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In 2019, Southern Regional College announced Air Ambulance NI (AANI) as their official charity partner. The announcement saw a renewal of the partnership, as the organisation pledged to support the charity for another two years.
Air Ambulance NI is an important charity in Northern Ireland. They collaborate with the Northern Ireland Ambulance Service (NIAS) and operate 365 days of the year to provide Helicopter Emergency Medical Service (HEMS) across the region. On average, the charity responds to two individuals experiencing serious or life-threatening situations each day.
Each of the charity’s operational helicopters carries a crew comprising of a pilot, a doctor, and a paramedic, all of whom respond to traumatic medical incidents, delivering pre-hospital critical care.
SRC employees and students organised and participated in a variety of fundraising events during the three-year partnership in aid of AANI. The fundraising events included Corporate Day Raffles, Christmas Jumper Days, Sector Cycles, Fashion Shows, Red Week, and Coffee Mornings, just to name a few!
On Monday 4th July 2022, Amy Henshaw, a representative from Air Ambulance NI visited the Newry West Campus to officially acknowledge the exceptional work of all SRC employees and students over the previous three years as Brian Doran, CEO and Principal of Southern Regional College proudly presented a cheque for £21,000 to Air Ambulance NI.
Amy Henshaw, Regional Fundraising Coordinator for AANI thanked the SRC staff and students ‘Thank you so much to all the staff and students across all campuses at Southern Regional College for their hard work and determination in supporting Air Ambulance NI over these last few years.
"Throughout Covid, everyone remained so committed to virtually supporting the charity, and when it was safe to do so, everyone began organising and running a variety of events to raise much needed funds.
"We are truly delighted to have received £21,000 from events that ranged from marathons, fashion shows, and red days…. the list is endless. Through your outstanding contribution to the charity, you have kept the helicopter flying for almost 4 full days, which will potentially help 8 people in Northern Ireland who require emergency pre-hospital care.
"Thank you so much for your terrific fundraising efforts and enthusiasm.’’
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An Accounting Lecturer from Newry has been announced as a winner of the Tutor of the Year Award at the International Association of Bookkeepers (IAB) 49th annual awards.
Maura Quinn a lecturer at Southern Regional College picked up her award recently at a ceremony in the House of Commons.
The International Association of Bookkeepers is a global network of highly qualified and knowledgeable bookkeepers and finance professionals.
Quinn lectures within the Faculty of Professional Services, deserves special recognition for this award. She has demonstrated dedication, outstanding commitment, and service within the field of education.
She was recognised as a tutor who always goes above and beyond to support her students with their studies and who guides and motivates them to achieve the highest grades possible through their IAB qualifications. As a result, Maura received 14 separate nominations for the award, all of which were student nominations, which saw her receive the most nominations of any individual.
Quinn is no stranger to IAB awards, having previously won this same award in 2021 and was runner up in 2020. She said "Winning this award for the second year in a row and being recognised by my students is an honour. This was yet another challenging year, with disruptions to normal educational learning and changes to exam formats, but I still enjoyed tutoring because it is my passion. It brings me great pleasure to see my students succeed in their studies and careers”.
“It is an honour to be named IAB Tutor of the Year 2022, and I thank my students, peers, and the awarding body for this recognition."
Janet Jack, CEO at IAB stated "It is critical to recognise our bookkeeping and accounting professionals' hard work and dedication as good bookkeeping is the foundation of a successful and professional business environment. We believe that our awards benefit not only various businesses but also individuals by recognising their work and efforts they input into a vital service."
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Three Newry students are America bound this month on a programme which offers scholarships to study business or STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics) related subjects in American colleges, across 28 States,.
Gareth Doyle, Aidan McKeown and Ryan O’Hanlon are among 48 students on the Study USA Programme, an initiative that will help develop their career prospects when they return home .
The British Council, which is the UK’s international organisation for educational opportunities and cultural relations, manages Study USA on behalf of the Department for the Economy – and since its formation in 1994, the initiative has sent over 2000 students studying in Northern Ireland to all four corners of the United States.
Aidan, who studies Primary Education with Music at St Mary’s University Belfast, is off to Edgewood College in Wisconsin; Gareth, a Communication, Advertising and Marketing student at Ulster University, is heading to Saint Mary of the Woods College, Indiana; while Queen’s University Belfast Law student Ryan will spend the next year at Alvernia University, Pennsylvania.
