Authority consults on Bushmills site closure

Year 7 pupils along with Mrs Robinson, Mrs Thompson, Miss McCambridge, Mrs Arlow and Mrs Donaghy travelled to Bushmills Education Centre for their annual residential trip. Although the weather was not favourable it did not dampen the spirits of the children as they enjoyed a wide variety of activities including canoeing, high ropes, beach exploration, orienteering and team building games.

The facility is one of four earmarked for closure as part of a review of services in Northern Ireland.

Announcing a period of public consultation, the EA stated it has carried out a comprehensive review of residential and outdoor education provision which has encompassed the views of schools, young people, parents, staff and interest groups.

Dr Clare Mangan, EA director of Children and Young Peoples’ Service, said: “ During the 12-week consultation it is anticipated that those who have an interest in this area will consider the recommendations and will provide the EA with their views in relation to the proposals.

“The Authority continues to value the opportunities provided by residential and outdoor education centres to make a significant contribution to the development of our young people and society; influencing their lives throughout and beyond their formal education.

“It also enables the EA to enhance the services provided through strengthening a collaborative approach between the statutory and voluntary sectors.

“The recommendations in this review will enable EA to meet the expectations of government policy, address issues of over-provision and ensure that Youth Service resources are deployed effectively to front line services based on a composite regional and local assessment of need.”

Members of the community have already issued a ‘hands off’ warning over the multi-purpose centre which is to close by August 2017 under the rationalisation plan.