The assembly hall saw staff turn out in force to honour the duo as flowers and gifts were presented to what was described as ‘two highly respected members of our team.’
Mr. Bradley started teaching in the Northland Road school 27 years ago after previously teaching in St. Anne’s. For the past seven years he has been not only Vice Principal but a much-loved and respected teacher to the many thousands of children who have passed through his care.
Paying a special tribute to him, Mrs. Julie McCarter, Principal, said Michael was fully invested in the school from the day he arrived and his dedication to The Model was second-to-none.
"Throughout Michael’s time here, he has been a source of guidance and reassurance to pupils and staff alike. He has always had the best interests of the school at the heart of every decision. His mind never switched off when it came to getting what was best for the Model.
"Indeed, we will miss his expertise in finding solutions to problems; exploring opportunities for the good of the school as well as promoting the school throughout the city and district.
"Michael’s influence helped shape our school in ways that will continue long after today. Michael, your legacy will live on!” she said.
Retiring classroom assistant Mrs. Slevin has spent 28 years at the Model and was said to have worn many hats including classroom assistant, tooth fairy, caterer, cleaner, seamstress, teacher, nurse, mammy and nanny.
Speaking of the esteem in which Mrs. Slevin was held, Mrs. McCarter said: "You touched the lives of many children over the years, always putting them first. Pupils may not remember every lesson they were taught, but they will remember how you made them feel.”
She added that the long-serving classroom assistant was always willing to go the extra mile and always at the front when volunteers were needed, no matter what the task was.
While both Michael and Christine will be greatly missed, a new chapter now begins for them as they begin retired life.
1. Mrs. Slevin and Mr. Bradley posing for a photo on Monday.
Mrs. Slevin and Mr. Bradley posing for a photo on Monday. Photo: Jim McCafferty
2. Model Primary School retirees - classroom assistant Mrs. Christine Slevin and vice principal, Mr. Michael Bradley, pictured with staff and families on the occasion of their retirement on Monday. (Photos: Jim McCafferty Photography)
Model Primary School retirees - classroom assistant Mrs. Christine Slevin and vice principal, Mr. Michael Bradley, pictured with staff and families on the occasion of their retirement on Monday. (Photos: Jim McCafferty Photography) Photo: Jim McCafferty
3. Model PS Principal, Mrs. Julie McCarter making presentations to retirees, Mrs. Christine Slevin and Mr. Michael Bradley on Monday.
Model PS Principal, Mrs. Julie McCarter making presentations to retirees, Mrs. Christine Slevin and Mr. Michael Bradley on Monday. Photo: Jim McCafferty
4. Retiring Vice Principal, Mr. Michael Bradley pictured with his wife Fionnuala during Monday's function in the Model Primary School.
Retiring Vice Principal, Mr. Michael Bradley pictured with his wife Fionnuala during Monday's function in the Model Primary School. Photo: Jim McCafferty