All Ireland Juvenile Indoor Championships

Congratulations to Brendan Solarin, who secured an impressive third place in the long jump at the recent All Ireland Juvenile Indoor Championships in Athlone. Brendan’s dedication and hard work have paid off, making him one of the top young athletes in the country. Despite only being involved in athletics for a few months, Brendan has already made remarkable progress. He recorded a jump of 6.15 meters in the long jump, ran 7.41 seconds in the 60 meters, and clocked an impressive 11.5 seconds in the 100 meters. Even with these outstanding achievements, Brendan remains determined to improve even further. To compete at such a high level in long jump, Brendan follows a rigorous training routine. He focuses on gym work, particularly plyometrics and particulary plyometrics and isometric work , a training method that enhances explosiveness and leg muscle, combined with weightlifting. On the track, he refines his run-up, take-off, leg shoot, high knees, and landing techniques. His precise approach includes a specific run-up of 93 baby steps with two skips, a method that helps him optimize his performance. Brendan’s recent success came with another pleasant surprise -  his performance was so strong that his score would have placed him second in the U19 category, effectively making him the second-best U19 long jumper in Ireland as well as the third-best U18 athlete. Brendan's recent accomplishments in track and field show that he is a true all-around athlete with a bright future ahead. Congratulations once again to Brendan on his fantastic achievement. We look forward to seeing what he accomplishes next!

Recommended Reading for Easter

Senior

• Adichie, N.C. – Americanah

• Barnes, Jennifer – The Naturals

• Barry, Sebastian – Days Without End

• Brooks, Nick – Promise Boys

• Clack, A.J. – Lie or Die

• Dawson, Juno – Proud

• Donoghue, Emma – Room

• Gautreaux, Tim – The Next Step in the Dance

• Herman, Charles – The Devouring Gray

• Jackson, Holly – A Good Girl’s Guide to Murder

• Keegan, Claire – Foster

• Mathias, Tracey – Night of the Party

• Ness, Patrick – Monsters of Men

• Rawsthorne, Paul – The New Boy

• Ribay, Randy – Patron Saints of Nothing

• Ryan, Donal – The Spinning Heart

• Sharma, Nisha – My So-Called Bollywood Life

• Sheppard, Alexandra – Oh My Gods

• Talley, Robin – Pulp

• Thomas, Angie – On the Come Up

• Watson, R. & Hagan, E. – Watch Us Rise

• Young, Suzanne – Girls with Sharp Sticks

Junior

• Balen, Katya – The Space We’re In

• Black, Holly – The Prisoner’s Throne

• Christo, Alexander – Into the Crooked Place

• Clarkin, Amy – Who Watches This Place

• Cole, Steven – Shoot to Kill

• Collins, Meabh – Freya Harte is Not a Puzzle

• Crossan, Sarah – The Weight of Water

• Duggan, Helena – A Place Called Perfect

• Griffiths, Elly – A Girl Called Justice

• Higson, Charlie – By Royal Command

• Holland, Sara – Havenfall

• Hyder, Liz – Bearmouth

• Montgomery, L.M. – Anne of Green Gables

• Noelle, Marissa – The Unadjusteds

• O’Donoghue, Caroline – All Our Hidden Gifts

• Price, Tirzah – Pride and Premeditation

• Roumani, Rhonda – Tagging Freedom

• Rudden, Dave – Knights of the Borrowed Dark

• Siggins, Gerard – The “Rugby” Novels

• Tolkien, J.R.R. – The Hobbit

• Tweedie, Trudi – The Pure Heart

• Watson, Sarah – The Last Ones Left Alive

Nickel Boys - A Film Review by Adam Geraghty

The last Best Picture nominee I hadn’t seen this year was The Nickel Boys. Though it didn’t win any awards, it turned out to be one of my favorite films of the year.

The film follows two young African American boys sent to a reform school called Nickel Academy during the Jim Crow era in the South. It depicts their experiences at Nickel and the systemic racism that shapes their lives. The story is based on the 2019 novel by Colson Whitehead, and what makes the film truly special is its unique first-person perspective.

