We came together to celebrate a memorable P7 Leavers’ Day, marking the end of an important chapter for our children and recognising the incredible journey they have taken from their first days in Primary 1 to confident, capable young people ready for the future.
The celebrations began with a well-earned and much-enjoyed breakfast, lovingly prepared and served by our staff. Pupils tucked into sausage baps, pancake stacks, and a range of refreshments including tea, smoothies and juice. It was a relaxed and happy start to the day, giving everyone time to share memories and enjoy each other’s company one last time as a class.
The whole school then gathered for a special assembly reflecting on the P7s journey from 2019 to 2026. The assembly looked back on where it all began—those early days in P1 when the children first entered St Patrick’s, small and unsure, yet full of potential. We saw just how much they have grown when we compared Owen M being measured using the same building blocks he used in P1 and worked out he was the same height as Amelia is now! (He’s five blocks taller btw!)
Through photos and shared memories, we reflected on how much has changed over the past seven years. It was great fun and the children also received their JEP certificates when one of the ‘Dragons’ and school governor Anita dropped in to present them. Our girls’ netballers also received their league winners medals from Erin of Netball NI. An extra little reflection of how mature our P7s have been is when they got to present the Pupil of the Week certificates!
In the afternoon, children, staff and families gathered for a beautiful Mass celebrated by Fr. Aidan. Fr Aidan told the story of the fragile butterfly and how by taking care of it, allowing it time to rest, strengthen and grow would help it to flourish. We got to present Fr. Aidan with a small gift to mark his recent anniversary of being ordained in 1986. 40 years as a priest! The gift was presented by Niamh, Elin, Dylan, and Owen as the leaders of our school council.
After Mass, the celebrations continued with a family assembly in the hall, where parents and loved ones joined us to mark this special milestone. A cuppa and a piece of cake as well as looking back at the many photos of the P7s through the years was certainly lovely. A highlight of the afternoon was the “Most Likely To…” awards, where the boys and girls recognised one another in a light-hearted and thoughtful way, filling the hall with laughter and smiles.
Mr McGrath closed the day with a heartfelt reflection on the past seven years. He spoke of the highs, the challenges and everything in between, praising the pupils’ growth, resilience and leadership. Most importantly, he reminded them that they are ready for the next stage, to always be kind, and that they will always remain part of the St Patrick’s PS family.
While Leavers’ Day is always tinged with a little sadness, it is above all a celebration of growth, friendship and achievement. We are incredibly proud of our P7 pupils and wish them every success and happiness as they move on to the next stage of their journey. Good luck, P7—you will always be part of our school community.
