4 days ago
NI school pays tribute after death of long-serving former principal
Dr Elma Lutton, who served at Cambridge House Grammar School for almost 50 years until her retirement in 2020, passed away on Tuesday.
She had been the longest serving principal of the Ballymena school – her overall involvement with the school spanned 46 years.
Mrs Lutton began teaching in Cambridge House in 1974.
Initially, she taught English, both Language and Literature; Latin and Drama at Cambridge House Grammar School for Girls, becoming Head of Drama in September that year.
In 2001 she was appointed vice-principal of the newly formed Cambridge House Grammar School, the amalgamation of the girls' and boys' schools.
Mrs Lutton was then appointed as the principal in 2012 and led the school to be one of the top-performing grammars in Northern Ireland.
She lived in Kells with her husband Jim. The couple had two daughters, Christina and Rebecca.
Speaking to the Belfast Telegraph in 2014, she said: 'I've always been a teacher. My best job, though, is being principal.'
"Her leadership weathered challenges, embraced change and always stayed rooted in the core beliefs that define our school"
In a statement the school said: "It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr Elma Lutton, the longest serving former principal of Cambridge House Grammar School, who left an indelible mark on our community.
"Elma dedicated over four decades to our school and her legacy is etched in the hearts and minds of every pupil, teacher and parent or guardian who had the privilege of knowing her.
"Under her stewardship, the school flourished academically and became a nurturing, inclusive and inspiring environment, demonstrating her passion, purpose and unwavering belief in the potential of every child and member of staff. She championed the holistic development of pupils and was never too busy to offer a kind word, a wise piece of advice or a helping hand," the school continued.
"Her leadership weathered challenges, embraced change and always stayed rooted in the core beliefs that define our school. She believed in tradition, but also in progress and integrity. Whilst holding high standards, she led with compassion and never lost sight of what mattered most — the children.
"As we, her school family, reflect on the years of dedicated service, we do so with immense pride and affection. Her influence will be felt for generations, not just in the achievements of our school, but in the countless lives she touched and inspired. Her spirit remains deeply woven into the fabric of our school community.
"Elma, thank you for your vision, your courage, your wisdom and above all, your unwavering devotion; we will always be better for having walked the journey with you.'
A death notice said Mrs Lutton passed away peacefully at hospital.
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A service of celebration for her life will be held next Monday, August 18, at 11am in Gracehill Moravian Church followed by a private cremation.
It added: 'Elma will be sadly missed and lovingly remembered by her entire family circle. 'God has you in His keeping, we have you in our hearts'.'
