We welcome the involvement of parents as partners in the education of their children and the co-operation and support of the wider community in delivering a quality teaching and learning experience for all.
We welcome the involvement of parents as partners in the education of their children and the co-operation and support of the wider community in delivering a quality teaching and learning experience for all.
Dear School Community,
As I prepare to step away from my role as Principal, I find myself holding both sadness and genuine joy. Sadness, because leaving a place that has become part of my daily rhythm – its students, families, and staff – is never easy. Joy, because I know the journey ahead for all of us is bright, full of possibility, and rooted in the strong, compassionate foundation we’ve built together.
Presentation College, Headford has been more than a workplace. It has been a home filled with laughter, learning, challenge, and hope. I have been privileged to witness our students grow in courage and curiosity, our staff lead with dedication and heart, and our families support with trust and generosity. Every day here has taught me something – about leadership, about community, and about myself.
As I look toward my next chapter, I carry immense gratitude. I also carry the reminder that resilience and belief matter – something the Mayo team’s recent win captured so beautifully. Their victory wasn’t just a sporting moment; it was a symbol of perseverance, pride, and the power of community. Qualities I see reflected in this school every single day.
In moments of transition, I often think of the words of Seamus Heaney, who wrote: “Walk on air against your better judgement.” Those words feel right for now – a gentle encouragement to step forward with courage, even when the ground feels uncertain. I hope each of you continues to walk forward with that same spirit: brave, hopeful, and ready for what comes next.
I also want to extend my heartfelt good wishes to our newly appointed Principal, Ms. Orla Jackson. She is stepping into a role filled with possibility, challenge, and immense reward, and I know she will bring her own strengths, vision, and energy to the journey ahead. I wish her every success and joy as she leads the PCH school community forward.
Thank you for trusting me, challenging me, supporting me, and journeying with me. I will always cheer for this community – just as loudly as I cheer for Mayo.
With warmth and pride,
Fiona Gallagher
The story of Presentation College Headford began on Friday, August 26th 1942, in a disused army hut behind the presbytery. The founders of the new school were the Presentation Sisters, who had been involved in primary education in Headford since 1906. At first, the new secondary school catered for girls only.
In its opening year, there were seventeen students in first year and twenty in second year. By 1946, the demand for more space necessitated the use of the parochial hall and the convent dining room as classrooms.
A quick guided tour for first years August 2020
The Presentation Sisters are women who have responded to the call to follow Christ in the spirit of our founder Venerable Nano Nagle. Inspired by her example, they are dedicated to reaching out to those on the margins by engaging in compassionate service.
They are a Roman Catholic, international religious Congregation. They participate in the mission of Jesus by working for the transformation of unjust systems, the integrity of creation and the flourishing of humanity and the earth.
Here in PCH we endeavour to carry on the Charism of our founding Presentation Sisters by striving for excellence in a caring, committed, just, Christian education community.
