In September 1906, two boys barely in their teens, John O'Meara and William Devereux, set out from Rockshire Road in Ferrybank to enrol as pupils in the new Central Technical Institute, Their route took them through fields, emerging on the road at Sion Row (now the entrance to the Ard Ri Hotel), and across the old wooden bridge know as Timbertoes, which would be demolished severn years later.

On arrival, they were surprised to be told that the Institute would not, in fact, be admitting students for another week.

However, the Principal, Mr Bernard O'Shaughnessy (pictured below in the middle of the third row) asked if they would help with minor arrangements,, such as moving desks and furniture in preparation for the opening. This they did for the remainder of the week, laying claim in the process, to being the first two pupils in the new Institute.

John O'Meara (pictured below, second row, far right) become a carpenter with the nearby firm of Costen. He was also a successful sportsman, being a member of the Ferrybank (Shamrocks) Hurling Club which won the Waterford County Championship in 1915-1916. He lived for 90 years, always holding a great affection for his Alma Mater.

His boyhood friend was less fortunate. On the outbreak of the First World War, William Devereaux (pictured below) enlisted in the 14th Signals, Royal Engineers.

On Friday 20th August 1915, he died aged 23 and is buried in Lijssenthoek Military Cemetary in Belgium.