Pupils from ERC were invited to UTV’s Havlock house to be presented with an award for the schools healthy eating programme and campaign to promote healthy living.

As this is the first year of the two school’s running an academic programme together it is very much an infancy initiative, but after the student’s sitting exams and progressing in both their written and practical skills required with Drama & Theatre Studies it has proven to be a massive success.

The course structure involves a block priod of time, 1 & ½ hour period, three times a week at Our Lady Of Mercy School. Two of these periods for practical work and the third for the theory part of the subject. The group will present their ongoing production of ‘Undermilk Wood’ for external moderation in late May of this year, we wish them all the best of luck. Keep up the hard work!

The year started off with mixed results treading the boards from wins against St Patrick’s Bearnageeha and with a narrow defeat from St Malachy’s College. These games seemed to have improved the boys’ skills.

In June of last year the boys competed in the Ulster Colleges Blitz competition. The Edmund Rice College boys competed in the ‘C competition’ and came out victorious after defeating St Patrick’s in a thrilling final.

All of the 15 players gave 100% with outstanding performances from Michael Mc Givern, Adam Loughran, Joseph Maskey and Jamie White.

In addition to their winning performance this year, Joseph Maskey was awarded a Year 8 College All Star award for his skills in hurling. Well done Joseph, keep it up!

Edmund Rice College was privileged to host a question and answer session with representatives of the four main Christian churches in the Glengormley and Carnmoney area. Year 13 students asked probing questions ranging in topics from the eleven plus and transfer procedure to celibacy and the ordination of women. Pupils were keen to learn of existing local projects that aim at greater Christian unity and the impetus that lead to these. Each of the Church representatives spoke of personal experiences in this area and emphasised the areas of unity between the Christian churches and of their aim to help bring respect and understanding. Students were enthusiastic in both their welcome and participation in the event. At the end spontaneous applause by the students demonstrated how much they enjoyed and appreciated this event. We look forward to seeing each of the representatives again within the school where they will be warmly welcomed.