Principal looks back on ‘an outstanding year’

During her report to the school’s annual prize distribution, which welcomed The Very Rev John Dunlop, former Moderator of the Presbyterian Church in Ireland, as guest speaker, Mrs Gormley reflected on another successful year for Belfast High in terms of examination results and extra-curricular activities.

She spoke about how the school had been awarded a European Language Label - one of only five post-primary schools in the United Kingdom to receive the accolade - and was selected as a Leadership Development Partner to help other schools with self-evaluation and school improvement.

Reflecting on another year of excellent GCSE, AS and A Level results, Mrs Gormley commented: “Belfast High School attributes its success in examinations to a dedicated workforce of staff, a flexible curriculum, the support of parents and governors and excellent pastoral care and careers guidance.

“However, the biggest factor contributing to this success is of course, the sheer hard work and the determination of the pupils themselves.”

The Principal went on to highlight the successes of various school teams and individuals in the sporting arena, and notable achievements by pupils in other extra-curricular activities such as music and drama, art, the Duke of Edinburgh Award Scheme, community service and Young Enterprise.

During her speech, Mrs Gormley touched on the tragic death earlier this year of Year 10 pupil Clarence Campbell, and the passing of former Head of Science Mr John Devine.

The Principal thanked former teachers Mrs Amanda McNutt, Ms Eileen Miller, Mr Ross Ewart, Dr Maurice Jordan and Mr Ken Morrison for their many years of faithful service to the school and wished each of them a long, happy and healthy retirement.

She also praised non-teaching staff Mrs Barbara McFaul, Mrs Anne Magee, Mrs Eleanor Gourley and Mr Gareth Webb, who retired or moved on to other jobs during the past year, for their hard work and dedication.

Mrs Gormley went on to thank Mr Tom McGrath, who stepped down as Chairman of the Board of Governors in February 2012, for his long service and his loyalty and commitment to the school.

Describing the past 12 months as “an outstanding year for Belfast High”, the Principal thanked everyone involved in the school’s ongoing success, including staff, pupils, parents, the Board of Governors and the Senior Management Team.

“Success like this does not roll in on the wheels of inevitability; it comes through continuous commitment and consistent hard work. Congratulations again to the pupils and the staff on their superb achievements,” she added.