Leaving Certificate Class Of 2025 Graduation Ceremony

Growth and Change were the key messages to students at a very memorable graduation ceremony held in DCS yesterday evening.

This very special occasion was marked by a beautiful mass celebrated by Father Teddy, where readings, chosen by the students, from Noah Konan, Robbie O’Brien, Evan Smyth, Tomás Lyons, Ciarán Ó Suilleabháin, James Irwin, Tadhg Daly and Cormac Byrne, reflected the themes of hope, faith and respect; qualities our young men aptly demonstrated over their 6 years with us.

Michael Morley accompanied the procession of symbol bearers with a lovely melody on flute.

A medley of hymns and songs were beautifully sung by the school choir led by Ms Millard. On cello Oscar Casey played a moving rendition of “Down By The Sally Gardens” during the Communion. Michal Szczepan captivated the congregation with a reading of Robert Frost’s thought provoking poem ‘The Road Not Taken’ during the Communion reflection.

Our School Chaplain, Ms. Barry-Murphy, encouraged students to focus on what matters most in life, care for themselves and others, while Mr. Barry reminded them that it is important to stay the course to successfully overcome challenges and achieve in life.

The assembled students, staff, family and friends enjoyed a humorous and heartwarming video montage of the Year’s journey through DCS.

Robbie O’Brien made a presentation to Year Head Mr. Bronks as a thank you for his care and guidance before delivering a heartfelt speech in praise of the retiring (but not shy!) Year Head.

Mr Cian O’Mahony, on behalf of the whole school community, spoke eloquently about our retiring colleague and Yr 6 Head Mr Neil Bronks. He outlined how Neil has been a wonderful teacher, a tremendously supportive colleague and the source of much merriment, some of it intentional, during his time in DCS.

Mr Bronks told us how lucky he has been in life and how privileged he is to be finishing his career on a high note with such a fantastic year group. His message to our departing young men was to say yes to life’s opportunities. 

Principal Mr Pat Barry paid tribute to our long serving SNA, Ms Mary O’Sullivan, who is retiring after 15 years of fantastic service during which she helped so many of our students to realise their potential. Mr Barry concluded the ceremony by wishing all present the very best of luck in the upcoming exams before everyone retreated to the Library and courtyard for refreshments.

To the Leaving Certificate Class of 2025, a cohort of young men with so much energy and potential for life, we wish you the very best of luck in all that lies ahead. You will be remembered and missed!