A Derry school will remain closed tomorrow except to those students taking exams as a mark of respect to their ‘dear friend and colleague’ Patricia Hughes.
The principal of St Columb’s College, Finbar Madden, has described Ms Hughes as ‘someone who was passionately committed to St Columb’s College’ over the past 24 years.
Mr Madden said that as mark of respect the school will remain closed for pupils in Years 8-11 tomorrow Friday, June 17.
The only students expected to attend will be those undertaking GCSE or A-level examinations. Following the conclusion of those examinations the school building will close at 2pm.
Mr Madden added that the Education Authority’s Critical Incident Team will be on hand at the school today and tomorrow to offer reassurance, advice, guidance and emotional support to the school’s staff and its pupils.
Paying tribute to Ms Hughes, Mr Madden said that the Governors, staff and students of St Columb’s College have been left deeply saddened by the sudden death of ‘our dear friend and colleague, Patricia Hughes’.
“First and foremost the entire school community would like to extend heartfelt sympathy to Patricia’s family: her sister Mary, brothers Tom and John, nephew, Padraig and to her many friends,” he said.
“We pray that they may receive some comfort and peace from our prayers in these difficult and dark days.
“As a teacher, as a Subject Leader and as a Senior Teacher, Patricia worked closely with every member of the College Community, both staff and students.”
“She was someone that we all spent time with; someone we laughed with; someone we learned with - and from; someone we faced challenges with; someone we celebrated with.
“We will forever cherish those memories.”
He added that her death would be ‘keenly felt’ by those at the school.
“Due to her gentle and caring nature, Patricia’s loss will also be keenly felt by so many of our pupils, young men to whom she gave everything over the past 24 years,” he said.
“Already much has been written and said by those students as they reflect upon the legacy of a passionate teacher.”
Pictured above - the late Patricia Hughes
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