BRINGING YOU NEWS FR OM THE Winter 2012 COUNCIL FOR INTEGRAT ED EDUCATION...

Clare and Sota at the NICIE AGM Inside this issue...

 AGM & Annual Seminar

Principals, Governors and Trustees started in 1987 and incorporated in  EIEA came together at the 23rd Annual Gen- 1989. We hope that there will be a eral Meeting of NICIE, which took ‘living history’ on the website.”  Facing the Past: Sharing place on Friday 16th November at The AGM paid tribute to the work of 5.00pm in Riddel Hall, Stranmillis Colm Cavanagh standing down as the Future Website Road, Belfast, followed by dinner. Chair of the Board of Directors of The highlight of the evening was the NICIE. The first President of NICIE  SC:DL launch of the new NICIE website. was appointed and the meeting was This is a major development for NICIE. pleased to ratify Colm Cavanagh as its  Baroness May Blood Included for the first time on the first President. Colm has devoted website is a history of NICIE and the many years to the promotion of Inte- Trusts that support the development of grated Education, both in Derry and on Nominated for Award Integrated Education. NICIE is also a regional basis. We are honoured that  linking its website in with social media, he will continue this work in this new Connecting Classrooms linking it to Facebook and to Twitter. role.  The website includes sections for Noreen Campbell, Chief Executive of Dates for Diary parents, staff and students and gives NICIE, in her report paid tribute to his  details of the different projects with work. She highlighted the challenges International IE Week which NICIE is involved and the of Area Based Planning, arguing that  training programmes that NICIE offers NICIE should have had greater School Jotter, News to parents, teachers and governors. involvement in this process. We hope that the website will be a Noreen Campbell also welcomed the from around the schools useful and accessible resource for contribution of the appointment of parents and schools and those wishing Associates to NICIE to support  Sporting News from to further the development of schools in the Area Based Planning integrated education. Process and other work. Integrated Schools Lorna McAlpine, Senior Development Officer at NICIE, said: “NICIE was

Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education www.nicie.org [email protected] 25 College Gardens, Belfast, BT9 6BS Tel. 02890 972910 Fax. 02890 972919 1 memoration of a decade of anniver- grated Education Movement through saries 1912 -1922. Noreen Campbell some difficult times, concluding by say- commended the work of Sheelagh ing: “Integrated Education would have Dean and Carmel Gallagher in this been a much in a much poorer place” important project. without him. Colm Cavanagh, the outgoing Chair- After the formal business was conclud- person of the Board of Directors, ed, including presentation of financial thanked the staff of NICIE. He also reports and Standing Committees, the paid tribute to Corporal Channing Nitty Gritty Theatre group, under the Day, a former pupil of Strangford IC, direction of Andrea Grimason, enter- who was killed while serving in Af- tained the delegates with short drama Noreen reported on a busy year for ghanistan in October. piece on 1912 in Belfast. NICIE, including the inaugural Interna- Colm also highlighted the difficulties of tional Peace Education Conference in integrated education in countries like This year the NICIE Annual Seminar, March in Belfast. Teachers from Israel, Israel and Croatia, further complicated 'Alternative Routes to Integration' was Bosnia-Herzegovina, Macedonia, Cro- by language difficulties. “The act of held in QUB on Saturday 17th Novem- atia and Cyprus as well as academics separating children makes them think ber. Participants from a wide range of from Germany, the USA and Northern there is a difference,” he emphasised. backgrounds, including: teachers’ un- Ireland attended, which focused on ions, integrated, controlled, main- ways of educating together young tained, nursery, primary, post primary people from different cultures in a con- and special schools attended. There text of division and conflict. were also representatives from the Noreen also highlighted the work of RTU, UNICEF, Educate Together and the Sharing Classrooms, Deepening the IEF as well as founders of Trusts Learning project, which works across and integrated schools, associates of a range of schools and NICIE’s Global NICIE and Directors. Initiatives, with Connecting Class- rooms in Iraq and the Global Schools The CEO set the scene with an over- Partnerships link in Sri Lanka. view of the challenges facing integra- In October, the ‘Facing the Past: tion. Shaping the Future’ website Marie Cowan presented Colm (www.facingthepastshapingthefutur Cavanagh with a beautiful sculpture, in e.com) was launched, funded by the recognition of Colm’s major role in the Department of Foreign Affairs, Dublin development of Integrated Education (DFAD) in 2011-12. The website pro- throughout Northern Ireland, noting vides easy internet access to a range how he “thought nothing of travelling of innovative resources and approach- throughout the country” and “never tak- es which will assist schools in the com- ing no for an answer”, steered the Inte-

Paul Bell, Principal of Botanic prima- ry school; Geri Cameron, Principal of NICIE is delighted to announce that Loughshore Educational Resource Centre, and Paul Rowe CEO of Edu- Colm Cavanagh has been appointed cate Together, gave short presenta- as its first president. Colm is tions focusing on the diversity in their schools. This was followed by standing down as Chairperson of the round table discussion. Conversa- Board of Directors after many years tions around the tables were inter- esting, productive and challenging. of long and dedicated service to the cause of Integrated Education and The participants from outside the integrated family welcomed the op- to NICIE. NICIE was honoured to portunity to talk with NICIE and appoint him, at the AGM, to the some suggestions for moving for- ward were advanced. position of president, enabling Colm to carry on his sterling work for In the New Year we will explore fur- ther possible next steps in taking NICIE and in the promotion of forward the discussion. Integrated Education.

