IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:07 Page 1
ucatin Ed g Issue 23 Summer C h r e il d t h Learning 2014 r e n To g e News from the Integrated Education Movement in Northern Ireland Building bridges, forging links
INSIDE THIS ISSUE • Smart move as IEF named charity partner for prestigious business show • Meeting demand: more places at integrated schools • Business leaders take the integration message to Stormont • A big celebration for a Mini star: Paddy Hopkirk honoured in Belfast
Celebrations at Enniskillen IPS
Children in integrated schools throughout the model of integrated education here in Northern Ireland and across Europe have Northern Ireland for inspiration and adopt and been ‘Building Bridges’ to mark this year’s adapt this model to meet their needs.” International Integrated Education Week in Education Minister John O’Dowd said “I would March. The theme was interpreted in various like to congratulate all those involved in this creative ways, focusing on the power of special event and the integrated sector on all of 41-43 University Street education to form friendships, cross divides their achievements thus far. The integrated Belfast BT7 1FY and promote reconciliation. sector is a vital and thriving part of our education Northern Ireland Enniskillen Integrated Primary School hosted the system. My Department has a statutory t: +44 (0)28 9033 0031 launch, illustrating the ‘Building Bridges’ theme responsibility to encourage and facilitate the f: +44 (0)28 9033 0061 through drama. Oakgrove Integrated Primary development of integrated education and I take e: [email protected] that duty very seriously. I have no doubt the School was awarded the Excellence in Integrated www.ief.org.uk Education Award (EIEA) at the event, in integrated sector will continue to go from www.fb.com/IntegratedEducationFund recognition of the school’s hard work and strength to strength in the years ahead.” www.twitter.com/iefni dedication to the integrated ethos. To finish the week, there was a celebration at Noreen Campbell, Chief Executive of the Stormont, showcasing the talents of integrated Northern Ireland Council for Integrated Education schools through song and drama. Trevor Lunn, If you have any (NICIE), said “The international element of MLA, hosted the event and the guest of honour stories about sharing and Integrated Education Week is important. In was Joint Secretary, the British Irish integration that you would divided societies around the world people seek Intergovernmental Secretariat, Barbara Jones. like us to include in future to build bridges through education. They look to newsletters please email [email protected] IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:07 Page 2
2 | Learning Together Issue 23 2014 The Drumragh Integrated College chain comprised links made by students, staff, parents and governors expressing their hopes and aspirations for the future of our country.
International Integrated Education Week celebrated around Northern Ireland
Integrated schools explored the ‘Building Bridges’ theme by making beautifully illustrated paper links, connecting each student in each class around the school. Celebrations in different schools included art and writing workshops, ‘integration trails’, a football tournament, presentations and special assemblies.
In Parkhall Integrated College IIEW activities included investigating the science and technology of bridge-building, researching famous bridges in geography, making chains with local integrated primary schools and, seen here, a drumming workshop for Year 8 pupils.
The theme was thoroughly explored at Cranmore At Integrated College Dungannon (ICD) students made paper chains to decorate the college Integrated Primary School. hall for a special assembly on ‘Building Bridges not Walls’. The college’s Anti-Bullying Ambassadors used IIEW to launch their ‘Smile and Compliment Day’ which underlines how gestures and words are at the heart of building bridges between people.
The Bridge IPS team arrives at Stormont with their contribution to the Building bridges at Groarty IPS. paper chain. IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:07 Page 3
Learning Together Issue 23 2014 | 3 Celebration of new facilities at growing school Schools in Millennium Integrated Primary School has been harmony on IEF granted a temporary scheme in Larne variation in numbers, meaning that the Three schools in Larne have been Department of Education working together on a cross- gave permission for a community project funded double entry for P1 in 2013 through the IEF’s PACT and again in 2014. The only (Promoting a Culture of Trust) problem was where to put programme. Linn Primary, Corran the additional pupils... until Integrated Primary and St the IEF and the Anthony’s Primary Schools have Magheramourne Foundation united pupils, staff, parents and stepped in to help, giving the wider community in a project £75,000 to supply a new mobile classroom. called ‘Different is Good!’
