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"Books, one of my favourite things" - a speech by a 1st Year student for their Leinster Public Speaking Exam

Books
NEWS / 7 May 2020

The first years wrote speeches for their Leinster Public Speaking Exam during recent English classes. Carrie Barling speaks about one of her favourite things, books.

Many people in Ireland learn to read from a young age, for some it is ingrained in us to read to relax, for others reading is more of a chore. But is reading really worth it? Does it really make you smarter?

In an article by Cambridge Brain Sciences they discussed how your brain re-wires itself when you read. They said 'Reading has been there all along, making our brains better using the traditional but long-proven method of teaching us how to think better'. They also explained this can only happen with time and deep content, so me reading this really doesn't make me any smarter.

Reading can also reduce stress and lessen your chances of anxiety, heart problems, high blood pressure and mental health problems according to the world literacy foundation. In a study carried out by the University of Sussex in 2009 it showed a 69% decrease in stress just by reading!

Although binge watching all ten seasons of 'Friends' on Netflix is great, it's not all that good for you

So why do some people prefer tv over reading? Well watching tv is a passive activity, you as the audience are simply shown everything, that’s why it doesn't have the mental benefits of reading a book.

Reading is something that unites us, writers give us the chance to live out unimaginable things. When we read we learn about different people from different eras and worlds ,we learn empathy and kindness from characters writers made up in their heads. We can learn a lot from books, I first noticed this quote on the wall of the English room, it reads, ' a room without a book is like a body without a soul' and I agree with this completely. So I implore you pick up a book, it might just change your life.

My sources:

Book Smarts: The Brain Benefits of Reading

Can Reading Reduce Stress?

How Books and Television Affect Your Brain Differently, According to Science

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General School News, Stratford in the Media / 24 April 2026
Appointment of Delia Donohoe to Permanent Deputy Principal

Appointment of Delia Donohoe to Permanent Deputy Principal

Delia Donohoe has been appointed as Permanent Deputy Principal of Stratford College, following her tenure as Acting Deputy Principal since August 2023. This milestone marks her 21st year as a dedicated member of the Stratford community, where she has made a lasting contribution both in the classroom and in leadership.

Speaking about her appointment Chair of the Board of Management Ms. Aoife Cassidy said: “I am delighted to announce the appointment of Delia as Deputy Principal; she has been a leader and teacher at Stratford College for more than 20 years. During this time, she has served in an acting capacity as Deputy Principal, including over the last three years. She has strong leadership skills and an unwavering commitment and dedication to our school community. We have every confidence that she will continue to lead with the same energy, warmth and dedication in the years ahead. We are delighted to formally confirm Delia’s appointment and wish her every success in the role going forward.


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