Shane Gavin, Killawalla, Westport, (third from left) was presented with a special award at Davitt College, Castlebar. Pictured at the presentation are school principal Bernie Rowland, Mayo footballers Diarmuid O'Connor and Liam Irwin (both past pupils of Davitt College), and vice-principal Ger King.

13 years and never a day off school

ONE day at a time. That personal motto has stood Shane Gavin in good stead over the past 13 years. The now 17-year-old has never missed a day in school at either secondary or primary level.

Shane, who hails from Killawullaune, Killawalla, was presented with a special award in recognition of his 100 per cent attendance record at Davitt College, Castlebar, since 2011.

The youngster, an avid runner and cyclist, hopes to enrol as an army cadet once he reaches the required entry age of 18 years.

But, in the meantime, he won’t be sitting back and waiting for his chosen career to just happen. After completing his Leaving Certificate in a few weeks time he aims to join the Army Reserve as a part-time soldier.

The rigid discipline which has made Shane a class act as regards school attendance over the years, combined with the true grit he displays as an athlete on an almost daily basis, surely augurs welll for his future career in the Defence Forces.

Asked last week if it had been difficult to maintain a 100 per cent attendance record at both secondary and primary level, the quiet spoken youngster replied: “I just took it one day at a time.”

Shane is the eldest child of Johnny and Caitriona Gavin. He has two siblings, Ciaran (15) and Katie (13).

At this stage, Johnny Gavin has grown used to his son’s diligence and reliability as regards school attendance.

Jokingly, he remarked: “Shane’s so dedicated that sometimes I think he wouldn’t attend my funeral if it involved missing school for a few days.”

Naturally, Davitt College is delighted to have such a dedicated pupil as Shane on their rollbooks.

Explained school principal Bernie Rowland: “Shane is an outstanding young man, a model student, quietly spoken, and highly popular amongst both staff and pupils.

What he has done as regards school attendance is remarkable. Everybody involved with the school is delighted for him. We will all really miss him now that his days at Davitt College are nearly over.”

Shane’s flawless record has been acknowledged by the National Education Welfare Board, which monitors school attendance.

At the recent annual awards ceremony in Davitt College, a special award was presented to Shane on behalf of the board, which is extremely impressed by his achievement.

Davitt College, which has a current enrolment of 720, is one of the top second level schools in Co. Mayo.