Columb Collins:Current job: Director, Institute of Technology, Tallaght.What school did you attend? Belvedere College.

Had you any famous classmates? Not a pop star, author or notorious criminal (so far)

Hidden talents at school? Fastest underwater swimmer (until I learned how to breathe).

Best subject? Maths.

Worst subject? Subjunctives in French were very tricky.

Most inspirational teacher and why? We were fortunate to have some great teachers, but Jimmy Gough (maths) comes to mind first - he loved the subject and he was extremely practical in getting it over.

Did you go to college? UCD in early 1960s - studying physics meant going to Earlsfort Terrace and Merrion Street until the big move to Belfield in 1964.

What's the best thing about the Irish education system? At school level, the wide range of subjects taken to Leaving Certificate.

The worst thing? The "Points System" is blamed by many for encouraging pupils to select "easy" subjects and avoid extra-curricular activities.

What song most reminds you of your school days? Anything from Gilbert and Sullivan - the unfortunate first years with unbroken voices were forced to dress up and sing as girls in the annual opera!