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1Educating for the Future since 1922St. Joseph’s Grammar School DonaghmoreScoil IósaefSixth Form Prospectus 2024

2Contents526Welcome from the PrincipalBroad and Balanced Curriculum Our HistoryDevelopment at St Joseph’s Grammar School / Scoil Iósaef OutstandingAcademic AchievmentTransferringto St. Joseph’s612Our Mission and Core Values1630Care and WelfareLearning Support201924Meet our Head Pupils32The Cairde Brogán Foundation 34Teaching and Learning 39

340Digital EducationBroad and Balanced Curriculum Links with Industry and Careers EducationArt, Music and Drama Student Voice 465458Sport 64Extra- Curricular Provision UniformPast Pupil Testimonials 665268Volunteering In Cambodia 42International Links44Nueld ResearchProgramme50

44WelcomeDear Parents/Guardians,Thank you for your interest in St. Joseph’s Grammar School/Scoil Iósaef and I hope that you nd this prospectus benecial as your child prepares to move from primary to post-primary education.St. Joseph’s Convent, the name by which the school was formerly known, was founded over one hundred years ago by the Daughters of the Cross, a Belgian Order of Sisters who rst opened their school in 1922 with just a handful of pupils. Since then, the school has grown and expanded so that today we have over 900 pupils and a school estate that is fast extending and modernising.As a Catholic school, our ethos is integral to all that we do, and we remain indebted to the work of our Founding Order whose example of care for others remains central to our focus. At St. Joseph’s/Scoil Iósaef, we believe that if a child is happy, he/she will thrive. We encourage respect of self and for others and our watchword is ‘kindness’ in all our dealings with each other. All of our sta are sensitive to the needs of our pupils, and we oer a pastoral system that ensures our young people are known and valued for who they are. Our ambition is to nurture their talents and feed their imagination so that learning is as much about enjoyment as it is about attainment.We recognise the central role that parents and guardians have in supporting their child during their post -primary school years. Our aim is to work in tandem with our parents and guardians to provide the maximum support and encouragement for our pupils as they grow and develop into young men and women.Our curricular oer is wide, varied and, in addition to the core subjects, we constantly review our range of courses to ensure our pupils are well prepared for the ever-changing world of work.Our ongoing programme of professional development for sta ensures that our pupils get the very best learning experiences from our highly skilled teachers. By the end of their seven years of education at St. Joseph’s/Scoil Iósaef our pupils not only have the broad knowledge base that ensures they excel in public exams, but that they also have the skills and condence to achieve their place on higher apprenticeships or at their choice of university. from the Principal

5Our pupils are encouraged to embrace a host of the many extra-curricular opportunities that are presented both during the school day and beyond it. These build the soft skills required for successful adult life and provide occasions for youngsters to broaden their friendship groups and try out new interests.We are very proud of all our pupils and their myriad of successes and endeavours. If you visit us during our Open Day in January 2024, you will have the chance to come along and meet some of them and listen to what they have to tell you about this great school.PRINCIPALGeraldine Donnelly5

6A history spanning over 100 years6

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10Our Distinctive EthosSt. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef offers high quality and inclusive education for all. As a Catholic Grammar school St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef is committed to providing a high quality and inclusive education for all which is respectful of, and engages with, people of all faiths and none. Everyone is welcome in St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef without distinction of any kind. We are proud of the culture of acceptance that characterises the ethos of St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef and ensures that diverse identities are recognised, welcomed, respected, and cherished. The delivery of all aspects of education at St. Joseph’s /Scoil Iósaef is centred around our core values of kindness, aspiration, integrity, hope, community, faith and service. At the very heart of our ethos is Jesus’ command to love God and neighbour. This command inspires a caring ethos which is characterised by positive and uplifting relationships.

11Everyone is welcome in St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef without distinction.11While we enjoy a very strong tradition of academic excellence, we know that young people only achieve their full potential when they feel happy, secure and are invigorated by their school environment. It is central to our mission to ensure that all our students experience success which is recognised, celebrated, and in line with their individual ability. All those working in St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef, as teachers, leaders, support sta and governors, seek to recognise and treasure the unique gifts of each individual child and to do all they can to allow these to develop and ourish.We are very much aware of, and deeply indebted to, the rich legacy left behind by our founding Order of Sisters, the Daughters of the Cross. The mantra of the Daughters, to “be kind, be kind, be kind”, shapes relationships across the school and guides us to work to ensure that all members of our community are treated with inherent dignity, equality, and respect.

12Guided by faith. Creating leaders. Shaping the future.Our Vision and MissionOUR VISIONMISSION STATEMENTSt. Joseph’s Grammar School / Scoil Iósaef is a progressive community inspired and guided by the example of Jesus Christ. At the heart of our mission is a commitment to creating an environment where everyone feels safe, valued and cherished for who they are. We dedicate ourselves to inculcating a love of lifelong learning which is underpinned by Catholic values, high expectations and aspiration. We are committed to instilling within our students integrity, compassion and social responsibility, empowering them to act in the service of others.12

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14Our Core Values14

15FaithFaith reminds us that each person in our community is on their own faith journey and at their own individual stage. We seek to ensure that everyone is provided with opportunities to explore their faith and the faith of others in a culture of respect and acceptance.CommunityCommunity reminds us that we are a family of God. Our Catholic school is inclusive and welcoming of everyone without distinction of any kind.AspirationAspiration reminds us that we have high expectations of everyone in our community and encourage our students to aspire to be the best they can be. We nurture the holistic growth of all and celebrate achievement in its many facets.IntegrityIntegrity reminds us that we must always be truthful and take responsibility for our actions and their consequences. We are called to be honest, consistent and uncompromising when it comes to doing the right thing.ServiceService reminds us of the Gospel command to love God and to love one’s neighbour as oneself. We aim to honour Jesus by loving and serving Him, helping the weakest and most vulnerable members of our society.KindnessKindness reminds us that the mantra of the Sisters, “Be kind, be kind, be kind”, should guide all we think, all we say and all we do. We must work together to ensure that all members of our community are treated with dignity, equality, and respect.HopeGod is our constant source of hope. Everyone faces challenging and difficult times but we must remember that there is always an ear to listen and a hand to help no matter how difficult a situation may seem.15The core values of St. Joseph’s Grammar School/Scoil Iósaef are grounded in the mission of our founding Order of Sisters, the Daughters of the Cross. These core values are the cornerstone of everything we do and they should be reected in all aspects of daily life. We believe that, being shaped by these core values, our students leave school ready to live out the mission of the Sisters, to be a light of faith to others and to witness the truth of Christ through service and practical outreach.

