Top marks for Cork principal

TRIBUTES were paid to an inspirational and pioneering school principal last night as the secondary school he founded marked its 25th anniversary.

Pat Kinsella, the principal of Coláiste Choilm in Ballincollig, Co Cork — who has announced he will retire next February at the age of 64 — was the centre of attention as 400 guests came to celebrations at the school.

Clive Byrne, the director of the National Association of Principals and Deputies, praised his “inspirational leadership” over the last quarter of a century.