PAGE 2 2

Enniskillen Integrated Primary School our town. One of those who joined up teachers and other support staff, who was honoured by NICIE (Northern Ire- was John Maxwell, no stranger to trag- visit the school, universally comment land Council for Integrated Education) edy at the hands of terrorists, having on the positive, inclusive attitude dis- at The Wellington Park Hotel on Fri- lost his son Paul in 1979 in the explo- played by the staff, which is shared day 16h November 2012 at 12.15pm sion that took the life of Earl Mountbat- and often exceeded by our greatest in a ceremony to mark the Excellence ten and two others. John’s vision, asset, our children.” in Integrated Education Award. along with the late Bill Barbour and others was the ideal of shared educa- Mr Jardine also paid tribute to the work tion between the two sides of the reli- of the Governors, Parents’ Council, gious divide. In the face of much oppo- teaching and non-teaching staff and sition and occasional vitriol, money the Principal, Adele Kerr, MBE. was raised, premises were found and in September 1989, Enniskillen Inte- “We, as a school, and I as its Chair of grated Primary School accepted its first Governors, are equally humbled, pupils and our school was born. 64 thrilled and proud to accept this recog- pupils and 3 staff started off on that nition from our peers and can assure day on a journey which, as with most you that this will not be simply viewed journeys, had its fair share of ups and as a well done pat on the back, but as downs and more than one diversion a spur to drive our vision of teaching along its way. and learning on an equal, inclusive, The EIEA Awards ceremony was part child centred basis onwards and up- of the APTIS conference, which was “Twenty three years on, our school is wards.” opened by a choir from Millennium In- firmly established within the local com- tegrated Primary School. The award munity, a vibrant catalyst for the The Excellence in Integrated Education was presented by Joanne Stuart, OBE change that is required to move for- Award provides a self-evaluation tool from the Science Park and STEM ward to a better future. In 2007 we for schools which wish to explore, in a (Science, Technology, Engineering finally moved into our new permanent more meaningful fashion, how integra- and Mathematics strategy). Noelle building, with full enrolment across tion informs ethos, management, gov- Buick, the Chief Inspector of the Edu- every year group. For the past 10 ernance and learning and teaching cation and Training Inspectorate (ETI), years, we have been oversubscribed within the school. It is based on the was among the speakers. for both nursery and primary 1 intakes, four core principles of integration, to the extent that parents were no long- namely: equality, faith and values, pa- The children from Enniskillen Integrat- er applying for places because the rental involvement and social responsi- ed Primary School entertained those word on the street was “the integrated bility, and provides schools with a present by singing and telling what is always oversubscribed, sure you’ve structure through which a comprehen- their school means to them. no chance of getting in there”. This sive school-wide review can take place. Neil Jardine, Chair of the Board of Governors of Enniskillen Integrated NICIE believes that the Excellence in Primary School, said: Integrated Education Award scheme contributes to school improvement “On the 8th November 1987, a bomb through strengthening ethos and that exploded in the Reading Rooms in furthermore it complements the cur- Enniskillen, opposite the town’s War rent Department of Education initiative Memorial, where a crowd was gather- of ‘Every school a good school – a ing to honour the sacrifice made by policy for school improvement’. This is those who lost their lives during two the third year of the Awards, which world wars and in the Troubles that have been going from strength to blighted our island at that time. Eleven strength. people died on the day, a twelfth died 13 years later after falling into a coma If you are interested in taking part in after the bomb and 63 people were year, through the application of ex- next year’s EIEA awards, the closing injured. treme persistence, we have been able date for assessment is 31 March, to accept a double intake into P1. This 2013. Please contact Cliodhna Scott- “In the aftermath of the horrific events is the first phase of our development Wills at NICIE on 028 9097 2910, e- of 25 years ago, a group called Ennis- plan in which we hope to provide a two mail [email protected] for fur- killen Together was set up by like- class format throughout years 1-7.” ther information. minded individuals to explore ways of promoting community relations within Mr Jardine continued: “Temporary

