Write a comment
Two Newry students are among a team of Southern Regional College engineering students preparing to compete at Silverstone next month, after qualifying for the Concept Class of the Formula Student finals. Guilherme Passos and Fearghal Murphy, both from Newry, are part of the eight strong SRC team set to take part in the competition from 15 to 19 July 2026.
The SRC team has become the first from the Further Education sector to take part in Formula Student, organised by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. The competition challenges students to design, build, test and race a single seat racing car while demonstrating expertise in engineering, project management, finance and business planning. More than 100 teams from over 30 countries are expected to compete at Silverstone, with many participants viewing the competition as a launchpad into careers in motorsport, advanced manufacturing and high performance engineering.
As first time entrants, the SRC team will compete in the Concept Class, where they will be judged on design, materials, manufacturing process, cost rationale and the overall viability of the car. Success at this stage is vital to securing a place on the starting line at the 2027 event.
Alongside Passos and Murphy, the team includes Lewis Deards from Ballygowan, Ross Graham from Banbridge, Richard Livingstone from Armagh, Aleyah Peniero from Banbridge, Rebecca Dickson from Banbridge and Sean Treanor from Monaghan. The students began work on the project in September 2025, spending months designing, building and refining their vehicle plans while balancing studies for their Engineering BEng Degree (Top Up) or Engineering (Mechatronics) Level 5 Foundation Degree, alongside employment and personal commitments. Throughout the process, the team has met a series of technical and administrative milestones required to qualify for the finals, often working late into the evening on tasks.
None of the students enrolled at SRC expecting to join a Formula Student team, with the opportunity instead created during their time at the College. Each student has played a key role in developing the vehicle, with support provided by a number of external sponsors including Exact Group, SMD Methods, TRED, RM Autoparts, Brownlow Radiators, EM & SM Construction Ltd, Blackwater Graphics, RJ Smyth Engineering, Flurry Fabrication, CCL Group and Regen Robotics, along with several sponsors who wished to remain unnamed. The project has been supported throughout by Engineering Lecturer and Course Coordinator Seán MacDiarmada.
Speaking on the team's achievement, Seán MacDiarmada said: "SRC Racing, a team of eight engineering students drawn from the Level 5 Foundation Degree and Level 6 Bachelor of Engineering Higher Level Apprenticeship programmes have set an historic milestone by qualifying for and developing an entry for the UK finals of the Formula Student Concept Class competition. In doing so, the team from Southern Regional College have firmly reserved a place to showcase their engineering talent and prowess alongside a lineup of major universities such as Imperial College and Oxford-Brooks, institutes known for their engineering and motorsport heritage and who have traditionally dominated this, the largest engineering degree programme competition in the world."
Mrs Lee Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College, said qualifying for the competition was a remarkable achievement. "Qualifying for one of the world's most prestigious engineering competitions is a remarkable achievement and reflects the talent, determination and professionalism of our students. As the first team from the Further Education sector to compete in Formula Student, they are breaking new ground and demonstrating that innovation and engineering excellence can thrive at every level of education. Their success demonstrates the strength of the engineering programmes at Southern Regional College and the dedication of our staff in preparing students for high-value careers in advanced manufacturing, motorsport and emerging technologies. We wish the team every success at Silverstone and look forward to seeing them represent both the College and Northern Ireland on an international stage."
Write a comment
A Newry woman with four decades of teaching behind her has been honoured at a major further education ceremony, with students and staff from Southern Regional College also picking up a string of awards on the night.
Una Fitzpatrick, an Associate Lecturer in Hairdressing at Southern Regional College, received the recognition award for her exceptional lifetime contributions to Further Education at the Further Education Excellence Awards, held at the Glenavon Hotel in Cookstown on Thursday 4 June.
A second lifetime contribution award was also presented to Technician Demonstrator Stephen McDowell, based at the college's Banbridge campus, who was unable to attend on the night.
The event, now in its second year, saw Northern Ireland's six further education colleges celebrate the accomplishments of students and staff. Almost 50 students were recognised on the evening, with categories covering the full range of learning pathways, from introductory and supported learning to apprenticeships, higher education and lifelong learning.
Among the Southern Regional College students honoured were Jack Walker and Leah McBride in the Entry Level Study category, Beauty Therapy student Ayda Murray for Excellence in a Traineeship Programme, and Media student Emily Bagnall for Advanced Learning. Electrotechnical apprentice Jonathan Gough received the Excellence in Apprenticeship Training award and is currently preparing to represent Northern Ireland and the UK at WorldSkills Shanghai 2026.