In January the school was The scheme brought the three delighted to welcome Jenny schools together to explore Cherry and Marie Baird, differences and similarities Mary Baird and Jenny Cherry of the Maghermourne Foundation at between different cultures, through representing the Millennium IPS Maghermourne Foundation. art and music activities. The Jenny Cherry unveiled a plaque, acknowledging the support of the Foundation and the IEF, outside the new programme involved P3 children classroom. After showing the visitors the new facilities, the children sang a special song of gratitude. Staff but it is hoped that the and pupils have been making the most of the increased space, which has enabled the school to improve relationships forged through PACT support services including a fully-equipped sensory room. will enable the schools to continue to work together and extend the Millennium IPS opened in 2000 after a campaign by local parents, and from an initial 10 pupils grew to an work to involve other age groups. enrolment of 55 within a year. The school was then officially approved by the DE and has gone from strength to strength, with currently 228 children on the roll and 50 more at the pre-school facility. As well as making mosaics for each school and visiting different Jenny Cherry said “I’m delighted to be able to visit Millennium IPS and see how our contribution works on churches, the children enjoyed the ground. Meeting the children from all backgrounds, and seeing them working and singing together music workshops and put together gives me a fantastic idea of how important and successful the work of the Integrated Education a performance for their families Movement is.” and the wider community, showcasing what they had achieved together. Primary pupils face ‘dragons’ with the help This was one of eight projects in the PACT 14 scheme. In all, 18 schools of technology representing all ages and abilities have been involved in sporting, Integrated College Dungannon were delighted to welcome 92 Primary 6 pupils and staff from educational and cultural activities in Windmill, Saints and Scholars and Portadown Integrated Primary Schools to take up the this round of the programme. challenge of using technology in a business context. Applications for the latest round of the programme, PACT 15, closed The project is funded by the IEF and aims to encourage children’s interest in STEM subjects – Science, earlier this year and the successful Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. It also introduces primary pupils to the wider horizons of projects will be announced later in secondary school. May. We are very grateful to BT for The contestants divided into its support for the PACT scheme, teams and some set to work in and we are delighted that the the technology workshops Pears Foundation has provided creating a wooden fish-shaped funding to support PACT 15. surface protector, while other teams designed advertising slogans and posters, creating packaging and even a jingle and a film to advertise their product. This was just the first stage in a competition which will finish in the summer term, after a ‘Dragons Den’ – style presentation incorporating multimedia. Each primary school will be visited by ICD staff beforehand to offer tips on public speaking and Pupils from Linn PS, Corran IPS and St contestants are eagerly preparing Anthony’s PS enjoy working together for their moment in the limelight. A Saints and Scholars IPS pupil works hard to meet the STEM challenge IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:07 Page 4
4 | Learning Together Issue 23 2014 The elections are coming...
Northern Ireland is entering a cycle of elections, Social cohesion will be an important issue in all areas beginning in May 2014 with voting for MEPs and and we have an opportunity to communicate to local councillors in Northern Ireland. The parties politicians and political activists that integrated education will be wooing the voters and it is up to us to is a key element in building a united community. Your assess who will manage public resources and local councillor is often your first link with a party. They administer local communities in the best way. liaise with communities, grassroots organisations and families. They need to know what is happening on the Even in those elections where education is not in itself ground, and what you, the public, want – take every an issue, community cohesion and a shared future will opportunity to tell them! The new ‘super-councils’ have be to the fore. For the first time we are being given a duty and a commitment to consult with communities the opportunity to vote in the new larger ‘super and reflect their needs and wishes. councils’, which will have additional powers and responsibilities; this is an opportunity to ask for new Europe is also an important arena for discussing human ways of working and planning. rights, equality and diversity. The EU has a mandate to Marie Cowan, IEF Chair require member states to address discrimination on the grounds of race and religion. Moreover, EU goals in relation to immigration, economic growth and social cohesion all require a focus on integration. Again, through the campaigning mechanism, the elections give the public an opportunity to engage with parties and politicians.
As we travel towards the Assembly elections in 2016, the IEF will sustain and broaden the campaign for education reform, engaging with organisations such as industry bodies and trade unions, and providing a platform for discussions involving young people such as our EU hustings event this May. We are also publishing a manifesto for education (see pp 8-9) which includes achievable changes which would lead us to the single, coherent schools system which opinion polls tell us the public wants.
Cousins Courtney Parke and Mark Parke from North Coast IC with (l) Trevor Lunn MLA who sponsored the IEF’s EU Hustings at Stormont and broadcaster Jim Fitzpatrick who chaired the event Comment: business sense tells us to end the structures of division By Ben Collins, Director, Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors NI
The entrenched structures of division One of the benefits of rationalising the provision of education would visible across Northern Ireland impact be to allow the public estate to realise the value of some of its all areas of development – social and under-utilised assets. Currently we retain more buildings than we economic - and hold us back from need or can afford to maintain. Anyone in business can see that this thriving as a society in the modern is not a sensible use of scarce resources. globalised economy. Ben Collins I would like to see a holistic rethink of the education system, the Division means duplication of provision in the public sector, creating design of a true vision for future delivery which uses public money an unnecessary drain on the public purse. This is particularly to resource schools with the latest technology and with the support apparent in the education sector, with tens of thousands of empty needed to make sure all students participate in and benefit from desks across our schools estate. school life.
At one stage, the cost of duplication in all areas of public spending Young people would be better equipped to participate in work, in was estimated to be more than £1 billion per annum. There is no their communities and in the cultural life of Northern Ireland. We doubt the figure is a significant one: certainly much higher than the surely cannot care more about preserving established structures than likely impact on the block grant from a reduction in corporation tax, or about the future which faces a sizeable portion of our young people? the bill we would incur to upgrade our water infrastructure. Yet whilst It seems to me that working towards a new, unified education these two issues are seen as economic challenges for the Executive, system would be a powerful step towards creating a better, more politicians hesitate over taking decisive action to deal with division. prosperous society. IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:07 Page 5
Learning Together Issue 23 2014 | 5 Business leaders call for education reform
Business leaders brought a clear message to Stormont this spring: we need to reform our education system for Northern Ireland to prosper - and the business community is keen to be involved in shaping education.
