Birches Primary School, Portadown, Craigavon

Thank You, Mrs Williamson – 12 Years of Dedication in Birches Primary School

23rd Jun 2026

We would like to say a very special thank you and farewell to Mrs Williamson at the end of this term. She has been at the heart of our P1 classrooms in Birches Primary School for the past 12 years. Mrs Williamson has played an extraordinary role in helping generations of children take their very first steps in school life. For so many of our pupils, she was one of the very first smiling faces they met through the classroom door, offering reassurance, comfort, and encouragement during those important early days. Her gentle manner and warm presence helped turn nervous first mornings into confident starts.

Working in P1 requires a special kind of patience, care, and understanding, and Mrs Williamson has shown all of these in abundance. She has helped children learn not just their letters and numbers, but how to share, how to make friends, and how to feel safe and happy in school. Those foundations she helped build will stay with them for years to come.

Her colleagues have always admired her dedication, teamwork, and positive spirit. She has been a constant source of support, always ready with a helping hand or a kind word, and her contribution to the life of Birches Primary School cannot be overstated.

While we are incredibly sad to see her leave, we are also so proud of her as she takes the next step in her journey to become a teacher. It is a role she is perfectly suited for, and we know she will continue to inspire and nurture young learners just as she has done so wonderfully here.

Mrs Williamson, thank you for helping so many children take their first steps with confidence, joy, and a love of learning. You will always be a cherished part of Birches Primary School.

We wish you every success and happiness in your new chapter, you will be amazing.

The Board of Governors has recently completed a recruitment process to appoint a new Primary One Classroom Assistant. We are delighted to announce Miss Lucy Anderson was the successful candidate. While she has big shoes to fill, we know she will bring her own strengths, enthusiasm, and care to the role.