About the Principal

Mr. Jim Murphy was appointed Principal of Sandford Park School in 2025. A graduate of Trinity College Dublin, where he achieved a First-Class Honours degree in Music Education, he also holds an Advanced Diploma in Law and Education from the Honourable Society of Kings Inns.

Mr. Murphy has extensive leadership experience at Sandford Park School, where he previously served as Assistant Principal 1 and Head of Music. In these roles, he coordinated the School Self-Evaluation process, led the development of key policies and oversaw the implementation of the School Improvement Plan. He has also contributed to national teacher education as a School Placement Supervisor and Guest Lecturer with Trinity College Dublin, supporting the professional growth of future teachers.

Throughout his career, Mr. Murphy has combined academic leadership with a strong commitment to the arts and co-curricular life of the school. He has directed numerous choirs and ensembles, led international music tours and organised concerts and cultural events that bring the whole school community together.

As Principal, Mr. Murphy is dedicated to leading a school where students are challenged, supported and inspired to flourish academically, creatively and personally. He is committed to maintaining Sandford Park School’s distinctive ethos as a non-denominational, inclusive school while ensuring staff are empowered to lead and grow in their own right. His vision is of a calm, outward-looking school culture built on respect, wellbeing and high aspiration for all.