Derry primary school Steelstown appoints new principal

Catherine Doorish says she is ‘so honoured’ to be taking on the role of Principal at Steelstown Primary school.

The Faughanvale native has taught in the school since 2008 and last month took over the reins from Siobhan Gillen who has retired. And it’s a challenge she is looking forward to immensely.

Speaking this week Catherine described being appointed principal as ‘a great privilege’ as she is following in the path of trail-blazers who had done so much to make the school what it is today.

She said: "I have been extremely fortunate to have worked under such strong leaders, who believed in me and gave me opportunities to grow and develop as a teacher. 

"I have been fortunate to have also worked under inspiring leaders such as Mrs Siobhan Gillen, Mrs Deirdre Gillespie, and Mrs Kathleen Bradley."

A graduate in History and Theology from Maynooth Pontifical College, Catherine went onto complete a master’s degree in Theology. She then secured a place at Coleraine University to complete a PGCE in Education.

"I think my parents worried at one stage if I was ever going to leave university. I really value education and enjoyed my studies so I was in no rush," she adds with a laugh.

Describing herself as ‘a country girl at heart’ the outgoing Vice Principal says whether it is town or country the values of places like Faughanvale and Steelstown remain the same - the importance of family, community, and a sense of pride of belonging to a wonderful place. 

The mother of two daughters, Josie and Niamh - who she is clearly very proud of - gives her, she says, a clear insight what role a school principal should play.

And this is her mission statement: "Being a parent, I want my girls to be happy and achieve their potential and this is also what I want for every pupil at Steelstown Primary and Nursery School.

"I came to Steelstown as a newly qualified teacher in 2008, and was employed by Mrs Bradley; in fact, that was my very first teaching interview. I have cherished each year I have taught here since, and I am enormously proud of all pupils I have taught."

The new principal makes clear her faith has always been important to her and has given her the strength to overcome challenges in life.

"As Principal of Steelstown Primary school, I hope to continue the school's Catholic tradition and ethos ensuring every child can grow academically, physically, emotionally, socially and spiritually."

She has a clear vision for where she wants to lead in the coming years.

"My approach to educating young people involves setting high expectations and ensuring each pupil at Steelstown Primary School reaches their full potential."

But she is adamant that uniformity is not what’s being demanded.

"Each child is different which is the beauty in teaching. Each child also has the right to be in an environment where everyone believes they can achieve in their own way to their best ability."

Pointing to her own experience, she acknowledges the key role good teachers have in the lives of their pupils. She observed that as a child, inspiring teachers who believed in her and encouraged her to fulfil her potential included people like her form teacher at St. Mary’s High School Limavady, Mr. Vincent Conway.

Catherine explained: "He inspired me to pursue a career that I am passionate about, his lessons where always so creative and sparked a lifelong love of history. He persuaded a very shy 13-year-old me to take part in debating and public speaking and I will always be grateful for his belief in me.

"And I should also acknowledge the late Father Cargan who supported me so much in my studies at Maynooth and when I began teaching in Steelstown Primary school. He was always there to offer a listening ear. I miss him dearly."

Clearly looking forward to her new role the new principal concluded by paying warm tribute to her parents, Bernie and Brian Peoples.

"I’d be lost without them; my parents are my rock. I am very grateful for their encouragement, advice, guidance, and child minding."