Boherbue pupils’ single release for teachers is a real class act

THE 13 Sixth Class pupils who graduated from Boherbue National School went out on a high note when they recorded a Song especially for their teachers who were with them on their educational journey throughout their eight years at school.

The students took one of Danish band Lukas Graham’s songs and duly adapted the lyrics and title. A heavily guarded secret trip to Old Road Studio in Ballydesmond saw the group professionally record the track and release it as ‘Once I Was Five Years Old’ which catalogued their school life from the time they started out as Junior Infants.

Suffice to say there wasn’t a dry eye in the room when the class introduced their debut single as a surprise tribute during Gerard Linehan’s retirement function at the school. Jane Carmody, representing the group, presented Mr. Linehan with a signed copy of the single.

The classmates were enjoying a get together at Ann’s Kitchen in Boherbue later when Patricia Messinger of C103 played ‘Once I Was Five Years Old’ for the very first time on air, which was the icing on the cake for this young group of budding recording artists.

Approachable, caring, sincere and knowledgeable were just some of the compliments paid to Gerard Linehan, who bowed out as Principal of Boherbue National School last week.

Gerard was joined by his wife, Marie, son Kevin, daughter Jean, pupils and staff for a get together and farewell Mass which was celebrated by Fr. Jim Kennelly.

Presentations were made to Gerard from the pupils, staff, the graduating 6th Class, Board of Management and Parents Council.

Deputy Principal Carmel O’Mahony described Gerard as a true professional who was totally dedicated to the education of all the children in the school past and present. She outlined the many initiatives he has implemented and the countless improvements he has made throughout his tenure as Principal.

“Going forward, Gerard has left us with a very positive and happy working environment and this is the greatest legacy we could have wished for,” Carmel added.

Incoming Principal Marie Casey said that Gerard led by example. “He is hardworking, dedicated, innovative and inspiring, he created a very successful atmosphere where everyone worked collaboratively and enthusiastically with each other for the good of the school” she added.

In reply Mr. Linehan thanked everybody for their good wishes. “I’m delighted to have worked with such a fantastic staff, Board of Management and Parents Council, and of course our pupils have always done us proud,” he said.

Gerard welcomed incoming Principal Marie Casey and wished her well in her new role.

Mr. Linehan took up the position of Principal in Boherbue in 2004, prior to that he was Principal of Churchtown NS and began his teaching career at Liscarroll NS.

Pupils who graduated from Boherbue National School pictured with former Principal Gerard Linehan and new Principal Marie Casey. The Class recorded a Single ‘Once I was five years old’ which they dedicated to all their teachers who helped them over their eight years in school. Photos by Sheila Fitzgerald

Jane Carmody, representing 6th Class, presenting a Framed Single of their new release to Gerard Linehan.

Boherbue National School Staff wishing Gerard Linehan well on his retirement and welcoming new Principal Marie Casey. Photos by Sheila Fitzgerald

Deputy Principal Carmel O’Mahony making a presentation to Gerard on behalf of the Staff.

Gerard Linehan pictured with his wife Marie, son Kevin and daughter Jean at a retirement function in his honour at Boherbue NS.

Left: Donal Murphy and Holly Breen making a presentation to Gerard from the pupils, with new Principal Marie Casey.

Eileen Aherne making a presentation to Gerard on behalf of the Parents Council.

Right: Anne McCarthy making a presentation to Gerard from the Board of Management.