Kilkenny school bids farewell to a much loved principal

After many years of dedication to primary education, leadership and the community, Ms Brennan officially stepped down from her role.

To honour her remarkable career, the local community, clergy, past pupils, staff and families joined in a special celebration in the school.

Mass was celebrated by Fr. Liam Cassin. Pupils contributed to the ceremony with singing, prayers, readings and presentation of the gifts.

The large crowd was addressed by Tom Duggan (former principal), Teresa Broderick (B.O.M Chairperson), Mary Purcell (Deputy Principal) and by Ms. Brennan. A ribbon cutting ceremony was held to officially open the outdoor play area.

Throughout her tenure, Ms Brennan has been much more than an administrator, she has been the heartbeat of Newmarket N.S., leading to a close-knit, dedicated team, she championed an environment where children could reach their full potential in a warm, inclusive and stimulating setting.

Her unique blend of professionalism, kindness and approachability ensured that generations of pupils began their educational journey with confidence and joy. Ms. Brennan attended St. Brendan’s as a pupil herself, as did her four children.

Ms. Brennan has taught in St. Brendan’s for most of her teaching career. In 2018 she assumed the role of Principal.

Under her visionary leadership, St. Brendan’s N.S. has successfully navigated significant structural growth to meet the needs of its students, overseeing the school’s state-of-the-art classroom extension, opened in 2023.

After school kids club and breakfast club have been set up in recent years.

As the school celebrated its centenary last year, Ms. Brennan organised an evening for the community to view artifacts, photographs etc in the school. She also organised the production of a centenary book, documenting the school’s history and transformation over the years.

As Ms. Brennan retires, she leaves a thriving, modern school that stands as a testament to her vision, hard work and care. We wish Margo a long, healthy and richly deserved retirement filled with new adventures, peace, health and happiness. Breda Dunphy (Retired Deputy Principal).