Shared Education initiative in local schools

St Patrick’s and St Brigid’s and Ballycastle Integrated Primary Schools have developed a range of Shared Educational experiences to enhance the educational and personal development opportunities available to pupils and staff.

The project also seeks to further greater community cohesion and sharing of expertise and resources.

The project includes children from all Key Stages and aims to provide a shared model of learning between the two schools with a specific budget to enhance the quality of provision offered.

Mr Kinney the co-ordinator of the project stated that: “Taking part in this project has helped us to develop and expand on a wide range of on-going initiatives by providing both the time and money to deliver them to a higher standard.

“Both schools, and their staff are committed to the aims and values of Shared Education and, as Rights Respecting and Eco -Schools, are aware of the importance this project makes in ensuring we are part of the continued process of developing the students of this community to contribute positively to society and raise their overall life chances and opportunities.

“I have no doubt that both schools are looking forward to continuing these positive relationships for many more years.”

Mrs Patterson from Ballycastle Integrated Primary added: “The opportunities for staff professional development are immense due to the funding available to both schools.

“The pupils and staff alike have had very positive experiences of planning and working together to date and we are keen to see the partnership develop over the coming months and years.”

The photographs by Kevin McAuley show the children enjoying some shared play together.