On Tuesday 2nd June 2026, St Paul’s was honoured to welcome Crossmaglen mountaineer Sarah Armstrong to speak at our Year 8 assembly about her recent ascent of Mount Everest.

Sarah reached the summit of the world’s highest mountain on 20th May 2026, a death-defying feat that fewer than 8,000 people have accomplished in 73 years. Her achievement makes her the tenth Irish woman to stand on the summit and only the third person from Armagh ever to do so. She is now also officially the youngest Irish woman to complete the world’s highest seven summits.

Closer to home, Sarah’s climb was about more than the record books. She raised almost £3,000 for Evora Hospice, a cause she describes as close to her heart, and her efforts were recently recognised with a Civic Award from Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.

Our Year 8 pupils were captivated by Sarah’s story. She spoke about the years of preparation, the physical and mental demands of high-altitude climbing, and the determination needed to keep going when conditions were at their hardest. Pupils were given the chance to put their own questions to Sarah during a short Q&A session, and the hall was full of curiosity and admiration.

Sarah’s visit was a wonderful example of the values we hold dear at St Paul’s. Her courage, perseverance and commitment to a cause greater than herself offered our pupils a living illustration of what integrity and compassion can achieve.

We were delighted to host Sarah and thank her warmly for sharing her remarkable experience with our school community. We have no doubt that her example will stay with our young people for a long time to come.