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One hundred and sixty seven graduates who studied a higher education qualification at Southern Regional College, gathered in the Armagh City Hotel on Friday 30 August 2024 to be officially conferred with their hard earned qualifications. An additional 400 guests, comprising of SRC’s governing body and staff and graduate’s family and friends were also in attendance to witness the fantastic achievement of the class of 2024.
Special guests of honour at graduation were Economy Minister Mr Conor Murphy and guest speaker Miss Rebecca McKinney.
Minister Murphy provided the official welcome to all in attendance at this high profile ceremony saying:
“I was delighted to attend the higher education graduation ceremony for higher education learners at Southern Regional College.
“A thriving higher education sector, with access available through our further education colleges, is critical for a strong, regionally balanced economy which supports people into good jobs or further study.
“I congratulate everyone graduating and wish them every success for the future.”
Rebecca McKinney, well-known Cool FM breakfast presenter swopped the radio mic for the event mic to provide graduates with some valued advice as they embark on their careers saying:
“Learn how to fail. This might sound like a strange place to start, but I feel this is one of the most important things a person can go through. No one succeeds all the time, despite what you may see on TikTok or Instagram. We can learn something invaluable from every failure if we look for it. Reframe your failures as an opportunity for growth and you’ll go far.”
Rebecca continued with “Direction is more important than speed. We live in a world where everything is instant – fame, food, dating. We are constantly told that faster is better, burn out is normal and being busy to breaking point is the only way to succeed. I disagree. The goal is to arrive at the right place, even if it takes longer than expected.
“Congratulations all on your incredible achievements!”
Qualifications conferred included degrees, level 7 post graduate qualifications, foundation degrees and higher level diplomas and certificates. Those studying higher education at SRC are hugely committed to their studies with graduates travelling to SRC from as far afield as Ballycastle, Crumlin, Omagh and the Republic of Ireland alongside the huge numbers attending SRC living in the southern region.
Many of those graduating have already secured employment or are going onto even higher study, either at the College, or further afield.
Lee Campbell, Interim Principal & CEO of Southern Regional College spoke of her pride at the students’ achievements.
“It is with immense pride that I congratulate today’s graduates as they take one of life’s pivotal steps. I offer my warmest congratulations on their academic successes – the culmination of many years of dedication and hard work.
"Through significant effort and fortitude, our graduates have all achieved something remarkable and today we have had the opportunity to celebrate and reflect on those achievements.
"Learning is a lifelong journey and I urge our graduates to never stop seeking knowledge, embracing new challenges or striving to understand something new.
"I wish each and every one of the SRC graduates good fortune in their future endeavours. "
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Economy Minister Conor Murphy is calling on all who are interested to apply for the latest Assured Skills Collaborative Welding Academy at Southern Regional College (SRC).
SRC is collaborating with six local companies in Newry and the surrounding area to offer 12 people the opportunity to receive industry standard welding skills. The companies include BM Steel, Newry; O’Hare Steel, Newry; Exact Group, Newry; SFM Engineering, Keady; Alternative Heat, Banbridge and Dawson Manufacturing & Engineering, Craigavon.
Fully funded by the Department for the Economy, this Assured Skills Academy will see successful applicants receive six weeks’ intensive training at SRC’s dedicated training facility in Portadown where they will study City & Guilds Level 2 MIG Welding Qualification. Applicants require no experience or qualifications.
Participants who successfully complete the full training course will be guaranteed a job interview.
Encouraging all who are interested to apply, Economy Minister Conor Murphy said: “With no experience required, this Academy is an excellent opportunity for those who are just starting out on their career journey. It is also an opportunity for those who wish to retrain or return to the workforce.
“The engineering sector is hugely important to our local economy. People with welding skills are in high demand in our engineering and manufacturing sector, as demonstrated by the number of local companies supporting this Assured Skills Academy with Southern Regional College.
“With the opportunity to receive industry standard welding training that will provide the skills to take up potential welding roles with companies in Newry and the surrounding area, I urge all who are interested to apply.”
Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College Lee Campbell spoke of the opportunities this programme offers: “We are delighted to announce this fully funded Assured Skills Academy in collaboration with the Department for the Economy and local industry.
“This comprehensive and intensive six-week MIG welding programme offers participants industry recognised certification and a direct pathway to employment. By bridging the skills gap and enhancing employability, we're not just training welders – we're igniting careers and fuelling our local economy.
“This programme exemplifies our commitment to providing relevant, hands-on education that meets the evolving needs of both our students and local industry. Together, we're forging a stronger, more skilled workforce for a brighter economic future.”
Participants will receive a weekly training allowance of £175 for the duration of the Academy, as well as help with travel and childcare costs.
All applications must be at least 18 years old by Monday 14 October 2024 and eligible to work in the UK at the time of application. By applying for a place on this pre-employment training programme applicants are committing to pursuing a job opportunity with one of the employers supporting the Academy.