PAGE 3 3 The Chief Executive of the provides easy internet contemporary historical centenaries and Northern Ireland Council for access to a range of commemorations and are this innovative website has Integrated Education innovative resources and customised to both primary been designed to help (NICIE), Noreen Campbell, approaches which will assist and post-primary schools pupils and teachers address welcomed guests to the schools in the commemora- and to a range of subjects, issues around these key stages and curriculum contentious issues in an and examinations objective way. I’d like to qualifications to addressing thank the Department of these issues. The website Foreign Affairs in Dublin for is one of the first of its kind their support in bringing this to offer such a project to its fruition.” comprehensive set of ideas and approaches to address The audience were also contentious commemora- treated to beautiful music tions. provided by the choir of Hazelwood Integrated Noreen Campbell, Chief Primary School as well as a Executive of NICIE, said: “I short drama piece on 1912 am delighted to announce in Belfast from the Nitty the launch of the Facing our Gritty Theatre Company Past: Shaping the Future directed by Andrea website. 2012 marks the Grimason. launch of a new website, tion of a decade of anniver- beginning of a decade of ‘Facing the Past: Shaping saries 1912 -1922. the Future’, which took The website has been place in the Drawing Room, designed to support primary Cultra Manor, Ulster Folk and post primary teachers and Transport Museum, on across all schools to help Wednesday, 24th October. pupils understand how their identity has been influenced The ‘Facing the Past: Shap- and shaped and to appreci- ing the Future’ project, ate the perspectives of funded by the Department of others. Foreign Affairs, Dublin (DFAD) in 2011-12, has These resources promote a produced a unique website multi-perspective enquiry (www.facingthepastshapingt approach to the study of hefuture.com) which contentious events and their

PAGE 4 4 Sharing Classrooms Deepening Learning (SCDL)

Do you teach students from other schools as part of the Entitlement Framework arrangements?

Want funded training and support available locally? Want ideas, resources and strategies to create an inclusive learning environment? Want time to action plan with ALC colleagues, assisted by experienced facilitators? Want accreditation recognising professional development in managing diversity?

The SCDL project team can help.

What is SCDL? Aims to maximise opportunities for relationship and trust building amongst young people and teachers within all Area Learning Communities (ALC). Open to all post-primary teachers who, as a result of Entitlement Framework collaborative arrangements between schools, teach classes comprised of students from different schools. Funded by the International Fund for Ireland (IFI) and managed by the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE).

How the project works The project manager meets with you and your partner school(s) within your ALC to explore and agree your specific developmental interests and needs. A bespoke programme of training and support is then agreed and resourced by our team of facilitators. Currently, the project team is providing a wide range of services including e.g. consulting with young people about their experiences of sharing classrooms; following through with preparation and induction meetings for teachers, students and parents; facilitating cross-community workshops to support collaborative courses.

SCDL Teacher Accreditation Two funded accreditation routes are available for those teachers involved with the project. Certificate in Exploring Skills in SCDL Certificate in Additional Facilitator Skills in SCDL Both Awards are accredited through Stranmillis and St Mary’s University Colleges.

To find out more about how the project can support you and your school contact: Clare Murphy (Project Administrator) - Tel: 028 9097 2910 Email: [email protected]

The project is funded by The International Fund for Ireland (IFI) and managed by the Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education (NICIE). PAGE 5 5 London, UK – January 31, 2013 - - Baroness May Blood ‘us and them’ and bring peo- MBE has been nominated for the first ever Grassroot Dip- ple of all statuses together.” lomat Initiative Awards. The award looks to recognise out- Baroness Blood is committed standing diplomats and politicians in the UK for their dedi- to engaging the grassroots in cation, commitment and selfless efforts in representing its combined efforts in en- civilian matters at the highest level. gaging children of all faiths to Nominated under the Social Driver category, Baroness grow and learn together, and Blood has campaigned tirelessly for the social cause of for this, her efforts are being integrated education in Northern Ireland for the last 14 recognised here. years. Within two years of volunteering as member of the Over 50 high-level govern- Integrated Education Fund, the baroness found herself ment officials have been leading the entire fundraising campaign as Chair of the nominated in 3 categories Integrated Education Fund Campaign Council. Using her but there can only be six win- powers of persuasion, networks and inspirational attitude, ners. Join Baroness May Baroness Blood has raised over £15 million to build Blood and other government schools to support rising demand for integrated education nominees at the Vincent of over 22,000 children. Her involvement has made an Rooms, Westminster with enormous difference in making integrated and shared edu- evening performance led by cation a key political issue for the first time in history. Talyn Euro-Vision Song Contest artist, Imaani. For ticket infor- Rahman-Figueroa, Director of Grassroot Diplomat said, mation, please visit: www.grassrootdiplomat.org/awards. “Grassroot diplomacy empowers the voiceless, defines a path for the hopeless, and restores faith to influencers. The Initiative Award seeks to build trust again between the

PAGE 6 6 Funding for your School Partnership, Professional Development Courses and Accreditation for your School’s International work with Connecting Classrooms

Earlier this year, British Council launched its new global education programme for schools; Connecting Class- rooms. Funded by the British Council and the Department for International Development (DFID), Connecting Class- rooms is designed to help young people learn about global issues and become responsible global citizens, as well as giving them the skills to work in a global economy.

