Marie McLoughlin National Co-ordinator, Primary Curriculum Support Programme

Where did you go to school?

St Patrick's Girls' National School for primary, and then Carndonagh Community School, Co Donegal.

What was your best subject?

Music - my parents encouraged all the family to sing and play an instrument.

What was your worst subject?

Accountancy - I was never very clever with money!

If you could put a new subject on the Leaving Cert, what would it be?

That all subjects would incorporate a compulsory technology dimension.

What was your earliest career ambition?

I wanted to be a doctor but chose subjects more relevant to the arts than the sciences.

Who was your favourite teacher and why?

My English teacher, Heather Norris. She brought a great balance of seriousness and fun to learning. She had great respect for all students and faith in our ability.

Who was your best friend? Sally Friel.

What is she doing now?

Last time we met up, she was enjoying family life with two little boys and doing part-time work in training for students.

What TV programme/film most reminds you of your school days?

Fame was my favourite - not surprising really as I love the performing arts.

What song most reminds you of your school days?

Walking on Sunshine. Sally bought it for me for my 16th birthday and we played it to death.

What food most reminds you of your school days?

Tongue! My father bought, cooked and pressed a tongue every Saturday; we were reminded that we wouldn't get it in the Gresham!

Who did you bring to your debs?

We didn't have a debs but we did have a "Fifth-Year Do". We went as singles.

What was your most memorable holiday?

A trip to Nepal. I was working in the Middle East at the time so I travelled to visit a friend who was doing voluntary work. While I never made it to Base Camp Everest, it was an awe-inspiring expedition.

Did you go to college and if so, what did you study?

I was one of the last students at Carysfort College of Education in Blackrock. The course covered Philosophy, History, Psychology and Sociology of Education; teaching methods in the curricular subjects and an academic subject - Music.

Would you send your own children to the same school that you went to?

Absolutely - both schools offered a broad and holistic education with lots of extracurricular options.

What was the best thing about your education?

At Carndonagh, I always felt a great sense of belonging and ownership. It was ahead of its time.