Page 174 - Bellfort Magazine 2025

A Year to Remember: Year 9’s Journey at Dunclug College
As the 2024/25 academic year draws to a close, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the achievements
and growth of our fantastic Year 9 pupils at Dunclug College. From academic progress to sporting
triumphs and exciting opportunities, this year has been exceptional for our young learners.

Academic, Social and Emotional Growth
Throughout the year, Year 9 pupils have developed across all areas of school life. In the classroom,
their curiosity and enthusiasm for learning has been evident, with many rising to new challenges and
demonstrating resilience and commitment to their studies.
Equally important is their social and emotional development- we have seen Year 9s maturity has
flourished. Pupils have developed friendships, grown in confidence, and shown kindness and
empathy in their interactions with one another – qualities that we are proud to nurture at Dunclug
College. Of particular note was the “Lessons from an Elephant” initiative developed in conjunction
with Macmillan Northern Ireland and Palliative Care at Antrim Area Hospital which is aimed at
educating and helping students deal with grief and loss. Eash pupil was given the opportunity to
paint a piece of wood with something poignant to themselves or to help others. These made a
collage which has been placed in the main stairwell in memory of those individuals who Year 9 pupils
have loved and lost.

Sporting Excellence
This year also saw phenomenal success in sport. Our Year 9 girls football team made us proud with
their spirited performances and impressive teamwork throughout the season. The team were
crowned the MASSFA Mid- Antrim Champions beating 140 girls in the competition with 5 wins, one
draw and no losses! Well done girls!
The Under 14 rugby squad tackled their way to victory on more than one occasion, showcasing both
talent and determination. The team qualified for the U14’s Ulster High School Cup Final, and while
the silverware remained elusive, much experience was gained!
Special recognition goes to Skye Walsh, who became the Under 14 Shot Putt Champion – a fantastic
individual achievement and a testament to her hard work and dedication.

Digital Learning: Engaging and Empowering
As part of our ongoing commitment to preparing pupils for the future, Dunclug College has placed a
strong emphasis on developing digital skills in a fun and engaging way. Year 9 pupils embraced the
challenge enthusiastically, taking part in a range of projects that not only built their technical ability
but also encouraged creativity and collaboration. From coding clubs to digital media tasks integrated
across the curriculum, our learners are becoming confident digital citizens, ready to thrive in an
increasingly connected world.
Some Year 9 classes got to experience WW1 trench warfare first hand! Pupils used newspaper
ammo in their History classes to re-enact the 4 main stages of trench warfare used in WW1- fun and
enjoyable learning for all. Seasonal fun is also part of life at Dunclug College, with Year 9 visiting the
IMC Cinema in Ballymena to see Wicked the movie! 9ET had an Easter Egg Hunt – but with a twist!
Pupils were challenged to crack a series of clever codes and solve riddles in a scavenger-style race
around the school grounds. Laughter and excitement filled the air as teams deciphered clues,
unlocked hidden locations, and claimed their well-earned chocolatey prizes. It was a perfect blend of
teamwork, problem-solving, and good old-fashioned fun. The reward? A well-deserved feast of
Easter eggs and treats – sweet success in every sense!