5th Year Students Celebrate Achievement with Gaisce Bronze Awards

Our 5th year students enjoyed a well-earned moment of celebration recently as they received their Gaisce Bronze Awards, recognising the hard work, commitment, and personal growth they demonstrated throughout Transition Year.

Gaisce – The President’s Award is a nationally renowned self-development programme designed to encourage young people to push themselves, discover new interests, and build confidence. The programme is divided into four key areas: Community Involvement, Personal Skill, Physical Recreation, and the Adventurous Journey. To earn their Bronze Award, students dedicate several months to volunteering, developing a new skill, maintaining physical activity, and completing a challenging outdoor expedition.

For our TYs—now proud 5th years—this journey took them to West Cork Secret, where they camped overnight, cooked their own meals, completed team-building challenges, and walked over 25km across two days. Despite tired legs, muddy boots, and the ever-unpredictable Irish weather, their enthusiasm never wavered. Alongside this, they spent the year helping in local organisations, embracing new hobbies, and staying committed to weekly fitness goals.

The recent award ceremony was a wonderful opportunity for students and staff alike to reflect on everything that was achieved. Each medal presented symbolised far more than participation—it represented perseverance, personal growth, and a willingness to step outside their comfort zones.

A huge congratulations to all of our 5th year recipients. They should be incredibly proud of their achievements. We look forward to seeing what new challenges they take on next.