Representatives of business organisations joined the IEF, politicians and government officials for the publication of the IEF’s report, The Business of Education, at Parliament Buildings on 24 March.
The report represents a year of engagement between the IEF and the business sector. It includes a summary of an independent poll of business leader researching attitudes to education which was carried out by LucidTalk. The results clearly indicate that a majority of those questioned agreed that a de-segregated education system would impact positively on economic growth.
Ken Cathcart, IEF Trustee, introduced the report to the invited audience, saying: John Armstrong (CEF), Wilfred Mitchell (Federation of Small Businesses) and Roseann Kelly (Women in Business) with Ken Cathcart of the IEF “It gives a snapshot of a sector eager to help in growing an education system which way forward is for schools to integrate and school experience should be reflecting prepares young people for working life. A serve their locality, as opposed to creating a that.” wide range of entrepreneurs and ‘them’ and ‘us’ culture. industrialists took the opportunity to join the He also criticised proposals for shared conversation and made a valuable “Education should be organised in such a campuses, as not dealing with the problem. contribution to the growing debate around way that funds are directed where they are “They’re shared facilities, but maintain the the future of education.” most needed: equipping schools and same divisions.” skilling staff to prepare young people for John Armstrong, Managing Director of the the world beyond. Currently our education The Business of Education represents part of Construction Employers Federation, gave his model does not make economic sense. It a continuing programme of engagement perspective on The Business of Education at is also important to recognise that work with business, unions and wider civic society the launch, calling for a rationalisation of the and business take place in a diverse organisations. The report can be found education system as he believes that the society in a globalised economy and the online at www.ief.org.uk/research
Smart Business Show partners with Integrated Education Fund
The IEF is delighted to have been named as the official charity partner for the Smart Business Show 2014.
This unique event takes place at the Odyssey Arena, Belfast on Thursday 29 and Friday 30 May. Organisers of the show, Clive, Gillian and Brian Corry, are expecting eight thousand visitors from the world of business and industry to attend and explore how they could benefit from innovations in technology. The Show’s business partners comprise many prestigious organisations including the Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce, the Federation of Small Businesses, the Northern Ireland Independent Retail Trade Association and the Institute of Directors. Media mogul David Montgomery, who is the IEF’s campaign president, will be opening the Show.
Presenting a company charity donation of £1000 to the IEF, Clive Corry said
“The Integrated Education Fund was a natural choice for our Charity Partner. I spent many years running a family business in an interface area during ‘The Troubles’ and I have always believed that bringing people together from an early age is the best way to break down the barriers and heal the divisions I witnessed at that time – many of which still exist today.” Pupils from Drumlins IPS with Clive Corry of Smart Business IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:07 Page 6
6 | Learning Together Issue 23 2014
Education Minister returns to Integrated College Dungannon Katharine is a top Minister for Education John O’Dowd went to Integrated College Dungannon in December to learn about restorative practices at the school. On a previous visit Mr O’Dowd had launched an volunteer innovative green project linking Integrated College Dungannon with neighbouring Greiner Packaging, and expressed an interest in learning more about the school’s ethos. Katharine Paisley, who is just finishing her studies in Year 14 at Integrated Since 2007, ICD has embedded restorative practices in the life of the college. Each academic year, College Dungannon, has been named students joining Year 8 are trained in these practices, as are teachers during staff development days. one of the top 20 youth volunteers of 2014. Katharine won a Pramerica Minister O’Dowd listened to both staff and students explaining how restorative practice is alive in Spirit of Community Award, which every aspect of the college, supporting and underpinning the Student Support Team, Staff Support celebrates youth volunteerism Team, Face to Faith programme, Paired Reading, Mentoring Programme, Student Council and many throughout the island of Ireland. more programmes in the college.
Katherine helps with several Minister O’Dowd organisations including Dungannon congratulated the staff and Special Olympics Swimming Club, students of ICD saying “This local Guides and Sunday school and college has reinforced the Kilnaslee Community Development importance of giving the Group. She is a college ambassador students the ownership of and also a member of the college’s their learning, their Social Action Committee and behaviour and the Restorative Team. contributions they can make. I am aware this is not the The awards are held in partnership only innovative programme with the National Association of you are involved in as I Principals and Deputy Principals remember your involvement (NAPD) and the General Teaching in the project with Greiner Council for Northern Ireland (GTCNI). Packaging. This school thinks Ivan Arbuthnot, Chairperson of GTCNI, outside the box and I am visited ICD to present Katharine with very impressed.” Education Minister John O’Dowd at ICD her certificate. She also won an engraved silver medallion and €500 presented at a ceremony in Lough Eske Castle, Donegal.
Crumlin IC is a good neighbour to Gaelscoil
The community at Crumlin Integrated College have been breaking new ground and reaching out to their neighbours by sharing their site and working with pupils from Gaelscoil Ghleann Darach.
Children from P4 – P7 at the Gaelscoil moved to two classrooms at Crumlin IC in November, whilst their new school is being built on the Glenavy Road.
