Funding boost for Ballyclare Secondary School – Ritchie

Social Development Minister, Margaret Ritchie, MLA today announced a funding boost for Ballyclare ‘Adopt a School’ project.

The £1,776 funding will allow pupils from year 11 in the Ballyclare Secondary School to partake in self improvement and business awareness programmes as well as past pupil presentations.

The Adopt a School programme will be delivered by Business in the Community with the help of local companies and key business contacts, who will work with the school to develop employees of the future, build professionalism and promote life-long learning with positive role models.

Margaret Ritchie said: “I want to work with communities and local businesses to target resources in a way that has maximum impact. This project will give pupils in the Neighbourhood Renewal Area the opportunity to help gain the qualifications and life skills required to better equip them as they prepare to embark upon a path to employment in local industry.

“I would encourage young people to take advantage of this opportunity to participate in a Programme which has proven so successful in other areas.”

Notes to Editors:

1. DSD is contributing funding of £1,776 to Business in the Community to deliver a programme for year 11 pupils attending Ballyclare Secondary School commencing in September 2009.
2. Business in the Community is a unique movement in the UK and Ireland of 800 member companies, almost 250 of which are in Northern Ireland. Their purpose is to inspire, engage, support and challenge companies to continually improve the impact they have on society.
3. Media enquires to DSD Information Office on 028 9082 9078. Out of office hours, please contact the Duty Press Office via pager number 07699 715 440 and your call will be returned.