The Access Schools Programme, St Angela’s College, Sligo, hosted their inaugural Third- Year Special Awards Ceremony on Friday May 7th 2010. The ceremony awarded third year students from secondary schools throughout the region for their outstanding achievements in the following areas: Mathematics, Gaeilge, Science, English and Home Economics. Awards were also presented to the winners of their recent Economics Essay Writing Competition 'Dear Mr. Cowen'.
Third year students from 11 regional secondary schools were nominated by their teachers and principals to receive awards because of their hard work and dedication. In total, 59 students were nominated from Ballinode College, Corran College, Summerhill College, Mercy College, Colaiste Iascaigh, Sligo Grammar School, St. Claire’s Comprehensive, Grange Post Primary, Jesus and Mary Secondary School, St. Mary’s College and Coola Post Primary.

Dr Anne Taheny, President of St Angela’s College, Sligo recognised the hard work of individual students while commending the great partnership between the schools and the College: ‘The Access Schools Programme at St Angela’s College, Sligo organises a variety of initiatives to support students academically as they strive towards third-level studies. The programme is a success due to the enthusiasm and effort of young people and their teachers to participate fully in what the Access Schools Programme has to offer.’ Dr Taheny addressed an audience of proud parents, families, teachers and principals along with members of the College community who attended the event on Friday 7th May.
Access Schools Programme Co-ordinator, Carol Gallagher said of the event; ‘We have found that the Special Awards are an important event for the recipients. The message they receive by collecting their award from St. Angela’s College is that their academic achievements and hard work is being recognised and commended. It is also a boost to young people's self-esteem and confidence and it is positive and memorable event for their families and schools.’ 

St. Angela’s College plans to coordinate this event annually to recognise the hard work and achievements of individual students and participating schools in the Access Schools Programme. For more information please contact Carol Gallagher, Access School Programme Coordinator at 071 91 95575.