New Principal appointed at St. Eugene’s Primary School in Derry
St. Eugene’s Primary School and Nursery Unit has announced the appointment of Mrs. Aine Deane as its new Principal.
Board of Governors chair, Mrs. Una Horner offered warm congratulations to Mrs. Deane as she prepares to take up her new role.
“We are delighted to welcome Aine as the new Principal of St. Eugene’s,’ said Mrs. Horner. ‘We wish her every success in the years ahead as she leads and supports our school community.”
Formerly vice principal, Aine Deane has 20 years teaching experience, most of them spent at Sacred Heart Primary School in the Waterside where she held a number of senior roles including pastoral care co-ordinator and a number of SENCO posts.
A proud Greysteel woman, Aine is married to Ryan and they have a daughter, Rhianna (14). Aine also has strong family connections to Quigley’s Point and Creggan.
Speaking after her appointment, she said: “I only came to St. Eugene’s a year ago to take up the position of vice principal and found myself thrust into the position of acting principal due to unforeseen circumstances. It was big shoes to fill as Mrs. Carol Duffy was highly thought of by all in the school.
"We have a fantastic staff here. At St. Eugene’s we are one big family. All help out when the going gets tough and we support each other.”
Speaking about future plans, her vision and ambitions for the school she added: “The completion of our new build is about far more than a newly renovated school. It is an opportunity to shape the future of St. Eugene’s Primary School. My vision is to create a school where every child feels safe, valued and empowered to succeed. The new environment will enable us to create spaces that support both learning and emotional regulation, ensuring every child feels a sense of belonging.
“I am particularly passionate about developing high-quality outdoor play and learning opportunities for our Foundation Stage children. Outdoor provision should inspire curiosity, creativity, independence and resilience, giving children the very best start to their educational journey.
“My ambition is that every child at St. Eugene’s flourishes academically, socially, emotionally and spiritually, living out our motto each day: 'Do Your Best’.”