Local schools recognised for going above and beyond
Date published:
Education Minister, Peter Weir and Andrew Dougal, Chair of the Public Health Agency (PHA) Board have recognised schools during an awards ceremony at Stormont.
Victoria Nursery School, Belfast, Phoenix Integrated Primary School in Cookstown and St Paul’s High School in Bessbrook have all been recognised for exceptional pastoral care of pupils and families at today’s Derrytrasna Awards in Stormont.
Speaking at today’s event, Peter Weir said:
“This is the second year of this exceptional award presentation and I am pleased to be here today to recognise this year’s recipients.
“Young people are faced with many challenges growing up and it is reassuring that schools can provide support and help during difficult times in their lives.
“Each of the winning schools highlighted different aspects of pastoral care but what they all had in common was putting pupils’ needs to the forefront of school life. All three schools have demonstrated a commitment to supporting pupils’ individual needs and are rightly being recognised today.”
Andrew Dougal, Chair of the PHA Board said:
“We are delighted to be involved with the Derrytrasna Awards which recognise exceptional pastoral care of pupils and families. Good pastoral care is essential in supporting pupils in terms of their personal and social development. This includes mental and emotional wellbeing, educational attainment and future life outcomes. I would like to commend this year’s recipients for their commitment to pastoral care.”
Notes to editors:
- Victoria Nursery School nominated for their whole school approach to dealing with parents and children.
- Phoenix Integrated Primary School nominated for their handling of a child going through an adoption process.
- St Paul’s High School, Bessbrook nominated by a past pupil for their handling of his illness, while in hospital, through his GCSEs and A levels.
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