Fostering the breakthrough moment

When Breege Reilly officially stepped into the role of Principal after two years as Acting Principal, it felt less like a change of direction and more like a natural continuation. “I’ve been here since 1996,” she says, reflecting on nearly three decades in the life of Breifne College in Cavan. “This is my 30th year.”

Originally from the Cavan–Meath border, Breege was educated in Oldcastle before building her career within the ETB system, including six years teaching in the Collegiate School in Monaghan. Experiences that shaped her belief in steady leadership rooted in consistency and care.

“We have a long history of academic excellence here,” she says, “My role is to honour that legacy while building on it — standing on the shoulders of the principals and staff who have shaped this school before me.” For Breege, leadership is not about dramatic change, but about strengthening what already works while preparing students for a world that is evolving rapidly. “The world after Breifne College is changing,” she explains, “and it’s about continuing to change our practices so students are prepared for life after school.”

Success, in her view, is multifaceted. Of course, exam results matter - and the school’s Junior Cycle and Leaving Certificate results “go from strength to strength each year” - but they are only one measure. “It’s the small things as well,” she says. “It’s the student who may not have completed school only for the support they got here.” She points to the importance of wraparound supports such as the Home School Community Liaison, School Completion Programme, and Behaviour for Learning initiatives. “These structures ensure that students are supported academically, socially and emotionally.” “Sometimes it’s just seeing a student make a breakthrough in class - that moment when they get it. Watching our students grow and flourish is incredibly rewarding.”

That focus on the whole child is reflected in the school’s evolving curriculum. New Leaving Certificate subjects such as Physical Education and Climate Action and Sustainability were introduced in direct response to student voice. “The students are absolutely thriving,” Breege says. “It has really brought out different talents.”

Being among the first schools in the country to offer Climate Action and Sustainability is a source of pride, particularly as students already see pathways beyond school in that area.

With over 900 students and a large, committed staff, Breege places huge value on community. “We are very lucky,” she says. “We have fantastic support from our Board of Management, a very active Parents’ Association, and hugely supportive local businesses.” From work experience placements to partnerships with third-level institutions, she sees education as something that extends far beyond the school gates.

When asked how she defines success, Breege smiles. “You can measure it in results, but you also see it years later - when past pupils come back and talk about the strong foundations they received here, the confidence they carried with them.”

For her, it’s about helping the pupils thrive, while supporting their roots.