Further information on the Welding Academy and how to apply can be found at www.nidirect.gov.uk
The online application form must be completed by 12 noon on Friday 13 September 2024.
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With GCSE results now out, students may be wondering what their next steps should be. Students can continue to A-level, or consider alternative qualifications, such as Level 3 Advanced Technical Awards and Extended Diplomas on offer at Southern Regional College. Students on these programmes achieved outstanding results on Thursday 15th August 2024, with many securing spots at top universities to progress their career plans.
Advanced Technical Awards and Extended Diplomas at Level 3 are equivalent to three A-levels and offer students the opportunity to study a subject matter in depth. Subject choices at the College are vast with eighteen subjects to choose from including Applied Science, Construction and the Built Environment, Forensic and Criminal Investigation and Uniformed Public and Protective Services. These programmes ensure students have a high standard of knowledge and practical skills, allowing them to progress to degree programmes or employment.
The College had 338 students awaiting results for Advanced Technical Awards or Extended Diplomas this year, with 78 students receiving triple Distinctions, the equivalent to three A grades at A-levels and a further 8 students receiving triple Distinction*, the equivalent to three A* grades.
Students from the Newry campuses with fantastic results include Niamh Byrne from Mayobridge who studied the Applied Science Advanced Technical Award. Niamh is progressing to study Paramedic Science at Edinburgh University this September.
Jack Dougan from Banbridge who studied the Advanced Technical Award in Engineering has secured his place on the Mechanical Engineering degree at Ulster University. Fellow Engineering student Joshua Danks from Kilkeel is returning to SRC to study the Engineering (Mechatronics) Higher Level Apprenticeship having accepted an opportunity to work with Collins Aerospace during his apprenticeship. Likewise, Noah Bennett from Rathfriland who studied the Construction and the Built Environment Advanced Technical Award is returning to study the Construction (Digital Construction Management) Higher Level Apprenticeship following an apprenticeship job offer from Herron Contractors.
Health and Social Care continues to be a popular course of study with many students on this Advanced Technical Award achieving the highest grades. This includes Tamlyn Calvert from Bessbrook, Megan Heslip from Annalong and Paris Mooney from Mayobridge.
During their Art & Design Extended Diploma course, students Alice Totkova from Warrenpoint and Tommy Campbell from Markethill studied a range of art mediums. This included fine art, illustration, photography, textiles, printmaking and animation. Having now completed the Art & Design Extended Diploma, both Alice and Tommy are returning to SRC to undertake the Art & Design Foundation Diploma. Afterwards, both intend on applying for university to specialise in their preferred art medium.
Sport and Exercise student Matthew Morris from Kilkeel is delighted to be progressing onto a Health Physiology course at Ulster University this September.
Lee Campbell, Interim Principal & CEO of Southern Regional College commented:
“The exceptional results achieved by this year’s level 3 Advanced Technical Award and Extended Diploma students is a testament to their own hard work and dedication and the exceptional teaching and learning provided by our dedicated faculty staff.
SRC is committed to offering alternative pathways for students to progress and excel. Traditional academic study does not suit every learner and the College offer a range of routes to success. When students engage with subjects they are passionate about, they inevitably thrive and succeed. Advanced Technical Awards and Extended Diplomas provide this valuable opportunity.
We are thrilled with the achievements of all our students, and we eagerly anticipate welcoming our new students in September.”
Students interested in studying at Southern Regional College’s, should visit the College’s website (www.src.ac.uk) for a full listing of courses post GCSE. Applications are accepted online.
Those interested can also contact the admissions team on 0300 123 1223 or email admissions@src.ac.uk.
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Beaming smiles filled the halls as Sacred Heart Grammar students received their GCSE results. As a joyous occasion, is serves as testament to the collective efforts of the school community.
Mr Shane Comer, Principal of Sacred Heart, said "I would like to recognise the dedication of our incredible staff and the support of parents and guardians helping these young people achieve these results.
"Most importantly, we celebrate the hard work and determination of our students. Your achievements are a source of immense pride for us, and it has been a privilege to witness your growth and success.
"As you move forward, we wish all our students the very best in their future endeavours.
"Whether you choose to continue your studies with us or elsewhere, or embark on your professional journeys, we are confident that you will excel in whatever path you choose. Congratulations to each and every one of you!’
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Following last week’s excellent A-level results, Newry High School was again celebrating this week. This time it was the occasion of its GCSE results.
Principal Iestyn Brown said “As a school we are delighted that once again our students have produced an excellent set of GCSE results. Our inclusive ethos has allowed students of all abilities to achieve outstanding results and add considerable value to their achievement. This is a very rewarding way to finish this academic year. These results prove the students’ skills and commitment, and we are so proud of them all.”
