Students and staff from the Diocese’s three Church of Ireland secondary schools gathered last Monday, 12th January 2026, at St Fin Barre’s Cathedral for a special service marking the conclusion of their shared worship with Bishop Paul Colton ahead of his retirement.

Those present included students and teachers from Ashton School, Bandon Grammar School, and Midleton College, along with principals and deputy principals, members of Boards of Management, school chaplains, and those involved in youth and school work across the Diocese. The cathedral was full, reflecting the strong connections between the schools and the wider diocesan community.

The service provided an opportunity to give thanks for Bishop Paul’s long-standing involvement with post-primary education in the Diocese. Over many years, he has worked closely with all three schools, supporting their governance, development, and ethos. His contribution has included service on Boards, engagement with staff and students, and advocacy for Church of Ireland education at both diocesan and national level .

During the service, speakers reflected on the Bishop’s commitment to good governance, his support for school leadership, and his consistent emphasis on inclusion, care, and a clear sense of ethos within school life. Reference was also made to the importance of education as a continuum, linking schools, families, and the wider Church community .

At the end of the service, the three schools made a series of presentations to Bishop Paul Colton as a mark of thanks for his longstanding involvement with their communities. These included a set of three sports jerseys and three ties, each reflecting the colours of the schools, as well as three charitable donations to Pieta, the Bishop’s Appeal, and the RNLI. In addition, three paintings depicting the entrance doors of each school were presented, symbolising welcome and connection. Susan Colton was also presented with flowers by three students, one from each secondary school, all of whom had previously been taught by her during her career as a primary school teacher.

Following the service, tea, coffee, and light refreshments were provided for adult attendees, including Boards of Management, school leaders, and representatives involved in youth and education work. This offered an opportunity for informal conversation and reflection after the service.

The gathering marked a significant moment for the three schools as they concluded their shared services with Bishop Paul, while also acknowledging his long and valued contribution to education within the Diocese.