Dominican's centenary plans

The school announced on its website that a series of events will be held throughout the year “to mark this great Dominican milestone and achievement, as the school both looks to it proud past and its exciting future.”

The school is aiming to mark each month with a specific event to celebrate the milestone.

“ We hope the events are varied, inclusive to all and reflect the ethos, success, history and future of Dominican College,” the school announced.

“It is hoped to plan other events throughout the year,”

“Over the course of the year of centenary celebrations we hope to see as many past pupils from all eras of the school as possible.

“As a school community we are delighted and proud to be hosting these centenary events within our local community and would love to see as many past pupils and members of the Dominican family back here as possible.

“Let the centenary celebrations begin!

The list of proposed events include:

January 2017: Book of Reflection

The centenary year of celebrations will commence with a specially produced book of reflections, prayers and photos.

February: Establishment of a Friends of Dominican Association.

March: Music Celebration at Riverside Theatre

Dominican is inviting many of its very talented past singers and musicians back for a celebration concert to showcase the wonderful musical heritage of the school. Please contact the school if you are interested in being involved on either of the nights of the concerts, Wednesday or Thursday, March 8-9.

April: Gala Dinner, Tullyglass Hotel, Ballymena, Dinner – Friday, April 21

Tullyglass will host a gala evening to celebrate 100 years of Dominican education in Portstewart. Staff, pupils, past pupils, parents and friends of Dominican are invited to a four course meal with wine and a champagne reception It is planned to have live music at this event and both a raffle and auction.

Early booking for this event is highly recommended as it will be one of the main events of the centenary calendar.

The cost of the meal is £50.00 per person and special tables can be purchased.

May: Dominican Sporting Tournament

The school will host an inter – schools sports tournament with the other Irish Dominican schools.

June: Mass and Open Day, Saturday, June 24

A Centenary Mass will be held in The Star of The Sea at 3pm and the school will be open to visitors and past pupils.

July: Art Exhibition – Flowerfield Arts Centre

This exhibition will showcase the art and photography of Dominican pupils past and present.

August: Dominican Staff Day with invited guests

September: Start of year Mass and Beach Walk.

September 24 is the date of the whole school start of year Mass and, later in the month it is hoped to open up the annual Charity Walk to past pupils and members of the parish and community.

October: School Musical Show

A decision has yet to be made on the 2017 show and, again, it is hoped to invite past pupils back to participate in the chorus of the musical.

November: Mass for the Deceased Dominicans and Relatives

December: Carol Service

A commemorative Christmas Card will be produced as well as a school publication collating the centenary celebrations.