A project launched by Ulster University turns a spotlight on aspects of school education in NI which might stand in the way of developing an integrated, equitable system.

The UU School of Education has received funding from The Integrated Education Fund (IEF), the UNESCO Centre and the Community Foundation to enable the team to share the findings of academic research through a series of accessible briefing papers illustrated by infographics. The project – called transforming education – aims to examine and illuminate issues which reinforce the segregated nature of the education system. (more…)

Hazelwood Integrated College in north Belfast has been shortlisted for the Secondary School of the Year title in the awards scheme run by the Times Educational Supplement (TES). These awards recognise outstanding individuals and institutions in education. The panel stresses that entries are assessed on more than academic achievement and applicants are asked to demonstrate “innovation, imagination and efforts to develop children in ways that go beyond the league tables”. (more…)

A research team from Ulster University carried out an independent Community Conversation with the purpose of gathering the views of parents, affected by over-subscription of primary school places in the South Belfast area.

The Community Conversation report shows that there is additional capacity needed in the Integrated and Maintained sectors if parental preference is to be supported. (more…)

Politicians faced pupils yesterday (10 April 2019) at Lagan College, Belfast, where they were questioned on key issues chosen by the young people. Timed to raise awareness of the local government elections in May and run exactly 21 years after the publication of the Belfast/Good Friday Agreement, the event brought political representatives of five parties and the Chief Executive of the NI Local Government Association (NILGA) to meet around 50 students from years 11-14 at the school. (more…)

Press Release from Shimna Integrated College

On Monday 8th March, the whole Shimna Integrated Community came together for a musical 25th anniversary celebration. The concert featured some of the musical pieces that are happening in extra-curricular activities and exam classes, and also showcased the work of drama students. The centrepiece of the event was the launch of the celebration original single. Our new song, ‘Building Tomorrow’ was unveiled and was also performed live by our newly established choir of Shimna Community Voices. The 127-voice choir is made up of students from Shimna IC and All Children’s Integrated Primary school, as well as staff and families from both schools. (more…)

Congratulations are due to Hazelwood Integrated College in North Belfast as one of the winners of this year’s Derrytrasna Awards. This scheme celebrates school communities who show exceptional pastoral care for the emotional health and wellbeing of pupils and their families. The scheme is run by the Department of Education and the Public Health Agency (PHA).

Presenting the awards today (08 April) at Stormont, Derek Baker, Permanent Secretary at the Department of Education, said:

“The quality of this year’s nominations is testament to the high level of pastoral care being provided in our schools and reflects the high regard local communities have for their schools. Young people, as they grow up, face so many challenges and it is reassuring that, for some, their school is a source of reassurance and support. (more…)