The young pupils have been enjoying using resources including the canteen, gymnasium, computer suites and Members of Gaelscoil Ghleann Darach and their hosts at Crumlin IC technology workshop.
“We do not feel like visitors here,” said Máirín, a Gaelscoil Ghleann Darach teacher, “we feel very much part of the school. The children love the facilities and it is very much supporting the learning environment. It is a great resource to make available to us.”
Senior CIC pupils agree that having both schools together on the one campus is a great idea and some have been helping in class with the young visitors. The school has staged joint activities at Christmas and during International Integrated Education Week. IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:07 Page 7
Learning Together Issue 23 2014 | 7 Schools expand to meet demand Integrated schools have been celebrating developments which are allowing them to grow and Journeys to meet local demand for places in integrated education. integration Enniskillen Integrated Primary School and Omagh Integrated Primary School have both been granted an increase in places, with each doubling their entry (i.e. their P1 enrolment) from September. Loughries Primary School, just Shimna Integrated College will expand its 6th form and gradually increase its admissions at Year 8, outside Newtownards, held a building to a maximum enrolment of 620 pupils. parental ballot for transformation to integrated status at the end of It has also been announced that, as 2013, which received a a strong part of area planning for education in result in favour of transformation. the East Belfast area, Priory The school, which was rebuilt in Integrated College will increase its 2001, has now been serving the enrolment to 500 with further local community for over 170 years. expansion a possibility over time. The IEF and NICIE look forward to Meanwhile Glengormley Integrated working with the school as it Primary School is embarking on an continues on its transformation ambitious building and modernisation journey. If you would like more programme to accommodate its information, please contact the growing enrolment. school Principal, Mrs Jo Thompson on 028 9181 7528 or Claire Jones Drumlins Integrated Primary School is from the Friends and Parents of hoping that their long wait for Loughries Primary School Group, on Priory IC will increase enrolment from September permanent accommodation is over now [email protected]. that they have been granted permission to take over the former Library headquarters site in Ballynahinch. The school has functioned in mobiles on an industrial estate since 2005 – although the site has not put A parental ballot at Clintyclay prospective parents off and Drumlins IPS enrolment continues to grow. The IEF has helped provide a new Primary School in County Tyrone mobile classroom to meet the school’s immediate needs, with the support of the Irish American has also found overall support from Partnership. transformation. Clintyclay PS is the first Maintained school to hold a However Portadown Integrated Primary School has been left disappointed after its application to ballot on transforming to integrated expand was turned down on the grounds of a lack of space. The Education Minister John O’Dowd has status. promised to consider how best to meet the local demand for integrated education provision.
Enniskillen IPS, which welcomed the Prime Minister and President Obama during last year’s G8, will welcome more pupils from September IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:07 Page 8
8 | Learning Together Issue 23 2014
Alternative Manifesto for Education launched
As politicians and commentators gear up for two years of We advocate a move away from the current divisive nature of our elections, policies and promises will be under the spotlight. The education system, where approximately 90% of pupils from both development of a truly peaceful, shared and diverse society will traditions in Northern Ireland attend schools largely or exclusively be a key issue as voters are asked which candidate and party segregated by religion. they trust to take us forward as a community. A recent poll identified that 79% of parents in Northern Ireland would Education reform is central to creating an inclusive society. We need back a move to see their children’s school change to integrated a unified, coherent education system. This manifesto sets out our education.* Little choice, however, exists for parents when only 62 shared vision for an inclusive and equal Northern Ireland society free schools are integrated. Unless support is given to achieving a unified, from social and cultural barriers. It is a ‘road-map’ indicating coherent education system, the vast majority of parents will never opportunities to deliver sustainable change and alternative have the opportunity for their children to be educated together. approaches to key areas of Northern Ireland’s education system. Northern Ireland lacks area based planning that is citizen shaped and led, balancing parental choice, a shared future and fiscal realities. Our roadmap to the future Attempts to deliver the long awaited Education and Skills Authority have, to date, only resulted in a squandering of public money. The NI We are publishing a manifesto setting out a vision shared by Executive should demonstrate strong leadership and reform the current supporters of the Integrated Education Movement, of a schools education administration to establish a single authority. This will help to network free from social and cultural divisions. It is a road-map reduce duplication and streamline management structures, subsuming indicating essential, achievable steps to deliver sustainable change to the functions, assets and liabilities of the eight education bodies. This key areas of Northern Ireland’s education system. will also remove the need for publicly funded sectoral bodies.