The Nickel Boys is shot entirely through the eyes of its protagonists, Elwood and Turner. The cinematography focuses on their sensory experiences, making us feel as if we’re living their lives alongside them. This technique is used consistently, immersing us in their reality. The only exceptions are old recordings and scenes set in the future, which are shot in a more traditional third-person, over-the-shoulder style. This approach is rare in filmmaking—I can only think of one or two movies that come close, but even they don’t quite match this aesthetic.

The film evokes a sense of memory, making the past feel vividly real. Even for those who never lived in that world, the experience is palpable. That said, the narrative itself is arguably the film’s weakest aspect. While it fits the style well and explores powerful themes, the plot is fairly conventional. However, the visual storytelling is what lingers in your mind far more than the script. The film almost limits its story to maintain a sense of realism. Elwood and Turner feel like real people, with their own interests and inner lives, making their struggles all the more affecting.

Nickel Academy itself feels lived-in, authentic, and distinct. The school is based on a real reform institution in Florida, and through excellent sound design and production choices, the film constantly envelops us in its world.

If I had to sum it up, I’d say The Nickel Boys feels like nothing you’ve ever seen, yet instinctively real—like the recreation of a faded memory brought to life. It’s a film that deserves to be experienced.

Engineering Week at HSD

 John Philip Holland was an Irish engineer and inventor known for his pioneering work on modern submarines. Born on February 24, 1841, in Liscannor, Ireland, Holland’s education in math and science at the Royal Military Academy in Dublin laid the foundation for his future contributions to naval engineering. In the 1870s, Holland became fascinated with submarines, which at the time were underdeveloped. Moving to the United States in 1873, he worked to gain military support for his ideas. 

In 1878, Holland built his first submarine, the "Fenian Ram," but it faced design issues. Undeterred, he refined his concepts and, in 1897, completed the "Holland I," the first successful submarine with a gasoline engine that could submerge and surface easily. In 1900, the U.S. Navy bought the design, commissioning it as the USS Holland (SS-1), the world’s first modern submarine. 

Holland's innovations revolutionized naval warfare, making submarines a key part of naval fleets in the World Wars and beyond. He passed away on August 12, 1914, but his legacy continues through submarines used by navies worldwide. Holland’s vision and determination greatly shaped the future of naval technology. 
Daniel Burrows

HSD Library Book for Seachtain na Gaeilge

 Here is a suggest reading list for Seachtain na Gaeilge. All titles are available in The High School W.B. Yeats Library:

Liosta Léitheoireachta Seachtain na Gaeilge 

• “Cúpla” by Ógie Ó Ceilleachair 

• “Charlie agus Monarcha na Seacláide” by Roald Dahl 

• “Hurlamaboc” by Eilís Ní Dhuibhne 

• “Dialann Dúradáin” by Jeff Kinney 

• “Harry Potter agus an Óochloch” by J.K. Rowling 

• “Fuadach” by Áine Ni Ghlinn 

• “Bithiúnaigh” by Peadar Ó Cualáin 

• “An Triail” by Máiread Ni Ghráda 

• “Dhá chorp” by Cora Harrison 

• “Danny seamipín an domhain” by Roald Dahl 

• “Samson” by Brian Ó Gráinne 

• “Tubaiste ar an Titanic” by Máire Zepf 

• “Goimh agus scealta eile” by Re Ó Laighleis 

• “Vaimpír san Áilear” by Orna Ní Choileáin 

• “Motherfoclóir” by Darach Ó Seaghdha 

• “Lámh Chuidithe” 

