Big Kildare Interview: Traveller and youth activist on his way to Maynooth University

A teenager from Newbridge will be the first member of his family to finish his Leaving Certificate (LC) exams and go on to third-level education.

17-year-old James Stokes, who is also a youth activist aligned with Sinn Féin, will go from being a pupil at St Conleth's Community College in Newbridge to studying a degree in teaching at Maynooth University.

James explained that this achievement means a lot to him, as he is a member of the Irish Travelling Community.

He added: "In the 2011 Census, only 8 per cent of Travellers complete education to Leaving Certifiate Level, and only 1 per cent of Travellers aged 25 to 64 have a college degree, so I’d say it’s defying the normality.”

Reflecting on his LC experience, James said: "In St Conleth's, I studied Maths, Irish, English, Spanish, Business, Biology and History. I picked up History and Business going into the Leaving Cert, I hadn’t done it beforehand.

"However, I was very happy with my results, passing every subject and surpassing what I wanted to achieve: I achieved 350 points."

When asked about his overall Secondary School experience, James said: "My Secondary school experience in St Conleth's was amazing: I had a great time, met great friends, great role models and my girlfriend, Ella, in the school.

"Looking back they were probably the best days ever, spending every day with my friends.

James Stokes with (left to right) his girlfriend Ella Fullam, his teacher Ms Lane and Katelyn Brophy-Casey.

"In secondary school I was in the student council, from 2nd year to 6th year, and in 6th year, I chaired the student council as the school student Vice-Captain.

"I have a passion for politics, and being able to have that role in school was very fun."

As for his advice for those anxious about their exams, James had this to say: "My advice would be to just do what you are told and listen to the teachers; they want to support you.

"Get your projects out of the way, practice regularly for orals, and to talk with others about the study. Personally, mind maps and flash cards didn’t work for me, I needed to teach others or be taught by others.

"The best way to avoid the stress and nervousness, is to know the exam papers, understand how the questions will be asked, so you don’t open the paper and get thrown off instantly into a panic."

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James has said that he is looking forward to going into Maynooth University: "I originally had Maynooth University as my first choice in the CAO, however, I also applied for a course called Turn To Teaching in Maynooth University. That course is focused on widening participation in higher education for individuals and groups who have experienced educational disadvantage, or are from communities with experience of socio-economic disadvantage.

"This was separate from the CAO, through my years in education I’ve never met or known of a Traveller teacher, so I hope to be that representation for others.”

James also made his Debs recently: "It was rewarding because I was on the Debs Committee, it was good to see everything work out, and a rewarding night after the stressful academic year. My girlfriend and I won Debs royalty."

He also joked: "It was a night to remember, although I think some people won’t remember it!"

James also thanked all the staff members at St Conleth's who helped him along his educational journey: "They were a great five years — I specifically want to thank a few teachers: Ms O’Crowly, Ms Laine, Ms Molloy, Ms Doyle, Ms Kelly and Mr Whelan... there are loads more, but it would be a long list!

"These teachers have been nothing but supportive and encouraging and every decision I make to better my future," he added.