Robert Scott has been Principal of Braidside Integrated Primary School in Ballymena for the last 24 years and will retire this year, having successfully led the school from its small beginnings to the large primary school it is today. When Bert arrived at Braidside in 1992 there were approximately 50 children and the school had just relocated from Harryville in the town; where it had begun in 1989; to the Fry’s Road, where there are now 320 children enrolled.
Bert had begun his career as a librarian in London, before his first teaching position at a school in Greenwich. Moving back to NI with his young family, he then took up a position at Hazelwood Integrated Primary School in Belfast, finally arriving at Braidside as teaching Principal in 1992.
Bert’s commitment to integrated education began at university and developed further with his teaching career and family life. During his time at Braidside IPS he has been steadfast in his belief and commitment to the ethos, principles and values of integrated education. In all the work that has been achieved in Braidside, Bert has always sought to keep integration at the core of the school and this was reflected when Braidside achieved its kite mark for Excellence in Integrated Education in 2011.
Throughout the years at Braidside, Bert has always maintained a presence and involvement in the lives of the children who have passed through the school. Never a principal confined to his office, he can be found with the children in the playground, classrooms and dining hall. Many children and staff have very fond memories of him playing guitar at assemblies, taking part in school trips, flying a kite in the playground and using a wide range of puppets and toys for teaching, learning and fun. A big fan of Sponge-Bob Squarepants, he has passed this pleasure on to those who arrive early to school, on a wet morning when a dvd is requested.
In the last number of years Bert, along with the Governors, has been working tirelessly towards a purpose built new school; Braidside having outgrown their current accommodation. Following all this hard work, the new build is finally coming to fruition with architects appointed, a design emerging and funding agreed. There is no doubt that Bert’s persistence and diligence in pursuing a building where the children can experience the curriculum in a conducive, learning environment has led the school to its current point.
Throughout his time at Braidside Bert has been a dedicated Principal, focussed on the children’s development and learning in a holistic approach, and caring deeply about the future of the school. Always ready to listen to others, he has been someone keen to develop staff and new initiatives, leading the school in many pilot programmes and developments. When Peer Mediation was launched Bert grabbed the opportunity for the school to be involved and every year he engages in the training of the P6 children; taking part in workshops and role-plays enthusiastically. A knowledgeable and thoughtful person, Bert’s awareness of current issues and insightfulness are evident to many that he works with both in school and out. When the school achieved its successful inspection outcomes in 2009, his leadership and dedication to pastoral care were highlighted.
As he leaves Braidside, Bert is a much admired and respected Principal. The children, staff, parents and governors are grateful for his commitment to the school, for the work he has dedicated his career to at Braidside in the past 24 years and wish him a restful and enjoyable retirement.