16Although the foundation of the school dates back to 1922, there has been much work undertaken in recent years to update and modernise the facilities. In 2017, a new £4 million block, housing our sport and drama facilities, was opened towards the back of the school site as part of the Schools Enhancement Programme, known in short as SEP 1. This programme provided for new state of the art facilities which have since been adopted by the Department as the prototype for several other builds of a similar nature in the region.In 2018, the school has been granted a further £4 million investment under SEP 2 which will provide the following new facilities in another new block:- Additional general classrooms- New canteen facilities- New library facilities- Additional resource roomsThe Department of Education has already commissioned the design and the architectural teams for the SEP 2 Project, and we anticipate that work will begin on site, and at a remove from the main school building, in the near future.Alongside the SEP 2 build, the Department has committed to the provision of two additional Irish Medium Classrooms, additional Technology and Manufacturing facilities along with additional car-parking and outdoor recreational spaces for our pupils. All of these will be incorporated into the main works programme along with SEP 2.This is an exciting time for the school as we embark upon a signicant schedule of work which will have an enormous impact on the build and recreational environment for our pupils and sta. Notwithstanding all the new development on site, we are mindful that we also have an iconic heritage building, the Convent as it is fondly known, which stands proud over our Donaghmore village as part of our school estate. Recently, a £1 million refurbishment project has been completed. The beautiful external stonework of this historic building has been restored back to its former glory.It is timely that all the planning work for these multi-million pound investments has been undertaken over the last calendar year, 2022, as this year was the centenary of the foundation of St. Joseph’s Grammar School / Scoil Iósaef. What better armation of the work and success enjoyed by all at St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef than this substantial investment and enlargement of the school which will be enjoyed by your children and generations more to come.Development at St. Joseph’s Grammar School / Scoil Iósaef

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19Outstanding Academic Achievment1989% 3 A*- Cat A Level

20We want all our students to grow into happy, condent, and aspirational young people who feel empowered to take up their place in the modern world. Daily life in St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef is rmly focussed on the care and welfare of our students. We aim to create a safe and secure learning environment and work hard to ensure that relationships for learning are characterised by mutual respect, openness, and trust. Our pastoral care structures aim to support students to eectively overcome barriers to learning and realise their potential. The eectiveness of the personal development and preventative education curriculums is regularly reviewed to ensure it is exible and responsive to the needs of all students. The pastoral team works collaboratively with outside agencies to support the care and welfare of all students.The pastoral care aims in St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef are:- To create and maintain a school culture where students feel safe, valued, known and respected;- To inculcate within students a strong sense of their own dignity, identity and self-esteem, combined with a mutual respect for others;- To proactively support students to develop strategies and change behaviours to maximise mental and physical health;- To prepare students to become eective citizens in the local and global community.20Care and Welfare

21Students study a range of topics, including:- Health and the whole person;- Self-concept;- Feelings and emotions;- Morals, values and beliefs;- Managing inuences and making decisions;- Managing change;- Learning about learning;- Relationships and Sex Education (RSE);- Safety and managing risk;- Drug awareness.The personal development and preventative education provision cuts across the curriculum but is also delivered through discrete weekly timetabled lessons which have been planned to ensure progression. 21

22SafeguardingWe work hard to make sure that all our students understand that their concerns will be listened to, and appropriate action taken. St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef has a robust child protection and safeguarding policy which is in line with guidance issued by the Department of Education. The school engages in a regular process of self-evaluation to ensure that policy and procedure relating to child protection and safeguarding is working to protect students.22

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25We have a dedicated Special Education Needs Coordinator (SENCo), Mr Niall Kelly who leads strategically to ensure that any child with an additional need, whether it be educational or medical, is supported and enabled to reach their full potential, academically and holistically.As SENCo, Mr Kelly’s role is: - To actively lead and coordinate our Learning Support provision;- To act as a valuable point of contact for students, parents, teaching sta, non-teaching sta and outside support services in relation to Learning Support for students of our school; - To enable our students to meet their full potential by removing any barriers, or potential barriers, on their learning journey; - To continually monitor and evaluate SEN provision; identifying and promoting best practice. In terms of meeting all needs and more specically, additional needs, here at St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef, we are proud of our dedicated teaching sta. In addition, we have an excellent team of Learning Support Assistants who go above and beyond to support and help nurture the children in their care. Mr Kelly explains that,“It is an honour, not only to have been entrusted with this vital role in St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef, but also to work with such a dedicated and progressive staff who never give up and are fully committed to meeting the needs of the students in our school”.You can be assured that the sta in St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef will leave no stone unturned to support your child to achieve their full potential. Learning Support25

26Broad and balanced curriculumAs a high performing grammar school we believe in a culture of high aspiration. The curriculum in St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef reects the statutory curricular requirements. It provides students with access to a broad, balanced and exible range of options which are matched well to their needs and interests and provides relevant pathways to appropriate destinations. Our curriculum oers the full range of traditional A Level subjects along with a variety of vocational qualications. Our students continue to enjoy outstanding academic success in all subject areas including English, Science, Mathematics, Languages and the Humanities. Results in external examinations consistently show that our students out-perform the Northern Ireland Grammar Average in many subject areas. Data evidences that we remain one of the top performing grammar schools in Mid-Ulster. The Curriculum Vice Principal has overall leadership responsibility for the curriculum. There is regular review of the curriculum, at all levels, to meet the needs and interests of the current cohort of students and enable them to realise their potential. We work collaboratively with other schools in the Dungannon Area Learning Community (ALC) and the programmes available through the ALC are of high quality and demonstrate commitment to meeting the needs, abilities and aspirations of all students. The end of Years 10 and 12 mark key transition points and the curriculum team works proactively with students and parents to oer the help and guidance needed to make eective and positive subject choices. Our Key Stage 4 and Post-16 curriculums are as exible as possible and enable success.

