Our Staff
Meet our Senior Leadership Team
Ms. Nicola Barrett
Principal
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Nicola Barrett began her teaching career at St. Joseph’s College, Lucan, teaching German and Italian, before joining Blackwater Community School, Lismore, where she introduced both languages to the curriculum and served as School Development Planning Secretary and Year Head. During this time, she completed a Master’s in Management of Education with First Class Honours.
Appointed Deputy Principal of Presentation Secondary School, Mitchelstown, in 2015, Nicola went on to become Principal of Presentation Secondary School, Ballyphehane, in 2016. There, she introduced a Positive Code of Behaviour, a mentoring programme for exam students, and led significant developments including building works, the establishment of an ASD class, and modernisation of the school’s IT systems.
In 2021, Nicola became the founding Principal of Le Chéile Secondary School, Ballincollig. Her leadership is characterised by innovation, inclusivity, and a deep commitment to student growth, shaping a supportive and ambitious school culture.
Ms. Jennifer Hickey
Deputy Principal
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Jennifer completed her undergraduate studies in UCC in History & Sociology. She completed a Masters in 2001 in Marketing and Business in Dublin Institute of Technology. She qualified from UCC as a teacher of History & CSPE in 2003. Jennifer began her teaching career in Colaiste Bride, Enniscorthy where she taught History, CSPE, SPHE & Business. She then pursued a qualification in Guidance & Counselling in 2006 and took up a Guidance Counsellor position in St. Mary's Secondary School, Mallow in 2007. Throughout her time in St. Marys Jennifer was appointed Year Head, Wellbeing Co-ordinator and in 2020 as Deputy Principal.
As an experienced Deputy Principal she brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the Senior Leadership team at Le Chéile Secondary School, Ballincollig.
Meet our Middle Leadership Team
Assistant Principal I (Junior Year Head)
Geography / Business / LCVP
Ms. Aoife Barry-Murphy
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Aoife qualified as a Geography, Business and Economics teacher with a Bachelor of Arts from University College Cork, followed by a Professional Masters of Education (PME). She has a Postgraduate Diploma in School Leadership from the University of Limerick. She spent her first year teaching in Australia, gaining experience and knowledge of different education systems. She brought this knowledge home in 2017 and took up her first Irish teaching position in Doon, Co. Limerick. She moved back to Cork in 2018 and secured a job in Presentation Secondary School, Ballyphehane, where she remained for 4 years. At Presentation Secondary School, Ballyphehane, Aoife also took on the roles of LCA coordinator and 5th Year Head. In 2021 Aoife commenced at Le Chéile Secondary School, Ballincollig. Aoife has a keen interest in sport, particularly camogie and football, and is an active member of Cloughduv Camogie Club and St. Val’s Football Club.
Mr. Adam Kelly
Assistant Principal I (Senior Year Head)
Visual Art / Religion
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Adam is a graduate of the BA (Hons) Art and Design Education (N.C.A.D), PG Cert in 21st Century Teaching and Learning (TCD), H.Dip in Theological Studies (SPCM) and has a Postgraduate Diploma in School Leadership through UL. His previous teaching and class tutor experience include Loreto Abbey Dalkey, Dublin and Lea Manor High School, Luton, UK. Previous posts held include Head of Department, Digital Devices Coordinator and TY Work Experience Coordinator. Adam also worked as a part time Art Associate with the PDST offering CPD to second level Art teachers on the updated LC Art Specification in recent years and he is currently a Practical Art examiner of Leaving Certificate with the State Examinations Commission. Adam has a keen interest in all things creative and is the designer of our Le Chéile Chronicle, which is published twice yearly.
Ms. Kelly O’Neill
Assistant Principal I
Home Economics
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Kelly is a dedicated Home Economics teacher with a strong passion for inclusivity, student well-being, and creating a positive learning environment. She graduated from St. Angela’s College, Sligo with a Bachelor of Education in Home Economics and Economics.
In addition to her teaching role, Kelly serves as the school's Autism Co-ordinator, supporting students and staff in fostering an inclusive and understanding school environment. She furthered her commitment to inclusive education by completing a postgraduate course in Autism Studies with Middletown Centre for Autism and Queen's University, Belfast.
