Board of Education (NI)21 Jun 24

Congratulations to Professor Noel Purdy OBE

Colleagues within the Church of Ireland have congratulated Professor Noel Purdy OBE on the acknowledgement of his services to education in the King’s Birthday Honours List.

Professor Purdy is Director of Research and Scholarship at Stranmillis University College, and a member of the Board of Education (Northern Ireland), the Advisory Council to the Church of Ireland Centre at Dublin City University’s Institute of Education, and the Governing Council of the Church of Ireland Theological Institute (CITI).

Dr Peter Hamill, Secretary to the Board of Education (Northern Ireland), remarked: “We are privileged to have the wisdom and knowledge of Professor Noel Purdy OBE on the Board of Education.  This is a thoroughly deserved award.”

The Revd Canon Dr Maurice Elliott, Director of CITI, added: “We have been delighted to learn of this very significant honour for our Council member, Professor Noel Purdy.  In his capacity as Educational Adviser, Professor Purdy brings a genuine depth of insight, experience and wisdom to his role on our behalf.  His professionalism is matched by his commitment to pastoral care towards both staff and students.  Many sincere congratulations!”

The Archbishop of Dublin, the Most Revd Dr Michael Jackson, added: “Professor Purdy has contributed significantly to the Council of CITI through his instinctive emphasis on quality education and faith focus. This is valued by all members and by me as Chairperson. We therefore offer him heartfelt congratulations on this recognition of service.”

Canon Professor Anne Lodge, Director of the Church of Ireland Centre, congratulated her teacher education colleague Professor Purdy noting that he is a valued recently appointed member of the Centre’s Advisory Council and that he is a highly regarded teacher educator on the island of Ireland and beyond: “This recognition of the value of his work is to be warmly welcomed.”

The Archbishop of Armagh, the Most Revd John McDowell, as Chair of the Board of Education and the Advisory Council, has added his own congratulations to those of Professor Purdy’s many friends and colleagues.  Archbishop McDowell commented: “Noel is a consummate scholar who has also an understanding of the needs of the whole person – teachers and pupils – and who brings deep humanity as well as deep learning to his many vocations in education.”