AlexPress October 2024
Principal's Update
Embracing Our Future
We welcome Nikki Cathcart to our team as our Alumnae and Development Executive. Following the midterm, we will begin our one-to-one fundraising meetings again. The aim of this campaign is to encourage philanthropic gifts from the community at Alexandra College for our exciting development project, the core of which is our new STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Mathematics) building. We look forward to contacting as many of you as possible, and sharing updates on our development plans with you.
Please contact us at embracingourfuture@alexandracollege.ie if you are interested in contributing to our development plans, whether that be your time, expertise, or financial contribution.
Hope Concert 2024
We are looking forward to the Hope Concert 2024 on Thursday 21 November at 7 pm. Tickets will be available following the midterm break; details will be announced at Assembly and in my weekly communication after our return.
Scholarship Programmes
Registration is currently open for our Scholarship Programmes. This year we have introduced the Dr. Annie Patterson Music Scholarship alongside our boarding and day scholarships. We hope that you will spread the word within your communities to any friends, family, or neighbours who you feel would benefit from an Alexandra College education. Application is very easy and takes just two minutes. Further information on our programmes can be found on our website, or click below to apply now.
Register for the Scholarship Exam
Prizegiving Ceremony
We look forward to welcoming parents and guardians to our Prizegiving Ceremony when we return from the midterm break on Monday 4 November at 2 pm in the Concourse. Details of the prizes being awarded are posted in the Concourse for students.
Our special guest, Sarah Coffey, formerly of The Tenth Man and recent founder of The Muses Creative, a copy and brand voice consultancy, and a past pupil of Alexandra College, will address the girls. She will also distribute awards to the prize winners. We look forward to welcoming Sarah back to the College.
The Debs Reception
We look forward to welcoming the Class of 2024 to the Henrietta White Centre on Tuesday 5 November at 4 pm. They, along with their parents and teachers, will be special guests at the Debs Reception in advance of the Deb’s Ball in the Shelbourne Hotel.
3rd Year Parent Teacher Meeting
The 3rd Year Parent Teacher Meeting will take place on Thursday 7 November from 4:15 pm - 6:45 pm in the Concourse. The Parent Teacher Meeting is an important opportunity for you to meet with your daughter’s teachers to discuss her academic progress to date. Your daughter’s Form Tutor will also be available on the evening. We encourage the guardians of our boarding students to attend the Parent Teacher Meeting, should internationally-based parents be unable to join us.
1st Year Club Gaeilge
![1st Year Club Gaeilge]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1729781886/alexandracollegeeu/hmgtjxgnngrfh9riopfy/20241017_133907.jpg","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1729781886/alexandracollegeeu/hmgtjxgnngrfh9riopfy/20241017_133907.jpg","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1729781886/alexandracollegeeu/hmgtjxgnngrfh9riopfy/20241017_133907.jpg","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_4/v1729781886/alexandracollegeeu/hmgtjxgnngrfh9riopfy/20241017_133907.jpg","width":1200},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_5/v1729781886/alexandracollegeeu/hmgtjxgnngrfh9riopfy/20241017_133907.jpg","width":1600},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_6/v1729781886/alexandracollegeeu/hmgtjxgnngrfh9riopfy/20241017_133907.jpg","width":2200}])
The 1st Year Club Gaeilge enjoyed a successful launch last Thursday, 17 October with songs, dance, a film and games on offer. A special thank you to Laragh, Rachel, Neasa and Muire in 3rd Year, who were instrumental to the club's organisation.
The Big Musical Question 2024/25
![The Big Musical Question 2024/25]([{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_1/v1729785515/alexandracollegeeu/vnyhadvkxpxemo57dse1/Screenshot2024-10-24at45602PM.png","width":256},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_2/v1729785515/alexandracollegeeu/vnyhadvkxpxemo57dse1/Screenshot2024-10-24at45602PM.png","width":512},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto,t_image_size_3/v1729785515/alexandracollegeeu/vnyhadvkxpxemo57dse1/Screenshot2024-10-24at45602PM.png","width":800},{"url":"https://resources.finalsite.net/images/f_auto,q_auto/v1729785515/alexandracollegeeu/vnyhadvkxpxemo57dse1/Screenshot2024-10-24at45602PM.png","width":876}])
Thank you to all those who guessed what this year's Musical would be! The results are in - after 157 guesses, 12 correct answers, we are delighted to reveal that the Musical for 2024/25 is...