Kelly has also worked as an examiner for both the Junior Cycle and Leaving Certificate Home Economics examinations, which has given her valuable insight into curriculum standards and assessment practices.
Outside the classroom, Kelly enjoys baking and crafts—interests she shares with her students through popular lunchtime clubs. Her creativity and enthusiasm help foster a welcoming and hands-on learning space where students can thrive.
Ms. Marian Tobin-Ryan
Assistant Principal II
English / History / SPHE
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Marian graduated with a Bachelor of Arts Degree in English and History and continued her studies with a Postgraduate Diploma in Education, Master’s in Education in Innovative Learning and Instructional Leadership, and Postgraduate Diploma in School Leadership. Marian has 15 years of teaching experience, including time in England and Dublin. She taught at The Colne Community School and College, England, and at Lucan Community College, Dublin. She also taught in two start-up co-educational secondary schools in Adamstown, Dublin, and at Edmund Rice College, Carrigaline. While in Carrigaline, Marian led teaching and learning strategy development, assisted with the school’s first Erasmus programme, and co-coordinated the establishment of the first Transition Year programme.
Marian enjoys reading, writing, travel, arts, and crafts. Debate is an important part of her classroom environment, and she values giving students opportunities to participate in school debates and competitions.
Ms. Stephanie Coffey
Assistant Principal II (AENCO)
History / Religion
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Stephanie holds Bachelor of Arts in History and Theology, a Professional Master of Education, Teaching English as a foreign language and recently completed the Postgraduate Diploma in Special Educational Needs achieving a first class honours.
Stephanie previously taught in St. Aloysius College Carrigtwohill, Coláiste Choilm, and Midleton College. Stephanie loves music and singing with the ever expanding Le Chéile school choir.
She is passionate about her subjects and the valuable life skills they impart. It is important to her that all our students are given the opportunity to achieve to the best of their ability whatever that might be and that when they leave Le Chéile they are critical thinkers and independent and confident in their own abilities.
Ms. Ipek Balcik
Assistant Principal II
German / SPHE
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Ipek graduated from Trinity College with a BA in French and German in 2016.
During her studies she spent one year at a German university in Düsseldorf, where she researched intercultural literature, and also worked in a tourist residence in the south-west of France.
Ipek has worked as an English language teaching assistant in both Austria and Japan, which allowed her to improve her language and communication skills and travel the world. She completed her initial teacher education, the PME, in UCC, and graduated with a first class honours degree.
She has completed further professional development in autism studies with UCC, creativity and innovation in education with UCD, and in restorative practice.
Ms. Sara Murray
Assistant Principal II (Acting)
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Sara Murray is an experienced educator with a strong background in both the IB and Irish curricula, she has over 15 years of experience fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and scientific literacy in her students. A long-standing examiner for the State Examinations Commission, Sara brings precision and fairness to assessment. Passionate about inquiry-based learning and interdisciplinary education, she integrates real-world applications and research into every lesson. Trained in Restorative Practice, she values positive relationships and an inclusive, supportive atmosphere where all students feel seen and encouraged. She enjoys guiding students through their research projects and loves watching them grow as independent thinkers. Outside the lab, Sara’s creativity finds expression in gardening, design, and lifelong learning.
Ms. Mary Coveney
Assistant Principal II
Geography / History
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Mary qualified as a Geography and History teacher, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree from University College Cork before completing a Professional Masters of Education (PME) at Trinity College Dublin. She further enhanced her leadership skills by completing the National Professional Qualification in Leadership and Culture through the Ambition Institute in London.
Over the past eight years, Mary has taught in London, gaining extensive experience as both Head of Geography and Deputy Head of Year. In these roles, she developed strong expertise in curriculum design, pastoral care, and team leadership. Mary has a particular interest in helping students develop curiosity about the world around them and in linking geographical and historical knowledge to contemporary issues. She is committed to creating supportive and engaging classroom environments that encourage students to achieve their best.