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Applied Health and Social CareArt and Design BiologyCambridge Technical BusinessBusiness Studies ChemistryDigital Technology Employability and Professional Development Skills (Level 3 Enrichment qualication studied in addition to A Level subjects) Engineering (BTEC)English LiteratureFrenchGeographyHistoryCambridge Technical Information Technology IrishMathematicsMusicNutrition and Food SciencePerforming Arts*PhysicsReligious StudiesSports Science and the Active Leisure IndustrySystems Software Development*Technology and DesignSociologyPost-16 We oer a large range of subjects at Post-16 level. To further enhance our provision, we are part of the Dungannon Area Learning Community.The following subjects are on oer:*Subjects oered as part of the Dungannon Area Learning Community29

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31My name is Thea Lennon and I am a Year 13 student at St. Joseph’s Grammer School Donaghmore. I went to St. Mary’s Primary school Dunnamore before transferring to Dean Maguirc College in Carrickmore for Year 8-12. I absolutely loved my time at Dean Maguirc and did very well in my GCSEs achieving A*-C grades in all of my subjects. I have an ambition to read Law at university in Aberdeen and knew I wanted to continue my studies to A Level. I was unable to study my desired subjected at the Dean and therefore decided to transfer to St. Joseph’s Grammar School where I am currently studying English Literature, Religious Studies and Business Studies. Having visited the Sixth Form Information Afternoon at St. Jospeh’s I knew it oered a wide range of subjects and that it was the right place for me. My favourite subject is Religious Studies because we study Ethics and Philosophy and I nd the modules interesting and enjoyable.St. Joseph’s is genuinely a very welcoming school. There is fantastic support and sta have been there to support me every step of the way. The pupils have a welcoming persona and always make sure there is a friendly face to talk to if needed. The move was easier than I ever could have imagined. Since coming to St. Jospeh’s I have been amazed at the wide range of extra curricular programmes I have been oered to develop my skills and build my condence. I gained a placed on the community link programme which has allowed me to go to Sperrin View Special School in Dungannon one morning a week to work with students with special needs. Next October I will travel to Lake Garda with my new friends on a school trip- something I cannot wait for. I never imagined sailing on Lake Garda, visiting Garda Land or Venice would be part of my school career! The careers support at St. Joseph’s is rst class. There is a wide range of careers workshops and programmes to really open your eyes to the opportunities available. The school has really good links with business and industry and this opens so many doors for us. Recently, we took part in Catalyst’s Generation Innovation programme, where we took part in a design thinking experience solving a real world problem for a real business. This helped me to understand that I am creative and work well collaborating with others. Overall, St Joseph’s Grammer school has been the right choice for me and I am very happy. I am condent that with the help of sta in St. Jospeh’s, I will achieve my ambition of becoming a solicitor. I would absolutely recommend St. Josephs for anyone who is considering moving schools for A levels based on the friendly and warm-hearted people in Donaghmore alone!Good luck is your decision making.Transferring to St. Joseph’s Grammar School for Sixth FormTHEA LENNON 31

3232Meet our Head BoyCONOR NUGENTMy name is Conor Nugent, and I am honoured to be the Head Boy of St. Joseph’s Grammar School / Scoil Iósaef, Donaghmore. I look back on the last seven years spent at this school- the best seven years I could imagine- with great gratitude and pride. If it wasn’t for St. Joseph’s Grammar School, I would not be the person I am today. I was the only pupil transferring from my primary school and I was the only one in my class to sit the transfer test!At rst it was daunting, but almost immediately, the school’s warm and welcoming atmosphere made the transition seem easy and eortless. The opportunities waiting to be grasped at St. Joseph’s Grammar School are endless. I have had the chance to explore the vibrant views of Verona and Venice and experience a once-in-a-lifetime week in Boston College through the Helen McRory Scholarship, attend a live Centenary Mass in RTE Studios, Dublin, a school football team visit to Knock Shrine, and a Religion trip to Stranmillis University. These are just a few examples of the opportunities aorded to me by this school. These experiences allowed me to grow closer to those around me and broaden my perspectives and knowledge of myself.In this school, I have developed friendships that will last a lifetime. In St. Joseph’s, the educational support inside the classroom, coupled with the pastoral care, really sets us apart from other schools. The lengths that the sta go to for the pupils is evident on a daily basis making school both exciting and enjoyable. This was even more apparent to me during the Covid-19 pandemic, where teachers and Senior Leadership in school ensured that the students’ learning was not hindered, and frequently checked in on pupils’ well-being. In St. Joseph’s, I have not only been made to realise my potential, but have been helped to achieve my absolute best. I hope to study Law next year and pursue a career practicing Law in the future.This school has shown me the sky is the limit, and I feel very fortunate to have had such supportive staff and friends in this school. I will forever be grateful to St. Joseph’s, Donaghmore.Enjoy the journey, take theopportunities and most importantly, have fun!

