Mr Jamie Carroll
Head teacher
St Bede’s Catholic Primary School
I have been teaching for 26 years and have been a head teacher for half of that time. Having led two Catholic schools over the last thirteen years, I have grown both personally and professionally as a result of holding this privileged position. Leading a Catholic school is not unlike the work of a parish priest; you are the principle faith leader in the setting, you teach and preach the words of the Gospel and you encourage and support everyone in your community to thrive and grow. Leading by example is vital but can be quite difficult, especially in the early days of headship when you can be weighed down with the responsibilities of the job. However, I would recommend headship to any aspiring teacher and know that our Catholic schools are always ready to welcome and support the next generation of head teachers. It is a job that is hugely rewarding and as a Catholic, one in which you can grow in your own vocation and clearly see and be grateful for, the fruits of your work.