The One School of Thought education campaign has started the year with a boost from yet  another celebrity supporter:  Kevin Baird, bass player with North Down band, Two Door Cinema Club,  added his name to the list of backers from the arts, business and sport.    One School of Thought calls on MLAs to make education reform a key priority over the next four years, building on the widespread public support for greater sharing and integration within and between schools. 

Kevin, who has been touring the USA with the award-winning band, made time during a visit home to meet IEF staff and guest interviewer, Christopher Maher of Malone Integrated College. 

Kevin said,  “I feel like Northern Ireland has come such a long way in many areas but education is lagging behind.  Once children live and learn with people outside of their normal stomping grounds we can finally root out the misconceptions which run often unnoticed through each strand of our society.”

Christopher, a straight-A student in his final year at Malone IC, answered a call from the Integrated Education Fund for music fans and aspiring broadcasters to join them and help with the filming. Christopher recorded  a conversation  with Kevin  on his music, his life with the band  and his support for the One School of Thought campaign. 

Chris said “I feel really lucky to be involved in this project; it’s been a privilege to meet Kevin. I agree with him that it’s crucial to break down cultural barriers, reduce conflict and improve communication. It can only enhance our country’s image and attract investment – building a better future for Northern Ireland socially and economically.”

Kevin visited the studios of Cool FM in Newtownards, where Pete Snodden, who has also signed up to the campaign, chatted with him live on his breakfast show. After a brief photoshoot it was on to the Waterfront Hall where One School of Thought had been kindly given permission to record the video interview.  The finished film with be available soon – watch this space!

www.oneschoolofthought.org.uk