New Brideswell NS principal aims to build on community spirit

By Rebekah O'Reilly

Knockcroghery native Seamus Gilleran has been welcomed by Brideswell National School as its new principal, with the experienced educator saying he is “very excited and very privileged” to take on the role in the heart of the village community.

Mr Gilleran attended Glanduff National School before going on to St Aloysius College. He later completed a business degree before travelling to England to undertake his postgraduate teaching qualification in Canterbury.

His teaching career has brought him across Ireland and overseas, giving him experience in a wide variety of school settings. He taught in schools including Scoil na gCeithre Máistrí in Athlone, Abbey National School, and in Ballybay National School before spending four years in the Middle East, where he worked in Doha and Oman.

After returning to Ireland, Mr Gilleran taught in St Matthew’s National School in Longford for six years before taking up his first principalship at Castlesampson National School, where he served for almost four years.

Reflecting on his journey into education, Mr Gilleran said his motivation has always been to recreate the positive school experience he enjoyed as a child.

“My motivation would be to recreate a school experience similar to my own, which was steeped in tradition, sport, art, fun and encouraging everyone to try their best,” he said.

He believes primary school plays a hugely important role in shaping children’s lives and memories, and said schools should create opportunities for every pupil, regardless of their interests or background.

“Not everyone is into GAA, so you try to create opportunities through science, chess, projects and innovation,” he said.

“Primary school is a huge part of a child’s life and it’s very important that we create positive core memories in a respectful and nurturing environment.”

Although new to Brideswell, Mr Gilleran said he is already aware of the school’s strong reputation and high standards, and is eager to build on the work already being done.

“I know a bit about the school and the area, and I’m well aware of the high standards and great practice there,” he said.

“My motivation is to build on the existing foundations and ensure the school reflects the needs, values and interests of every child who attends Brideswell National School.”

Community connection is something he sees as central to the role of the school, describing it as “the core of the village”.

“The school not only belongs to the children, but it is a place for everyone,” he said.

“I really want the school and the community to be linked together in a supportive and positive way through events like the Brideswell Pattern and local markets. It’s a small village and we want to keep that connection strong.”

Mr Gilleran also expressed his appreciation for the warm welcome he has received since arriving at the school.

He thanked chairperson Fr. Michael and the Board of Management, along with staff members Doreen Walshe, Majella O Connor, Demelza Muldoon, Alison Hannon, Michelle Kelly and secretary Fiona Glennon, for their support and kindness.

“Everyone has been so warm and welcoming and I’m really enjoying my time here already,” he said.

“Every conversation centres around what is best for the children, and that makes it a very special environment.”

Mr Gilleran extended his best wishes to his predecessor Ms Orla Fogarty, who served as Principal in Brideswell since 2019.

He wished her the best of luck in her new role in Coosan National School in Athlone.