James Byrne, musician with the Villagers, contributed his memories of Stratford for the 60th Anniversary book, 60 Years A Growing, which was launched in November 2014.
Secondary School was a culture shock. Everybody seemed in a rush to grow up. Sometimes I thought I was the only one who was happy to still be a kid. Football and music were still central to my sense of being. I was the goalie for the school team. But my dreams of goalkeeping stardom dwindled the shorter in height I remained. Life may have been different if I had have grown a foot and a half in 1st Year instead of when I was eighteen.
I formed my first proper band in 4th year with Bronwyn Murphy White, and that's been my life ever since. I’m glad I stuck out the last two years, the good times outweigh the bad. Polyester school jumpers are not missed though. Now I'm a married man of 33. I play drums in a band called Villagers. I run a record label. I teach a bit. My moods are still dictated by the fortunes of Manchester United.
Read the 60 Years A Growing eBook for more Stratford memories.
James Byrne
In the run up to the state exams, Stratford's Wellbeing Team draws your attention to the suite of resources on gov.ie under the heading of Wellbeing support for Exam Students, Parents and School Staff.
On Thursday 21st May, Ms Donohoe, Ms McGill and the 3rd Year Classics students walked to nearby Ely Arch beside the River Dodder. As part of Junior Cycle Classics, students have to compare a building in their local area with a building in Rome.
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As is tradition at this time of year, the annual rounders game took place between our outgoing 6th Years and Teachers. Despite great efforts by our 6th years and some fabulous (and acrobatic) play! The Teachers came out victorious.
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