Young people will be able to exchange views and learn with international peers, through a system of partnerships be- tween schools across the globe. In addition, teachers can access professional development courses and share good practice with international counterparts. And participating in the programme will give schools the chance to gain the pres- tigious International School Award.

Connecting Classrooms is open to schools in the UK and over 50 countries around the world. The programme has three strands which schools can engage with;

School Partnerships – get support to build a sustainable relationship with a school in another country Professional Development – equip yourself to tackle global themes in the classroom International School Award – gain recognition for your school’s international work.

The next deadline for school partnerships funding is 11 February 2013 for which the British Council are offering travel grants of £1,500 per school, to facilitate visits to and from your partner school to develop your partnership and work to- gether. This funding is available between schools in the UK and schools in 50 countries including Uganda, Ethiopia, Chi- na and India.

Connecting Classrooms also offers online courses through their Professional Development strand to support schools to embed global citizenship and international learning in the classroom. In January 2013; Connecting Classrooms will launch a range of face to face Professional Development Courses also, across Northern Ireland and the rest of the UK. The first course on ‘Introduction to international learning’ will cover the benefits and challenges of working with schools in other countries as well as looking at the ways in which global citizenship and international collaboration can enhance learning. Courses are free to attend.

As a school’s international dimension expands, it could be eligible for the International School Award. Make this year the one when your pupils discover a wider world through Connecting Classrooms. Visit www.britishcouncil.org/ connectingclassrooms

If your school would like to participate in Connecting Classrooms with a cluster of integrated schools, NICIE would be keen to support this development and help you apply for funding and establish relationships with partners overseas. If you would like to learn more please contact Paula at NICIE for information [email protected]

PAGE 7 7 Teachers’ Committee Millar, Glencraig IPS, was elected as sented. Those teachers who attended The Teacher’s Committee has had two Chairperson with Brendan O ’Loan, were full of praise for the presentation meetings this term. In September it Hazelwood IPS, as Vice Chair. Thank and the insight it has given them. We was hosted in Glengormley IPS where you to Raquel McKee, Glengormley are extremely grateful to John for tak- the discussion focused on the DFA IPS, for the work she did as Chair last ing time out of his busy schedule to funded project: Facing the past, shap- year. The next meeting will be a single give time to the committee. In Novem- ing the Future. Carmel Gallagher and item agenda to look at how schools ber the meeting took place in Crumlin Shelia Deane presented website to the can celebrate integrated education IPS. At this meeting there was a gen- group, which they went on to launch in week. This is the first international inte- eral discussion around arrangements Cultra on Wednesday 24th October. In grated week and schools are deter- in schools and the various courses that November the venue moved to Clif- mined to mark it in style. Date, time teachers are attending that enhance tonville IPS. Paula McIlwaine from and Venue of meeting is as follows: their role. There was also feedback on NICIE presented on the different op- Tuesday 29th January 2013 Pilot B (Assessment training for SEN- portunities for global partnerships 1.00pm for 1.30pm @ COs). It is hoped that for the next through the Connecting Classrooms Glencraig IPS meeting there will be a focus on school programme offered by the British counselling arrangements and course Council. Vicki Wright presented on her SENCO Committee available. It will be held on: Wednes- experience in Sri Lanka this summer. The SENCOs committee met twice this day 30th January 2013 1.30 pm Ven- Crumlin IPS, along with 8 other inte- term. The first meeting was held in ue TBC grated schools, had made connections September and was hosted by Priory with schools in Sri Lanka through the IC. This proved to be an invaluable Global Partnerships programme. Kirsty event as John Hunter from the ETI pre-

Teachers’ Committee Tuesday 29th January 2013 1.00pm for Glencraig IPS 1.30pm SENCO Committee Wednesday 30th January 2013 1.30 pm Venue to be decided

ISFA TBC TBC TBC

Contact: Amanda Higgins if you wish to attend: [email protected]

Integrated Education Annual Christian Sunday 20th January Time TBC Hazelwood IC Unity Service 2013

Integrated Education Week Launch Friday 1st March 2013 Time TBC Ballycastle IPS

‘Me, We, Our World’ is the theme for the first International Integrated Education Week which will be celebrated from 1st – 8th March 2013. This theme was proposed by our partners in Macedonia who attended the International Peace Education Conference, hosted in Belfast in March 2012. It is hoped that all the partners represented at this Conference will participate in a celebration of Integrated Education, during the first week in March. In Northern Ireland, this special week will be launched from Ballycastle Integrated Primary School on 1st March. Throughout the week, schools will dedicate time to reflecting on the meaning and achievements of integrated education and will encourage pupils to interpret the theme ‘Me, We, Our World’ in artistic and creative ways. They will be invited to bring along some of their creative representations to a celebration event in Parliament Buildings on the morning of 7thMarch. We hope you will join all NICIE staff in recognising and celebrating the achievements of integrated education.

