School visit by Minister

During his visit to the Model Primary School, the Minister joined in the celebrations of the school’s 150th anniversary. He said: “I would like to congratulate Model Primary School on reaching the significant milestone of 150 years.

“The school lives by its motto ‘Celebrating Cultural Diversity’ and takes pride in educating children not just from different backgrounds but also those with additional needs. The work of this school reflects my aim to ensure all children, regardless of background or needs, are provided with the opportunity to achieve their full potential.”

Following a performance by the school choir, Mr O’Dowd had a short tour of the school and their new Autistic Spectrum Disorder class and Learning Support Unit.

After leaving the Model, Minister O’Dowd then visited St Mary’s College where he had the opportunity to visit classes studying science and engineering. He also met with the School Council.

The Minister said: “I welcome the opportunity to visit St Mary’s College today. I was particularly interested in the provision of services the school offers as part of its Extended Schools programme.

“The aim of the Extended Schools programme is to support learning and healthy lifestyles and to raise school standards while engaging schools with their local communities and connecting people with local services. St Mary’s College provides a diverse menu of activities including a breakfast club, holiday schemes, a cookery club, a Saturday school and ICT courses aimed at encouraging parental, family and community engagement.”

The Minister concluded: “Education is more than just academic achievement – important as that is. It is about developing pupils’ potential as rounded citizens who are able to take their place within their communities and in society. This has been demonstrated by both schools today and I would like to thank all those in Model Primary School and St Mary’s College for their warm welcome and wish them continued success in the future.”