Student Voices

What does being Head Girl mean to you? It’s the responsibility of representing the school – such as interviews like this! I have to be a spokesperson for the student body, but I don’t mind that because I am very chatty and enjoy finding out what peoples’ opinions are. I was honoured to be chosen as Head Girl because there are a fantastic group of girls in my year group, any of whom would be fit for the job. My parents were really proud of me.
 

Your plans after school: After leaving St. Mary’s, I will have to go to another school to complete my A Levels. I would love to do A Levels and go to University and maybe study Sports Science. I am looking forward to travelling and experiencing new place, new countries, new culture, new people and new food!!
 

Your career aspirations: To be a Sports Physiotherapist.
 

Will you consider emigrating; if so, where? Yes. I am a real home bird, I love Fermanagh and all of its wonderful people, but I definitely would consider trying somewhere else. I wouldn’t mind living in America or Australia.

Please outline any extra responsibilities you have within school: I sometimes lead one of the lunch time clubs. At St. Mary’s, we are encouraged to try new things all the time and say “Yes” to new opportunities. The problem is that once you get known as a reader at mass, for example, you can easily become the “go-to” person! I also play music so I represent the school on occasion and I play at different community events.

What are your hobbies and interests outside school? I really enjoy swimming and going to the Gym. I am also a very sociable person and I love meeting up with my friends.

What social media sites do you use and why? Facebook and Instagram.

What are your views on:
Shared vs integrated education: I think it is good to mix with people from all kinds of backgrounds and beliefs. At the same time, there are a lot of changes proposed for education and it is important that it is done properly and not rushed. I also think it is crucial that people get to make their own choices, based on what is right for them.
Northern Ireland’s politicians: They have a lot of responsibility and they need to remember that representing us is a privilege. It is a tough job, but it is crucial that they protect our way of life. Fracking worries me and a poor decision now will impact forever. We have to be able to trust that our politicians will do what is right for us.
Country music: I like it. We are starting country jive classes at school after Easter and I will be leading the charge to the school gym!

Name: Tiernan Allen
Age: 16
From: Irvinestown
Family details: Parents: Annaleen and Stephen; siblings: Terri-Louise, Ciara, Dearbhla and my late brother, Steafan.
Subjects studied: GCSE English, Maths, Science, LLW, Travel and Tourism, RE, Art, Business Studies and Construction.

What does being Head Boy mean to you? I am privileged to be chosen as Head Boy. As we move through this academic year, I hope to continue to make a positive impact for the pupils at St. Mary’s – both in supporting those facing exams and in ensuring that the after school clubs that run cater for all the pupils’ needs.

Your plans after school: I hope to attend St Michael’s to do my A Levels and then go onto University. I want to work in the Construction industry.

Your career aspirations: I am considering becoming a Quantity Surveyor (pending on the outcome of my results).

Will you consider emigrating; if so, where? It may be a possibility in order to broaden my horizons. That way I can see different parts of the world and develop my career at the same time. At present, with the employment situation at home, emigration could be likely.

Please outline any extra responsibilities you have within school: I have to make speeches at school events on behalf of the pupils and welcome new students and visitors to our school. I also support peers if they are experiencing problems.

What are your hobbies and interests outside school? Gaelic Football has been my passion since I was a young boy. I play for Trillick St. Macartan’s Minor squad. I also enjoy cross country, something which I started in my first year at St. Mary’s. With my dad being a joiner, I work with him regularly, developing my skills and experience.

What social media sites do you use and why? Snapchat

What are your views on:
Northern Ireland’s politicians: I feel that financial decisions should be more directed to rural counties such as Fermanagh and Tyrone to increase employment prospects. 
Over the past years there has been an increase in emigration to Australia and America and it’s sad to see when something can be done.
Country music: I quite enjoy country music, particularly Derek Ryan’s “It’s Friday”!