BALLINODE COMMUNITY COLLEGE
After a difficult start to the campaign, the Ballinode U15s’ season erupted into life against a high scoring Elphin Community College in Boyle today, in what was an exhausting, breathless, thrilling encounter. It took suffering, luck, skill, and above all character to shape the big moments in this Connacht Cup game. The Ballinode footballers showed an intensity of purpose from the first minute, marrying industry with artistry all over the pitch.
Evan Wimsey, rampant throughout the first half, rifled home the opener from outside the box. The majestic Shane Osho curled in a long-range goal of the season contender to double Ballinode’s lead, who went on to lead 3-0 at the break.
U15 BALLINODE BOYS’ SOCCER:
The Sligo side weathered a fierce Elphin comeback in the second half, with Jim Mitchell offering authority in defence, acting as sentry, extinguishing fires whenever called upon. He was ably assisted by the tremendous Stephen McDonagh.
Nikita Kucheruk, Ballinode’s maestro lock picker, the pausa of this side, showcased his brilliance in a man of the match display, his deft touches and mazy runs splitting the Elphin defence time and time again. Ciaran MacMathuna capped off a strong performance with two goals to give Ballinode a 5-2 victory.
TYS Search and Rescue Transition year students from Ballinode College recently attended an insightful talk with the River Moy Search and Rescue Team in Ballina, Co. Mayo. The interactive discussion covered a wide range of topics, including the intricacies of search and rescue missions, diving techniques and the utilisation of advanced marine
TYS ORIENTEERING:
technology, which students found particularly captivating. This experience not only deepened their understanding of rescue operations but also cultivated a newfound appreciation for the role played by organisations like the River Moy Search and Rescue Team in keeping the community safe. Special thanks go to Alan Campbell, Karen Smyth, and Oto Csepy for making this educational trip possible.
The Ballinode footballers contested an entertaining fixture against
St. Mary’s, last Wednesday in Ballysadare. Yevheniia Bilokon opened the scoring with a clinical finish, much to the delight of the away team. June Blinkhorn made several outstanding saves to deny the hosts, showcasing bravery as well as craft to keep Ballinode in the game. The McLoughlin sisters also displayed a masterclass of pressing and tackling, with both scoring outrageous individual efforts to draw Ballinode level. Ballysadare however pulled away
GIRLS FOOTBALL:
in the closing minutes with two devasting counter-attacks. The girls can be proud of their performance, going toe to toe against a strong Ballysadare outift, which bodes well for the upcoming campaign.
Science Week Sparks Curiosity and Exploration at Ballinode College. From fun chemical reactions to hands-on forensic experiences, the Science Week at Ballinode Community College proved to be an exciting and educational experience for all. The journey into the world of chemical reactions took off for first-year students, creating the explosive and visually stunning “elephant’s toothpaste.” The school lab buzzed with excitement as students witnessed the magic of chemistry unfold before their eyes. Second-year students added a vibrant twist to their understanding of acidity and alkalinity as they engaged in a colorful experiment. Using red cabbage, they crafted a pH indicator, turning their chemistry lessons into a hands-on, visually appealing experience. Chemistry was also a core theme for thirdyear students as they delved into endothermic and exothermic reactions.
Transition year students embarked on a unique journey, linking up with the ATU Sligo Forensic department. Dr. Geraldine Dowling shared insights into the fascinating Forensic Programme, opening students’ eyes to the world of crime-solving. The engagement continued with a Current Chemistry Investigators workshop led by Dr. Fiona McArdle, providing a hands-on experience in the intriguing realm of forensic science. In a more advanced scientific journey, the senior cycle biology students delved into the intricate world of biochemistry and molecular biology, with fifth year students creating immobilized enzymes and sixth-year students isolating DNA.
Throughout the week, all students participated in daily science challenges, putting their problem-solving skills to the test. To add a creative spin, a poster competition was held among first and second year students, with exciting prizes up for grabs. The diverse range of activities left a lasting impact on students’ appreciation for the wonders of the scientific world and will hopefully influence these students in their educational journey and beyond.
On November 21, a group of students embarked on an unforgettable surfing experience with the fabulous instructors at Rebelle Surf School. Despite the coldness of the water, the students embraced the challenge.
The day was more than just a surfing lesson; it was an adventure that brought together students, teachers and fabulous instructors. Despite the coldness of the water, the students embraced the challenge, finding joy in every wave they conquered. To conclude the day, a treat from Mama Johnson’s provided the perfect ending to a day filled with laughter, excitement, and the thrill of the sea. This surfing adventure will undoubtedly be a cherished memory for these
SCIENCE WEEK: SURFING:
students, serving as a testament to the incredible experiences waiting to be discovered along the coastlines with Rebelle Surf School.
The Transition Year students spent a day with Rowing Ireland in the last term, as part of their Get Going Get Rowing programme. They learnt how to teach rowing to other students and will now instruct the first years through a a six week course of rowing .With them was Ailish from Sligo Rowing club, who will be assisting the students throughout the course. Many thanks to the facilitators Amy and Andrew and to Theresa Kilgannon from the Sligo Sports and Recreation Partnership who organised the event.
TY ROWING: FOCUS IRELAND CHRISTMAS COLLECTIONS:
Well done to our fabulous Transition Year students who gave of their time raise much needed funds for Focus Ireland. Students collected money on the busy streets of Sligo last week.
As part of a JCSP initiative 1st years and An Grianán students had a very busy morning decorating their Christmas cakes. Thanks to Orla Kelly for doing the cake decorating workshop with them. The fabulous creations were nearly too good to eat!
CAKE DECORATING:
As part of the Race Awareness Week all students engaged in a dynamic week of extracurricular lessons on race diversity in our school. It was filled with interesting statistics, surveys and discussions. As our school is home to over twenty nationalities, it was wonderful to get an insight into different cultures and food.
On Thursday there was an ethnic food display/tasting session in the front hall. Students brought in delectable dishes from their home countries, and everyone was eager to try out new dishes.The Fifth and Sixth year Ukrainian students performed ‘Carol of the Bells’ in the front hall during the fair.
Our Transition Year students had their Christmas Trade Fair on December 12 in The Canopy Sligo. The students had the opportunity to sell their Mini company products, which they created and made themselves. The students have made a huge effort since the beginning of the year to create a business idea, turn their idea into a product, create a logo and company name. There was a vast array of products on sale throughout the day including cookies, hot chocolate kits, candles and wax melts, tie dye socks and Christmas hampers. Thank you to Jon and all the staff in The Canopy for their support. Well done to the students for a very memorable day.
In a spectacle of strength, teamwork, and sheer determination, Ballinode Community College excelled in the recent rowing competition held in the Sligo Regional Sports Centre. Students from various year groups participated in a heated competition that showcased not only their rowing prowess but also their camaraderie and sportsmanship.
The competition featured a range of teams, each representing Ballinode Community College with