* LucidTalk poll result in Belfast Telegraph February 2013
Zoe Doherty (Oakgrove IC) and Adam Hefferon (Malone IC) present the Alternative Manifesto to Education Committee members (l-r) Sean Rogers, Trevor Lunn and Danny Kinahan IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:07 Page 9
Learning Together Issue 23 2014 | 9
All Children Together
All Children Together, which was founded formally in 1973, were the pioneers of the Integrated Education Movement. After 30 years of campaigning they began to wind down their organization, and since 2003 have directed their funds to support various projects promoting integrated education, such as the communications and lobbying team which was based at NICIE. They also provided an income to maintain the annual Dunleath lecture, which is given during International Integrated Education Week and explores issues facing the integration of Northern Ireland school pupils. ACT also initiated research into the relationship between the churches and integrated schools and the schools’ Christian ethos. (This work OUR was completed by Macaulay Associates and published in 2008.) And finally ACT commissioned historian Jonathan Bardon to write PRIORITY the history of All Children Together, providing a record of what their struggle achieved in those 30 years. ACT asked the IEF to administer the DEMANDS financing of these activities and entrusted their funds to the IEF in 2003. Now, in 2014, all the projects are completed and ACT has donated In order to achieve a unified, coherent education system, the balance of their funds to the IEF.
the NI Executive should deliver: Congratulations to ACT for all you have achieved and thank you for • Ring fenced funding to support schools in their progress towards integrated helping the IEF to carry on your work. education, measured against key indicators, with particular emphasis in the curriculum and daily routines on understanding, accepting and respecting political, cultural and religious differences Oakwood IPS leads • Area-based planning which is shaped by the community and which reflects the way parental choice, community needs, desire for a shared future and fiscal Congratulations to Oakwood realities Integrated Primary School on becoming the first Inclusion Quality • A single authority for the administration of education Mark (IQM) flagship school in Northern Ireland. Joe McCann, CEO of • A single teacher training system, where teachers of all faiths and none are the IQM scheme, is originally from Northern Ireland. trained together on the same courses at the same locations Oakwood IPS first achieved an IQM in • A single model of governance for all schools 2010 (the first primary school in Northern Ireland to do so) and has • The extension of fair employment legislation to the recruitment of teachers now not only been approved for a further three-year term but has also • The application of Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act 1998 to schools been awarded the higher status of flagship school. You can download the full manifesto here: www.ief.org.uk The IQM is awarded on the basis of eight key indicators. Claire Howe, Oakwood IPS principal, says the award is a celebration of everything the wider school community does. IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:07 Page 10
10 | Learning Together Issue 23 2014 Nitty Gritty players on the international stage
Two members of Nitty Gritty Theatre Company – the drama company for integrated school students, supported by the Carson Awards - Parkhall IC students will be travelling to Scotland this summer to be part of the cultural talk the talk... celebrations around the Commonwealth Games. Ciara McGrath and Jonathan Moorhead will be in Glasgow in July, as part of the Tin Congratulations to Jack Kirkpatrick, a Forest International Performing Company, selected from a huge field Year 8 pupil at Parkhall Integrated of aspiring actors. The project is presented by National Theatre College, who is the winner for his Scotland in association with the Scottish Youth Theatre. age group in the Antrim Borough Jonathan Moorhead in action Council Environment Youth Speak Ciara and Jonathan will be working with young people from Australia, with Nitty Gritty Theatre Co. Competition. Jack addressed the Bangladesh, Canada, England, India, Jamaica, New Zealand, South question “How can we make our Africa, Wales and of course Scotland. The company will perform in various locations around Glasgow, school more sustainable?” and used adding to the buzz and energy on the streets of the city whilst the Games are in progress. the opportunity to highlight the emphasis pupils and staff of Parkhall IC place on recycling and caring for Mill Strand IPS is ‘STOMPing’ out litter the environment. The competition involves all local council areas and After a clean-up session at a North Coast beach, Mill Strand Integrated Primary School children have now Jack goes on to represent Antrim transformed items of rubbish into musical instruments and clothing and their creativity has been Borough in the regional finals. Praise celebrated in a show called ‘Stomp’. is also due to Jack’s colleague in Year ‘Stomp’ is a music and dance 8 at Parkhall IC, Reece Sloan who routine, a new sensation around the made a great impression on the globe, using recycled materials as audience. instruments. The pupils of P6 at Mill Strand IPS worked with musician James Hamilton to develop a routine using drums and shakers made from Oakgrove IPS cleans up things found on the local West Strand. Oakgrove Integrated Primary and Nursery School is delighted to have The project, supported by the been awarded the Green Flag for its Challenge Fund 2014, helped the environmental education programme. whole school to learn more about protecting the marine environment Green Flag assessors looked at the and opened up engagement with work of pupils, parents and staff in wildlife and conservation Dress for success: the nursery’s winning creation raising environmental awareness and organisations. The work culminated exploring energy saving initiatives, in a performance of ‘Stomp’ for the local community on 27 March. such as planning to switch to a biomass boiler. Oakgrove IPS was Each class designed and made an outfit from discarded rubbish and these were displayed on the particularly praised for its active eco- night. The winning class – the Nursery – was rewarded with ice cream thanks to the generosity of committee, and its engagement with Tanya Whyte Morelli. the local community. The pupils enjoyed cycling trips and the school is benefitting from lower fuel bills Floored by fundraising at Round Tower IPS thanks to everyone’s green efforts. The P7 class from Round Tower Integrated Primary School have been busy helping improve their school with a major fundraising drive running since September. Although the school has a fine new extension this highlighted the shabby state of the original building and the class council decided to form a ‘Carpet Committee’ to help purchase new flooring.
