Time never stands still at Clongowes and last week (Saturday 12th October), with Elements well settled and engaged in a host of pursuits, the day had arrived to welcome potential members of the Rhetoric class of 2020. There was a palpable buzz in the air as dormitory neighbours for September 2014 laid eyes on each other for the first time. While brochures and the internet are undoubtedly useful tools for allowing people to get a feel for the place, there was an energy permeating through the concourse that would be impossible to capture in pictures or words.
Following a special performance by the traditional Irish music group under the direction of Ms. Catherine Heslin, the boys were whisked off for a basic assessment in preparation for next year along with a series of enjoyable puzzles and brain teasers. Meanwhile, after a spot of toe-tapping to the music of Michael Jackson performed by students from a number of departments, the Headmaster, Fr. Leonard Moloney SJ officially welcomed the parents of the boys who are in line to take the school into its third century!
Amidst the excitement of the day, it was business as usual elsewhere in the school as 465 students and their teachers set about their classwork. With their parents being led on a tour of the facilities by the team of prefects, the boys of Rhetoric 2020 were able to join the rest of the school community in the refectory for some lunch. It served as timely nourishment before they embarked on an afternoon filled with tag rugby, archery and a dizzying obstacle course on the all-weather pitch!
The boys also tasted life in the Clongowes classroom when Mr. Kevin Maume, Mr. Stephen O’Hara, Ms. Edith Kearney and Mr. Michael Quane brought the effect of energy to life through their respective disciplines in our new state-of-the-art science building. Finally, as the busy day drew to a close, the Senior Firsts were cheered in after a hard-earned victory over Belvedere College and it was clear that several boys were dreaming of the day they will take to the field in the famous purple and white.
Thanks to many of the students in Rudiments (2nd year) the day ran smoothly. The boys were involved in looking after the new candidates, helping to give tours and organising the afternoon activities and they deserve great credit for their work. There will be a second open day in the coming months for students unable to make what proved to be a hugely successful occasion.
Mr Richard McElwee
Assistant Third Line Prefect