Ms. Catherine Daly
Programme Coordinator
Home Economics
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Catherine is a graduate of St. Angela’s College, Sligo, and the University of Limerick. She holds an undergraduate degree in Home Economics, a Postgraduate Diploma in School Leadership, and a First Class Honours Master of Education in School Leadership. She is currently a PhD student at the University of Limerick, where she is conducting research in the field of Educational Leadership. Catherine has a broad range of experience across several schools, including St. Colman’s College, Midleton; Coachford College; and the North Monastery Co-Educational Secondary School, where she established and led the school’s first Home Economics department. She has introduced breakfast and baking clubs, developed TY and LCA modules, and coordinated a range of school tours and extra-curricular activities. She has also contributed to national education initiatives, working with the National Council for Curriculum and Assessment to develop Junior Cycle Home Economics exemplars, and with the State Examinations Commission on the assessment of practical examinations. Catherine is the Co-ordinator of the TY, LCA and LCVP programmes at Le Chéile.
Teaching Staff
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French / Gaeilge / Drama
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Abby graduated from University College Cork with a first class honours Bachelor of Arts Degree (French and Gaeilge) in 2020 and Professional Master of Education in 2022 also with a first class honours.
She is passionate about languages and communicative language learning and worked as an au pair in Bordeaux in France where she also studied at the Comenfrance - School of French.
Abby has a huge interest in drama and holds gold medals in acting and musical theatre from the London Academy of Music and Dramatic Arts. Abby brings this experience to our students each week at drama club, which they thoroughly enjoy.
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Accounting / Business / Economics
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Aoife is a graduate of Mary Immaculate College, St. Patrick’s Campus, Thurles in Business / Accounting Concurrent Education degree achieving 1st class honours. She has also completed the Professional Diploma in Mathematics teaching from University of Limerick.
She received the excellence in Accounting award from Mary Immaculate College on completion of her undergraduate degree. Aoife has teaching experience in secondary schools in Limerick but is very happy to move to Cork to join the Le Chéile team.
Her main passion outside of teaching is sport and fitness, having won All-Ireland and Munster medals for underage girls rugby. Aoife brings that experience to our extra-curricular programme at Le Chéile.
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Gaeilge / English / Music / French
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Cillian Brennan is a teacher of Music, English and Irish. He qualified with a degree in English and French from UCC and later earned a Master’s in French, a degree in Irish, and, most recently, has qualified to teach Music. He also holds a diploma in piano performance from Trinity College London.
Cillian has twenty years of teaching experience. Before joining Le Chéile Secondary School, Ballincollig, he spent nine years at Coachford College as an Irish teacher. Prior to that, he taught English, Irish, French, and Latin in Newcastle West, Mallow, Clonakilty, and Sidney Hill.
His interests are broad, spanning cultural and sporting activities. He has trained hurling, football, and frisbee teams; organised choirs, bands, and trad groups; and led debating teams, talent shows, and trips. His hobbies include music-making, storytelling, stand-up comedy, swimming, gardening, and baking, all of which inform his vibrant approach to teaching and extracurricular work.
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English / History / CSPE / Digital Literacy
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Fiona Maher is a dedicated English and History teacher with a passion for classroom technology and experience correcting state exams, she excels in guiding students toward academic success.
Fiona holds a Master’s degree in Education and earned her Bachelor’s degree in English & History and a Master’s Degree in Journalism from the University of Limerick. She is also Google Educator level 2 certified.
With extensive teaching experience, Fiona has worked in several Irish secondary schools. Fiona contributes to the Irish education system as a state exam corrector for Leaving Certificate Higher Level English and has previously corrected Junior Cycle English as well.
With a decade of experience in Irish and international media, Fiona brings a unique perspective to teaching. She skilfully incorporates communication, critical thinking, and research skills into her methodologies, making historical events relevant through real-world examples.
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Physical Education
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George qualified with a first class honours BSc in Sports Science and Physiology. Following that he completed his PGCE in Physical Education.
He taught PE for 14 years at a large co-educational school in North London, delivering lessons to students aged 11-18 years. As Head of PE, he introduced a new curriculum developing student’s Physical literacy, whilst learning transferable life skills and concepts. For him it is important that PE stands for ‘Positive Experiences’ for all our students.