With an ambitious target of £1000 the children sold cakes, and second-hand books, toys, and school uniforms. They invested some of their takings to run competitions and hosted a movie night when children (and some staff!) turned up in pyjamas and onesies to watch a film Environment Minister Mark H Durkan and eat popcorn. The children not only at Oakgrove IPS organised the events, but also made advertising posters and gave speeches publicising the activities.
Everyone is delighted that the children exceeded their target and, since half term, have been benefitting from new vinyl flooring in their classrooms. The carpet committee at Round Tower IPS IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:07 Page 11
Learning Together Issue 23 2014 | 11 Sporting success Soccer stars at Parkhall IC Drumragh IC students try their Parkhall Integrated College were celebrating soccer hand at a new sport success in November for two star teams. A team of Year 8 girls became Northern Ireland Vauxhall Indoor Football Champions, winning the final against Belfast Model School for Girls. It’s worth noting that this tournament was for players from Years 8 and 9, making the Parkhall IC girls one of the youngest teams involved. The college’s pride was increased when their senior boys’ soccer team lifted the mid-Antrim Cup for the second time in three years. Parkhall IC beat Slemish Integrated College 1-0 in the final. The victorious Parkhall IC girls
The champion boys at Parkhall IC Ever keen to try out something new and expand the students’ sports repertoire, Drumragh Integrated College’s PE department have founded a handball team. The team recently competed against other schools in the Tyrone Championship at Holy Trinity Cookstown. They are the first integrated school to take part in this event. Drumragh IC handball players are pictured with coaching staff Mr Toner and Mr Gallagher.
Jamie and Aaron go the distance for charity
Grace goes for gold
Going the distance: Jamie Hamilton (l) and Aaron Cooper (r) Congratulations to Grace Ewing! She represented Hazelwood Two students from Blackwater Integrated College have completed an amazing swim for charity Integrated College at the British – the equivalent of Dover to Calais and back! Schools Judo Championship in Sheffield in March and won gold in Jamie Hamilton (Year 11) and Aaron Cooper (Year 9) have been fundraising for Aspire, a charity which her age group. helps people who have suffered spinal injuries.
The charity challenged supporters to complete 22 miles in their local pool, which would equal the distance of a cross-channel swim.
Jamie and Aaron did not just meet the target but swam more than 44 miles each – all without travelling further than the pool in Downpatrick Leisure Centre. Not content with this, the boys went on to sell buns in Blackwater IC during December to supplement their fundraising. IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:08 Page 12
12 | Learning Together Issue 23 2014 Belfast honours Paddy and IEF benefits
The IEF was delighted and honoured to be one of two charities to benefit from the Paddy Hopkirk 50th Anniversary Gala in Belfast on 22 February. The event commemorated Belfast driver Paddy’s win in the Monte Carlo rally in 1964, driving the Mini Cooper which quickly became the iconic car it is today.
Paddy led a cavalcade of more than 200 Minis and other classic rally cars from Stormont Buildings to City Hall where he was made an Ambassador for Belfast by Lord Mayor Mairtin O’Muilleor.
Later, at the Titanic Slipways, an invitational autotest contest involving around 40 professional drivers attracted spectators from far and near. Hundreds of fans queued for autographs from motorsports stars such as Belfast Lord Mayor Mairtin O’Muilleoir greets Paddy Hopkirk Ari Vatanen, Rosemary Smith, Jimmy McRae, John Watson, Cathal Curley and of course Paddy Hopkirk himself. Proceeds from sales of programmes and souvenir shirts went to the IEF and SKIDZ, an organisation offering motor mechanic training to youngsters facing challenges in school.
Racing suits were swapped for evening suits as more than 500 people attended a gala dinner in Titanic Belfast. The entertainment included the Hazelwood Integrated College Community Choir, musician and songwriter Phil Coulter, soprano Margaret Keys and entertainer Olivia Nash as well as the Bright Lights dancers from East Belfast. The evening was compèred by motoring journalist and TV presenter Jason Barlow.
The IEF and SKIDZ also benefited from an auction, by Ian and Chris Wilson - the star lot being a Mini, kindly supplied by Donnelly Star quality Brothers and custom-painted by renowned artist and supporter of integrated education, Neil Shawcross.
The IEF is very grateful to everyone who contributed to the occasion – notably sponsors John Mulholland Motors and NI Plastics - and special thanks are due to all the car clubs and stewards who gave up their full day.
Dr Beatty Crawford led the organising team of Plum Tyndall, Conn Williamson, Cathal Curley and the IEF’s Brian Small.
Pauline Gullick and Rosemary Smyth Paddy and Jenny Hopkirk, Beatty Crawford, Jimmy McRae and Plum Tyndall IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:08 Page 13
Learning Together Issue 23 2014 | 13
Digging down to the roots to explore diversity through music
A visitor from the USA, bringing with him Brazilian rhythms and Bluegrass chords, joined pupils at Malone Integrated College last October to Students from explore themes of unity and Lagan College and diversity through music. Forge IPS with Stiff Little Fingers Clay Ross, lead singer with the roots band Matuto, came fresh from success at Belfast International Festival. As a US Cultural Ambassador, Clay was Pledge of support from punk legends keen to show how elements of different cultures and traditions can Stiff Little Fingers were in town on 14 March for a homecoming gig in Belfast, which launched work together to produce beautiful their first studio album for more than a decade and also continued their support for integrated sounds, and he saw an integrated education. school as a reflection of this idea. The visit was arranged by the US The band, who declared their backing for the IEF on their last tour in 2012, are also helping the Fund Consulate in Belfast. via their latest release. The album is called No Going Back! and the loyal SLF fan base was invited to Malone IC music students pledge money to buy the disc or download and so finance independent production of the new album. enjoy a jam session They could also buy memorabilia or a range of experiences such as a handwritten lyric sheet, or the with Clay Ross chance to perform with the band.
