New principal at Dickson PS

The Dungannon woman took over from outgoing principal Linda Pillow on January 5 and described her first month at the helm as “a joy”.

After completing her teacher training at Stranmillis, Elaine started as a teacher at Aughnacloy Primary School on the same day her son Adam started the school as a pupil.

When asked who was more nervous, Elaine said: “I don’t think either of us were nervous. I don’t do nerves.”

During her time at Aughnacloy she had her first visit to Dickson Primary School to see the Enriched Curriculum in action.

She taught at Aughnacloy for 11 years before taking the head teacher position at Drumfallen PS, a rural primary school on the outskirts of Armagh.

Elaine was involved with the SELB’s Early Years team and from there she was seconded to Tullygally Primary School for a few months as cover for the principal. It was during this secondment she learnt of the principal’s post at Dickson being advertised.

“I knew a bit about the school and it was a great opportunity for me.

“I’ve been here a month now. It’s been brilliant.

“The staff, children and parents have been so welcoming that I feel like I’ve been here forever. I’d like to thank them all for making me feel so at home.”

“The plan is to build on the really good work that’s been done here and keep moving things forward.”

Elaine has four children - Jamie, Adam, Craig and Luke. Her eldest son Jamie is also a teacher.