Engineering student Ross Graham received the Higher Level Apprenticeship Award, Sport and Exercise Honours Degree student Shana Murphy was recognised for Excellence in Higher Education, and Lynn Rees received the Lifelong Learning Award for achievements on the CIPD Level 7 in Strategic People Management.
Guests were welcomed by further education student Kate Grant, a model and advocate from Cookstown who made history in 2018 by becoming the first model with Down's syndrome to win an international beauty title.
The ceremony was opened by Director of Further Education at the Department for the Economy, Janis Scallon, who said the sector plays a vital role in economic and social progress.
Lee Campbell, Principal at Southern Regional College, said: "I am delighted to see our students recognised at these awards. From apprentices excelling on the national and international stage to learners achieving outstanding success in their chosen fields, their achievements reflect the talent, ambition and determination that exists across Southern Regional College."
Paying tribute to the two lifetime honourees, Campbell added: "It is a privilege to also recognise our colleagues Una and Stephen for their lifetime contribution to further education. Throughout their careers, they have demonstrated an unwavering commitment to our learners and the values that underpin Southern Regional College. Their dedication, professionalism, and passion have positively impacted countless lives, leaving a lasting legacy that extends far beyond the classroom."
1 Comment
A student from Southern Regional College's Newry campus has been named Apprentice of the Year at the Made in Northern Ireland 2026 awards.
Aoife Rooney, 19, from Kilkeel, received the honour at the ceremony in Belfast last month.
Aoife is in the first year of her Business Level 5 Higher National Diploma Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA) at SRC's Newry campus, combining her studies with work at Collins Aerospace. She was one of ten apprentices shortlisted for the award from across Northern Ireland. Also shortlisted was fellow SRC student Holly McCafferty from Newry, an Engineering Higher Level Apprentice who works with MJM Marine as part of her HLA programme.
Judges were impressed by Aoife's initiative, technical ability and professionalism, highlighting her proactive approach to problem-solving, including her introduction of digital tools and QR code systems to improve workplace processes and efficiency. The panel also commended her leadership potential and dedication to developing her skills within Northern Ireland's engineering and manufacturing sector.
Through her apprenticeship, Aoife has gained experience in manufacturing operations, developing an understanding of industry processes, quality requirements and accurate documentation. On a day-to-day basis she uses JIRA, a project and issue tracking software, and Jetstream, a manufacturing execution system that allows businesses to monitor, track and document the transformation of raw materials into finished goods.
As Aoife explains, these systems have given her the "opportunity to learn more about manufacturing processes and how important accurate documentation is within the industry."
On receiving the award, Aoife said: "Winning Apprentice of the Year feels amazing and I'm incredibly grateful to have been chosen for the award. I was already delighted to be shortlisted and have the opportunity to attend the event, so winning the award means a lot to me. I've genuinely enjoyed every minute of my higher level apprenticeship so far and would recommend this path to anyone considering it. Receiving this award makes all the hard work feel worthwhile and means the world to me."
Mrs Lee Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College, said: "Congratulations to Aoife on being recognised as Apprentice of the Year and to those recognised as finalists. Higher Level Apprenticeships are designed to develop talented individuals who can make an immediate impact in the workplace and build successful careers. Aoife's success at these awards demonstrates the impact of Higher Level Apprenticeships in making meaningful contributions to business organisations."
Write a comment
Infrastructure Minister Liz Kimmins has presented cycling proficiency certificates to pupils at Killean Primary School following their completion of the Cycling Proficiency Scheme.
The scheme, which is available to all primary and special schools, is a 12-lesson programme designed to help pupils develop their cycling skills, build confidence on the road and identify potential hazards. It is most suited to Years 6 and 7 and is generally undertaken as an after-school activity, with most lessons lasting one hour. Around 4,000 schoolchildren participated last year.
Minister Kimmins said: "Cycling is a great way to travel and improve health and I believe that children should learn of its many benefits and how to cycle safely from an early age."
She said she had committed £90,000 this financial year to deliver the scheme and welcomed the response from schools. "I am delighted that over 290 schools responded to express an interest in participating."
The Minister added: "The Cycling Proficiency scheme is a valuable tool to help prepare young people for making good road safety decisions while cycling. By committing this funding, participating schoolchildren can again learn the essential skills required to cycle safely and with confidence. They are taught how to carry out various manoeuvres, the importance of looking and listening while out cycling, as well as helmet and bicycle checks and the proper use of gears."
Pupil competence is measured either by continuous assessment or through a final test, depending on the preference of the school. The scheme is delivered by teachers, with the Department for Infrastructure providing resources, instructor training and support.
