New Beginnings

At the end of September we bid a sad but fond farewell to our dear colleague and friend Alice Byrne, an ever present figure in our school, who retired after teaching here for 31 years. Born and educated in Birmingham, Alice moved with her family to Ireland in the late 1970s. She taught in various schools across Kildare before joining the Mercy Convent staff in 1991.

Making the journey from Wicklow every morning, Alice worked tirelessly day in and day out, and while she wore many hats and had many roles throughout her time with us here, Alice had a passion for, and a special interest in working with children with additional nee ds. Alice had an admirable ability to delve deep into the child, creating a full picture of them and getting to know and understand each child beyond the walls of the classroom. This is something very special and there is no doubt that Alice made a huge di fference with her hard work and dedication to the children of Naas over the years.

Alice saw great changes in the school during her 31 years but she herself was always steady and constant on the staff. She displays unending kindness and has a huge heart. Alice always showed a particular interest in, and care for, new staff members, taking them under her wings, often as far as her beautiful home nestled in the peaceful Wicklow hills which has an open door policy! Be sure and give her notice though if you a re calling so as to ensure she will have time to bake her delicious homemade scones and pavlova for your arrival!

It is hard to fully express how much we miss Alice but we are so very happy that she now has the opportunity to spend more time with her fami ly, especially her beloved grandchildren!