Describing the IEF as “a charity project that’s very close to our hearts and ethos”, the Stiffs announced they would donate 5% of all the profits from the pledges to support the Fund’s work. Even before the closing date, the scheme had raised more than 350% of its target.
The Fund is very grateful for this contribution and for the continuing public support for our work from the band. The London Kentish Town show brought in £250 in donations, and thanks go to past pupil Shauna Mulligan for being on hand to help. Thanks are also due to the Stiffs’ fans in Glasgow who auctioned memorabilia at the SLF St Patrick’s Day gig and raised £1000 for the IEF!
Supreme day as Motown star attends Lagan College opening ceremony
Pupils, staff and governors at Lagan College were delighted to welcome two special visitors to help celebrate the opening of the school’s new building on Thursday 27 February. After Education Minister John O’Dowd officially opened the new accommodation, the school community and guests were introduced to Motown singer Mary Wilson.
Lagan College, Northern Ireland’s first planned integrated school, opened in 1981 and after more than 30 years’ wait finally moved into purpose-built, state-of-the-art facilities last September.
Mary Wilson, formerly of The Supremes, chatted to members of the school before performing a selection of songs with her backing singers, intermingled with extracts from her motivational presentation “Dare to Dream”. Mary told students that every generation has obstacles to overcome and neither background nor era matter. The young people were told to work hard to make their dream come true.
Mary said “When you dare to dream, you can make changes, and it’s Lagan College Head Prefects Michael Lynch and Sophie Millar with up to each and every one of us to make those changes... you can do Principal Amanda McNamee and Mary Wilson great things, and we all expect great things of you!”
Mary was appointed a goodwill ambassador for the USA in 2003 and, having overcome racial segregation herself and having used self-belief and determination to make the most of her talents, is an excellent role model for the students at Lagan College and certainly won over her young audience with her performance. Mary was visiting Northern Ireland as part of the US Department of State cultural ambassadors programme and the IEF collaborated with the US Consulate in Belfast to facilitate the event. IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:08 Page 14
14 | Learning Together Issue 23 2014
Supporters fly in from Australia to see progress at Rowandale IPS
Margaret Mountford addresses guests at the Mansion House
the news we see and hear in London. I’m Margaret urges fortunate enough to get a better view. On a recent visit to Hazelwood Integrated College I business leaders to saw a fantastic image of what the new Northern Dr Iain and Heather Watson at back integrated Ireland can be as young people from different Rowandale IPS backgrounds and cultures worked together to Pupils at the flourishing education prepare for the world ahead of them.” When Rowandale Integrated Primary Margaret visited Hazelwood IC last December School got the chance to thank The Mansion House in London, setting for the she met business studies students and toured integrated education supporters in Chancellor of the Exchequer’s annual speech the new post-16 centre. Hazelwood IC received financial support for the new facility from the IEF Australia when a director of the on the state of the economy, saw a business and the Belfast Trust for Integrated Education. Australian Ireland Fund (AIF) guru from Northern Ireland expound the visited the school at the end of economic sense of integrated education The Mansion House event was opened by TV the Christmas term. earlier this year. journalist and producer Andrea Catherwood who Dr Iain Watson, who is originally also introduced India Fahy, a past pupil of The lawyer and TV presenter Margaret Omagh Integrated Primary School and Drumragh from Moira, and his wife Heather Mountford urged a gathering of London-Irish were welcomed by Principal Integrated College. Guests were welcomed by business figures to give their support to the the Lord Mayor Locum Tenens, Alderman Ian Frances Hughes and Paul Caskey Integrated Education Movement in Northern of the IEF. Rowandale IPS opened Luder, and Margaret Mountford was introduced Ireland. The ‘Apprentice’ star was speaking at a by Guy Beringer QC. in 2007 near Moira with just 18 reception on 20 February to celebrate the work pupils and now has an enrolment of the Integrated Education Fund. Margaret Mountford said she hoped the evening of more than 200 children from would inspire more people to support the IEF pre-school upwards. The AIF and Margaret, who is originally from Holywood, said and integrated schools. Sir Warwick Fairfax Trust have “There’s more going on in Northern Ireland than been instrumental in helping provide accommodation for the growing enrolment. The school is Children’s Laureate at Hazelwood IC using the AIF mobile building to create a library and resource area, Children’s Laureate and acclaimed author Malorie Blackman met students at Hazelwood Integrated significantly enhancing the College on Wednesday 19 March as part of the Arts Council ‘Stories’ Tour organised by Booktrust NI. facilities available for pupils. Malorie, who has been Children’s Laureate for the UK since last June, writes literature and television drama for children and young adults. She has used science fiction to explore social and ethical issues, as in her popular Noughts and Crosses series which explores racism and community division.