• “The boy in striped pyjamas” by John Boyne 

• “Small things like these” by Claire Keegan 

• “Artemis Fowl” by Eoin Colfer 

• “Rugby warrior” by Gerard Siggins 

• “The Snapper” by Roddy Doyle 

• “Home stretch” by Graham Norton 

• “Girls play too” by Jacqui Hurley 

• “The great Irish science book” by Luke O’Neill 

• “Dhá chorp” by Cora Harrison 

• “Black & Irish” by Leon Diop & Brianna Fitzsimons 

• “Brooklyn” by Colm Tóibín 

• “Oh my God, what a complete Aisling!” by Emer McLysaght & Sarah Breen 

• “Ghost light” by Joseph O’Connor 

• “Boys don’t cry” by Fiona Scarlett 

• “Freya Harte is not a puzzle” by Meabh Collins 

Ms Wiggle

Puttin on the Ritz - HSD Orchestra

Recently the orchestra took part in the Interschools Music Competition, it was a great day out and we all had a lot of fun. Ms Phillips picked a fun upbeat song called ‘Puttin on the Ritz’ and we had been practicing for the whole week before hand to perfect it. The nerves started kicking in before we had to go on stage but once we were called on we took a deep breath and soaked in the moment. As we set up our music people were eagerly awaiting, we were introduced by the announcer and before we knew it Ms Phillips was raising the baton and we were off. The song ended and we stood up and bowed. It was so nice to see that everyone had thoroughly enjoyed it. There is just something so satisfying about seeing how all our hard work came together and everything we had worked so hard for came to life. It was a truly magical day and we look forward to our next performance together!

Music Success!

On 1 March The High School’s Chamber Orchestra and Junior Chamber participated in the annual Interschools Music Festival.

Both orchestras had worked tirelessly in preparation for this moment, determined to achieve success. As the time approached, each minute felt like a ticking bomb, anticipation building with every step we took toward the stage.

The moment the first note rang through the hall, the audience was captivated. We loved every second of it, the crowd loved it—but what about the adjudicator?

With bated breath, we awaited the results—and to our delight, she loved it too! In the end, the Chamber Orchestra secured 1st place and a trophy, while the Junior Chamber proudly earned 2nd place.

Thanks to everyone's dedication and hard work, we pulled it off—just as always!
Olivia Liao

Calendar 2024 - 2025

 

Cadet, Junior & U21 European Championships 2025

On 5 February I arrived in Poland with the rest of the Irish karate team for the 2025 Cadet, Junior & U21 European Championships. We had been awake since the crack of dawn, and after landing in Kraków, we took a 90-minute bus ride to our hotel. Despite the exhaustion, spirits were high, and everyone was excited for the weekend ahead. Once settled in our rooms, we quickly grabbed a bite to eat before our first training session at 4 pm. Since we didn’t want to overeat, we kept it light, then got ready and headed to the arena by taxi. Training was focused but not too intense, ensuring we conserved energy for competition day. Afterward, we returned to the hotel, showered, ate dinner, and had an early night in preparation for the next morning's training and weigh-ins.

The next morning, we trained lightly at 10.00 am before heading straight to registration and weigh-ins. As we drove, we admired the picturesque snowy landscape outside. Stepping out of the taxi, we heard the crunch of snow beneath our feet before heading inside. After waiting nearly an hour, we were weighed in—thankfully, everyone made the correct weight. The rest of the day was relaxed as we awaited the timetable and draw. That evening at 8.30 pm, we gathered in reception to meet with our coaches, who updated us on rule changes and key competition details. Then, it was time for bed—we had to be at the stadium early the next morning to support our kata competitors.

On competition day, our first competitor, Calvin, won a bronze medal—Ireland’s only medal of the tournament. That night, I went to bed early, knowing I would be competing the next morning. By 9.45 am, I was in the stadium, despite not fighting until 11.30 am. I prefer arriving at least two hours early to support my teammates and prepare. After warming up, I waited anxiously for my category to be called. When it was finally my turn, I stepped onto the tatami, knowing my opponent was the current World Champion. I fought hard but didn’t win, and I felt I hadn’t performed at my best. However, because she reached the final, I got another chance in the repechage later that evening.

