Ashton Matters July/August 2025

As the academic year draws to a close at Ashton School, we reflect on what has truly been one of our most memorable and successful years to date. For our Sixth Year students, May brought a mix of emotions—bittersweet farewells, anticipation for the future, and the inevitable nerves that accompany the Leaving Certificate examinations.

The Class of 2025 marked their transition from secondary school with a wonderful Graduation Ceremony at the end of May. The evening was warmly opened by Deputy Principal Mr. Lester and School Chaplain Mr. Ruttle. Our Head Students—Mikey Turner, Zoe Fahy, Sarah Chambers, and David Hrihorov—spoke eloquently about their time in Ashton, reflecting on shared experiences and the strong sense of community they have built over the years.

Year Head Ms. Ryan offered poignant reflections and encouraging words on navigating change and embracing the future. Certificates were awarded to students in recognition of their achievements, and the ceremony was interspersed with engaging artistic performances. A particular highlight was Eve McDonald’s moving prose piece, “To My 13-Year-Old Self.”

Parent speaker Shirley Clarke Swanton shared her family’s deep connection to Ashton, adding a touching personal perspective to the evening. The ceremony concluded with our Chaplain Mr. Ruttle offering humorous yet insightful life advice to the graduates. Afterwards, the Parents’ Association hosted a reception in the GPA, where students, staff, and families continued the celebration together.

Second Year students wrapped up their academic year with an exhilarating trip to the Star Outdoor Adventure Centre in Kenmare. Blessed with fine May weather, students enjoyed the Wild Atlantic Water Park along with a variety of land-based activities including the Gauntlet obstacle course, paintballing, and crazy golf. A special thank you to Ms. Power for organising the day, and to accompanying staff members Ms. Ryall, Ms. O’Shea, Ms. Savage, Mr. McBride, and Ms. McKeown for ensuring the day’s success.

As always, the term concluded with the eagerly anticipated Sports Assembly, expertly coordinated by Mr. Kirwan, Ms. Dennehy and Mr. McBride. Among those athletes recognised were Lexi Dunne (Junior Sports Girl of the Year), Dougie Venner (Junior Sports Boy of the Year), Neil Barrett (Senior Sports Boy of the Year), and Nicola Sullivan (Senior Sports Girl of the Year). Congratulations to all on their outstanding achievements.

We also celebrated Ashton students who proudly represented Ireland on the international stage this year. These include Dougie Venner (Sailing), Lexi Dunne (Swimming), Rati Abuladze (Boxing), and Leah O’Leary Callender (Soccer). We look forward to following the continued success of these talented athletes.

Recognition was also given to students who excelled during our annual Sports Day held in May at MTU. Well Done to Isabella Harwicke who won the award for Overall Junior Sports Girl on Sports Day. The Overall Junior Sports Boy award on Sports Day went to Alistair Olaniran. Neil Barrett picked up the Overall Senior Sports Boy award on Sports Day while Tara Cronin won the Overall Senior Sports Girl award on Sports Day. Congratulations to Luke Foley who was awarded the John Hobbs shield for Best Shot Put on Sports Day. Tiffany Daniel was presented with the McKechnie Cup for Senior Girls High Jump. The Joy Murphy shield for an outstanding performance on Sports Day and the Overall Intermediate Sports Boy on Sports Day award went to Eoin Fitzpatrick.

We are incredibly proud of all our students’ accomplishments both in and outside the classroom. As the school year concludes, we thank our dedicated staff, supportive families, and of course, our wonderful students for making 2024–2025 a year to remember.