HCK Candle Ceremony 2026
The Graduation theme chosen by the Class of 2026, The Carousel, beautifully reflected the music, laughter, friendships and memories shared throughout their years in HCK. It also symbolised the close of one important chapter and the beginning of another. Throughout the ceremonies and reflections that marked their final weeks in Sixth Year, one message resonated strongly: their ticket to the carousel remains valid forever...a reminder that HCK will always remain a place to which they can return.
The celebrations began with the traditional HCK Candle Ceremony, a cherished occasion in which each candle is carefully chosen by the year group to represent the values and qualities that have shaped the class community.
House Candles passed from the outgoing 6th Years:
• Cornelia: Clara → Laragh
• Geraldine: Sophie → Emilia
• Madeleine: Olivia → Isabelle
• Hilary: Mollie → Lucy
Symbolic Candles:
• Le Chéile Candle: Ella → Ellie
• Candle of Generosity: Kate → Cecilia and Louise
• Candle of Gratitude: Robyn → Orla and Amelie
• Candle of Faith: Sheana → Eleanor
• Social Action Candle: Siobhan → Hannah
• Candle of Learning: Georgia and Ms Quinn
• Candle of Friendship: Ellen and Ella
• Mentoring Candle: Maddie and Mr Doran
• Candle of Love: Emily and Laura Dolan
• Candle of Commitment and Loyalty: families of Niamh, Anna, Jess, Emily and Laura, Penelope and Lelia
• Holy Child Candle: Grace M, Jane L and incoming First Year student Ava L
One particularly meaningful moment was the presentation of the Candle of Commitment and Loyalty, honouring the six families who currently have three daughters attending HCK... a truly special and unique connection within the school community.
Niamh, outgoing Chaplaincy Prefect, reflected:
“As we processed out of the hall carrying our memory boxes, it mirrored the moment we first entered the school in First Year, memory boxes in hand. It was a full-circle moment none of us will forget.”
Each student also received a Blessing Bag prepared by the 5th Year students, filled with thoughtful messages and symbols of resilience, encouragement and hope as the Class of 2026 now looks ahead to their Leaving Certificate examinations.
