A long-serving figure in education has stepped down after 26 years of service.
Ellen McBride has stepped down as the church representative on West Dunbartonshire Council’s educational services committee, where she played a key role in shaping and improving Catholic education in the region.
A former pupil of Notre Dame Clerkhill in Dumbarton, Ellen graduated as a teacher in the late 1960s and began her career at St Stephen’s Primary School in Dalmuir.
She later became head teacher at St Peter’s Primary School in Bellsmyre, Dumbarton.
Councillor Michelle McGinty, convener of educational services, said: "Ellen has been a dedicated member of our committee.
"She is well known for her unwavering commitment to children in West Dunbartonshire and across Scotland.
"Her extensive knowledge, experience, and unfailing commitment to the needs of children and families is evident and while we are sad to see her leave, she leaves with our warmest wishes for a happy and very healthy retirement and I thank her for everything she’s done to support children and young people over the years."
After her time in schools, Ellen joined Strathclyde Regional Council’s education department, specialising in quality assurance.
In her committee role, she was particularly influential in Catholic school self-evaluation and improvement, combining high educational standards with a strong commitment to the Catholic ethos.
Reflecting on her career, Ellen said: "I have been privileged to have had such a wide and fulfilling career and to have worked with many inspiring educational leaders along the way.
"I am very proud to have helped shape education locally not only as my time as a teacher and Head Teacher and on behalf of the Archdiocese, but my time being a key member of the Educational Services Committee has been very fulfilling.
"I would like to thank everyone for their support over the years and I wish them all every good wish for the future.”
Councillor John Millar, vice convener of educational services extended thanks to Ellen for her years of dedication.
said: "Ellen is highly respected and has been fully committed to delivering high-quality education for all.
"We are so grateful and privileged to have had her input for 26 years.
"She has helped shape education in West Dunbartonshire and many children are better off due to her commitment.
"I thank Ellen for her passion and dedication she has given throughout her career and she thoroughly deserves a happy and healthy retirement."
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