Page 22 - Bellfort Magazine 2024

Also, it was with sadness that I shared the passing of former Dunclug College Principal, Mr Rab
Sloan.

Mr Sloan, formally the Vice-Principal of Ballee High School, was Principal at Dunclug College from

September 1987 until his retirement in August 2005. I pay tribute to all he achieved during tenure
of leadership. Rab… as he was fondly known, by his colleagues and friends, had an outstanding

ability and was secure in doing what he felt was right. His wide experience of education grew over
the years as he supported the then NEELB (North Eastern Education and Library Board) and the

RTU (Regional Training Unit) which reflected his thorough knowledge of educational matters and
the ability to communicate effectively to others. Like Mr Gillan… Mr Sloan too…. was

adventurous! Not afraid to speak out where necessary, to take risks, to make daring decisions, to
seek out new territory and bring change to the system. Mr Gillan and Mr Sloan were widely

respected in all circles within which they worked.

Both gentlemen brought to their Principalship vigour and commitment, they maintained vitality in
the job until retirement.

Simply, both Mr Gillan and Mr Sloan left a lasting legacy, they will always be a part of the fabric of

Dunclug College and the community of Ballymena… North… South… East… and West… of the town
including the hinterlands. Both Mr Gillan and Mr Sloan were known for not being able to say no…

they valued people… they cared deeply about their staff… their pupils… and the community which
they served.

In memory of Mr Gillan and Mr Sloan two bursaries will be presented later…. we are so pleased to

be joined by Mr Jeremy Gillan and Mr Gareth Sloan who will present the bursaries later this
afternoon…. Again… you are most welcome!

This afternoon truly is a celebration for you…. the young people, for those pupils who worked for
their best and worked for their achievement. Today is an opportunity for us all to join collectively

and celebrate all that is good. I remind everyone that success is not final…. It is the courage to
continue that counts…

We welcome back pupils who have left to take up studies elsewhere or moved into employment.

It is important that we remember our past pupils because they… you… have contributed to our
future!