Wednesday was a fantastic day at Donabate Community College! We were delighted to welcome the Garda Band to the school. They were here to celebrate the presentation of certificates to our Transition Year students who participated in the ‘TAG’ programme. TAG stands for ‘Teenagers and Garda Programme’, and it aims to promote positive engagement between teenagers and Gardaί. Students who participated in the programme spent six weeks working with Gardai discussing a variety of issues.
It was a very proud day at DCC when the participating students were presented with their certificates. We were also treated to an amazing performance by members of the Garda Band. Conducted by Inspector Pat Kenny, the band performed a tight and well-rehearsed set of pieces by popular artists and some original compositions. They began by playing the theme song from the Indiana Jones film “Raiders of the Lost Ark” and flowed into an original composition by Pat Fitzpatrick on the tin whistle. Andrew Gillespie then stood up and soloed a song from the Blues Brothers. Charles Kavanagh was a standout performer and he sang two pieces, “Valerie” and “Just Haven’t Met You Yet” alongside John Duffy who sang “Galway Girl”. Students from 1st year, 2nd year and the TY students who took part in the programme sang along and clapped and waved to the music. We were also treated to an impromptu dance performance by Mr. Weafer and Ms. Lindsay!
Garda Kevin Turner spoke briefly on what the TAG Programme was all about and how impressed he was by the effort all the TY students put in and then introduced Garda Dong who also gave a short speech on the work that was done by the students and the importance of open communication between young people and the Gardaί. Students were then presented with their certificates and congratulated on all their work on the programme. Mrs. Flynn concluded by thanking the Gardaί for delivering the programme, the Garda band for the wonderful performance and the students for their participation in the programme.
It was a particularly proud day for Jennifer Wilde from Rang Shackleton and her father Mark Wilde, who is a member of the Garda band, and who performed today at the ceremony.
Following the ceremony, the Gardaί and students enjoyed some well-earned refreshments and chat. Overall it was a really great day for everyone involved and we look forward to the Gardaί working with Transition Year students next year on the programme.
By Cliona O’Dea and Katie Robinson