New principal from Tipperary announced for Limerick secondary school

A new principal has been announced for a Limerick city secondary school.

Michael O’Connor will become only the third lay principal in the 140-year history of St Clement’s College based at South Circular Road.

The Tipperary native will take up his post in time for the new school term on September 1 next.

A former teacher in Doon, Mr O’Connor said he is “delighted” to take on the role of principal and is looking forward to working with staff, students and the wider school community.

“The Redemptorists are renowned here in Limerick and worldwide for their commitment to social justice, equality and to the good of all, and this is also the ethos of St Clement’s College. Our aim is to produce not just well educated but well-rounded young men. We are passionate about creating a welcoming environment rooted in Catholic values which draws the very best out of all in the school,” he said.

After graduating from Dublin City University with degrees in science and education, Mr O’Connor taught for some years in London before returning to Ireland to teach in Cistercian College at Roscrea.

In 2010, he was appointed principal of St Michael’s College, Cappamore, until its amalgamation with two other schools to form Scoil Na Tríonóide Naofa in Doon.

This was the first newly built Catholic secondary school in Ireland in over 20 years at the time.

In 2015, he was appointed principal of Colaiste Phobal Roscrea.