Celebrating Legacy: Honouring Six Remarkable Members of Staff at Loreto College Coleraine

Mr Stephen Gallagher, Principal of Loreto College Coleraine has paid tribute to six exceptional members of the College staff to mark their recent retirement from the College.

Mrs Caragh Little (Head of English, Senior Teacher)

Mrs Little joined the English Department in 1997 and quickly became a driving force in the academic and cultural life of the College. Her passion for English Literature has inspired generations of students, and her leadership as Head of English for almost 20 years and her role in the Senior Leadership Team helped contribute to the development of the pupils and to the life of the College in so many ways. As editor of the Loreto Lore school magazine and yearbook, and the coordinator of school PR for so many years, Mrs Little gave voice to the school’s achievements and spirit as well as providing an opportunity for the pupil voice to be heard. Mrs Little’s departure is felt right across the school community, and she will be sorely missed.

Mr Paddy Weir (Caretaker)

Mr Weir was the Caretaker at Loreto College from 1995 to 2025 and has been a cornerstone of the College for three decades. Known for his unwavering commitment to keeping the school spotlessly clean and tidy and in good repair. From early morning openings to late-night lock-ups Paddy was the first to arrive and the last to leave every day, and his quiet reliability ensured the smooth running of daily life at Loreto. While he may not miss those cold, dark winter mornings, his presence will be deeply missed. With the sound of Paddy’s keys still ringing in our ears, we wish him all the best in his well-earned retirement.

Mrs Anne McCambridge (Modern Languages Teacher, Head of Year) / Mr Roy Willighan (Learning Support Assistant)

Mrs McCambridge began teaching at Loreto in 2002 and brought vibrancy and enthusiasm to the Modern Languages Department teaching German, French, and Spanish. Mrs McCambridge opened doors to new cultures and experiences for her students and often accompanied the pupils on educational trips to France, Spain and Germany, helping create lasting memories. As Head of Year for many years, Mrs McCambridge helped guide a legion of students as they progressed through their early school years. On behalf of all of these students, we thank her for her years of dedicated service.

Mr Willighan provided invaluable support to many pupils during his time at the school, both in the classroom and beyond. He was a dedicated member of staff on ski trips to Pamporovo, where his good nature, sense of fun, and endless patience were greatly appreciated by students and colleagues alike. Since retiring, we understand he has spent considerable time perfecting his golf swing on the fairways at Castlerock Golf Club. We miss his colourful shirts, infectious laughter, and legendary homemade brownies. We wish him all the very best for the future.

Mrs Michelle McGill (Head of Art, Head of Year)

Mrs McGill joined the College in 2003, bringing creativity and inspiration to the Art Department. As Head of Art and Design and Head of Year, she championed student expression and nurtured artistic talent throughout the College. Her passion for promoting creativity enriched the school’s ethos and has left a legacy of vibrant student work and artistic achievement that will be celebrated for many years to come. In her role as Head of Year, Mrs McGill was like a ‘second mummy’ to so many pupils who were lucky to be in her year group, and especially those who needed additional support and guidance. We will miss her very much!

Dr. James McAuley (Maths Teacher)

Dr McAuley taught Maths to all year groups in the College including GCSE and A level, initially for one year from 2008 to 2009, before returning on a more permanent basis in September 2020. Throughout his time at Loreto, Dr McAuley inspired many students to pursue a career in Maths and his online support materials were greatly valued by his students. We wish him well in his new venture.

Mr Gallagher added, “It is fitting that these members of staff retired in the year that the school received such a glowing report from the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) because of its rich Loreto Ethos and outstanding level of Pastoral Care and academic achievement. There can be no doubt as to the contribution made by each of these valued colleagues towards our Loreto ethos and the development of our students.”

As they embark on new adventures beyond the Castlerock Road, the staff and students at Loreto College extend our heartfelt thanks and best wishes to each of them. Their legacy will continue to be celebrated, and their contributions remembered with deep appreciation.