He has led teams to extra-curricular sporting success in soccer, basketball, athletics, badminton, ultimate frisbee and cross-country amongst others.
Alongside PE, he has led whole-school initiatives to develop leadership skills in students, to stretch and challenge the most able pupils, and to celebrate those making positive contributions both in school and in the local community. He has continued to attend training to relating to his work in the Autism Classes and on curriculum development.
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Mathematics
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Caitríona is a Mathematics teacher with over 15 years experience in teaching Mathematics in Cork. She graduated with a First class honours in Mathematics and Geography from UCC in 2009 and a First Class Honours Postgraduate Diploma in Education in 2010.
Caitríona has a keen interest in examining and has corrected the Leaving Certificate State Examinations at Higher Level over the past 7 years. She has also been an State Examinations appeals examiner for the past 2 years. This has given Caitríona a unique insight into the nuances of the exam papers and has equipped her with valuable skills to help her students to reach their full potential in exams.
Caitríona enjoys puzzles and games in her free time too and runs a board games club at break time. Caitríona has a passion for making Mathematics fun and engaging for students and relatable to daily life.
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Religion / History
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Erin holds a BA in History and Religion, achieving a First Class Honours. She later went on to complete a Master of Education from University College Cork. She is passionate about creating a positive and inclusive learning environment where every student feels respected and valued. As a member of the Ethos team, Erin supports students’ personal and spiritual growth, promoting values of kindness, respect, and curiosity.
She also founded the History Club, offering students opportunities to explore local and global history beyond the classroom while developing critical thinking and a lifelong love of learning.
Committed to continuous professional development, Erin continually seeks new ways to enhance her teaching practice. Her experience correcting Junior Cycle Religion exams has provided her with valuable insight into national assessment standards and the skills students need to achieve success in their studies.
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Design Communication Graphics / Woodwork
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Liam graduated with an Honors degree from the University of Limerick with a Bachelor of Education in Materials & Architectural Technology.
He has a keen interest in Construction Studies, Technology, Carpentry, Graphics, Parametric Modelling, Design, Mathematics and Computer Coding.
He is also very much involved in sport, in particular GAA, Athletic Performance, Sports Nutrition, Strength and Conditioning.
He has previously worked in the United Kingdom for one year and in the United Arab Emirates for seven years teaching Design and Technology, Creative Design & Innovation and Mathematics.
Students of Le Chéile Secondary School particularly enjoy Liam’s Coding Club at lunchtime. He also motivates and trains our soccer team who competed for the first time in 2022.
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Science / Physics
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Kate is a dedicated educator who brings a strong background in both science and mathematics to her teaching practice. She holds a Bachelor of Science degree with concurrent teacher education in which she specialised in Biology and Physics. In addition, she has earned a Postgraduate Diploma in the Teaching of Mathematics from the University of Limerick, in which she achieved a first-class honours. Kate is deeply committed to continuous learning and professional development. Her approach focuses on fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and challenging her students so they reach the best of their ability. She strives to create an engaging and inclusive classroom environment where every learner feels supported and inspired to achieve their full potential.
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Music/Geography
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Caoimhe Barry is a teacher of Music and Geography. She studied at University College Cork, where she completed an Arts Degree in Music and Geography, a Bachelor of Music Degree, and later followed by a Master’s Degree in Education. Caoimhe also holds a Diploma in Child Psychology.
Outside of school, Caoimhe is involved with Music Generation and has been an important part of the Kabin Studio team, contributing to many exciting projects. She has also worked with the BBC and Screen Ireland as an extras coordinator, gaining valuable experience in the creative arts industry.
Caoimhe has worked with various different communities that have deeply influenced her approach to teaching. This work has strengthened her belief in the power of creativity and inclusion. She strives to create a positive, engaging, and supportive classroom environment where every student feels valued and inspired to reach their full potential.
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Technical Graphics / Woodwork
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Joseph graduated from the University of Limerick with a First Class Honours degree in Materials and Architectural Technology with concurrent Teacher Education. He is passionate about his subjects and promoting STEM education through engaging, hands-on learning experiences. Joseph has experience teaching across a range of schools, working with diverse learners and fostering an inclusive classroom environment that encourages curiosity, creativity, and discovery.
