BIG READ: Tributes as Tommy O'Brien retires as principal in Clonoulty

The community of Clonoulty National School recently gathered for a celebration of the working life of Tommy O’Brien who retired as principal after 33 years of service.

Tommy, a native of the Glen of Aherlow, trained in Mary Immaculate College and started his teaching career in Tullamore, county Offaly.

When Mary Kearney retired as principal of Clonoulty National School in 1989, the young Aherlow man was duly appointed to succeed her and immediately set about putting his mark on Clonoulty National School.

Tommy loved music and he established a marching band in the school which took part in St Patrick’s Day parades.

He was very competent in directing choirs and under his baton, he was able to get the very best from the children.

As a member of Tipperary Musical Society for years, Tommy had a great love of the stage – he used these skills to bring stage productions in Clonoulty NS to life.

In his teaching career, Tommy played a huge part in developing sport in the school.

He was actively involved in preparing teams for Cumann na mBunscoil competitions and indeed, Clonoulty NS enjoyed much success under his direction.

Whilst hurling was his first love, in the school, Tommy also promoted other sports such as tennis, basketball, soccer, rugby and athletics, and ensured there was something of interest for every child, regardless of what their strengths were.

He worked hard to develop the school and during his time as principal, the school saw two building extensions to accommodate the growing needs of the school.

He was actively involved in the purchase and development of the field adjacent to the school in recent years.

His drive and determination were pivotal in the success of many projects in the school: including a state-of-the-art sensory room, modern IT equipment, wheelchair accessible facilities and

Perhaps Tommy’s greatest legacy in the school was his ability to recognise the strengths and talents of each pupil in his care.

He approached each day with good humour and fun and this permeated throughout the school.

As a trained counsellor, Tommy had a very unique set of skills which encouraged children to communicate to empower them to solve their own problems.

Tommy’s retirement was celebrated in January in Clonoulty. Tommy’s wife Patricia and two sons Morgan and Jamie, were present for this occasion and together with present and past staff members, pupils and past pupils, and members of the community, a huge crowd gathered to show their appreciation to Tommy for his wonderful contribution to the school and wider community.

Celebrations began with a Mass in St John the Baptist Church followed by presentations and speeches in the hall. A representative of each class since 1989 – was present, and some of these spoke of how Tommy had helped shape the direction taken in their lives.

Presentations were made by Tommy’s own family, Clonoulty/Rossmore GAA and the staff and Board of Management of Clonoulty NS.

Music was provided by locals Derek Ryan, Noreen Forristal and a group put together by past pupil Anna Kennedy.

The people of Clonoulty/Rossmore will be forever grateful to the contribution Tommy made to the school and wider community and wish him many years of health and happiness in his retirement.