There were some outstanding performances including:
· Lena Durkalec – 9A*s
With many other students achievements also being particularly worthy of mention, including:
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St Paul’s High School is celebrating the outstanding achievements of their pupils in the recent GCE A2, AS Level, and other Level 3 qualifications, which were released on Thursday, 15 August. Pupils have once again demonstrated their dedication, hard work, and commitment to their studies, resulting in exceptional results that reflect their perseverance and determination.
This year’s cohort has worked tirelessly throughout their academic journey, and their achievements are a testament to the effort they have invested. Their success not only highlights their personal commitment but also the invaluable support they have received from their families and the unwavering dedication of the staff at St Paul’s High School.
Acting Principal, Mr Dáithí Murray, expressed his immense pride in the pupils’ accomplishments, acknowledging the collective effort that has contributed to these stellar outcomes. He commented, “I am incredibly proud of our pupils and the remarkable results they have achieved. Their dedication to their studies has been inspiring, and it is clear that the support from their families, coupled with the guidance and care from our staff, has played a significant role in their success.
"These achievements are particularly remarkable considering the challenges this cohort faced during the Covid-19 pandemic. Their studies were significantly disrupted, with many months of uncertainty and remote learning. Yet, their resilience and determination to succeed shone through, overcoming these unprecedented obstacles to reach the heights they have achieved today. Their success is a powerful testament to their strength of character and adaptability in the face of adversity.
"We also recognise the sacrifices made by these pupils and their families during these difficult times. The commitment to their education, even in the face of such extraordinary challenges, is commendable. This resilience has undoubtedly shaped them into stronger individuals, ready to tackle whatever challenges lie ahead in their future endeavours."
Mr Murray added "In addition to the pupils’ remarkable achievements, I would like to extend my heartfelt thanks to the Year Heads who have guided this group over the past two years: Ms Alana McCrink, Mrs Catherine Hughes, Miss Caoibhe Magennis, and Mrs Catríona McCartan. Their leadership, along with the support of their pastoral teams of form teachers, has been invaluable. These dedicated educators have mentored and supported our pupils with great care, ensuring that each individual was encouraged and guided through their academic and personal journeys. Their commitment has been instrumental in the success we celebrate today."
As the Class of 2024 embarks on the next chapter of their lives, Mr Murray extended his best wishes to the departing pupils, encouraging them to carry forward the values and lessons learned at St Paul’s. “We send our warmest wishes to our departing pupils as they begin their new journeys. They leave St Paul’s equipped with not only academic achievements but also the resilience and skills needed to thrive in whatever path they choose to pursue.”
St Paul’s High School, a vibrant all-ability, non-selective, Catholic educational community, is home to over 1,700 pupils.
The school is committed to nurturing the academic and personal growth of every pupil, ensuring that each individual is supported to achieve their best potential.
The recent results are a powerful reminder of the strength and spirit of the school community, and we look forward to continuing this tradition of excellence in the years to come.
Top Achievers
Ines Martins, a past pupil of St Monnina’s PS, Cloughoge, who achieved A*AAA in Digital Technology, Mathematics, Physics and Art & Design. Ines has been accepted to QUB to study Software Engineering.
JP McArdle, a past pupil of Jonesborough PS, who achieved AAAA in English Literature, Geography, History and Religious Studies. JP has been accepted to the University of Edinburgh to study Social Anthropology.
Leah Rodgers, a past pupil of St James’ and St John’s PS, Poyntspass, who achieved A*AA in Health & Social Care, Biology and Religious Studies. Leah has been accepted by Ulster University, to study Diagnostic Radiography and Imaging.
Natasha Finnegan, a past pupil of St Malachy’s PS, Camlough, who achieved A*AA in History, English Literature and Government & Politics. Natasha has been accepted to QUB, to study English and History.
Sophie Hollywood, a past pupil of St Peter’s PS, Cloughreagh, who achieved A*AA in Art & Design, Mathematics and Physics. Sophie has been accepted to QUB, to study Applied Mathematics and Physics.
Eoin McEneaney, a past pupil of St Joseph’s PS, Bessbrook, who achieved A* Distinction* A in History, Cambridge Business and Government & Politics. Eoin has been accepted to QUB, to study Law.
Ryan Browne, a past pupil of Dromintee PS, who achieved AAA in Geography, Digital Technology and Mathematics. Ryan has been accepted to QUB, to study Computer Science.
Grace McCann, a past pupil of St Malachy’s PS, Camlough, who achieved AAA in Mathematics, Digital Technology and History. Grace has been accepted to QUB, to study Financial Risk Management.
Cliona Quinn, a past pupil of St Malachy’s PS, Ballymoyer, who achieved AAA in Biology, Health & Social Care and Religious Studies. Cliona has been accepted by Ulster University, to study Occupational Therapy.
