Weir congratulates education settings during reception at Stormont

Education Minister, Peter Weir, has hosted a reception for schools, pre-schools and youth organisations from across Northern Ireland in recognition of their high achievement.

165 institutions, who attained the highest level for overall effectiveness in recent inspections by the Education and Training Inspectorate, were invited to a special reception at Stormont.

Speaking today, the Minister said: “Each school, pre-school or youth organisation here today has demonstrated examples of the best practise that we know exists in many of our educational settings. These institutions, identified through the inspection process by the Education and Training Inspectorate are delivering this best practise to children and young people, including those with special educational needs, from the very important early years through to post-16 study and also outside school provision.

“There are many excellent and highly dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to ensure that our children and young people receive the high quality education they deserve and I commend teachers, principals, school governors, pre-school leaders, youth workers, teaching assistants, parents and indeed the wider school community for their professionalism and commitment.”

The Minister continued: “In education, we often focus on the many problems we face, be it working in constrained financial conditions, addressing the problems associated with social deprivation or tackling the causes of underachievement.

“Whilst we are continuing to achieve academic success, too many children are left behind and underachieve educationally. This is something I am working to change and which is a key focus within the new programme for government.

“However there are also many successes in our education system that we need to acknowledge and build on to further improve outcomes in the future. The Chief Inspector in her 2014-16 Report acknowledged the many positives in our education and training system. We need to share the best practice widely so that other schools and pupils can benefit from increased achievement.”

In conclusion, the Minister said: “The future success of our economy depends on a high quality education system that develops and nurtures the different talents and skills of children and young people – our future workforce.

“I, together with my Executive colleagues, will be working to deliver the best outcomes for our children and young people.  Your contribution to providing a high quality teaching and learning experience for children is invaluable and is a legacy to be proud of.  I wish everyone continued success for the future.”

Notes to editors: 

1. Further details can be found at https://www.education-ni.gov.uk/news
2. Follow us on Twitter @Education _ni
3. See photos from the Department of Education in our collection at http://www.flickr.com/niexecutive
4. Media enquiries to the Department of Education Press Office Tel: 028 9127 9207. Out of office hours, contact the Duty Press Officer via pager number 07699715440, and your call will be returned.

Share this page