PAGE 8 8 Lorna McAlpine, Senior Development officer at NICIE, has been second- ed to a position within STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics strategy) at the Science Park from November, 2012. We wish Lorna all the best in her new position.

Olwen Griffith, Principal of Blackwater IC, joined us in November as Sen- ior Development Officer, to cover Lorna’s secondment. We welcome Ol- wen to the NICIE team.

We congratulate Cliodhna Scott-Wills on her promotion to Senior Devel- opment Officer to cover the remainder of Frances Donnelly’s second- ment. Frances has been seconded to the NEELB to the PIEE Project and will tell us more about the PIEE project elsewhere in the newsletter.

NICIE are delighted to announce Maureen Johnston has been appointed as the NICIE Finance Officer.

Sota Sem McCann has also moved on to work with CRIS, all at NICIE wish Sota the best for the future. Merry Christmas and a Very Happy New Year to everyone from the NICIE Directors and Staff!!

Thanks to NICIE staff who raised £114 with a MacMillian Coffee morning

A fantastic opportunity opened up to you. Seek each teacher out once at St Alban’s. He’s attracted by the study in Washington DC in September, a week class sizes and experience and views 2012. St Alban’s Schools for boys in Contribute to class at least once each his time at St Alban’s as an opportunity Washington DC, one of the most pres- class to experience a different country and tigious schools in the United States, is See as much as Washington as pos- culture and a wider form of diversity. offering a three year scholarship which sible, see one thing every single He views it as a networking opportuni- will enable Seosamh Hackett from week ty, opening doors for university and job Drumragh IC to study and board at St Don't turn down any invitation prospects. Alban’s. You have a strong ethos from the in- Seosamh also said that he feels re- St Alban’s, an Episcopal School with a tegrated school behind you, in- warded that he would be able to pass pastoral commitment to all, has a long cluding the ability to speak out on advice about the variety of experi- history with Northern Ireland, having and be articulate ence at St Alban’s and this would spur enrolled four young men from Belfast Impart your experience to them him on to learn about other cultures. over the past 20 years. In recent years It’s a unique opportunity to share with He feels he is privileged in his upbring- this scholarship has been managed the students and staff about inte- ing. His mother was a constant support through NICIE. gration in Northern Ireland - bring and he has experienced such a posi- The most recent St Alban’s graduate is that cause to them tive family life. He’s excited by the op- Christopher Madden, Ulidia IC, who Integrated education has exposed you portunity to be carrying on a tradition graduated in 2011 and is now a stu- to the diversity and an eclectic of young people going away. dent at King’s College, London. mix of people Seosamh recognises the benefits of an Christopher had some wise advice St. Alban’s prepares you for Universi- integrated education system and is about making the most of the oppor- ty with the onus on you for inde- looking forward to developing good tunity to study at St. Albans, including: pendent learning and there is sup- relationships with teachers. port in this preparation He is hoping to teach them something Make good contact with your teachers about Ireland and integration and in – they are always there after Seosamh Hackett from Drumragh IC turn, learn from them in the USA and school and happy to chat with is embracing the opportunity to study what their experience is. PAGE 9 9 Anti-bullying competition winners, from three integrated schools, received their awards at a ceremony in Titanic, Belfast, on 20 November 2012. This year’s competition urged children and young people to submit art or creative writing entries using the theme of ‘Everybody is Somebody’. The campaign focused on how young people perceived as being different to their peers may experience bullying which is homophobic, disablist, sectarian or racist in nature. The theme ‘Everybody is Somebody’ highlights the importance of challenging stere- otypes and promoting positive images based on diversity and equality. Millennium IPS were hugely successful with winning en- tries from Josh Ledlie in P2, P4 Jamie Cunningham and a special commendation for a joint art project by the P7 class who were represented Singer Leona Hoey (Loey); Alison McNulty (NIABF); Education by Holly Cunningham at the Minister John O’Dowd; Lee Kane (NIABF); Ursula Kelleher, awards. Twelve year-old Translink, congratulate Lauren Kyle, age 12, from Integrated Lauren Kyle, who attends College Dungannon Integrated College Dungan- non, was successful in the and I encourage schools and pupils to work together to creative writing section of the eradicate bullying. I want children and young people to tell awards while 15 year old us how to help them. Partnerships like the Anti-Bullying Caitlin Kearns, from Lagan Forum enable children to do this and ensure we find the College, also achieved a cre- best solutions to this problem.” ative writing award in the The winners, and a selection of other outstanding entries, Millennium IPS P7 Holly Cun- senior category. can be viewed on the NIABF website www.endbullying.org.uk ningham & her brother Jamie Congratulating the pupils Cunningham are winners who were awarded prizes for their entries at the launch, Education Minister John O’Dowd said: “Bullying is damaging to individuals and to their education