After resting and refueling, I returned to the warm-up area at 4.30 pm to prepare. Although there was a delay, I was the first match when my category was finally called at 6.30 pm. My first fight was against a competitor from Montenegro, and having watched her earlier, I knew her style. I managed to win and was now one fight away from a medal match. My next opponent was a skilled Turkish fighter I had seen at past competitions. Before stepping onto the tatami, I took three deep breaths to steady myself. Unfortunately, a mistake on my part cost me the match. While I’m not fully satisfied with my result, I gained valuable experience competing against top-class fighters. This was my first tournament as a Junior (U18), and while I know I can do better, I also know that my time will come.

Ex Machina Film Review

Wow, Alex Garland really blew me away with this., Ex Machina. I've always understood that he was an incredible filmmaker and this was meant to be his magnum opus, but he's really outdone himself here.

The entire movie is made on the basis of a thought experiment. What if we made an actual artificial intelligence, what would it mean, how would we react, and how can we know it's authentically intelligent. It is ahead of its time by at least a decade. Ex Machina is great in that it provides an unbiased well thought out objective take on its concept that can be read by many a people with completely different opinions on the matter. Still have them all relate to the topic in a meanful way and form an individual opinion from the movie. Suffice to say this is a far more evolved take on AI than 'I, Robot' (2004).

I think that the nature of the story wouldn't work if every character didn't served a functional purpose to the story unique to their personality and motivations that can drive the story forward. The two main male characters are perfectly opposite in temperaments and equal in intellect. They openly confront the issue of the AI, Ava. It's the perfect balance of imbalances and as the relationships between the characters gets fleshed out, so does the story.

The location alone provides so much contrast of natural beauty to a sterile unfeeling prison. I also just enjoy the environment that it inhabits as both are completely devoid of human life. If you strip away the context of this movie, it'd be prime real estate. Oh, and the cinematography is just so clever in how they shoot facial expressions in coversations or the rooms of the house, the colour grading, the score.

Personally, I think I could talk about this movie non-stop. But I don't think I could possibly cover everything that's good about it because I'm just one person and great art lends itself to the interpretation as many people as possible. The real merit of art is to not just make the audience feel but to make them think.
Adam Geraghty

This Scouting Life

A fabulous New Year has started at The High School and with it begins another exciting chapter for 31st Rathfarnham Scouts in 2025. The High School and 31st Rathfarnham share a strong bond and a rich history in our community, one built on close partnership and tradition. Numerous pupils, both past and present, have been members, as well as Scout and Venture Leaders. Membership extends not just to pupils but also to teachers, staff, and management. Links between The High School and 31st Rathfarnham date back to the very foundation of the troop in 1917 and have only grown stronger since then!

I joined Rathfarnham 31st Scouts when I was in Form 1, and I can safely say it is one of the best decisions I ever made. It quickly became my absolute favorite extracurricular activity, both in and outside of school. Scouts is a great place to learn skills, both practical and personal. As a Scout progresses through the 'ranks,' they are entrusted with increasing levels of responsibility until they become Patrol Leaders. This is an excellent way to develop leadership and personal responsibility, and it has undoubtedly been a valuable character-building experience for me and my friends who learned these skills alongside me.

Being in Scouts is also incredibly fun for everyone involved. 31st Rathfarnham Scouts go on annual

summer camps to countries across Europe, which are exciting adventures at any age. During my time in Scouts, I camped in Ireland, Italy, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Portugal. Each camp taught me new things about scouting, the world, and the people I traveled with. These camps are great exercises in developing personal independence as you grow older. They also allow you to bond and make friends with others in the troop—a very natural and enjoyable process! I deeply value the friendships I made in Scouts and the friendships that were reinforced through it. Being part of a troop like 31st Rathfarnham and sharing these experiences creates a sense of community and camaraderie unlike any other. I would encourage anyone interested to join our troop.

31st Rathfarnham Scouts meet in the Rathfarnham War Memorial Hall on Friday evenings at 7:30 pm. Male pupils from Forms 1 to 4 are all eligible for membership and are welcome to come along to see what being part of our troop is all about!
Leo Shorten