The nurturing environment which allows pupils to develop individually was applauded by the guest speaker at the St Eugene's Prize-giving ceremony.
Journalist, Meadhbh Monahan, told pupils: "My five years at St. Eugene's were undoubtedly some of the happiest in my life and they inspired me to become who I am today."
Ms Monahan praised the school saying: "The relaxed learning environment and one-to-one interaction with pupils that is practised here suited my learning style.
"My confidence in my own abilities and talents were always nurtured in St Eugene's. Even if you weren't the best in the class, the teachers praised you for working hard. I often marvelled at the way the teachers could alter their teaching skills to suit the different capabilities, talents and needs of the pupils".
EVERYONE IS DIFFERENT
She said studying in St Eugene's had taught her that everyone was different: "Everyone learns differently, they speak differently, have different opinions and dreams. Some people have no interest in school and exams, while some cannot see a future without education."
Outlining her own career path, Ms Monahan chose to continue with education, going to Mount Lourdes to study A Levels before moving on to Queen's University, where she studied a degree in English for three years. From there, she went to Belfast Institute, where she studied journalism for one year.
"I firmly believe', she told her audience, " that my five years in St. Eugene's helped prepare me for whatever life would throw at me.
I also learned those who venture into work after their GCSE's or A levels deserve an equal amount of respect as people who take the academic route. They have taken the tougher route in some ways as they delve into the world of bills, taxes and meeting targets long before people like myself".
She said that many of her friends had been working the entire time she had been studying and were now ready to settle down.
"They deserve respect for that, and I am glad that I have met people in this school who made me realise that both continuing with further education and starting work after school require a great deal of hard work, commitment and determination, all qualities that are nurtured in St. Eugene's.
VALUABLE
"While I was here", she went on, " I sometimes felt that I was just going through the motions but looking back now I can see how valuable my time here was,
"I would urge everyone here, those who have won awards and those who haven't, to listen to your teachers. They do know what they are talking about and are only looking out for you, no matter what you think."
Ms Monahan concluded: "As someone who has followed her dream, I would encourage everyone here to do the same. Lots of changes are on the way for education in Fermanagh.
"So, no matter what happens in the next few years, treasure your time here at this great school where friendships are made, and ideas and talents are nurtured."