He has also gained valuable experience supporting students with additional needs through his work in St. Clare’s Special School, Ennis, where he worked with young people with moderate learning disabilities, ASD, and Down Syndrome. Joseph has served as a superintendent for the State Examinations Commission, supervising state examinations and Construction Studies practical assessments. He is committed to continuous professional development and to creating a differentiated classroom where all learners can reach their potential. Joseph has previously contributed to a variety of school clubs and societies.
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English / Geography
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Linda Cahill is a dedicated teacher of English, Geography, and Additional Educational Needs with eighteen years of experience. As a UCC PGDE graduate, she is passionate about the holistic development of students and takes pride in helping them achieve their individual goals.
Before joining Le Chéile Secondary School, Ballincollig, Linda spent eight years at Edmund Rice College, teaching English, Geography, and Folklore. She previously taught in Coláiste Chríost Rí and De La Salle College. Linda has held the position of Year Head to multiple year groups over her teaching career. She has a strong interest in literacy and has led whole-school initiatives to promote reading and collaboration with local primary schools, supporting smooth student transitions. She has coordinated the Droichead programme for new teachers and is passionate about the training element of the teaching profession. She has also directed school drama groups and organised cultural and educational trips to enhance student engagement in the arts and wellbeing.
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Art / CSPE
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Nicola Stavrou is a qualified Visual Art teacher who earned a Bachelor of Science in Interior Architecture from the Cork Institute of Technology, followed by a Professional Master of Education in Art and Design from the Cork Institute of Technology and University College Cork. Over the past several years, Nicola has taught in a range of Cork city schools, gaining experience across Junior and Leaving Certificate levels. She has also delivered modules in Photography, Jewellery Making, Felting, and Digital Media Literacy. In addition to her classroom experience, Nicola has invigilated and corrected State Art practical examinations. She is passionate about fostering creativity, confidence, and self-expression in her students through inclusive, hands-on learning and is committed to helping every student reach their potential and discover their unique artistic voice within a positive and engaging classroom environment.
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Mathematics / Physical Education
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Clodagh Kissane graduated from University College Cork in 2024 with a First-Class Honours Bachelor of Education in Sports Studies and Physical Education. She is passionate about creating a positive and inclusive learning environment that supports students’ academic and physical development.
With experience teaching PE and Mathematics in schools across Cork, Clodagh delivers engaging lessons, provides individual support, and contributes to extracurricular sports and academic activities. She has also worked as a lifeguard and senior camp staff member, planning and leading sports programmes while ensuring participant safety.
An experienced coach, Clodagh has worked with several tennis clubs, motivating children of all abilities, including those with additional needs. Her volunteer work with initiatives such as Wheelchair Basketball4All and the IDQ+ programme highlights her dedication to promoting inclusive sport.
Clodagh brings energy, leadership, and a commitment to student wellbeing and achievement to her role at Le Chéile Secondary School.
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English
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Laura graduated from University College Cork with a Bachelor of Arts in English and History in 2021 before completing her Professional Master of Education at the University of Galway in 2023, achieving First Class Honours.
She has worked in a variety of educational settings, including as a Special Class Coordinator, where she helped to establish a school’s first autism class and develop inclusive supports for students.
Laura is passionate about special educational needs and is enjoying her role teaching English and supporting students in Le Chéile’s autism classes. She is dedicated to fun, equitable, and inclusive education. Laura tries to create a safe and welcoming environment where every student can achieve success.
A lover of English and History, Laura helped to establish Le Chéile’s new History Club this year and also works as a State Examinations Corrector for Leaving Certificate Ordinary Level English.
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Gaeilge / Geography
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Lisa graduated with a Bachelor of Arts from UCC in Irish and Geography in 2006. She also has a Master’s Degree in Migration and Diaspora studies from UCC. Since completing her PGDE in UCD, she has worked in schools both in Dublin and Cork. Lisa spent 11 years working in Tallaght Community School, acting as year head for 3 years and working on various committees over the years. Lisa brings 15 years teaching experience with her to Le Chéile. She has been an oral examiner for many years with the SEC. Lisa is a dedicated and passionate teacher. She has a keen interest in the environment and is looking forward to working towards a Green Schools flag.
