University of Limerick Alumni Spotlight: Helen Ryan

In the latest instalment of our Alumni Spotlight series, we speak to Helen Ryan, School of Education graduate and deputy principal at Mungret Community College.

Can you tell me a bit about yourself?

I'm originally from Sologhead in Co Tipperary, and I currently live in Pallasgreen, Co Limerick, with my husband and three children. I've been deputy principal at Mungret Community College since 2017. I was the founding deputy principal along with our principal, Liam O'Mahoney, when we opened the school with 90 students.

The school has grown to over 900 students, and we're currently preparing to move into a new €35m state-of-the-art campus in August 2024. In my downtime, I love the outdoors and love nothing more than walking in the countryside and spending time with my extended family.

What did you study in the School of Education, and why did you choose to study at UL?

I studied Bachelor of Science Education and then went onto the Masters in Educational Leadership at UL.

I had wonderful teachers at St Anne’s Secondary School in Tipperary Town, but truly amazing maths and chemistry teachers. When I reached sixth year in school, I knew I wanted to continue to study science and maths to qualify as a teacher. What attracted me to study at UL was the concept of the semester, or trimesters, back when I started in Year 1 in 1994. I really liked the idea of concurrent education and teaching practice alongside biology and chemistry modules. UL had a really strong focus on practical experience along with academics.

What did you enjoy most about the programme? 

I really enjoyed all that the programme entailed, especially the laboratory sessions in life sciences and chemistry labs, but I really found myself truly immersed in the education modules, especially education psychology and teacher professionalism. Continuous assessment including portfolio, project, and laboratory work really appealed to me.

Tell me about your own career journey so far. 

I started teaching chemistry and maths at Coolmine Community School in Dublin for 2 years, after which I returned to Limerick VEC, which became Limerick and Clare ETB in 2013. I taught for 3 years at St Michael’s Community College in Cappamore, teaching biology, science, and maths, and then at Castletroy College for 14 years, teaching biology, science, and chemistry. At Castletroy College, I started my leadership role as an assistant principal. I worked as a yearhead and special education needs organiser. In 2017, I moved to Mungret Community College when I was appointed as the school’s first deputy principal. Along the way, I have had very interesting opportunities, most especially to work with the National Council for Special Education.

Can you share a memorable experience or achievement from your time as a student at UL that helped shape your approach to education and leadership?

I still remember when I was in my first year the excitement and enjoyment of teaching students from post-primary schools for the first time in the micro-teaching lab. I was delighted to receive gold-plated letters every semester from the president for achieving a QCA over 3.4.

Are there any professors or mentors at UL that have played a pivotal role in your academic and personal development?

A special shout out to Dr Peter Childs, an incredible chemistry lecturer and Con Trass on horticulture, who really gave me so much help with my final year project. I have great memories of our field trips to the Burren and seashores of County Clare with John Breen.

Is there anyone who has largely influenced you in your learning and career journey to date?

I cannot help but mention Dr Jim Gleeson who was my teaching practice tutor in 4^th year. Jim encouraged me in every way, but especially to be reflective of my teaching. He was the reason I went back two years after graduating to undertake a Master’s in Education Leadership.

Were you a member of any clubs and societies? If so, tell us about your experience.

I loved the Debating Society and sat through many interesting nights. There are so many clubs and societies, we were spoiled for choice. 

What did you enjoy about UL? What is student life like here?

Student life was fabulous, and I have great memories of long nights in the Stables and Hurlers!!! The highlight being Rag Week hanging out in Elm Park. I met amazing people along the way, some of whom I have as lifelong friends but there is always such warmth and friendship when I meet a fellow teacher from UL.

Looking back, I think the days spent on campus were the best. From messing with friends between lectures to passing time in the library. I think the campus is spectacular, it was such a privilege to walk around it everyday and I still love it.

Are there any campus locations that hold special significance for you? 

We spent a lot of time in the PE building and the currently named science and engineering building. University of Limerick was much smaller then and I am now in awe of the amazing new buildings and sports facilities. There were four teacher education concurrent courses when I studied at UL: physical education, education, construction, and engineering. We all got on really well, with lots of healthy rivalry!

What or who inspired you to pursue a career in education?

I always knew deep down that I wanted to teach. I was fascinated as a young child listening to my grandmother tell stories of her sisters training at Mary Immaculate College during the Civil War. I got plenty of practice growing up as the oldest in a family of five, helping my brothers and sister. But most of all, my parents instilled a very high level of empathy, humility, and kindness, which sowed the seeds of a love of learning in my life.

What are your hopes and plans for the future?

I love working as deputy principal at Mungret Community College. It was a special opportunity to open a new school and be part of its growth and development. I feel really privileged to work with our principal, Liam, and fellow deputy principal, Eanna. We have a hugely dedicated and innovative group of teachers. But most of all, to be part of the educational experience of students and to be part of their growth and development is truly what makes my day. I am passionate about inclusive education and supporting students with additional educational needs to achieve their potential in every aspect of their lives. I truly believe a school that supports inclusion raises the potential of all its students and creates the opportunity to create a truly inclusive society. I hope to continue to work in education leadership, but with a strong focus on inclusive education practice.

What advice would you give to current students or aspiring educators who are considering a career in education?

It is a truly rewarding, enjoyable, and fun job. Every day and every class is different, and there is nothing more amazing than knowing you can change a student’s life for the better.

Reflecting on your journey from student to deputy principal, what personal qualities or skills have been most instrumental in your professional growth and success?

Empathy and kindness are the standout qualities I bring from my early college days to my daily work. I believe my journey through my undergraduate and postgraduate years at UL shaped my values of inclusivity and excellence in teaching and learning.