From the Principal’s Desk
Prayer
An Irish blessing for Mothers’ Day
There is but one and only one,
Whose love will fail you never.
One who lives from sun to sun,
With constant fond endeavor.
There is but one and only one
On earth there is no other.
In heaven a noble work was done
When God gave us a Mother.
Amen
(Author Unknown)
Venerable Nano Nagle, Pray for us
Dear Parents, Carers, Staff, Students and Friends
Welcome back, everyone!
I hope the recent break provided each of you with a chance to rest, recharge, and enjoy some quality time with family and friends. Whether you headed away for a change of scenery or simply enjoyed the slower pace of life at home, I trust you have returned with a renewed sense of energy and purpose.
There is always a unique “buzz” in the air at Domremy at the start of Term 2. The nerves of the new year have settled, and we are now ready to dive deeper into the heart of our academic and co-curricular programs. It is a season for growth, focus, and building on the foundations laid in Term 1.
Honouring Sacrifice and Service
We officially marked our return this week with a moving start of Term Assembly. It was a significant moment for our community to gather and reflect on the values that define us.
As we recently observed ANZAC Day, our assembly included a solemn tribute to the men and women who have served in our armed forces. We spoke about the “ANZAC Spirit” – qualities of courage, mateship, and sacrifice, and of how we can embody those same traits in our daily school lives by looking out for one another and standing up for what is right.
A New Tradition: Celebrating 250 Years of Charism
Our assembly also provided a beautiful opportunity to reconnect with our school’s spiritual identity. This year is particularly momentous as we celebrate the 250th Anniversary of the foundation of the Presentation Sisters by Venerable Nano Nagle.
In light of this milestone, we have introduced a new tradition at the College. As you will read later in this newsletter, we have committed to formally acknowledging the Presentation Sisters and the Charism in which Domremy is grounded, at every formal occasion. It is fitting that we anchor our community gatherings in the legacy of Venerable Nano Nagle, who walked the streets of Cork with her lantern, bringing education and hope to those in need.
As we start this new term, I challenge our students to be “people of the lantern” in their own way:
- By showing compassion to those who are struggling.
- By being resilient in the face of academic challenges.
- By leading with action, just as Nano did.
Inquiry and Review: A Resounding Success
The Inquiry and Review process is a rigorous, cyclic evaluation that all systemic schools undergo every five years. It is designed to ensure that the College is not only meeting its regulatory obligations but is also continuously improving the quality of education and spiritual life offered to students.
I am delighted to report on the conclusion of our five-yearly Inquiry and Review. The Review Panel met with us this week, and I simply cannot be prouder of everyone involved.
I want to extend my deepest congratulations and deepest gratitude to our students, parents, and staff on this outstanding achievement. The feedback we received from the panel is a true testament to the dedication, passion, and professionalism that you bring to Domremy every day.
A special thank you must go to our College Leadership Team. Their preparation was meticulous, and their leadership throughout this rigorous process was flawless. I am also incredibly grateful to the teachers, parents, and students who contributed their time and insights to ensure the panel saw the very best of our community.
Once the final report is received, I look forward to sharing the details with you all. For now, please take a moment to celebrate this wonderful affirmation of our school and the vibrant learning environment we have built together.
Mother’s Day – Honouring the Women Who Shape Us
There is a unique kind of energy that fills our school when our students’ mentors, caregivers, and role models walk through the doors. As we approach the second Sunday of May, we are preparing for one of the most cherished traditions on our school calendar: our Mother’s Day Mass followed by a light breakfast.
This event isn’t just about a date on the calendar; it is a dedicated moment to pause and recognize the incredible women in our community. Whether you are a mother, a grandmother, an aunt, or a mother figure who provides that essential “maternal” guidance, your influence is the bedrock upon which our students build their lives.
We see your impact every day in the kindness, resilience, and curiosity of our students. You are their first teachers, their loudest cheerleaders, and their safest harbours.
We invite all mothers and mother figures to join us on Friday 8 May for a morning of reflection, gratitude and, of course, plenty of conversation, coffee and treats prepared by our Hospitality students.
Please kindly RSVP by Wednesday 6 May for catering purposes via this link: https://www.trybooking.com/DLUBX
Looking Ahead …
Term 2 is always a busy one, filled with winter sports, mid-year assessments, and various community events. I encourage all students to set clear goals for the weeks ahead and to remember that my door – and those of our dedicated staff – is always open.
Let’s make this a term defined by kindness, hard work, and a commitment to excellence in all we do.
Blessings on you and your families.