Aimee Travers, a past pupil of St Brigid’s PS, Drumilly, who achieved AAA in Biology, Irish and Mathematics. Aimee has been accepted by QUB, to study Financial Risk Management.
Caoimhe Treanor, a past pupil of St Oliver Plunkett’s PS, Forkhill, who achieved AAA in English Literature, History and Mathematics. Caoimhe has been accepted to Ulster University, to study Accounting and Law.
Cara Whelan, a past pupil of St Monnina’s PS, Cloughoge, who achieved AAA in Biology, Health & Social Care and Sociology. Cara has been accepted to UU to study Physiotherapy.
Caitlin Byrne, a past pupil of St Malachy’s PS, Camlough, who achieved AAA in Mathematics, Health & Social Care and Irish. Caitlin has been accepted to St Mary’s University College, Belfast, to study Primary Education with Mathematics.
Aisling Carr, a past pupil of St Peter’s PS, Cloughreagh, who achieved AAA in Irish, Mathematics and Biology. Aisling has been accepted to St Mary’s University College, Belfast, to study Primary Education with Irish.
Louise Boyle, a past pupil of St Michael’s, Killean, who achieved AA Distinction in Health & Social Care, Religious Studies and BTEC CPLD. Louise has also been accepted to St Mary’s University College, Belfast, to study Post Primary Education with Religious Studies.
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There was a day of great celebration as another cohort of Sacred Heart students received their A-Level results. This occasion was a testament to the dedication and perseverance of everyone involved.
Principal Shane Comer said "First and foremost, I would like to acknowledge the tireless efforts of our fantastic staff. Their commitment to providing high-quality education and support has been instrumental in guiding our students to success.
"We also extend our heartfelt gratitude to the parents and guardians. Your unwavering support and encouragement have played a crucial role in helping your children reach their full potential."
Mr Comer added "Above all, we celebrate the hard work and determination of our students. Your achievements are a source of immense pride for us, and it has been a privilege to work with such talented and driven young individuals.
"We are extremely proud of all the students and their accomplishments. As you embark on the next chapter of your lives, we wish you every success and happiness in your future endeavours. Congratulations to each and every one of you."
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Newry High School was today celebrating another excellent set of A-level results with 95% of students achieving 3+A*- E grades at A2 level and 67% of students achieving A*- C grades.
Principal, Mr. Iestyn Brown, said “These results give real cause for celebration, and we are all proud of the successes which we have seen in our Post-16 examination performance this year. The results are particularly rewarding when analysed against students’ prior attainment and reflect positively on the opportunities offered by the school to a wide range of students of all abilities. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all our students on their considerable achievements and to thank our team of dedicated teachers and support staff who have worked incredibly hard in order to bring about these successes”.
Amongst the top point scorers at Newry High School were Benjamin Ferris, Megan Fogo, Callum Kane, Mathew Kane, Kayleigh Moley, Ruben Smet and Alexx Mulligan. This year the school's top performer was Zak Best (Head Boy) who achieved a fantastic 2A*s and an A grade in his subjects.
A delighted Head of Sixth Form, Mrs. Sinead Young, added: “I would like to take this opportunity to thank students, parents and staff for all their efforts and would wish all our students the very best for the future. I am so happy that all the hard work put in by everyone has come to fruition.”
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A new 156 room student residence at Bradbury Place in Belfast is now available for reservations.
The £20 million scheme, located near Queen’s University Belfast, will open in September ahead of the 2024/25 academic year, with students being encouraged to book soon to avoid disappointment.
The student accommodation boasts ensuite student living units consisting of a mixture of cluster and studio beds over five floors, and facilities including a state-of-the-art gym, cinema room, hi-tech shared study space, an interactive lounge, communal break-out space areas and 24/7 security.
The property is managed by student accommodation company Mezzino. Prospective students are invited to attend an open viewing event, running until 17th August, where they can explore the accommodation on offer and learn further important information. Viewings by appointment can be arranged thereafter.
Ciarán McIntyre, Elkstone who launched the facility said “The new student residences at Bradbury Place opening for bookings marks an important milestone for Elkstone as it is our first student property in Northern Ireland.
“With demand for purpose-built student accommodation continuing to surge, Bradbury Place will be a major addition to Belfast’s offering and will play a leading role in helping to meet the needs of the ever-growing student population seeking high-quality spaces to live.
The location is convenient to both Queen’s University Belfast and Ulster University.
McIntyre added “The new rooms can be reserved online but we expect they will go quickly given the demand that exists for accommodation of this calibre and we very much look forward to welcoming students in September and seeing the scheme thrive.”
Elkstone and Mezzino are offering discounts to those who book by 24th August 2024, providing savings of £500 on en-suite rooms, and up to £750 on Studio Suite reservations.
All bookings for the new student rooms can be made at www.bradburyplace.com
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