3333Meet our Head GirlAOIFE QUINNMy name is Aoife Quinn and I feel very privileged to say that I am the current head girl in St. Joseph’s Grammar School/ Scoil Iósaef Donaghmore. As I reect on my last seven years spent in school, I feel immense gratitude for the unforgettable memories and experiences. I truly believe that this school has helped me to become the strong, resilient person that I am today. I fondly look back on my early days at school, particularly the transition from a relatively small primary school to the larger setting of St. Joseph’s Grammar. Despite initial nerves, I found myself instantly embraced by the school’s strong sense of community. From the moment I stepped through the doors, I was warmly welcomed and it didn’t take long for me to form lifelong friendships.This school provides an opportunity for academic excellence, while there is also a clear emphasis on developing pupils holistically through oering an extensive range of enrichment opportunities. I have been involved in many aspects of school life, from music lessons and concerts to a variety of dierent sporting experiences. Notable highlights of my school journey include an exhilarating day working as an extra on the set of ‘Derry Girls’, my nomination and success in achieving a Queens University Belfast Future Star award and an incredible nal year trip away to Lake Garda in Italy.Today, I identify myself as outgoing, eager to learn, high achieving and motivated. These qualities are a direct result of the invaluable education I have received here in St. Joseph’s Grammar School. The unconditional encouragement and support from teachers here in school has enabled me to ourish academically and achieve strong grades in both my GCSEs and AS Levels. The teachers express genuine passion and interest in every individual pupil’s education, subsequently instilling condence in me to apply to study Medicine at University. I hope to demonstrate the lifelong skills that I have acquired here in St. Joseph’s in the future as a doctor.I am profoundly grateful for the opportunities, guidance and unwavering support I have received in St. Joseph’s Grammar School. The impact of this nurturing environment will forever resonate in my pursuits and aspirations, shaping not just my academic journey but also the person I aspire to become. With heartfelt appreciation, I eagerly anticipate the adventures that lie ahead, carrying forth the ethos and values of St. Joseph’s Grammar with me every step of the way.

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35The Cairde Brogán Foundation was established in November 2017 in memory of a former member of sta, Sr Mary Brogán. By promoting high level collaboration with employers, innovation hubs, and other education providers. The Foundation creates tangible, career related opportunities to empower our students to be ready to take up their place in a rapidly changing world. “The Cairde Brogán Foundation gives our students the opportunities, experiences, and skills for the world of work that will set them apart from others.” The Cairde Brogán Foundation seeks to harness the skills and experience of our patrons to oer pioneering careers support to our students, including: - Career mentoring;- Work placement opportunities;- Job coaching;- Interview skills training;- Internships;- Higher apprenticeship opportunities;- Professional referrals and endorsements;- Scholarships for further study;- Scholarships for sport and the arts;- Entrepreneurial guidance and training;- Fundraising to support the work of the Foundation;- Opportunities to work shadow leaders in their eld.Cairde Brogán FoundationPRINCIPALGeraldine Donnelly35

36The Sr Mary Brogán Academic ScholarshipIn October 2021, The Cairde Brogán Foundation launched ‘The Sr Mary Brogán Academic Scholarships’.Principal, Mrs G. Donnelly, explained that the scholarships are a “practical expression of the legacy of Sr Mary Brogán who revelled in the successes of our students long after they left St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef”. The Sr Mary Brogán Academic Scholarship provides nancial support to current and past students of St. Joseph’s Grammar School / Scoil Iósaef. In the 2022-2023 academic year, scholarships were oered to past students to support the payment of undergraduate or postgraduate degree tuition fees.As part of the scholarship programme these past students return to St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef to deliver a range of programmes related to the personal and professional development of the current student body.The Foundation was also extended to include “The Helen McRory Scholarship” which funded two Year 13 pupils’ travel and accommodation costs to attend a one week faith based camp in Boston College, Massachusetts. This experience has been invaluable for their own personal development and they have been generous in promoting this opportunity with other younger pupils so that they too gain the skills and values the programme brings.

37The 2022-2023 Helen McRory Scholarship recipients:Conor Nugent Niamh McCormick37STUDYING PHARMACY QUBNiamh BranniganRecipient of Cairde Brogán Scholarship 2022-2023

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39As part of our partnership with the University of Oxford, our teachers have presented their research at conferences to educationalists from across the UK and Ireland.At St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef we are committed to being fully involved with educational research and evidence-based practice to ensure that we remain at the forefront of global developments in teaching and learning. We are passionate about teaching and learning and want our students to have the very best school experience possible. St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef proactively builds links with universities and other external stakeholders to engage our students and sta in research and dialogue around pedagogy and other education initiatives.Since 2017, St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef has secured four funded research scholarships from the University of Oxford to allow our sta to carry out pioneering educational research to improve the learning experiences of students within St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef and further aeld. As part of our partnership with the University of Oxford, our teachers have presented their home grown educational research in Donaghmore at conferences to educationalists from across the UK and Ireland. As a result of the pioneering educational research developed here at St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef schools from across the UK and Ireland have invited our teachers to deliver professional development sessions to their sta, showcasing that the teaching, learning and educational provision here at St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef truly is world class. Innovation in Teaching and Learning

4040“Our status as an Apple Regional Training Centre is another important development in our commitment to deliver high quality staff training that makes a real difference to the children in the classroom. I am delighted too that we will be able to facilitate educators from both within our own school and from within the wider local area.” Digital EducationMR D TENNYSONIt is our vision to be a sector-leading provider of innovative digital education. As part of our approach to education, our aim is to equip students with the skills and abilities to achieve their full potential in a digital 21st century environment. St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef is one of a small number of post-primary schools in Ireland to be designated as an Apple Regional Training Centre (RTC).Being selected as an Apple RTC highlights our commitment to facilitating training for teachers to develop skills and build condence to use Apple technology in the classroom. Domhnach Mór Apple RTC is a bilingual training centre and will deliver a range of courses in both Irish and English. 40

