PICTURES: Tipperary school principal retires after 17 years of service

Principal of Presentation Secondary School, Ballingarry, Ms Angela Cahill, has announced her retirement, following 17 years of service to the school.

Ms Cahill had a great impact on the school and its pupils, and the school says her presence will be missed greatly.

READ MORE: Tipperary pub to continue selling €5 Guinness despite Diageo price increases

In a touching tribute to Ms Cahill’s time in the school, Paul McGrath, PRO for the Presentation, wrote of the impact Ms Cahill had during her tenure as principal.

He wrote: “Presentation Secondary School, Ballingarry recently marked the retirement of its principal, Ms Angela Cahill, following 17 years of dedicated service to the school community.

“Ms Cahill first arrived at the school in 2007 as deputy principal under Presentation Ballingarry’s first lay Principal, Mr Tom Fennessy, before shortly afterwards being appointed principal — a role she has held with distinction ever since. As she steps away, she leaves behind a lasting legacy of leadership, care and strong community spirit.

“Reflecting on her time in Ballingarry, Ms Cahill noted that while milestone events such as graduations, First Year Masses and sporting successes stand out, her greatest pride has always come from the small, everyday moment.

“She stressed that students showing kindness, expressing gratitude to their teachers and the school community coming together during challenging times, particularly during Covid were especially memorable.

“She also spoke of her pride in the confidence students develop during their years in the school, describing it as deeply rewarding to see young people believe in themselves and succeed.

“Throughout her tenure, Ms Cahill has guided the school through significant change in the education system. While change has always been part of education, she said it’s been happening much faster in recent years, with far less time to adjust.

“She explained that the school’s approach has always been to move ‘slow and steady’, introducing changes in manageable steps to support staff and students alike. In offering advice to future school leaders, teachers and students, Ms Cahill emphasised resilience, perspective and kindness.

READ MORE: UPDATE: EU-Mercosur trade deal sent to European Court and faces uncertain future

“She spoke of the importance of persevering through difficult days, finding joy in everyday moments and remembering that everyone carries unseen burdens. These are values that she believes are central to maintaining dignity and compassion within a school community.

“Looking ahead, Ms Cahill expressed her hope that the strong sense of community and belonging that first impressed her on arriving in Ballingarry would continue long into the future, ensuring the school remains a welcoming place where people look out for one another.

“As she begins the next chapter of her life, Ms Cahill is looking forward to a slower pace, more time with family, travel and long-neglected hobbies. She joked that she will finally be able to ‘throw the alarm out’.

“Ms Cahill will be succeeded by Deputy Principal Mr Joey Holden, who takes up the role of Principal following a distinguished career in education and sport, leaving behind a proud tradition both on the hurling field and in the classroom.

“Reflecting on working alongside Ms Cahill over the past year, Mr Holden described the experience as both rewarding and inspiring, highlighting her integrity, warmth and genuine care for people. He spoke of her openness and constant support, noting that no question was ever too big or too small.

“Mr Holden also pointed to Ms Cahill’s unwavering focus on students as the example that has stayed with him most, describing her leadership as firmly rooted in keeping young people at the heart of every decision — creating an environment where students are supported, challenged and encouraged to grow.

“Finally, Presentation Secondary School, Ballingarry and wider community extends its sincere thanks to Angela for her outstanding leadership, dedication and care over the past 17 years.

“On behalf of the entire school community (staff, students, parents and past pupils) we wish Angela every happiness, good health and fulfilment as she begins this exciting new chapter of her life.

“We would also like to wish Mr Holden every success as he takes up the role of Principal in January 2026.”