Mr Hugh McBarron
We recently learned of the death, on Friday 3rd February, of a much loved and respected friend and colleague, Hugh Mc Barron (McB). Many of you will have fond memories of Hugh from his time teaching here in St. Mary’s and, as the boys would say, ‘he was a legend’.
Hugh began his retirement in 2008 after devoting 33 years to St Mary’s. In September 1975 he joined the staff as a fresh faced, clean shaven, naive country boy from the wilds of Fermanagh. He was primarily employed as a teacher of Mathematics which he taught to all levels. However, as a multi-talented man, Hugh could apply his vast knowledge of Mathematics to any subject. He taught several other subjects including Technical Drawing and Physics, and he also assisted one of his then mentors Mr Woods in the mathematical elements of the A-Level Psychology coursework. In his latter years, Hugh was heavily involved in the organisation of the timetable and cover rota.
Hugh’s contribution to the extra-curricular life within St Mary’s can only be described as vast. Most notably, he started and led the famous “Young Enterprise Mini Company” group within the school between the years 1991 – 2004′.
Memorable moments for the school were in 1992 and 1998 when the school’s team won the UK National final and the 1992 team were also runners up in the European Finals in Malta. Considering that over 40,000 students throughout the UK are involved each year in Young Enterprise, the successes of these years were unprecedented. As well as the trip to the European Finals in Malta in 1992, the group travelled to London on a number of occasions for the UK finals.
Despite his commitment to Young Enterprise, Hugh managed to find some spare time to assist with school trips, including the Drama trip to London and History trips to Belgium. Hugh was also very active socially and was a regular at Staff Association social events. Hugh will always be remembered for his exemplary timekeeping and attendance. He was always the first member of staff in school, and even when his car was broken down for a number of weeks, Hugh left home before 6am to ensure that no-one managed to steal his ‘early riser’ mantle.
Hugh was a very well-liked and respected member of the school community, held in the highest esteem by present and past staff and pupils alike. He will be sorely missed by all who knew him.
We will keep Hugh and his brothers, sisters and wider family in our thoughts and prayers in the days ahead.
Ar dheis Dé go raibh a anam.
