CBS students honoured for excellence at school awards

CBS students honoured for excellence at school awards

James Wu, TY Student of the Year, with teacher Maurice Browne and principal Fiona Lennon

THE GYM in St Mary’s Academy CBS, Carlow was transformed into a space of celebration and pride when the school hosted its annual Edmund Rice Awards. Under clear blue skies and sunshine, the warm atmosphere matched the excitement and enthusiasm of the students who gathered to honour their achievements.

Eoin Myres, Sixth Year Student of the Year 2024, addressing staff and students of CBS
Eoin Myres, Sixth Year Student of the Year 2024, addressing staff and students of CBS

The ceremony was opened by principal Fiona Lennon, who welcomed students and staff and reminded everyone about the importance of recognising success – both in and out of the classroom – and the enduring value of the Edmund Rice spirit, which encourages compassion, resilience, creative writing and service to others.

Andrii Kravchenko, Second Year Student of the Year, with teacher Mick Kehoe and principal Fiona Lennon
Andrii Kravchenko, Second Year Student of the Year, with teacher Mick Kehoe and principal Fiona Lennon

Among the highlights of the day were the coveted Student of the Year awards, presented to one student from each year group, alongside numerous accolades for excellence in sport, academia, leadership and contribution to school life.

Billy Holloway, First Year Student of the Year 2025, with teacher Joe Nolan and principal Fiona Lennon
Billy Holloway, First Year Student of the Year 2025, with teacher Joe Nolan and principal Fiona Lennon

A particularly inspiring moment came when Eoin Myers, 2024 sixth-year Student of the Year, addressed the audience. In a heartfelt and candid speech, Eoin encouraged students to stay resilient in the face of setbacks, embrace teamwork and to keep moving forward – a mantra he drew from his lifelong support of Arsenal Football Club.

Clifford Mommoh, winner of the Pat Meany Award at St Mary's Academy CBS Carlow, with Joan McKeon 
Clifford Mommoh, winner of the Pat Meany Award at St Mary's Academy CBS Carlow, with Joan McKeon 

The award winners were visibly proud and excited, and were greeted with applause and support from their peers and teachers. The ceremony served not only to celebrate individual accomplishments but also to reinforce the shared values that define the CBS community.

Seán O'Brien, Third Year Student of the Year, with teacher Joan McKeon and principal Fiona Lennon
Seán O'Brien, Third Year Student of the Year, with teacher Joan McKeon and principal Fiona Lennon

The Edmund Rice Awards remain a treasured tradition in the school calendar, providing a chance to reflect on the past year’s achievements while inspiring students to strive ever forward in the true Edmund Rice and CBS spirit.

Jan Flejszar, winner of the Séan O'Ceallaigh Cup (sixth-year student of the year) with teacher Shane Story and principal Fiona Lennon
Jan Flejszar, winner of the Séan O'Ceallaigh Cup (sixth-year student of the year) with teacher Shane Story and principal Fiona Lennon

Teacher Ella Mahon, Ethan O'Donovan who won the Outstanding Achievement Award, and principal Fiona Lennon
Teacher Ella Mahon, Ethan O'Donovan who won the Outstanding Achievement Award, and principal Fiona Lennon

Leon Fitzgerald, Fifth Year Student of the Year, with principal Fiona Lennon and teacher Theresa O'Neill
Leon Fitzgerald, Fifth Year Student of the Year, with principal Fiona Lennon and teacher Theresa O'Neill

Principal Fiona Lennon and Paddy Walshe, winner of the Edmund Rice Award 2025
Principal Fiona Lennon and Paddy Walshe, winner of the Edmund Rice Award 2025

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