Oliver!
Ella M (3R) is our winner and will receive two free tickets to one of the nights of the show in April.
Student Council Corner
Hi everyone, on behalf of the Student Council we are very excited to announce a few important updates on our current initiatives!
Period Poverty Initiative
The Riley initiative has been going extremely well since its launch. Members of the Student Council have been refilling the products in each student bathroom every two weeks. It’s really important to remember that these products are only used in the case of an emergency.
We hope to organise a fundraising event soon to fund the distribution of emergency period products in another school that really needs them. There will be more information on this very soon!
DLR Libraries Initiative
Regarding our collaboration with DLR Libraries on a new membership drive for all senior school students. A librarian is planning to visit the school after the midterm break to drop off the library cards! This membership will grant access to both physical books and online resources through DLR Libraries, which will be especially useful while our school library is under maintenance.
A reminder that these are the libraries you will be able to access: Blackrock Library, Cabinteely Library, Dalkey Library, Deansgrange Library, Dún Laoghaire Lexicon, Dundrum Library, Shankill Library, and Stillorgan Library.
Stay tuned for more updates from the Student Council.
Nicola Molloy (5L), Co-Chairperson of the Alexandra College Student Council
Intercultural Day 2024
Intercultural Day took place last Wednesday and was a huge success. It was a wonderful celebration of all of the cultures within the school community. In the morning there was a special assembly to celebrate Intercultural Day where we got to see all of the students from different countries. Furthermore, a number of girls dressed in their traditional clothing taught us about the materials in which they were made, as well as the different occasions or activities one would wear them for.
In advance of the event, some members of the Student Council also made some visuals to celebrate this occasion. Rebecca (2H) has worked on a map collecting data from student council members asking where students are from and Cathy Wan (6K) has also worked on the posters representing “Both sides now”.
A host of different activities took place, including cultural Just Dance in the Concourse, Japanese and Spanish film screenings in the lecture theatre, and the Kahoot quizzes focused on different flags and cultures. These activities all took place during lunchtime and were a wonderful opportunity for the students to learn about different cultures whilst also having fun.
Overall, it was an incredible day that was enjoyable and enlightening for all members of the community!
A huge thank you to everyone involved in organising this wonderful event!
Ella Nethercott visits TY Filmmaking
Last Wednesday, we had the pleasure of welcoming Alex alumna Ella Nethercott to give a talk to our TY Filmmaking class and the Film Society. Ella, an accomplished filmmaker, has significant experience in the industry and many achievements, including winning Ireland's Young Filmmaker of the Year award in 2021 with her short film ‘Learning to Dance Like a Bird’, Ella has since been a regular member of the Fresh Film Festival judging panel.
During her visit, Ella engaged with the students, sharing insights into her filmmaking journey and the challenges she faced along the way. She provided advice on how to break into the world of filmmaking as a student, offering practical tips and inspiration to the aspiring filmmakers. Her passion for the craft and her success at a young age really resonated with the students, encouraging them to pursue their own creative ambitions in film.
The film making students are in the process of writing their short film scripts for entry into the Fresh Film Festival in January and for the Alex Film Festival in May. It was fantastic to get Ella’s advice and expertise on scriptwriting and filmmaking and to watch some of her short films. Ella is studying Psychology in Trinity College and is in the process of making her next short film.
Challenging Gender Barriers in Sport - Thrive Podcast
Welcome to back to Thrive - a wellbeing podcast for Alexandra College students! In this episode, barriers to women and girls’ participation in sport are discussed. Our student hosts explore the impact of gender stereotypes on athletes and share insights in how we can create a more inclusive sports world.
TY Carlingford Trip
We arrived in Carlingford on Monday and got started with activities straight away. We had three activities every day, one in the morning, afternoon and evening. The activities included ziplining, laser tag, high ropes, archery, water sports and much more. A highlight from the trip was the campfire on the final night. Everybody sat around the fire and we sang songs, listened to music and roasted marshmallows. It was great fun and was a fantastic opportunity to chat and spend time with girls that we didn't know as well. A big bonus was the weather since it didn't rain for the entire trip. Everybody made memories which we will carry from our TY year.
