St David’s Class Of 2025 Wave Bye-Bye

One proud dad. We think.

atest press release from St David’s Secondary School, issued on Saturday, May 17th 2025…

On Friday 16th of May, we celebrated the wonderful students from the graduating class of 2025.

The liturgical portion of the day was opened by Deputy Head Boy Paul McGloughlin and Deputy Head Girl, Grace-Anne Hassett, welcoming us on this special day. The choir began with a rendition of Holy Forever, singing of the enduring nature of God’s goodness throughout our lives. Deputy Head Girl Freya Duffy and Deputy Head Boy Ryan Leahy took up this theme, outlining how today’s service was centred on journeys – reminding each student that even though they are departing, they will never be alone.

Father Des prayed that each of our graduating class would take up their journeys with conviction, taking on its challenges without fear. An emotional duet performed by Stella Henrys and Freya Duffy was a testament to the power of the enduring friendship that has been central to our school experiences. We closed the service with prayers from past pupils, students, parents and teachers before the Reverend Natasha Quinn-Thomas and Father Bernardo offered one final blessing.

The graduation ceremony then began with a speech from Year Head, Mr. O’Donnchadha, who regaled us with a highlight reel of memories from across all years we’ve shared before speaking of his fondness for the class as a whole, remarking that he couldn’t have asked for a nicer cohort of students to work with. Ms. O’Sullivan then introduced the graduation itself, as gift bags were presented to each student by Mr. Carey and Mr. Davies.

Following this, we were treated to a video prepared by Isla and Alex, which showcased the graduating class’ best (and funniest) moments. A few technical hiccups allowed some 1st year photos to linger on screen slightly longer than a couple of students may have wanted (to their horror) but it only enhanced the nostalgic atmosphere further.

The outgoing Head Boy and Head Girl then had the opportunity to address the gathered crowd. Colm spoke of the momentous nature of leaving school, allowing us all the time to reflect on the personal growth that had been achieved and the memories created that will last a lifetime. Aoife then acknowledged the shared dual feelings of fear and excitement.

To graduate, she remarked, means to have succeeded and have moved forward – something that has been realised thanks to the year group’s dedication and compassion.

Ronan Lupton, the Chair of the PPU, acknowledged the role of parents in supporting our students while also imparting sage advice: Be kind, be yourself.

Mr. Carey highlighted the importance of family – both the one at home and the one formed here. He also pointed to the challenging nature of Covid but that it also afforded us the chance to experience the personality and positivity of the year group over weekly Zoom meetings. Mr. Carey closed with a seanfhocail: “He who travels has stories to tell”, echoing the central theme of our day – the importance of celebrating journeys, both those that have finished and those that are yet to come.

Mr. O’Donnchadha returned to announce the 2025 Student of the Year. A stellar list of nominees included Freya Duffy, Colm O’Neill, Nathan Donlon and Paul McGloughlin but the eventual winner was revealed to be Grace-Anne Hassett.

Congratulations to the graduating class of 2025! More on St David’s Secondary School here, and here.