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42Since 1922, our school has been dedicated to upholding the values of the Daughters of the Cross. We believe in nurturing well-rounded citizens who respect and appreciate diverse cultures, contributing meaningfully to society. We are committed to oering our pupils the very best educational experiences, including local, regional and global trips. International trips are a cornerstone of this mission, oering students the opportunity to explore the world, fostering global perspectives.As we look back on our rich history and forward to future adventures, St. Joseph’s Grammar School, Scoil Iósaef, remains steadfast in providing educational opportunities that extend beyond borders, preparing students for a world of possibilities allowing them to forge new friendships, improve teamwork and enhance their communication and social skills.We have a range of well-established international links which oer our pupils an international perspective. Student testimonials of recent trips to USA, England, France, Germany, Greece, Italy and Poland have highlighted the profound impact of these experiences on our students. We eagerly anticipate our upcoming ski trip to Pinzolo, Italy in January. These ventures are an integral part of our commitment to provide a holistic education for our students while making happy lifelong memories.International Trips42

4343‘Ever To Excel’ programme, Boston USAConor Nugent and Niamh McCormick took the opportunity to participate in the Ever to Excel programme in Boston College, USA. This is a faith-based programme guided by the teachings of Saint Ignatius of Loyola and aims to help participants to learn more about their place in the world and how to create a more meaningful life through the lens of Ignatian spirituality. It was a real privilege for Niamh and Conor to be the rst recipients of our Helen Mc Rory scholarship foundation which facilitated this experience, living out the legacy of our devoted former principal.“I will be forever grateful being awarded the rst Helen Mc Rory Scholarship which gave me the opportunity to travel to Boston college this summer to attend the ‘Ever To Excel’ programme. This programme focused on faith and personal growth and has provided me with transferrable skills that I will certainly implement in my life. Each day a new keynote speaker fuelled my inner determination and motivation to become the best version of myself.My time at Boston College was lled with new experiences and meeting new people. I met a fellow student, Ciara, from New York; we share the same future aspirations to study medicine. We remain in regular contact and I hope one day in the future our paths will cross again.”YEAR 14YEAR 14Niamh McCormickConor Nugent “The global networking opportunity that this trip afforded me was something special. To have made friends that I am still in regular contact with from Japan, Mexico, Dublin and lots of different states in America, is just fantastic.”

44On the 19th October 2023, a dedicated team of sta and seventy-two year 14 students embarked on our most recent international school trip. The ve-day trip to Italy blended culture, history, and adventure into an unforgettable experience for both our students and sta. Against the stunning backdrop of Lake Garda, we learned the art of sailing on its crystal clear waters. We navigated the enchanting canals of Venice by gondola and were enthralled by the ancient echoes of the Amphitheatre of Verona which brought history to life. A cable car journey to Monte Baldo aorded breathtaking panoramic views, oering a serene contrast to the captivating charm of Sirmione. The heart-pounding rides on the Oblivion and Raptor rollercoasters at Gardaland were not for the faint hearted and few could keep up with Mr O’Neill! This recent adventure was not just a trip but a special experience for our year 14 students whose experiences of school trips up until this point had been impacted by the pandemic. As always, our students were an absolute pleasure!In Berlin, our students had the opportunity to delve into history at the DDR Museum, gaining insights into the intriguing aspects of life in East Germany during the Cold War. In Krakow, our visit to Auschwitz provided a poignant lesson in history, followed by a visit of the Salt Mines, we also managed to make time for some shopping, ice skating and axe throwing activities. 44Our year 14 Lake Garda TripOur trip to Berlin and Krakow

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46Careers Education Information and Guidance (CEIAG)St. Joseph’s Grammar School / Scoil Iósaef, Donaghmore is committed to being at the forefront of innovation and we work hard to foster high quality and meaningful links with industry to ensure that our students achieve the very best opportunities on offer.Careers Education Information and Guidance (CEIAG)Careers education is an integral part of the curriculum at St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef and has a vital role in guiding our young people towards a place of employment in the future. In the rst three years, careers education is delivered through Education for Employability lessons and in Year 10 this assists the students with making informed subject choices for Key Stage 4 study. Our Year 10 students also receive detailed careers information from their subject teachers and Head of Departments as well as attending a Year 10 options evening where parents and students receive detailed presentations from the Head of Careers, Mr P Corrigan, and Head of Curriculum, Mrs O McCourt. Our school curriculum team liaise closely with the careers department and are determined to ensure a learning pathway which maximises both the learner’s potential and their career options. In Year 12 all students 46

47have careers lessons which seek to inform them of the various training, work and study options available to them at 16 years of age. Year 12 students also undertake valuable work experience which helps to increase their knowledge of specic jobs and work places. Year 12 students also take part in an A-level subject choice afternoon and mini careers fayre where they are able to engage with subject teachers, A-level students and businesses to help inform their choice for progression at Post-16. Each year group avails of a dedicated careers workshop delivered by Young Enterprise N.I. where they engage in a range of interactive activities to explore a theme relating to the world of work. Our careers ocer, Nuala Madden, has a very important role in school delivering individual tailored advice to our students at important transition points like Year 10, Year 12 and Year 14. The school is a member of the Dungannon Area Learning Community where careers sta meet regularly to develop resources and skills to enhance the teaching of careers in their schools.Generation Innovation Work Experience ProgrammeOur Year13 pupils have access to a variety of work place experience, particularly a block of 3 days which are completed in Term 3. We also have a partnership with Catalyst NI to allow our Year13 students to complete the Generation Innovation work experience programme.Generation Innovation is an innovative approach that reimagines traditional work experience and energises the imaginations and aspirations of our students by increasing their knowledge of 21st-century skills and awareness of future careers in innovation. Students receive Design Thinking training and learn how to work as part of a team. 47