5th Year Art Trip to Gormley's at Charlemont Square
On Wednesday 9th October, Ms. Clegg's 5th Year Art Class had the fantastic opportunity to visit Gormley’s at Charlemont Square. Gormley’s is one of Ireland's largest art and sculpture galleries. We got to see over 250 incredible artworks by some of the biggest international artists, alongside many talented Irish artists. Artists such as Banksy, Tracey Emin and Bridget Riley were all showcased, amongst other upcoming Irish artists. It was interesting to see the wide range of artistic work displayed, with many different styles and approaches. Many of us recognised a sculpture by Sandra Bell that resembled the phenomenal “Nurture” sculpture that we have back in Alex. It is amazing to see work from such a talented artist in our own school every day.
Overall, the trip to Gormley’s art exhibition was a brilliant experience and exposed us to many different artists and their styles. We wish to thank Ms. Clegg and everyone involved in allowing us to have this great experience.
Autumnal Wellbeing Break for 5th Years
The 5th Years took a well-deserved break from their studies this week and enjoyed a lunch time walk by the Dodder with their form class and tutors. We were very lucky with the weather and enjoyed the benefits of the beautiful autumnal light. Of course the delicious toasted sandwiches were a big hit too!
Junior School News
This month's Junior School News features J3's Trip to Dublin Zoo, all things Autumn, and more!
Hermione Headlines
This month's edition of the Hermione Headlines features the Res Halloween Party, a trip to the Nightmare Realm, and more!
Midterm Sports Report
Hockey Midterm Report
Senior Section
Senior 1: Played 3 of the top teams in our league sections, Mt Anville, Beaufort and Kilkenny. Currently sitting on 2 points after 3 games. Some really credible performances and very well placed when the league and cup resume after midterm.
Senior 2: Two difficult results have left our 2s with a lot of work to do after midterm. The team will have 4 games before Christmas that will hopefully reward the group for the work they are putting in.
Senior 3: 1 Win and 1 defeat for our Senior 3s has left them second in the group going into the break. They will be buoyed be their recent 2-0 win over Dalkey.
Senior 4: Tough start for our Senior 4s playing very strong Mt Anville and Loreto Beaufort sides. They will have some more favourable fixtures after midterm.
Junior Section
Junior 1: Win and a close defeat for our Junior 1s. Currently 2nd in the pool with 3 points. The first round of the cup awaits after midterm.
Junior 2: Our Junior 2s have had 3 league fixtures so far. Their recent form has been great with a fantastic performance against Muckross followed by a strong 3-1 win over Rathdown.
Junior 3: Finished off before the midterm break with a 2-0 win over Loreto Foxrock. The Junior 3s currently have a win and a defeat in their league pool.
Minor Section
Minor 1: Our Minor 1s have only played one league fixture so far. A resounding 4-0 win over Our Lady’s Terenure. A tough game against Wesley looms after midterm.
Minor 2: Powerful win over Wesley coupled with a solid 0-0 draw with Holy Child has our Minor 2s well placed in their league pool. Add another win over Templecarrig 3-0.
Minor 3: 6 points from six in their league pool. Our Minor 3s are well placed going into midterm.
Minor 4: A thumping 4-1 win in their first league against Loreto Dalkey will be followed by a home fixture against John Scottus after midterm.
1st Year
8v8 League fixtures have kicked off for our 1st Years. 2 wins, a draw and a defeat came from a block against Muckross last Saturday.
There will be a huge block of 8v8 league fixtures after midterm culminating in a finals day before Christmas.
Soccer Results October 2024
Seniors v Mount Anville, won 6-0
1st Years v St Kilian’s, lost 5-1
Minors v Mount Anville, won 4-1
6th Years v St Mary's Glasnevin, won 2-1
Senior Cup v St David's Greystones, won 5-0
Minors v St Raphaela’s, won 5-2
1st Years v St Kilian’s, lost 4-0
1st Years v Rockford Manor, won 8-0
Athletics Results October 2024
Cross Country
Dublin Schools Cross Country 1st - 3rd Years. Top 22 got medals. Our medalists were:
- 2nd Place: Olivia B (2H)
- 3rd Place: Julia B (2B)
- 8th Place: Mollie C (1R)
- 9th Place: Eva L (1H)
- 17th Place: Lauren K (3R)
- 20th Place: Katherine P (3R)
- 22nd Place: Kate H (2R)
Leinster Schools Combined Events
Participants compete in 60m hurdles, long jump, high jump, shot put, 800m. They collect points in each event based on how well they do and add their total points.
