A well known principal who is leaving his position at a local primary school after a decade of service has spoken of his “mixed emotions” at moving on from the area. Sean Merrick, who has been the principal at Holy Rosary Primary School for the past ten years will take up the principal’s position at Our Lady of Lourdes, Park Lodge Primary School in North Belfast at the start of the new school term in September.

Speaking of his decision Mr Merrick praised the staff and pupils of the South Belfast school of which he will be taking his leave.

“It is with mixed emotions that I will be leaving Holy Rosary, after having spent ten wonderful years as principal, to take up a position in another school,” he said.

“Holy Rosary is an excellent school, in no small part because of its dedicated and hard-working staff and I have no hesitation assuring parents, that the staff will remain fully committed to the education and personal welfare of all the children attending Holy Rosary Primary School.”

Vice principal, Hugh McGivern, will act as principal after the current head’s departure and the post will be advertised in September.

Mr Merrick will be replacing Ciaran O’Grady, who has just announced his retirement from Park Lodge school.

Fr Gerard Cassidy, Chairman of the Board of Governors at Our Lady of Lourdes PS has said he is looking forward to welcoming Sean Merrick to the school in September.

“Here in Our Lady of Lourdes P.S. (Park Lodge) we are pleased to welcome Mr Sean Merrick as principal and look forward to meeting him and working with him in the years ahead. The board says its fond farewells to Mr. Ciaran O'Grady and thank him for 24 years of service.”

Mr Merrick is looking to pastures new but has reflected on the good times at his former school just off the Ormeau Road.

“The children themselves have been a joy to work with. Always enthusiastic and eager to please, they are a credit, not only to themselves, but also to their parents and the school. I wish them every success in the future. While sorry to be leaving I am also looking forward to my new post and the challenges that it may bring.”

Cliodhna Scott-Wills, Chair of Holy Rosary Board of Governors:

“The Board of Governors are saddened to see Sean leave Holy Rosary Primary School after ten years of dedicated service.

“We wish him every success in the future and know that Our Lady of Lourdes Primary School is very lucky to get him. Vice Principal, Hugh McGivern, will be acting principal and the post will be advertised in September.