At Hazelwood IC, Year 8 pupils and A-level Literature students, who have all been reading Malorie’s books, made the most of a question and answer session with the author. She said she was thrilled to be making her first visit to Northern Ireland and also praised a former Hazelwood IC pupil - author and illustrator Oliver Jeffers - describing him in an interview as “absolutely brilliant” at communicating ideas. Malorie Blackman with A-level literature students at Hazelwood IC IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:08 Page 15
Learning Together Issue 23 2014 | 15
Speaking: Personally
Christine Trueman is At the IEF’s event at a founding parent the Mansion House and a governor of in London in March, Millennium IPS. She past pupil India Fahy is a committed (now a student at supporter of IEF LSE) spoke of her fundraising. experiences in
Growing up in Northern Ireland integrated education. holds the greatest of memories for This is an edited me but like most kids of my generation, it wasn’t without its extract from her Christine Trueman challenges. I mostly grew up as a India Fahy speech: Catholic in predominantly Protestant areas of Belfast. This afforded me the opportunity of Having attended Omagh Integrated Primary School and later realising that Protestants didn’t have horns but it also left me Drumragh Integrated College, I am a product of 14 years of feeling that I didn’t quite fit in and caused me to be confused about integrated education. my cultural identity. So much has been achieved since Lagan College in Belfast opened When I had my own children I was adamant that they should have its doors in 1982. But so much remains to be done. a stronger sense of belonging. I had heard of the Integrated Education Movement and after I waded through the Though sectarian divisions still run deep and we must not take 15 scaremongering I was delighted to learn that the ethos of the years of peace for granted, many of the younger generation are schools was more than I could have anticipated. Unfortunately I casting off their parents’ past and looking ahead. was soon to learn that provision was sparse and places in very high During my A-levels I had the privilege of being taught by a brilliant demand. I learned from other local parents that our nearest young teacher called Catherine Seeley. Catherine moved on and integrated primary had only places for seven new pupils who was, until recently, teaching at a school in north Belfast. weren’t siblings of existing students. Catherine was subjected to a campaign of sectarian abuse by some To cut a long (15 years to date) story short, we were told that our in that community – because, as well as being a teacher, Catherine only option was to start our own school. This didn’t inspire me with is a Sinn Fein councillor. Thus a talented and passionate teacher much confidence until I visited other integrated schools, saw the was intimidated out of that school. amazing work they were doing, spoke with other parent groups and most of all met the children. It’s true what they say, there is a Yet in the midst of this dreadful episode we can find hope. Many of unique atmosphere in integrated schools; difficult to put your finger Catherine Seeley’s pupils stood by her. Catherine said that they on but it’s real. I knew then that I had to do whatever it took to inspired confidence in the future. make sure our children could avail of this nurturing, safe, questioning and confident environment. The demand for integrated education is there. Poll after poll tells us so. In my class of 30 pupils in Omagh Integrated Primary School, In September 2000 Millennium Integrated Primary School opened when choosing post-primary schools, five children chose to leave its doors to 10 children; it currently has over 226 in the main school the integrated system. Within two years, four of them had and 50 children in nursery. The journey has been tough, but returned. rewarding. I’m delighted to say that not only have the children had a fantastic education, but I personally have gained among other Unfortunately, demand for places exceeds supply; the Executive and things a cultural identity, a sense of belonging and an incredible the Department of Education need to work to meet that demand. sense of pride. The IEF has been behind Millennium IPS from the So other children can get the same opportunities and the same start, and I’ve been glad to give something back – whether that’s excellent education as I did. through a 26-mile sponsored walk around Dublin or attending the Paddy Hopkirk gala.
Join us online for daily discussions, polls and debates on the latest education topics that matter to you. Have your say on the big issues by joining up on www.facebook.com/IntegratedEducationFund or by following us at www.twitter.com/iefni Please help us to spread the word by encouraging your friends to join too! IEF learning together 23_Layout 2 07/05/2014 17:08 Page 16
Neil Shawcross art sale supports the IEF
The IEF is delighted to announce that, due to the amazing generosity of the artist, we have some limited edition prints by Neil Shawcross for sale. Having already customised a Mini car which was auctioned at the Paddy Hopkirk anniversary gala, Neil has now very kindly donated an exclusive edition of 50 prints to the Integrated Education Fund.
This distinctive artwork (above) commemorates Paddy Hopkirk’s historic win at the Monte Carlo Rally 50 years ago. You can own one for £500, beautifully framed, or £400 unframed. This is a marvellous opportunity for art collectors and historic car lovers to own a limited edition Neil Shawcross print whilst helping the Integrated Education Fund. We are very grateful to Neil for his continuing support over many years.
We anticipate a high demand for this special piece of art. Supply will be on a strictly first come, first served, basis.
The prints are 79cm x 75cm framed, and 56cm x 50cm unframed.
To purchase a print please contact Brian Small on [email protected].