A Magherafelt teacher has been named the best primary school teacher in Northern Ireland.

By David Friel

info@derrypost.com

Mrs Ciara O’Neill of St Brigids Primary School, Magherafelt, won Primary School Teacher of the Year in Northern Ireland at the weekend annual UK Teaching Awards.

The Teaching Awards is a celebration of teaching and learning with the guiding principal is to recognise excellent teachers and share their expertise.

Mrs O’Neill’s achievements can be put into perspective when you consider that every primary school teacher in Northern Ireland was eligible for the award.

The pupil who nominated Mrs O’Neill for the award said she was a great music teacher.

‘Me and my sister want to nominate Mrs O’Neill because she is a fantastic P.1 teacher and music teacher.

“In assembly she teaches the whole school African songs and tells us all about classical composers.

“At choir we have great fun because she makes us do funny dances and exercises to help us to sing better. 

“In P.1 Mrs O’Neill sings her lessons all the time.  My wee sister sings them all at home, that’s how she learns everything! 

“She teaches P.1s yoga and meditation and has fantastic ideas.

“We love Mrs O’Neill and we want her to win.”