AEN Assistants
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AEN Assistant
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Imelda graduated with a degree in Social Care from Munster Technological University and has completed Level 6 Special Needs Assistance.
Imelda worked for over 20 years with the Brothers of Charity Southern Services in residential care before joining the Le Chéile Team. She is also very much involved with her local community first responder group, an invaluable skill which she brings to the Le Chéile team.
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AEN Assistant
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Kieran is originally from Dublin and moved to Cork in August 2022. He worked as an Additional Needs Assistant in St. Benildus College, Stillorgan before joining the Le Chéile Team. Kieran holds qualifications in level 5 and level 6 in Special Needs Assistance obtained from Portobello Institute in January 2020 and January 2021. He has a keen interest in soccer and was instrumental in bringing Le Chéile’s first soccer team to the field in November 2022.
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AEN Assistant
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Patrizia completed her initial studies in Florence, Italy before moving to Ireland 25 years ago. Since then she has completed Early Childhood Studies and level 6 Special Needs Assistance. Patrizia has also completed level 6 Autism Studies from UCC and is currently studying level 7. She has experience in a number of schools in Cork, including experience in both mainstream and special classes. She has a keen interest in language learning and foreign cultures and is very interested in mindfulness and meditation.
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AEN Assistant
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Genevieve O' Leary has experience working as an Additional needs assistance in Primary, Post primary, and Special schools. She has completed certificates in both Special Needs and Child Development with Chevron College. She also works with Enable Ireland Children's services as a support worker. Genevieve enjoys staying fit, mindfulness and meditation.
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AEN Assistant
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Louise Heffernan has completed both Level 5 and Level 6 qualifications in Special Needs Assistance and has gained valuable experience working in both primary and post-primary settings. With a passion for supporting students with additional needs, Louise approaches her role with a positive attitude and a strong commitment to fostering an inclusive learning environment. Her keen interest in health and fitness extends into her work, where she encourages students to develop healthy habits and stay active.
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AEN Assistant
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Sinéad holds a BSc (Hons) in Health and Leisure with Massage from the Institute of Technology Tralee and a Level 9 Postgraduate Certificate in Health Promotion and Wellness Practice from the Institute of Technology Sligo. She has also completed Level 5 qualifications in Special Needs Assisting and Childcare & Education.
Sinéad has worked in various childcare settings and primary schools across Munster, delivering PE sessions in gymnastics and fundamental movement skills. She also spent time on a Tusla-funded programme, supporting children and families in challenging circumstances. She enjoys creating a fun, inclusive, and supportive environment where children feel encouraged to learn, grow, and express themselves.
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AEN Assistant
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Sharon O’ Regan has a level 6 qualification in Special Educational Needs Assistance and is also qualified in Computer Applications. She has worked as an SNA for 7 years in Scoil Mhuire NS, Farran.
She is passionate about helping each child reach their full potential by providing them with any assistance they may need.
She has a grá for Gaeilge and enjoys walking, reading and music.
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AEN Assistant
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Natalie O’Donovan has a level 5 and a level 6 qualification in Special Educational Needs. She's worked in both primary and post primary schools and she's worked in both mainstream and special classes. She has a keen interest in History and Irish. She's looking forward to working with the ever growing team and students at Le Chéile Secondary School.
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AEN Assistant
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Susan graduated with a Diploma in Childcare and completed level 6 Special Needs Assistance. She worked as an Early Years Educator for 19 years before she began to work as a Support Worker with Enable Ireland while also working part-time as an SNA.
Susan was appointed as Le Chéile’s first Additional Needs Assistant in February 2021 and enjoys working in a close knit school community.
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AEN Assistant
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Rachael is thrilled and excited to be part of the ever growing team at Le Chéile. Rachael completed level 6 in Special Needs Assistance, and has worked as a special needs assistant in both mainstream and a special class. Rachael is also a qualified speech and drama teacher and has taught classes throughout many schools in Cork and set up her own successful business Backdrop School of Arts.
She brings experience in many fields to Le Chéile Secondary School.
Admin Staff
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Office Administrator
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Facilities Manager