Class of 2025 End of Year Celebration
Today, we gathered to honour and celebrate our incredible P7 pupils as they prepare to leave Derrychrin PS and begin the next chapter of their journey. It was a truly special occasion, shared with parents, families, and friends.
A huge well done to all the children who took part in the beautiful Mass — from reading, leading the Prayers of the Faithful, presenting the Offertory, to performing in the instrumental group. We are deeply grateful to Fr. Donnelly for leading such a joyful and meaningful celebration. A special thank you to Miss Hughes for all her hard work in helping the children prepare so well. The beautiful Irish tune, Slieve Gallon Braes, played during Communion, was especially moving. Fr. Donnelly mentioned this song at the end, comparing it to our P7 pupils who are getting ready to leave for new adventures — just like people who once emigrated from the Sperrins.
Following the Mass, everyone gathered in the school hall for a heartwarming assembly, “A to Z Memories of Derrychrin,” where we reminisced about the many moments that have shaped the children’s time here. Families enjoyed a lovely lunch and refreshments, and each child received a treat bag as a token of our appreciation.
One of the highlights was the wonderful Leavers’ Video, created by Eamon McGarrity. It featured songs that marked the beginning of their journey in P1 back in 2017, a favourite from 2025, and a special friendship song. We’ve also included the video of the children a keepsake for all to enjoy.
Our heartfelt thanks go to our canteen team — Margaret, Colette, and Caitriona — for the delicious food. Thank you to Gemma for the beautiful balloon arrangements and for preparing the thoughtful gift bags, which included cupcakes from Erin at ‘Bridge Bakes,’ custom ‘Class of 2025’ keyrings, and a class photo of the children in their leavers’ tops. We’re also grateful to Aidy for setting up the hall and ensuring everything was ready for the celebration.
To all our teaching and support staff — thank you for the care, encouragement, and dedication you’ve shown throughout the children’s time at Derrychrin. A special word of thanks to Mr. O’Neill for his kindness and commitment during the children’s final year.
Thank you to Fionnuala and Darren who kindly donated a lovely cake for the children to enjoy.
As we say goodbye to the Class of 2025, we do so with pride and joy. This is a moment to celebrate all they’ve achieved and to look ahead with excitement to the opportunities that await them. Their new schools are incredibly fortunate to welcome such bright, compassionate, and talented young people.
On behalf of the entire Derrychrin community — staff, pupils, and Board of Governors — thank you, P7, for being outstanding ambassadors and role models. Though we are sad to see you go, we are excited for all that lies ahead for you. This year is especially meaningful as 16 families will be ending their time with our school. We thank you for being such an important part of our school community. You will always be part of our story.
Wishing all our P7s and their families every success and happiness in the next chapter!
Many thanks
Ciaran McElroy
Principal