Write a comment
Pupils from St Paul's High School, Bessbrook got a taste of the construction industry in Newry, trying their hand at bricklaying, wiring and joinery. The event was organised by Women's Tec in partnership with the Housing Executive, to help young people, particularly girls, explore trades they may not have previously considered.
Key stage 4 students from the school's specialist provision department visited Women's Tec at its Newry centre where they learned how to build a wall, wire a socket and use a saw under the guidance of experienced instructors.
Women's Tec Programme Manager Claire King said the sessions offer students a chance to try something new. "Days like this offer a safe space for young people to have a go at activities they might never have tried before, discover what they enjoy, and build skills and confidence."
She added that encouraging girls into construction was a particular focus. "It's especially important for girls to try these activities as they are very underrepresented in construction. By partnering with the Housing Executive, we can connect students to a range of career and apprenticeship options to consider once they finish school."
The Housing Executive, which manages 83,000 homes supported the initiative as part of its equality and inclusion work. Tara Kelly, Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Outreach Manager at the Housing Executive, said it was encouraging to see the reaction from students. "It was great to see the students' enthusiasm, and we hope this day will create lasting memories, break boundaries and help inform pupils' future choices."
Teacher Jon Brown from St Paul's Bessbrook said the day had made an impression on the class. "Thanks to Women's Tec and the Housing Executive for a brilliant day. Pupils loved getting involved with the practical activities and learnt valuable skills about different tools and trades. We've now got a few aspiring builders and joiners!"
Write a comment
Seven students from Southern Regional College have been placed in this year's Northern Ireland SkillBuild Regional Competition, held at the college's Greenbank campus in Newry on 19 May 2026. Twenty-three SRC students competed alongside more than 100 construction apprentices from across the north in twelve specialist trade categories.
The competition, organised by the Construction Industry Training Board NI and supported by the Department for the Economy, tests skills, technique and the ability to work within tight timeframes. It also aims to raise the status and standards of professional and technical education and training. Awards were announced by journalist and presenter Sarah Travers.
The twelve trade categories were Brickwork, Furniture and Cabinet Making, Carpentry, Electrical Installation, Fire Installation, Painting and Decorating, Security Installation, Joinery, Plastering, Drylining, Plumbing, and Wall and Floor Tiling.
The seven students were:
Wall & Floor Tiling: 1st Alan Holubowicz, Tandragee
Electrical Installation: 2nd Thomas Parks, Portadown
Plumbing: 2nd Jake Elliott, Annaclone
Bricklaying: 3rd Ruairi McAvoy, Banbridge
Electrical Installation: 3rd Jack Sterritt, Markethill
Joinery: 3rd Taylor Crooks, Tandragee
Wall & Floor Tiling: 3rd Kristopher McIlrath, Madden
Students who were placed may have the opportunity to represent Northern Ireland at the SkillBuild UK national final, which takes place from 17 to 19 November 2026 in Milton Keynes.
Gary Mackin, Head of Faculty for Building Technology and Engineering at Southern Regional College, said: "SkillBuild gives students the opportunity to test their skills in a competitive environment and measure themselves against some of the best apprentices from across Northern Ireland. To have seven SRC students place in their categories is a strong achievement and reflects the hard work, commitment and professionalism they bring to their trade."
Barry Neilson OBE, Chief Executive of CITB NI, said: "Congratulations to all the apprentices who took part in the SkillBuild NI Regional Qualifier Competition 2026. The competition is a fantastic opportunity for apprentices to showcase their skills, connect with other like-minded individuals and demonstrate their commitment to building a career in the construction industry."
He added: "Events like this play an important role in encouraging and developing the next generation of talent, which is vital for supporting industry growth and shaping the future workforce. I would like to thank our partners CITB (GB) and SRC for their continued support, the Department for Economy and industry sponsors and we look forward to the SkillBuild UK National Finals in November."
Write a comment
A charity supporting grocery industry workers is making £1 million available to help families with back-to-school costs, with applications opening next week. GroceryAid's School Essentials Grant offers £150 per school-age child, for up to three children per household, and does not have to be paid back.
Applications open at 9am on Tuesday 2 June 2026 and close at 5pm on Thursday 4 June 2026. To be eligible, applicants must work in the grocery industry and have done so for six months or more. Successful applicants will be selected at random from those who meet the criteria and submit the correct documentation.
The grant is open to workers throughout the grocery sector, including supermarkets, wholesalers, manufacturers, suppliers, convenience stores and independent retailers. It is supported by The Leverhulme Trade Charities Trust.
Kieran Hemsworth, Chief Executive of GroceryAid, said: "We know the summer holidays can be stressful. For families who are already juggling childcare and rising household costs, the back-to-school shop is a big expense."
