Andrew made a wonderful contribution at Lucan school

STAFF and students from one local school turned out in force to wish their deputy principal farewell as he left to take up a new position after 21 years.

Deputy Principal at Lucan Community College, Andrew Purcell, received a fantastic send off from all of the staff, students, parents association members and chairperson of the board as he left the school on Friday, October 1.

Andrew, who has been at Lucan Community College since 2000, has taken up the position of principal at St Farnan’s Post Primary School.

Beginning his career as a teacher of music and geography at the school, Andrew previously worked in St Tiernan’s Community School and Kings Hospital School before going to Lucan Community College where he has served twelve years as Deputy Principal.

The school senior leadership team at Lucan Community College consisting of Diane Birnie, Stephen Brett and Grainne Malone will be joined by Elaine Brady who was appointed as Deputy Principal.

Before his departure, messages from current and former students, staff and parents were gathered into a booklet and presented to Andrew, thanking him for his guidance and kindness and for being a great support to students throughout the years.

His colleagues called him a “gentleman in the truest sense” and recalled his “professionalism and passion” as a teacher and his “compassion and hard work” to support members of staff.

Speeches from long-term colleagues of Andrew – John Grimes, Genevieve Casey and John O’Connor recalled the wonderful contribution that Andrew has made to the college over his 21 years and how much he will be missed.

Before saying his final goodbyes to the school, Andrew received a guard of honour by the third and sixth year students at the school who applauded him, he then made a quick visit to every classroom in the school followed by a final presentation from staff and students.