Head Girls Welcome
Hi There!
Our names are Jennifer, Doireann and Ciara and we are the head girls of St. Raphaela’s Secondary School.
We would like to take this opportunity to welcome you to our school website and to provide an insight into our school from a student’s perspective.
Here at St. Raphaela's, we pride ourselves in being the best versions of ourselves in all aspects of school life, whether it be in academics, sports or the arts as well as being an proud “Raphaela Girl”.
Together we form a strong-knit team whose main objectives are to ensure that our first-year buddies settle in well; providing them with a familiar face in the corridors, as well as being senior role models to younger students and providing a helping-hand to teachers throughout the school year.
Some advice I (Jennifer), wish I knew before entering secondary school is to get involved in every aspect of school life. Our school provides an abundance of opportunities to cater for all interests and needs. The first number of months are essential in not only creating bonds with classmates but teachers alike. Every single staff member is always there to give advice. They encourage us to reach our full potential providing so many opportunities throughout our 6 years in school.
Here at St Raphaela’s, the staff are so dedicated to developing students academically and beyond, which is why there is such an emphasis on the whole student, not just exams. Every year we have a sign-up day in which everyone is encouraged to join clubs and societies. Regardless of experience, each student is encouraged to give everything a go, whether it's an activity that they've been doing since they learned to walk or whether it’s something that they’ve never even heard of before.
There really is something for everyone, from Hockey to Drama, Fencing to Chess, Soccer and Camogie, Book and Creative Writing Club, Science Club and The Debate Team, even Crochet Club and that’s only to name a few!
However, it’s not just about the clubs themselves, it’s more than that! It’s about the unique opportunities to travel, to compete and to represent your school. I (Doireann) am lucky enough to be going on a trip to Spain organised by the school next year with the hockey team and I can’t wait!
A special memory I treasure is the Leinster final with the school Gaelic team last year. A couple hundred students along with teachers travelled to Westmeath to support us in the most torrential rain. When we arrived back the entire school were waiting at the entrance and the reception from everyone was indescribable. It really highlighted the school spirit and the level of support that we have for one another here at St. Raphaelas.
We feel so lucky to be part of this special school community where each one of us are valued, respected and encouraged to reach our full potential. We are extremely proud to wear our school crest and represent the student body and we know the special bonds we have made in this school will last a lifetime.