He added: "We hope the School Essentials Grant can help ease some of that pressure for those working in grocery who do so much to keep supermarket shelves stocked and the nation fed, while giving children a confident start to the new school year. This is the helping hand grocery workers have earned."
Previous recipients have described what the grant meant to them. One said: "We have three children at secondary school; the grants mean they can all have good quality footwear for winter, new uniforms, and the summer holiday won't be ruined by us parents watching the pennies." Another added: "The struggles at the moment are very real. To have an amazing bit of extra help that I did not expect, will without a doubt, help immensely."
GroceryAid also offers a range of other financial grants for those struggling due to an unexpected drop in income, a traumatic event or a relationship breakdown. Last year the charity provided more than £4.6 million in financial grants to grocery workers.
Hemsworth said: "Even if you aren't successful with your School Essentials Grant application, you may still be eligible for another financial grant from GroceryAid to provide relief in tough times. It's well worth applying; there's absolutely no cost so there's nothing to lose. Wider support is also available for the family such as family counselling and funded counselling for children and young people, all completely free and confidential."
Families are being urged to prepare documents in advance ahead of the short application window. Full details and applications are available at groceryaid.org.uk
Write a comment
The choir of the Sacred Heart Grammar School in Newry is set to feature in a live BBC Radio Ulster broadcast this Sunday, 31 May, as part of what has been a remarkable year for the school's Music Department. You can tune in at 9am to hear the choir sing during the live broadcast Sunday Mass.
The choir will feature music from Bob Chilcott's 'A Little Jazz Mass', with the school's Traditional Group also taking part on the day. Head of Music Cathal Murphy said the pupils are really looking forward to performing and have displayed a huge amount of commitment and dedication over the last number of weeks.
It has been a busy year for the choir beyond the classroom, with highlights including performing at the Evora Hospice 'Light up a Life' ceremony and taking part in the 'Candlelight Christmas at Clonard' concerts.
The spring season has kept the Music Department particularly active, with a full Feis season followed by the school's annual Spring Concert, held on 21 April at St Clare's Hall. The evening featured performances from the school's Orchestra, Traditional Group, Senior and Junior Choirs, as well as a number of smaller ensembles and soloists, performing to a packed hall. The concert raised just over £2,000 for the mission of the Sisters of St Clare in Central America.
Write a comment
Construction has officially begun on the new £14.5 million Newry Innovation Centre, with a sod cutting ceremony marking the start of work on the Southern Regional College project on Patrick Street in the city. The two-storey, 2,223m² building will be built on the former car park of the Newry East Campus, on the site previously occupied by Newry Sports Centre.
The ceremony was attended by officials from the Department for the Economy, along with representatives from contractor Felix O'Hare and Co. Limited and design firm McAdam Design.
Mrs Lee Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College, said: "I am delighted to see the Newry Innovation Centre project now reach this significant milestone. The College remains committed to building a strong educational future offering inclusive, high quality learning experiences while investing in cutting-edge, modern, and pioneering facilities that align with regional needs and progression pathways. This is an exciting time for Southern Regional College, the city of Newry and the wider region, and I look forward to seeing the project take shape in the months ahead."
Fully funded by the Department for the Economy and designed by McAdam Design, the new facility is expected to open in September 2027. Once complete, it will include purpose-built project-based learning areas, collaborative workspaces and breakout zones, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency.
Newry contractor Felix O'Hare and Co. Limited will deliver the project, with the build expected to generate local employment, including a number of apprenticeship and Higher Level Apprenticeship roles.
Mark Campbell, Managing Director of Felix O'Hare and Company Limited, said: "It's a privilege to be appointed as main contractor for the Newry Innovation Centre. Felix O'Hare is a Newry firm, and a project of this importance, built in our own city, means a great deal to everyone on the team. We'll be recruiting locally right through the build. That includes a number of apprenticeships and Higher Level Apprenticeships, giving young people here the chance to train on a major scheme and to build a career without having to leave the area. Skilled trades take years to develop, and projects like this one are how it's done. We're looking forward to delivering a best in class facility that Newry can be proud of."
Mr Ian Snowden, Permanent Secretary at the Department for the Economy, said: "I am pleased to be in Newry today to celebrate an important milestone for this project, which is being funded by the Department for the Economy. The construction of this new, state of the art campus will contribute to the Department's economic priorities, creating valuable employment and apprenticeship opportunities. I look forward to seeing the project develop into a vibrant educational environment that will inspire many."
The Innovation Centre represents a significant investment in Newry's educational infrastructure, with the project set to deliver modern learning facilities for the city and the wider region for many years to come.
 |
 |
 |