Transition Year students recently  presented a cheque 817.00 to Concern,  which was the proceeds of their 24 hour fast.   Tom Arnold, Chief Executive Officer Concern, gratefully acknowledged the  generosity of students, and thanked them for their continuing support over the  years.  He then proceeded to discuss the  work of Concern, with great passion, conviction, and an amazing sense of  optimism, given the scale of humanitarian difficulties world-wide.

Into the Woods

The musical ‘Into the Woods’, by Stephen Sondheim, directed  by Mr. Ruttle,  was a resounding success,  as has been the norm since the rejuventation of the Ashton Players Drama Group  some years ago.  Lead roles were played  with all the innocent wonder and awe of childhood, magnificently captured by  the cast of committed dramatic artists and artistes.    Enthralling scenes from the renowned  fairytales  Rapunzel, Cinderella, Jack  and the Giant Beanstalk, and of course Little Red Riding Hood, formed the core  of this musical, generating  memories,  memories, memories!  Well done to you  everyone,  after all the committed rehearsal  work since last September.

NOTE CHANGE of DATE for REUNION: Sonia Coombs (Searls) is  organising a reunion of the class of 1981 for June 18th, 2011, (not  as previously advertised).

Ashton Annual Staff seminar was held on Friday March 11th,  as part of the ongoing continuous professional development for teachers.   A varied, dynamic and informative programme  was organised for the day.   AWARE spoke  in relation to beating depression, a representative from the NCCA spoke about  Junior Cert. Revision and new curricular developments.  A self-confessed dyslexic entrepeneur told  his story of success in defying the odds in terms of dyslexia, showing  determination and  courage.  The final presentation on the day was from a  Sports Psychologist who imbued us with positivity and an ‘I can’ spirit.  The support of School Management and the Board  was warmly welcomed.  Feedback has been  tremendously positive both from staff and from the presenters.

Seachtain na Gaeilge, promoted by the Irish Department,  was in full swing around the corridors of  Ashton, alive with the sound of the ‘cúpla focail’, and beautifully presented  with relevant artistic posters, encouraging us all to speak Irish during this  special time of year.

Mr. Bertie Smith, Principal, announced his retirement from  Ashton, after 37 years committed service to students and staff.  When students were told at Assembly, there  was an audible ‘intake of breath’, followed by long and sustained applause.  While acknowledged as being a ‘hard taskmaster’,  he was renowned for his fairness in dealing with students and staff.   He will be missed by the entire school  community.

In Athletics, Josh Ward in First Year came 3rd in  Munster Minor Cross Country competitions held in C.I.T. recently.  Well done.   He also finished very well at the   National Cross Country event which took place in Dublin, which was  incredible, considering he has only recently taken up running.  We wish him and his coaches luck.  Ashton Minor Boys  who took part in the Hockey Cup Semi-Final  defeated   Bandon with  a resounding  result.  Congratulations one and all.  We are looking forward to hearing many more  ‘good news’ stories like this.

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