates, please follow the O’Reilly Theatre on the below social media platforms.
Facebook - Instagram - Twitter or sign up to receive the ORT newsletter through the O’Reilly website.
42You can also read
