Public Speaking
Knights of Columbanus
St Ciaran's College have taken part in Knights of Columbanus public speaking competition since its inception in 2015. The competition was launched to celebrate the centinary in 2015 and was only meant to a one-off competition for that year, however the success of the competition and the response, it was decided to continue it.
Pupils from Key Stage 4 & 5 have taken part under the guidance and support of staff from both the English & the RE departments and have enjoyed much success. In its inaugural year, St Ciaran's College were crowned Runners Up. The team consisted of 3 Year 12 students; Rebecca McGirr, Lauren McKillion & James Murray.
In 2016, two teams from St Ciaran's College, who spoke with great eloquence and passion, qualified and competed for this years All Ireland Final in Maynooth on Saturday 19th March. One of these teams consisting of Sean Muldoon, Orlaith McGarvey & Meabh Corrigan were crowned All Ireland Champions. They spoke on the topic of “Our parishes will attract young people again if…”.
In 2017 St Ciaran's team consisting of Peadar McCaughey, Karl McGee & Eoin McElroy became Ulster Champions.
Throughout the years all of our young people, involved in the various heats and levels of the competition, have been excellent ambassadors for our school in this competition supported by members of the RE and English departments.
St. Ciaran’s were runners- up, again, in the All-Ireland final in 2018, the team consisting of Rebecca Hughes, Gráinne Mc Kenna and Dane Duffy.
Since 2018, moreover, St. Ciaran’s has been competing, successfully, in debates organised by ‘Concern’. This enables senior students to enhance their public speaking, research and debating skills, which are essential for a host of career paths.
YPI - Young Philanthropist Initiative
At Key Stage 3 level, pupils in Year 10 at St Ciaran’s College take part in the Young Philanthropist Initiave (YPI). All our Year 10 pupils take part in raising awareness for many local and notable charities.