New principal appointed at Moate primary school

New St Brigid's Primary School Moate principal Kieran Dufficy will look to build upon the positive presence of the school in the local community when he the new academic year starts for the pupils tomorrow (Thursday).

Dufficy was appointed to the role following the retirement of Cathy Gillivan as school principal in June. Gillivan had served in the chief role in St Brigid's for seven years.

Originally from Limerick, Dufficy was school principal for three years in Scoil Bhríde NS Tullamore before being appointed to the role in St Brigid's Primary School.

Prior to his appointment as Scoil Bhríde principal, the experienced teacher taught for 17 years in Scoil Eoin Phoil in Arden View, Tullamore. He will bring his wealth of teaching experience and leadership qualities to his new role in the Moate school.

"I am looking forward to stepping into the role and also having the opportunity to work in the town in which I live," Dufficy said.

Living close by in Cois na hAbhainn with his wife Niamh and children Conor and Holly, Dufficy joked that he will have the "shortest commute" to work, having travelled to Tullamore for 20 years.

"It's a privilege to be appointed principal of a school that has long been immersed in the local community. My aim is to continue on the positive work of previous school principals and strengthen the school's ties within the community," Dufficy said.

Dufficy said the school has a "strong team" who take "great pride" in the school, adding that it was an honour for him to lead the school in his principal role.

The school currently has 225 pupils all of whom, Dufficy said, make a "valuable contribution" to school life. The Moate resident is "excited" for what lies ahead, describing it as a fresh challenge and an opportunity to pursue his leadership attributes in pastures new.

"As a school we are here to provide a stable and secure relationship for each pupil coming to St Brigid's. As a school principal, working with my staff, it's essential that they have a positive and happy environment in which they can learn and fulfil their potential," Dufficy said.