DOMINICAN COLLEGE PORTSTEWART – MAY & JUNE 2026 NEWS ROUND-UP
As another successful academic year draws to a close, the months of May and June have been filled with celebration, achievement, adventure and memorable experiences for pupils across Dominican College Portstewart.
Celebrating Our Leavers
On 1st May, we bid a fond farewell to our Year 12 and Year 14 pupils during our annual Leavers’ Celebrations. These special events provided an opportunity to reflect on their journey through Dominican College, celebrate their achievements and wish them every success as they embark on the next chapter of their lives.
Examination Season Completed
Congratulations to all pupils who successfully completed their GCSE, AS and A-Level examinations this summer. We also acknowledge the efforts of our Key Stage 3 pupils who completed their end-of-year assessments. We wish all our examination candidates the very best as they await their results later in the summer.
End-of-Year Celebrations
Throughout June, pupils enjoyed a wide range of end-of-year activities and celebrations. Our annual Sports Days showcased participation, teamwork and sporting excellence, while our Sports Awards recognised the outstanding achievements of pupils across a variety of disciplines.
Many pupils also enjoyed reward trips through our Positive Behaviour Programme, including visits to Breckenhill, recognising their excellent commitment, attitude and contribution throughout the school year.
The annual Drama Festival once again highlighted the incredible talent and creativity of our pupils, while members of our Choir enjoyed a memorable trip to Lake Kilrea as part of their end-of-year celebrations.
Sporting Success
A huge congratulations to our Under-15 Football Team who were crowned Irish Society Shield Champions. The team produced an outstanding performance to defeat Coleraine Grammar School 6–3 in the final at Portstewart Football Club, bringing another prestigious trophy back to Dominican College.
Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Success
Our Duke of Edinburgh participants have enjoyed a busy and successful period, with Gold, Silver and Bronze expeditions taking place across a variety of locations.
We were also delighted to celebrate two former pupils, PJ Terrington and Rose Crocker, who received their Gold Duke of Edinburgh Awards at Buckingham Palace. Their achievement represents years of commitment, resilience and service, and we are incredibly proud of their success.
Learning Beyond the Classroom
Year 10 pupils enjoyed an educational and enjoyable visit to the Balmoral Show, while our annual Year 8 trip to Carrickfergus Castle provided pupils with the opportunity to explore an important part of Northern Ireland’s history.
Representatives from Dominican College also joined pupils from Dominican schools across Ireland at a special gathering in Cabra, where members of the Dominican Schools Choir met with the Dominican Sisters to celebrate their shared heritage and traditions.
Looking Ahead to September
We were delighted to welcome our new Year 8 pupils and their families to Dominican College on 18th June for our Year 8 Welcome Evening. The event provided an opportunity for pupils to meet staff, learn more about life at Dominican and begin their transition to post-primary education.
We also look forward to welcoming hundreds of Primary 6 pupils to the College for our annual Taster Days on 22nd and 23rd June, giving prospective pupils the chance to experience life at Dominican College first-hand.
School Musical Announced
Excitement is already building for the next academic year following the announcement of our 2026 school musical. We are thrilled to reveal that Dominican College will present School of Rock in Autumn 2026. Audiences can look forward to an energetic production packed with music, talent and plenty of Dominican spirit.
Farewell and Thank You
As we approach the end of the school year, we also take the opportunity to thank three valued members of staff who are retiring after many years of dedicated service to the Dominican community.
- Terry Cloughley – Music Department
- Mary McNicholl – Home Economics Department
- Bernie O’Neill – School Support Staff
Each has made an immeasurable contribution to the life of the College, inspiring generations of pupils and supporting countless members of our school community. We wish Terry, Mary and Bernie every happiness and success in their retirement.
As we reflect on another busy and successful year, we thank all pupils, staff, parents and the wider school community for their continued support and wish everyone a safe, enjoyable and well-deserved summer break.