Education Minister listening to teachers and pupils

Education Minister, Caitríona Ruane visited a further two schools today including an Irish medium primary school, her first since her appointment.

Visiting Bunscoil an Tsléibhe Dhuibh on Belfast’s Whiterock Road, Minister Ruane said: “It is a delight to see young children learn in an Irish medium setting. Parents have a unique opportunity to allow their children to learn a second language. This school is a tremendous example of pre-school, primary and after-school education activities all on one site.

“Irish language pupils enjoy the same opportunities as pupils in English speaking schools and their examination results continue to show the quality of the education provided.”

Continuing her schedule, Caitríona Ruane went to St Mark’s High School, Warrenpoint, where she toured the school and the facilities.

Speaking at St Mark’s, Caitríona Ruane said: “I am impressed by the dedication and commitment the teachers have for the educational welfare of their pupils. St Mark’s is a prime example of how amalgamation of ability can benefit the students.

“Students with special educational and physical needs are fully integrated into the working day. They are given the same respect, opportunities and encouragement as other pupils in the school which encourages equality and friendships amongst students.”

Caitríona Ruane aims to meet as many educationalists and education stakeholders as possible to hear their concerns, ideas and thoughts on the education sector and will continue visits and meetings in the forthcoming weeks.

NOTES TO EDITORS:

For any further press enquiries please contact the Department of Education press office on 028 9127 9207.

Bunscoil an Tsléibhe Dhuibh

• A grant maintained Irish medium primary school in West Belfast has an enrolment of 176 pupils from Primaries 1 to 7 and is staffed by eight teachers and one principal.

St Mark’s High School, Warrenpoint

• A maintained co-educational High School with an enrolment of 859 from forms 1 to 7. It is staffed by 58 teachers and acting Principal.