An Inspiring Educator and twice a Cancer Survivor Recognised for Services to Education and Community of Coleraine
David Radcliffe, a revered former principal from Northern Ireland, has been awarded an MBE in the prestigious Birthday Honours List.
This accolade acknowledges his distinguished career in education and his resilience in the face of personal challenges.
David’s journey began in Banbridge, where his father worked as a farmer. Choosing education over agriculture, he dedicated his life to teaching, eventually becoming the principal at Harpur’s Hill Primary School. His career, spanning 29 years ther, was marked by a deep commitment to his students and community.
Despite retiring after stepping down as principal of Harper’s Hill Primary School, David has since stepped in as acting principal of Balnamore PS during its final year of operations, recently at Gracehill PS, and is currently at Kilmoyle PS. However, he has promised that retirement will be “fourth time lucky.”
In 1996, David faced a formidable challenge when he was diagnosed with Ewing’s Sarcoma, a rare form of cancer. Despite successful initial treatment, the cancer returned in 2013, leading to the amputation of his leg. Demonstrating remarkable resilience, David returned to school life with a prosthetic leg, inspiring those around him, especially the children who admired his “robotic leg.”
After his operation, David set two significant goals: to stand before his students at prize day and to play golf. Achieving both milestones, he continued to inspire by taking up tennis with the support of Causeway Community Tennis Club.
His involvement with the club highlighted his belief in inclusivity and self-worth, as he encouraged others with disabilities to participate in sports.
That encouragement continues with David’s involvement with the Causeway Giants wheelchair basketball club.
David’s unwavering faith has been a cornerstone throughout his trials, with scripture and his Christian beliefs guiding him through life’s challenges.
In addition to his educational achievements, David recently made headlines with a £75,000 win on ITV’s ‘Ant & Dec’s Limitless Win.’
Participating alongside his daughter Emma, the experience was not just about the prize but a celebration of life and family. This venture into the spotlight underscored his philosophy of living in the moment and enjoying life to the fullest.
Talking about receiving an MBE, David said, “To be truthful, I don’t know who put my name forward or anything, or why I’ve received it, because all I’ve done is my job, and I like to think I’ve done it to the best of my ability,” he stated modestly.
“It’s a lovely honour to receive. I’m delighted with it.”
When asked when he was informed about the MBE and whether it was hard to keep it a secret, David replied, “I was told about it towards the end of April. Yes, it has been very difficult to keep it to myself.
“So when it’s announced, it will be a shock to my family, because they don’t even know about it. It’s completely a secret, even from my wife.
“I’m down here with my mother at the moment, so she now knows about it because I’m speaking to you on the phone about it. I’m sure when I get off the phone, I will have to have a conversation with her.”
David’s MBE is a testament to his enduring impact on education and his community. It celebrates not only his professional achievements but also his personal courage and determination to overcome adversity.
