End of an era for Coleraine College as the school says farewell to Mme Skobel

During this time, she enriched the lives of generations of students, providing outstanding pastoral care to all those who had the privilege to cross her path.

In an emotional but ultimately celebratory event, past and present staff recalled key moments from her career, enjoyed refreshments, presented her with gifts and also performed an ABBA medley, much to Mme Skobel’s delight. A surprise appearance by former colleague, Plug Torrens allowed one final duet of ‘A Fairytale of New York’ which was once a much enjoyed Carthall Christmas ritual.

Originally from Holywood, Co Down and having abandoned a potential career in retail, Stella-Jo entered the teaching profession with her first post in Carrickfergus. However, she moved to the area with her husband Jacques when she secured a post at Coleraine Boys’ Secondary Model to teach languages.

Having found her calling and with respect, compassion and forgiveness as the cornerstones of her educational philosophy, Stella-Jo threw herself wholeheartedly into the life of the school.

With boundless energy and a relentless focus on improving the lives of her students, Stella-Jo inspired a love of learning in the young people she taught. She also organised much anticipated annual trips to France, delivered school shows which became the stuff of legend, ran a Sister Act choir - with the boys dressed in nuns’ habits - and also found the time to run a Pot Noodle Club at lunchtime to satisfy the seemingly always hungry teenage boys in her care.

Unsurprisingly, her commitment and dedication saw her rise to the post of Year Head and later Vice Principal following the amalgamation of the Coleraine Boys’ and Girls’ Secondary Schools with the formation of Coleraine College in 2001. Later, she would hold the top job of Principal, not once but twice, during which times she faced numerous challenges with resilience, good grace and a steely determination.

Long time colleague and Vice Principal, Diane Keys, recalled those times and stated: “No matter how busy, no matter how big the challenges facing her, no matter the undoubted pressures she was managing, Stella-Jo’s door always remained open – for the students, their parents and the staff.

"No one was ever turned away. Everyone got her full attention and her time and her help. For that, I want to thank Stella-Jo on behalf of the College community.”

Chair of the Board of Governors, Sir Rex Humphrey reflected on Madame Skobel’s lasting legacy in a video message by stating: “Stella-Jo is undoubtedly one of the best leaders that I have ever met. She leads by example and from the front.

"She is an incredible motivator who gets the very best out of the pupils and the very best out of her staff. That’s what she wants and that’s what she strives for relentlessly. There is no doubt that education in this area has lost an incredible ambassador and its young people have lost a dedicated and fearless advocate.”