Children say farewell to Bernie

CHILDREN and their parents gathered at a Northside playgroup recently to say farewell to one of their stalwarts on her retirement. 

Bernie Sheridan has been a leading light at Beaumont Community Playgroup, based in the grounds of St Fiachra’s School, for over 23 years.

Bernie started by helping out on the parent rota, as her own child attended the service in those early days.

However, it wasn’t long before Bernie worked her way up to manager level, studying and getting her qualification in early childhood care and education to Level 6.

Over the years, well in excess of 1,100 children have passed through the doors of Beaumont Community Playgroup. Many of them will remember Bernie with great fondness. 

Bernie has done a great job in putting the playgroup, which started from small beginnings, on the map. Today, the service employs a team of well qualified and experienced early years educators. 

Over the years, Bernie and her team have hosted information evenings and open days for parents and children to see the play curriculum in motion. The children have also enjoyed annual fun visits from the likes of Dublin Fire Brigade, a magician and even a dentist! 

Although she will be a big loss to Beaumont Community Playgroup, Bernie is leaving the service in good hands. The management team, comprising Margaret, Liz and Yvonne, with 52 years’ experience between them, are now steering the ship.