48I chose the apprenticeship route because, during my time in school, I discovered that I am a practical learner who thrives in hands-on environments, as evidenced by my performance in subjects like Art and Design & Technology.Embarking on an apprenticeship involves not only applying and securing a place in the desired course but also nding a suitable employer. To streamline this process, I utilised the Workplus website, which facilitated the completion of an application form applicable to multiple employers. The platform also provided guidance on relevant courses for specic employers.In September 2023, I commenced my Higher Level Apprenticeship (Level 5) in Civil Engineering. This program requires me to attend classes once a week at Belfast Metropolitan College , with the remaining four days dedicated to on-the-job experience. I am thoroughly enjoying my apprenticeship at Environment Techniques, a company specialising in drainage investigation surveys and repair/rehab work across Ireland, Scotland, and the Isle of Man. Their distinctive approach involves trenchless technology to minimise environmental impact.The Apprenticeship Pathway48

49PUPILJulia KupliasAs an Assistant Project Manager, I have been exposed to various facets of each project. My responsibilities include crafting health and safety documents, compiling deliverables, communicating with clients, contributing to tender submissions for frameworks, developing construction phase plans, quality-checking survey information, utilising AutoCAD, creating schematics, and overseeing job progress. Recently, I’ve also been involved in the recruitment process for operatives. This diverse role provides me with invaluable experience not only in Civil Engineering within the water industry but also in Project Management.Despite the demanding schedule of attending classes and working, I nd the experience highly rewarding. The small class size at Belfast Met (20-30 people) fosters an interactive and supportive learning environment. Balancing academic commitments with on-the-job responsibilities requires eort, but I wholeheartedly recommend this apprenticeship route. I am condent that, upon completion, I will emerge with substantial knowledge and experience in both Civil Engineering and Project Management49

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51In addition to providing high quality teaching and learning and ensuring that I can achieve my very best in examinations, St. Joseph’s has supported me to develop a wide range of employability related skills. At St. Joseph’s there is a real focus on the softer skills needed for success in life after school and we are encouraged to exploit all opportunities to network and gain hands on real world experience in industry. One such example is being given the opportunity to complete a Nueld Research Programme placement at Armagh Observatory and Planetarium in astrophysics in July 2022. My project title was “Mapping the Densest Carbon Monoxide Clouds in the Southern Galactic Plane”. To complete this, I spent two weeks on site, in the new QUB Bell Building along with another student comparing four datasets and creating catalogues of our ndings, under the supervision of a nal year QUB PhD student. At the end of the placement, I created a nal report and poster which I presented at the Long Gallery in Stormont.I applied to NRP to gain experience and be able to boost my UCAS personal statement. I found my placement to be a major factor in my statement as experience within physics can be hard to gain. It is also benecial for knowing more about a possible career in each STEM area.From taking part in the placement, I was aorded the opportunity to meet real Physicists, PhD students and other people my own age. In the coming months I may even be credited for my work in a scientic paper published by my project supervisor. I’m glad I applied as it helped me understand what a job as a physicist would entail, (which was my main goal) and has helped me to decide that while I aim for a career involving physics and maths, this is not a career that I personally wish to pursue.Nufeld Research Programme 51EIMEAR SCULLION

52Uniform52All students must have:School BlazerSchool PulloverWhite shirt/blouseSchool clip-on tie (Senior Boys Striped Tie)Checked skirt - worn below the kneeBottle green tightsBlack trousers – the hem of the trousers should sit neatly on the top of the shoes, not skinny trousersBlack socksAll pupils must wear black leather shoes; canvas type shoes are not permittedPE UniformAvailable from Begley’s Sports School JerseySchool ShortsSchool SocksOptional for both Boys’ and Girls’St. Joseph’s Grammar eece lined jacket is not compulsory but recommended if your child walks to school or has to wait at a bus stop. No other eece/jacket is permitted. School scarf onlyAll hairstyles must conform to the school rules ie: no excessive styles or unnatural hair colouringsA single piercing may be in the lobe of the ear onlySt Joseph’s Grammar School/Scoil Iósaef pupils are ambassadors for the school and are therefore required to observe strictly the school regulations with regard to school uniform and to take pride in their uniform. Please see below details for Sixth Form school uniform requirements for September 2023. If skirts or trousers are purchased and are shorter than the regulation length the pupil will be asked to change it. Uniform once purchased should not be adjusted. Uniform items can be obtained from Kelly’s Drapery, Dungannon and Mc Girr’s, and No.5, Coalisland. The stockists have been informed of the school’s uniform requirements.

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55In St. Joseph’s Grammar School / Scoil Iósaef, we understand the value of participating in the creative arts. With global employers crying out for graduates with skills that meet the needs of the 21st-century economy – from innovation to critical thinking and adaptability – we consciously place a high value on creativity and are constantly looking for exciting and engaging ways to nurture these skills in our students. In St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef we believe that the arts can act as a key, unlocking many of the skills that inspire children to engage with their studies and love learning. Skills which can therefore, support academic success.Art, music and drama are a vital and enriching part of education at St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef. They allow the students to develop alternative approaches and strategies for problem-solving and thinking. Even if students do not follow on to a creative career, they take with them the ability and skills to think dierently and numerous studies have shown that employers value individuals with fresh viewpoints who can nd alternative means to solutionsDramaIn 2016 our state of the art drama suite was opened as part of a £4 million capital investment project meaning that our students learn in a rst class facility with the most up to date technology. Students at Key Stage 3 have Drama once per week. The focus of Key Stage 3 Drama is William Shakespeare’s quote “All the World’s a Stage”. Our Drama Department believe that all students should have the opportunity to express themselves. In Year 8, we focus on basic dramatic skills such as facial expression and body language. The Year 9 curriculum focusses on William Shakespeare, as well as analysing and creating short movies with our Green Screen. We also look at analysing script and building character proles in Year 10. Our after school drama club is very popular. In October 2022 we held a sell-out performance of ‘Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’Art, Music and Drama

