Playground a ‘fitting’ tribute to teacher

A new playground at Greenisland Primary School has been dedicated to a much-loved teacher who passed away earlier this year.
By The Newsroom
Published 4th Apr 2015, 18:30 BST
Dermot Breen with Greenisland Primary School pupils John Glass, Spencer McGregor, Phoebe Thompson and Zoe Wilson. INCT 13-051-GRDermot Breen with Greenisland Primary School pupils John Glass, Spencer McGregor, Phoebe Thompson and Zoe Wilson. INCT 13-051-GR
Dermot Breen with Greenisland Primary School pupils John Glass, Spencer McGregor, Phoebe Thompson and Zoe Wilson. INCT 13-051-GR

The school opened the new facility last week in memory of former staff member Jacqui Breen, who died earlier this year following a battle with cancer.

A plaque was unveiled in honour of the Primary One teacher, bearing a quote from children’s author Roald Dahl: “Life is more fun if you play games.”

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The playground was funded by Awards for All, along with money raised by the school’s Parent Teacher Association.

“I would like to thank the PTA for working so many hours to raise this money,” said Greenisland principal Liam McGuckin. “We are very fortunate to have this new facility and it’s fitting that it has been dedicated to Mrs Breen, who taught at the school for 25 years.”

Attending the event were Mrs Breen’s husband, Dermot, and children Matthew and Hannah.

“Jacqui loved the school and her time here; the quote on the plaque is just ideal for her,” Dermot said.

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A memorial trophy to Mrs Breen was also awarded to the primary one pupils who had exhibited the most enthusiasm and hard work over the past year. It was jointly won by Lewis Stirling and Sam Brierly.