New headmistress is thrilled to take charge at St Malachy’s

9 September 2015

ST Malachy’s High School’s new principal is no stranger to the school.

Orla O’Neill has been appointed headmistress, five years after first arriving at the Castlewellan school to take the role of vice-principal.

Mrs O’Neill said she was “absolutely thrilled” to be appointed principal, particularly in a school she already knows so well.

A former pupil of Assumption Grammar School and St Patrick’s Downpatrick, said she hoped being from the area would also be of benefit in her new role.

“I already know many of the pupils well having taught here for five years now, so in many ways my transition has been a seamless one,” she said.

“Many of the parents are past pupils and it means a lot that former students have entrusted their children to our care.

“It is my hope that we can continue to work together to provide the students of St Malachy’s the best possible opportunities in preparing them to be world class citizens ready to master the challenges of the 21st century with the solid foundation here at our school.

“The wonderful St Malachy’s staff and I feel privileged to be part of this school family and I look forward to working with students, parents, staff and the wider community in this new and exciting role.”

Mrs O’Neill said it was a privilege and honour to take on the role of principal and said St Malachy’s was a wonderful school of which she was delighted to be a part.

“It is exciting times in our school following the recent excellent inspection report and this year’s students having achieved the best results in the school’s history,” she said.

“I look forward to working alongside the dedicated and committed staff to continue to raise standards across the school.”

Mrs O’Neill said the most rewarding aspect of her role will be watching the students in her care, grow and develop into young adults and said you could never underestimate the positive influence teachers can have on a young person’s life.

“I find it so rewarding to see students flourish during their time here,” she said.

“When students start in first year they are full of apprehension and excitement but by the time they leave us they are confident young individuals, ready to take their place in society, among the best.”

Mrs O’Neill studied Biochemistry at Queen’s University before going on to do her PGCE.

She started her first teaching post at St Louise’s Comprehensive College, Belfast in 1997, moving on to St Colman’s in Newry in 1998 where she spent 12 years on the staff leaving as senior teacher to join St Malachy’s as vice principal in 2010.

She takes over the reins from Joan McCombe.

Tweets by @TheDownRecorder