Ruane congratulates Newry school on EFQM accolade

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane, has congratulated St Joseph’s Boys’ High School, Newry, on achieving a prestigious European quality award.

The school recently secured the European Foundation for Quality Management (EFQM) Mark of Excellence, which is awarded to organisations that demonstrate innovation, leadership and a commitment to high quality service delivery.

Speaking as she attended a special lunch at St Joseph’s to mark the award, the Minister said: “St Joseph’s Boys’ High School places the child at the centre of its ethos and maintains a strong focus on equality of opportunity. As part of a learning community with 16 other schools, St Joseph’s offers an excellent range of courses, both general and vocational, to suit every pupil.

“St Joseph’s also provides for all abilities and strives to help young people overcome barriers to learning. I pay tribute to the hard work and effective leadership of the school’s staff, whose commitment and professionalism have been rewarded by the EFQM Mark of Excellence.

“I warmly congratulate St Joseph’s Boys’ High School on achieving this internationally recognised accolade, one of only a few schools in the north to have done so.”

Notes to editors:

1. More information on the EFQM, its awards and the assessment processes involved is available on the European Foundation for Quality Management website.
2. 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 076 99 715 440, and your call will be returned.