56Art and DesignThe quality of our students’ artwork is outstanding, so much so that our students’ GCSE and A Level portfolios are regularly showcased at the annual Northern Ireland ‘True Colours’ exhibition. Individual students have been placed 1st overall in NI at both GCSE and A Level in recent years. Our students enjoy workshops provided by visiting artists and craftspeople who provide insights into their speciality and show our students how to perfect their skills. The study of Art takes our students beyond the classroom. There are annual visits to local art galleries and a trip is currently being planned to Barcelona to view the artworks and architecture on display.MusicThe Music Department plays an active role in the life of St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef, not only providing an excellent base knowledge of Music to all students but giving the opportunity to excel in musical development and performance outside the classroom. Along with providing music for all school events our choir and instrumental groups have performed with Peter Corry, Liam Lawton, Malachi Cush and for the Lady Mary Peter’s Foundation. The rich history of music in our school has developed into a vibrant and dynamic expression of talent and ability recognised far beyond the connes of St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef.56

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58Ulster Schools GAASt. Joseph’s entry and aliation with Ulster Schools GAA in 2008 marked the beginning of a remarkable journey. The rst taste of senior success came in 2010 when the school clinched the Grade 3 Ulster Colleges Nolan Cup. Despite a narrow loss in the All-Ireland semi-nal that year, the appetite for success only grew, strengthening the resolve of the school’s committed coaching team.Over the past 15/16 years, the coaching team has grown in number, representing one of the greatest successes of St. Joseph’s Grammar School.The current senior team, building on this foundation, has embarked on the season with enthusiasm and determination. The senior teams rely on the goodwill of two local GAA clubs, Donaghmore GFC and Galbally Pearse’s, using their facilities for the three senior weekly training sessions and games.A pivotal moment in this journey came in 2019 when St. Joseph’s made the leap from C Colleges to B Colleges in all age groups with the Year 9 Team narrowly defeated in the Corn Colmcille nal. The Senior Boys team continued their upward trajectory by entering the Mac Larnon Cup in 2020, reaching the last 16. The next campaign they suered a narrow defeat in 2022 to eventual champions Patrician Carrickmacross in the semi-nal.The pinnacle of the Senior Teams success was in 2023, with the Senior Team winning the Mac Larnon Cup in the Dub Arena Belfast. This hard-earned victory was followed by a triumph in the All-Ireland series, where they defeated Abbey CBS Tipperary in challenging conditions at the Connacht Centre of Excellence in March 2023.In October 2023, the Senior Mens team won the University of Ulster 7’s competition. In the same Tournament Noah Grimes picked up a personal accolade as player of the tournament. Following the success, this Senior Team have now topped their group in their maiden Mac Rory Cup campaign. The team are now through to the Quarter Final where the best 8 schools in Ulster will compete for the prestigious Danske Bank Mac Rory Cup.

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61“As a parent and a former governor I have watched sport go from strength to strength in St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef. The school is a force to be reckoned with on the pitch. I have seen rst-hand that St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef now produces some of the best and up-coming talent in Tyrone GAA. You just had to look at the make-up of the Tyrone Minor nalist panel in the summer to see the calibre of sport in the school”. Sport is an integral part of life in St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef and it is constantly evolving. We are justiably proud of the progress our many teams have made working their way up through the various grades, for example in Ulster Colleges football. We have a rich tradition of sporting success in St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef and in recent years this has gone from strength to strength. Over the last years the school has seen some signicant achievements on the sporting front. Principal, Mrs Geraldine Donnelly, speaking alongside Feargal Logan, joint-manager of the Tyrone Senior team, referred to St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef as a “incubator for Tyrone GAA talent”. Our new state of the art sports building is augmented by access to the local GFC pitches and our students are able to benet from specialist GAA coaching in their after school training sessions. We understand that sport is to be enjoyed by all, not just in the competitive sense, but also because of the health and well-being benets it brings. We encourage our students to nd the sport they love, be that swimming, cross country, netball, handball, basketball or gymnastics. Ultimately we aim to ensure our students enjoy a healthy mind in a healthy body.Sport61FEARGAL LOGAN

62Sports Competitions Sports competitions that our students are entered for include:BOYS’ GAELIC FOOTBALL Senior MacRory Cup Years 11 / 12 Raerty Cup Years 10 / 11 Treanor CupYears 9 / 10 Loch an Nuir cupYears 8 / 9 Corn Colmcille Year 8 Oisin McGrath ShieldHURLING Year 10 Tyrone Schools Development League Rell cup years 9 / 10Years 8 / 9 Mallon cupCAMOGIE Ulster Schools Post Primary Senior League Ulster Schools Post Primary Under 14 League LADIES’ GAELIC FOOTBALL Senior Ladies’ Ulster Schools Under 19 LeagueUlster Schools Under 16 Schools League Ulster Schools Under 14 Schools LeagueYear 8 Ulster Schools Development BlitzATHLETICS District Schools Athletics ChampionshipsUlster School MS Athletics ChampionshipsCROSS COUNTRY District Schools ChampionshipsUlster Schools Cross Country ChampionshipsNETBALL Year 8 Area Netball BlitzYear 9 Area Netball Blitz BASKETBALL Year 8 Ulster Schools BlitzSWIMMINGUlster Grammar Schools Championships

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6565Student VoiceThe aim of the School Council in St. Joseph’s Grammar School / Scoil Iósaef is to encourage all students to play an active, conscious, democratic role to improve their school community. St. Joseph’s / Scoil Iósaef School Council is a forum for enabling students to oer opinions and advice on a broad range of subjects. Students are elected to represent their year group and attend meetings with other year group representatives at various times through the school year. OUR SCHOOL…OUR VOICEThe Student Council acts as the voice of the students, helping to put forward ideas, raise issues of concern and bring about change. Council members are regularly consulted on relevant school policies and have their opportunity to have a say in the matters that ultimately impact them. Recent initiatives that students on our council have been the driving force behind include updating our uniform at Sixth Form and the introduction of a wider range of healthy food alternatives in our canteen.There is no doubt that being a School Council member has a lasting impact on the lives of our students, equipping them with a skillset to help them navigate through life. It helps develop their leadership qualities, communication and listening skills and working as part of a team to drive positive change. 65