Brownlow IC Samba Band

Caitlin Kearns, Lagan College, next to her winning entry

PAGE 10 10 Curtis Croskery, a year 10 student at Blackwater Integrated College, was recently awarded the Child of Courage trophy at the annual SEELB event held in Lisburn Island Centre.

Curtis had a starring role in Blackwater’s pantomime earlier this year and maintains a good attendance record at school, despite having a condition which requires frequent hospital treatment.

He is pictured with his Form Tutor, Janet Black and the College’s Acting Principal, Alan Hutchinson.

At Blackwater Integrated College’s recent Celebration of Achievement, Paul Gray presented Dean Kane, 2012 Head Boy, with the trophy for best GCSE results. Dean achieved A*, 4A and 5 B grades.

Local Author holds workshop at ICD ICD teacher, Karen Campbell; local author, Fiona Cassidy; Year 8 students Laura and Ryan; and Kathryn O’Neill from BEAM Creative Network pictured during the recent workshop at Integrated College Dungannon.

Ulidia Integrated College held their an- nual Anti Bullying Week from the 19th-23rd of November. This year's theme entitled Everybody is Somebody resonates with staff and students alike as they take part in events that af- firm the College's commitment to Anti Bullying Week as a whole.

The Student Council, the body of students behind the organ- isation of the week celebrated its culmination with a Blue Balloon Release on Blue Friday. This was to symbolise the sense of release experienced when we talk about issues associated with bullying. This provided a fitting end to the week which allows each and every voice to speak out and say no to bullying, something that the College are proud to wholeheartedly endorse.

PAGE 11 11 Back in the early days of Forge, American academic Abigail Stahl McNamee spent some time at the school and also at all Children's Integrated Primary School in Newcas- tle researching education in a divided society and the role that Integrated schools played in bridging the divide. Abigail is now professor and depart- ment chair in the Department of Early Childhood and Childhood Education at Lehman College, The City Universi- ty of New York, and is the author of numerous academic works, as well as plays, poetry, and children’s books. Her new book, Breathing the Same Air focuses on the stories of the Inte- grated Education movement, the con- text in which it began and continues to develop, and an American re- searcher’s experience as she learned of these stories. It was a cracking evening with friends from near and far including Lagan College, All Children's IPS and Shim- Baroness May Blood and Christine Eater na College in Newcastle, Saints and Smyth. Our choir were amazing!! The launch was sponsored by our Scholars IPS Armagh, NICIE, the IEF. Thanks guys! Check out the link be- friends and colleagues at the IEF who There were former pupils, parents and low to see the choir in action at a pre- have supported us time and again! friends of the school. vious IEF sponsored event at school - It was lovely to hear Abigail's story the opening of our P6 mobile. and also to hear the inspiring words of Forge Choir - Flying Purple People

Glencraig Integrated Primary School Mathletics is the world’s most used or Holland! recently celebrated the introduction of mathematics website accessed by Mathletics, a fabulous website re- more than 10,000 schools and 3.5 The school was delighted that David source that the school has invested in million students worldwide. The re- Meade, better known to many as “The to promote a love of maths. source covers all aspects of mathe- Mentalist” came along to encourage matics in a fun and child centred way the children to get involved and really and allows activities to be planned by enjoy maths. Many of the mental the teachers for the pupils to access maths strategies that the children are both in school and also at home. The taught are referred to as “tricks” and school trialled the activities last year David was able to impress the chil- and had such positive feedback from dren with a few number tricks of his pupils and parents that they decided own to inspire and entertain. David is to introduce it across the school from a keen supporter of integrated educa- September. One of the aspects of the tion and this was a great opportunity resources that most appealed to the for him to visit a school within the inte- children was the opportunity it gave grated sector and see the great work them to compete against children from going on there. across the globe. How wonderful to be testing your mental maths agility with another pupil in America, France

PAGE 12 12 Ten Ugly Witches

Ten Ugly Witches standing in a line One broke a fingernail and then there were nine

Nine Ugly Witches swinging on a gate One got motion-sick and then there were eight

Eight Ugly Witches practicing their Hex’in One got vaporised and then there were seven

Seven Ugly Witches were doing some tricks One tripped on her nose and then there were six New-Bridge Integrated College celebrated Half Term with a Halloween Disco organised by the Six Ugly Witches boil’in kids alive Parents’ Association. One fell in the pot and then there were five Students dressed up and enjoyed an evening of dancing among ghouls and ghosts in the school Five Ugly Witches practicing their roar assembly hall transformed by members of the One got tonsillitis and then there were four Parent Group. Sixth Form Student, Alana Nicholl put her A-Level art skills to good use with her face painting skills. Four Ugly Witches drinkin frog spawn tea

One burped a tadpole and then there were three Many thanks to all the volunteers of the Parents’ Association who work tireless all year round and Three Ugly Witches makin a nasty brew who provided the entertainment for the evening.

