Monsieur Ian Sampson
Mr Ian Sampson joined Limavady Grammar School as Head of Modern Languages in 1996, having already made his mark at RBAI. From the day of his arrival, he has worked tirelessly to promote language learning as an accessible and useful skill for all. His lessons have always been meticulously prepared and delivered with an enthusiasm that few could match- his penchant for the dramatic when explaining new vocabulary has meant that his lessons have endured in the memory of his pupils long after they have left LGS to pursue their own careers. Many former pupils, who have gone on to very successful careers throughout Europe and beyond, would wish to recognise the key role which Mr Sampson has played in their achievements.
Not content with his activities in the classroom, Mr Sampson has enhanced the success of Modern Languages by facilitating numerous exchanges to such destinations as La Roche sur Yon and the French Alps. Mr Sampson has also introduced many students to the joys of singing in a foreign language in the Languages Choir which has performed for appreciative audiences on many occasions. He has also helped to develop the Modern Languages Club which has organised many informal activities to promote foreign language learning and culture- at one such lunchtime event, only days before his retirement, Mr Sampson was enthusiastically introducing a group of junior pupils to the joy of playing boules. Many of his A Level students cherish fond memories of their participation in the French Debating Team which competed very successfully against grammar schools throughout Northern Ireland, achieving the ultimate prize of clinching the Northern Ireland title on four occasions.
As a Senior Teacher, Mr Sampson has played a pivotal role in organising the school’s internal examinations, assessments, and reports to parents- a role requiring an eye for detail and leaving no room for error. He has also co-ordinated all of our extracurricular activities and has oversight of the Colours system, which recognises the exceptional contributions of pupils to a wide range of activities, including sports teams, drama and other areas of school life.
Mr Ian Sampson will be fondly remembered by his pupils and colleagues alike for his calm and approachable demeanour, behind which lay a delightful sense of humour and a total dedication to the task in hand. In bidding Mr Sampson au revoir, we wish him a long and productive retirement and salute almost three decades of service to Limavady Grammar School.
C Little