66Extra-Curricular ProvisionWe believe students learn as much, if not more, outside the classroom as they do inside it. Our extra-curricular provision is designed to build resilience, improve self-discipline, and develop the skills required to work as part of a team.MUSICChoir Orchestra Traditional Group String GroupCLUBSDrama Club Maths Puzzle ClubChess Club Debating ClubPublic Speaking Club Arts and Craft ClubFilm Club Cookery Club Eco-Committee Table Tennis Club Coding Club ICT Club Cumann Gaelach Liturgy Sacred Space Science ClubHorticulture Club Engineering ClubWater SportsLINK-UP GROUPS Sperrinview Special School DungannonSt Patrick’s P.S. Donaghmore St. Joseph’s P.S. GalballyDonaghmore County P.SEdendork P.S., St Mary’s LisbouyGaelscoil/Naíscoil Aodha RuaCOMPETITIONSIrish Language CompetitionsAshbourne Shield Rotary Club Competition Quizzes Environmental Youth Speak

67Irish Drama Competitions University of Leeds Maths ChallengeGeo ChallengeOTHER Charity Fundraising Literacy Mentoring Numeracy Mentoring Credit Union Daughters of the Cross AwardMuiredach Cross AwardJohn Paul II Award Habitat for Humanity International Build, CambodiaHabitat for Humanity Change makers ProgrammeDaughters of the Cross Public Speaking Competition Knights of Columbanus Public Speaking CompetitionGuitar for beginners Minecraft ClubTae agus PléGeography Clinic Mock Magistrates Mindfulness/mediation Pioneer groupGardening ClubMarvel ClubGael ZoneYogaDaily MileRunning/Cross Country 67

68My journey at St. Joseph’s began in September of 2016, having come from a small rural primary school in Galbally the idea of a large secondary school was quite daunting. However, the tightknit and warm atmosphere around St. Joseph’s made me feel right at home. I remember sta and older students at Donaghmore going out of their way to ensure myself and fellow rst years felt at ease. Choosing Donaghmore was an easy decision for me to make. Being the last of six children in my family who had all attended St. Joseph’s before me it had been a natural choice for me to make. Despite this, the variety of choice oered at St. Joseph’s from academic, sports, music, arts and social, it really did make my decision that bit easier.Looking back on my time at St. Joseph’s I am lled with nothing but fondness and gratitude for a wonderful seven years spent in a place that has shaped me into the person I am today. Throughout those seven years, the variety of activities that was oered to me was nothing short of amazing. I have gotten to take part in various Past Pupil Testimonialtrips and events that have bridged the gap between academics and extracurriculars. In third year, I got to undertake a trip to Rome with the religion department. During this trip we got to visit some of the most exciting things Italy has to oer. From tasting proper Italian food, to sightseeing at the colosseum and an unforgettable audience with Pope Francis. These are some of my most fond memories and ones which will last a lifetime. I was also oered the opportunity to participate in the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme. During this experience I got to develop skills, including teamwork, leadership and problem solving, all of which are transferable skills that will follow me throughout university and into my career. Throughout this award we took expeditions to various exciting and challenging terrain including the Mourne mountains and the Sperrin’s. Not only was this experience extremely valuable in learning life and practical skills but it was also lled with good criac and even better company.In my nal year at St. Joseph’s, I had the great honour of being appointed as head boy. In this position I had the opportunity to represent the school in various capacities. Throughout the year the school also celebrated the centenary year of the daughters of the cross.

6969This gave me the opportunity to participate in a once in a life time experience of going to the RTE studios to participate in a live, televised school mass to commemorate and acknowledge the commitment and dedication of the daughters of the cross in the development of our school. This was such a memorable and unforgettable experience that I wouldn’t have been possible at any other school. One of my proudest moments at St. Joseph’s was when my artwork was selected for the annual True colour’s exhibition in the Ulster Museum in Belfast. This was monumental for me, and I wouldn’t have been able to achieve such an accomplishment without the support and guidance from the department teachers who constantly encouraged me to achieve my best and instil a condence in my own ability. St. Joseph’s is not only full of amazing opportunities and trips to get involved in, but the level of teaching is nothing short of fantastic. Throughout the Covid-19 pandemic the teachers and sta worked tirelessly to ensure that their students still achieved the education and grades that they deserved. This helped make the transition from GCSE to a level that bit less daunting. For my AS and A levels I decided to study Chemistry, Biology, Art and Maths. Subjects which helped prepare me for the rigour of medical school. Throughout my university application process there were constantly new challenges from personal statement to interviews to entrance exams, the list does go on. However, the careers department were always there to oer support and advice to any queries LIAM CARBERRYPAST PUPILI might have had. As well as this they organised work experience, conducted mock interviews and enabled us to have discussions with experienced doctors. St. Joseph’s helped to best prepare me for the next step in my academic career. Upon achievement of A level’s, the school prompted me to apply for the JP McManus, All Ireland Scholarship. To my surprise and extreme gratitude, I was awarded this very sought-after prize. This has made life at medical school a bit less stressful, if that’s possible, by easing the nancial burden of tuition fees. I was instantly so thankful and grateful, and I can whole heartedly say that if it wasn’t for the support provided by sta at St. Joseph’s then achievement of this scholarship would not have been possible. Upon leaving St. Joseph’s, I brought with me friendships that will last forever, memories that I will cherish and a great sense of pride in my accomplishments. I can wholeheartedly say that my choice to study at St. Joseph’s is the reason that I am where I am today. 69

70In Hoc Signo VincesIn This Sign Thou Shalt Conquer