One swallowed a teabag and then there were two New-Bridge student, Samuel Douglas wrote a poem for the occasion which won the praise of Two Ugly Witches castin spells for fun his English Teacher, Miss McShane. We hope One got it horribly wrong and then there was one you enjoy it.

One Ugly Witch all alone in the room Went for a spin on her Nimbus 2000 broom

Samuel Douglas, New-Bridge Integrated College, Year 9 MV

“Mrs Anne Quinn, principal of Roe Valley Integrated Primary School was delighted to receive a cheque from Mrs Tanya Moore on behalf of Roe Valley Vintage Rally Club. The club kindly donat- ed £400 to the school, who are currently fundraising to extend their football pitch facilities. Included also are Mrs Linda Millar & Mr Jim Moore.”

Year 6 & 7pupils from Phoenix PS have been making new friends and developing their knowledge of Irish language and culture with Year 8 pupils from Holy Trinity College in Cookstown. This IFI funded project aims to explore aspects of the Gaelic language and culture with children from a variety of backgrounds. As well as spending time in both school settings, the children are learning about the Gaelic origin of many local place names as well as history of Gaelic culture. The school embraces opportunities to challenge mis- perceptions about other cultures. Involvement in this has led to a deeper understanding of the core values of equality, diversity and inter-dependence. A thoroughly worthwhile project for all involved. Acknowledgement to Maria Boden (Coordinator) for involving us in the project. PAGE 13 13 7Cliftonville Integrated Primary School recently discov- ered they had a very famous past pupil, who is an avid sup- porter of Integrated Education. Ali McMordie, the base gui- tarist and founder member of the “Stiff Little Fingers” band was a pupil at the school many years ago. Ali has followed the work of the Integrated Education Fund and was im- pressed to discover that thanks to the generosity of the par- ents and pupils his old school, Cliftonville Integrated Prima- ry School had raised £1500 for IEF. The band recently performed in Belfast and Ali was able to take time off from his busy schedule to visit Cliftonville Inte- grated Primary School. During the visit, he saw his old classrooms and met with pupils for a question and answer session.

Paul Caskey from IEF, said “They’re a band that always brought young people together in our community and it’s wonderful that they’re helping to continue that by supporting integrated schools. “ Brenda McMullen, Principal, said, “It’s great to see such wonderful support from our past pupils. Integrated educa- tion helps unite our communities and allow pupils from many differing backgrounds to be educated together. Clif- tonville gained Integrated status 4 years ago and as a re- sult, our P1 intake has doubled. We take pride in the fact that we have pupils from a huge variety of backgrounds and nationalities. With continued support from bands such as Stiff Little fingers, we look forward to a future of learning about and from each other.”

Sperrin College, Magherafelt is one of the very few Post transform lives through educational opportunity. Central to Primary schools in Northern Ireland to have scooped the our ethos is the core belief that pupils can achieve regard- prestigious Gold Award from the UK wide organisation less of academic ability.’ Heads, Teachers and Industry (HTI). Mr Rowan, Principal is delighted with the school’s outstand- The award is presented to schools who have outstanding ing achievement stating that this award is in recognition of performances in innovation and creativity. Go4It schools the huge efforts made by parents, pupils and staff to provide have a philosophy that promotes and celebrates achieve- quality Integrated Education in Magherafelt. ment, aspiration and raising standards in all aspects of their Curriculum and Pastoral provision. This award recognises You can find out more information about our school and this the hard work that all staff, governors, parents and pupils prestigious award by visiting our school website: have put into the development of the school. The award www.sperrinintegrated.org comes as Sperrin College celebrates its Ten Year Anniver- sary. Mrs Hunter and Mrs Heron, both Vice Principals at Sperrin travelled to London recently to receive the award which was presented by Dr David Armstrong, Consulting Partner of Pricewaterhouse Coopers and Mr Mike Giddings, Chief Executive of HTI. Speaking at the ceremony, Mrs Hunter stated that Sperrin College was a truly creative and innovative organisation from it’s inception. She said: ‘The whole team have developed and created a school that in- spires pupils to achieve and to develop skills needed to PAGE 14 14 Pupils from the College with Jackie White and In 2011 Roe Valley behalf of UNICEF. Mark Butler, HOD Modern Languages Integrated Primary School achieved Level 1 status as a We started in 2012 with a Rights Respecting School. whole school focus on the Erne Integrated College, the College, M/s Jackie UNCRC. Each class chose Enniskillen, raise funds White was due to run the Roe Valley Integrated Pri- a right and discussed the for Cancer Charity. On New York Marathon in aid mary School is a school issues surrounding it with Friday 26th October 2012 of this charity. Jackie trav- where every aspect of a their peers and teacher. all pupils wore pink to elled to New York but un- child is focused on and de- After a lot of discussion and school and paid for the fortunately due to Hurri- veloped, including the area research into their right each privilege. £700 was raised cane Sandy, the marathon of well being. As part of our class created an amazing for this worthwhile was cancelled. school’s aims to promote a mural representing their cause. A former pupil of happy and successful right. These are on display school, we are working to- in our school for parents and wards maintaining our status visitors to see!! We are all as a Rights Respecting very proud of them School. This is an award (especially the pupils) and which is given to schools on they look fantastic.

