In 2006, it was decided to bring the 3 second-level schools in Youghal together as one school, Pobalscoil na Tríonóide.
"Tús maith leath na h-oibre", and indeed, the first twelve years have given us a great start.
The sense of purpose, work ethic, co-operation, and partnership of all education partners have been key - students, staff, parents, Boards of Management, Trustees, ACC||S, and the Department of Education & Skills.
It was late November 2005, and I remember arriving at the "New School" (still being built) and thinking, "This is like a third-level college". Indeed, it is, but a great building alone doesn't make a great school.
One day in particular that comes to mind is the day we finally agreed on our Mission Statement. All education partners had been consulted, and the agreed mission statement has been like a lighthouse in giving our school a sense of direction.
The support from the greater Youghal community has been outstanding: Credit Union, Rotary, Emer Casey Foundation, local public services, Church organisations, HSE, Gardaí community support, local national schools, local radio, Youghal News, sports organisations.....the list goes on.
The individual student achievements have been very significant; scholarship awards have been very significant - scholarship awards, state exams , various competitions, leadership, sports, science, the arts, and many other disciplines of knowledge and activity. Across the whole school we have adopted the philosophy of KAIZEN, i.e., continuous improvement in everything we do.
Our aim is clear: "to be a beacon school". By 2021, we hope that 100% of our Leaving Cert students will aspire to third-level education. We are continuously improving facilities and plan a new extension to meet future demand.
For many decades to come, Pobalscoil na Tríonóide will continue to sail the seas of opportunity where "Together we respect one another, value learning, nurture community and pursue excellence. Léirímid meas ar a chéile, cuirimid luach ar an bhfoghlaim, tuagamid tús áit dár bpobal, téimid i dtreo na foirfeachta de shíor".
Míle buíochas to everyone who has been part of the development of Pobalscoil na Tríonóide.