- 6th Place: Alex B (3R)
- 10 Place: Lauren K (3R)
Model UN News
TERMUN (Terenure College MUN)
On Friday 4th and Saturday 5th of October, Alexandra O’D. (4R), Zoe P. (4R), Amy C.T. (3H), Savannah Gordon (5L), Jasmine Z. (3B), and Rima Fukumoto (6J) participated in our first Model United Nations (MUN) event of the year at TERMUN in Terenure College.
We represented the delegation of Japan and we debated 3 topics per committee but we chose our personal favourites:
SOCHUM: The Questions of Gender Ideology in Sport,
ECOFIN: The Question of Trade War between China and the United States,
DISEC: The Question of Cyber Warfare,
Ecology and Environment: The Question of Plastic in the South China Sea,
SPECPOL: The Question of Terrorists Organisations in Government
UNWATER: The Question of Mitigating the Impact of Flooding and Sea-Level Rise on Pacific Island Nations.
Although we didn't win any awards, we got valuable experience in debating with different schools and meeting new people. The team would like to thank Ms. Newsome for her time and assistance in attending with us and look forward to fruitful debating in MUN activities awaiting the year.
RRS MUN (Royal Russell MUN)
From the 19th to the 22nd of October, Alexandra O'D. (4R), Zoe P. (4R), Amy C.T. (3H), Allegra Hogan (5J), Cathy Wan (6K) and Rima Fukumoto (6J) attended the 42nd Royal Russell Conference in London. It was the 2nd Model United Nations event of the year that we attended.
We represented the delegation of Spain and debated 4 topics per committee but here are some of our favourites:
SPECPOL 1: The question of rights of prisoners
ECOFIN: The question of the taxation of global corporations
SOCHUM 2: The question of universal healthcare
SCCC: The question of protecting biodiversity
ENVIRONMENT: The question of the use of GMOs in global food security
On the 19th of October, we departed from Dublin at 8 am and arrived in London. We got to the Royal Russell School by taking the Thameslink and the local tram. For accommodation, we each got our own single rooms on campus.
After settling down, we headed to our committee rooms for the first time, where we had to each read out a policy statement based on our country/delegation's stance on each of our topics. We then had an hour of lobbying, where we sought co-submitters and supporters for our resolutions. At 9 pm, we went to our first disco, which had the theme of pyjamas.
On the second day, we headed to our committee at 10 am where we began debating the passed resolutions. The committee went on until 6 pm with a staggered lunch at around noon. On the day, there was a crisis topic announced when we were in the middle of the debate. We attended the MUN talent show, where Zoe auditioned and made it into the finals. In the auditorium, we saw interesting performances, such as trying to break the world record for the fastest Rubix cube solved. We would like to congratulate Zoe for winning the MUN talent show, which was voted by the audience. After the show, we had our second disco which had the theme 80's and 90's.
The third day was the 2nd day of debating on resolutions in our committee. We continued to debate resolutions in our committee until around 17:00, with lunch in between. In the last 45 minutes of the committee, we had time for games and challenges within our respective committees. In the General Assembly, we debated 3 resolutions with 400 participants in the conference. The theme of our final disco was Halloween.
On the fourth day, we took group photos and then headed to the General Assembly (GA). GA lasted the entirety of the day. We had staggered lunch from 12:00 to 13:30. After GA, we left Royal Russell to get our flight at 19:00 back to Dublin.
This was our first international conference and we all had a lot of fun and made many friends from around the world. We made many resolutions, speeches, amendments, and POIs (points of information) on our debate topics. Overall, we are happy to say that this conference was successful and that it has helped us improve our public speaking skills immensely.
Finally, we would like to thank Ms Leckie for taking up her own time to come and assist us.
We look forward to future conferences!