In early November NICIE tine and Israel. He was organised a two day visit grateful to all those he met for Dr Faysal Mikdadi. Over and the insight he gained the two days he visited from his visit. It is hoped he eight schools and met with will visit again and get an Baroness May Blood and opportunity to address a Noreen Campbell. His pur- wider audience. As always pose was to look at inte- NICIE is grateful to schools gration in practice. He has willingness to host visitors, North Coast Integrated College and an extensive career in edu- so a big thank-you to: Por- Oakgrove Integrated College worked collaboratively cation and is currently tadown IPS, Brownlow IC, on a Year 9 Mona Lisa Integration Project in the working for OFSTED. His Windmill IPS, Integrated summer term of last year. interest in visiting here is in College Dungannon, Braid- Each school produced twenty painted panels, making connection with work he side IPS, Slemish IC, up the Mona Lisa. When the students met, each school does with independent in- Round Tower IPS and exchanged half of the panels painted, so that each tegrated schools in Pales- Parkhall IC. school now has a Mona Lisa painted jointly by both schools. PAGE 15 15 ‘A day that will be remembered by all who were there’ and The main highlights for all of the children were the wonder- ‘the talk of the town’ is how the World Sport Day event that ful demonstrations performed by our local clubs. The ex- took place on Monday 25th June 2012 in Bridge Integrated cellent standard of the demos inside and out have inspired Primary School, has been described. our young children to join new clubs!

The whole school community – pupils, staff, parents, All the staff at Bridge would like to thank everyone who friends, other local schools, special guests and sporting gave of their time to assist on this special day, including clubs from the town combined in a very exciting and enter- the Parents Group who kept our guests fed with their super taining extravaganza. barbeque.

As a build up to the 2012 London Olympics, Bridge IPS took up the challenge to host a World Sport Day to cele- brate the countries of the world and the sports that will be performed at the Olympic and Paralympic Games this sum- mer.

The school was decorated with colourful flags and bright bunting and we had our own 1st , 2nd and 3rd podium and Olympic flame - many thanks to John Duggan and Mrs Reynolds who coordinated teams to create all of this.

The day’s activities involved a parade of 28 Countries, school songs, Olympic songs, dances and bops. We were lucky to have 3 Olympic torches and these were proudly carried by Hannah Hopkins, Gareth Cloughley and our own Oliver Lewis.

New-Bridge Integrated College Camo- collected the necessary tokens are gie Team have gone from strength to now also equipped with a full supply of A third member of the New-Bridge Ca- strength in the past year and are im- camogie balls . mogie Team, Katie Canniford partici- proving with each match. Following pated in the U14 Down Development their participation in the Ulster Schools The girls are not only playing well but Team at the All Ireland Blitz recently Development blitz , the girls were de- they are looking well in their Pink/White and all the teams paraded in Croke lighted to meet Camogie stalwart Mary Helmets. The team hope to fundraise Park at the Senior Match. O’Connor who was instrumental in the for matching jerseys and would wel- set up of the camogie in the school. come sponsorship from interested par- New-Bridge Integrated College Camo- Mary spoke to the girls with inspiring ties. gie Team players Sarah Malone and works of encouragement. Katie Can- Rachel Canniford pictured in Croke niford was selected to receive a pink Two members of the Team, Rachel Park, representing their home club, jersey as a token for the effort and Canniford and Sarah Malone recently Aghaderg. Katie Canniford pictured commitment she displayed throughout had the privilege of playing in the mini parading in Croke Park with the U14 the year. All of the girls received a pink games at half time in Croke Park dur- Down Development Team. camogie ball. The team availed of a ing the All Ireland Camogie Final, promotion in the Irish News and having Down Vs Meath. PAGE 16 16