Mr Brian Mc Closkey was honoured as the NAPCE (National Association of Pastoral Care in Education) Patrol Leader of the Year. This accolade highlights Mr Mc Closkey’ s unwavering commitment to pastoral care and his profound impact on the lives of students and staff at St. Mary’s Primary School, Fivemiletown, where he has served for four years.
Throughout his tenure at St. Mary’s, Mr Mc Closkey has prioritised the well-being of both pupils and staff, ensuring that the school environment remains a nurturing and supportive space. Amidst challenges, he has been a steadfast leader, focusing on the mental health and welfare of the school community.
His approach to pastoral care aligns closely with the values promoted by NAPCE, which emphasises the importance of emotional and social development in education. As a testament to his dedication, Mr Mc Closkey has established various programmes aimed at enhancing pupil well-being, fostering resilience, and creating an inclusive environment.
His leadership style is characterised by empathy, active listening, and a genuine commitment to uplifting those around him. Colleagues describe him as approachable and supportive, often going above and beyond to ensure that every pupil feels valued and heard.
One of Mr Mc Closkey’ s significant contributions has been his ability to foster a sense of community at St. Mary’s Primary School. He believes that effective pastoral care extends beyond the classroom and into the wider school community. By promoting collaboration among staff, parents, and local organisations, he has created a network of support that benefits everyone.
His initiatives include partnerships with local services and community organisations, which provide additional resources for students and families. This holistic approach underscores his belief that education is not solely academic but deeply intertwined with emotional and social well-being.
The NAPCE Patrol Leader of the Year award is a prestigious honour that acknowledges individuals who demonstrate exceptional leadership and dedication to pastoral care. Mr Mc Closkey’ s selection for this award is a testament to his tireless efforts and the positive impact he has made at St. Mary’s Fivemiletown.
During the awards ceremony, NAPCE representatives praised Mr Mc Closkey’ s innovative approach to pastoral care and his commitment to creating a safe, supportive environment for all.
Looking forward, Mr Mc Closkey is committed to continuing his mission of enhancing pastoral care at St. Mary’s and beyond. He plans to further develop existing programs, integrating new initiatives that address the evolving needs of pupils and staff. His vision includes expanding mental health resources and ensuring that every member of the school community has access to support when needed.
“I am honoured to receive this award, but it truly belongs to the entire St. Mary’s community,” Mr Mc Closkey stated during his acceptance speech. “Together, we have navigated challenges, supported one another, and created an environment where everyone can thrive.”
For more information on NAPCE and their initiatives, visit NAPCE's official website.