Speaking about the programme, Jonathan Stewart, Director, British Council Northern Ireland, said: “We’re delighted to continue this important partnership with the Department of Economy to deliver Study USA, a prestigious programme that has gone from strength to strength since its inception in 2014.
“Study USA is a great way for Northern Ireland students to connect with another country, to really get to understand that country through living there for a year, and enhance their CV by developing new skills in an international setting. While in the US, the students will have the opportunity to learn from leading experts in their field, developing intercultural skills that will prepare them for working in a global economy. Most importantly, our students will build links with counterparts in the United States that will last a lifetime.
“We know that this year’s students will be great ambassadors for Northern Ireland and we wish them every success for the exciting year ahead.”
Also commenting on the programme was Economy Minister Gordon Lyons, he said: “I’m delighted that my Department is once again working with our partners in the British Council and colleges across North America to deliver Study USA and I want to congratulate all our students who have secured a place in this year’s Study USA programme. A world of opportunity lies in front of them as they begin their studies in colleges right across the United States.
“The benefits of adding an international dimension to our students’ higher education experience are clear. It helps them to widen their horizons, develop personal resilience, confidence and skills, and offers the potential of better academic and employability outcomes in the future.
“My sincere hope is that Study USA helps every student taking part to flourish as an individual and in due course they find a way to pay it forward, and make a positive contribution to their communities and to Northern Ireland and the wider economy on their return.
“I wish all of our students safe travels, that they make the most of the opportunities that are coming their way and have a fantastic time.”
Study USA continues the British Council’s work, building connection, understanding and trust between people in the UK and overseas through arts, education and English language teaching. To find out more about the British Council’s work in Northern Ireland visit nireland.britishcouncil.org or follow on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram. To find out more about the programme, visit: studyusa
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The Pavers Foundation, employee-led charitable initiative of multi-channel family-owned footwear retailer Pavers, has recently matched £1,000 of fundraising carried out by Rathore Parents and Friends Association. The grant application was submitted by Sarah Hankin, Supervisor at Pavers Newry.
Sarah applied for the grant funding for the school which her nephew attends, which caters for children with additional needs and learning difficulties. “Without Rathore many children and young people would not have the opportunities they get here, a fantastic organisation who come together to enrich the lives of others, that we should all be thankful for. I chose this charity as I have family members who attend Rathore and continue to thrive and grow each and every day. The love, friendship, education and support these children, young people and their families receive is outstanding!”
Rathore School thanked the Foundation for the contribution towards the minibus fundraiser. Once purchased, the vehicle will afford the school many more opportunities to explore the local community with the children.
“The £1,000 donation will help us immensely towards our goal for a specially adapted minibus for Rathore School It’ll enable us to take the children swimming, parks, grocery shopping to develop there life skills and engage more in the community And raise awareness of special needs. Thank you, Pavers Foundation, on behalf of the 235 children in Rathore school Newry and especially from Rathore Parents & Friends Association.”
The Pavers Foundation is proud to recognise the charitable fundraising efforts of the Rathore Parents and Friends Association by matching this fundraising, and continues to make a difference to charities and causes close to the hearts of their 1600 colleagues in areas of health, education and community through their charitable donations.
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The Newry Campus of Southern Regional College are offering a two year part time Diploma in Irish Language.
Overview
The Diploma is being offered in partnership with the Ulster University. The provision serves a diverse constituency of students and reflects the College’s strong commitment to cultural and linguistic diversity within Northern Ireland. It plays a vital role in preserving, sustaining and celebrating Ireland’s Gaelic linguistic heritage as well as serving the demands of the Irish language sector within the local and international job market. Our programme fulfils the needs of individuals who wish to acquire the necessary competence to fully participate in the Irish language community as confident and independent users of the language and advance their qualifications in order to progress their careers.
Entry Requirements
Applicants must:
a) have attained grades A, B or C at GCSE level in five subjects or an equivalent standard in an approved alternative qualification; and
b) provide evidence of competence in written and spoken English (GCSE grade C or equivalent – this requirement may be met within (a)); or, as an alternative to (a) and/or (b):
c) provide evidence of their ability to undertake the programme through the accreditation of prior experiential learning.
Modules
Year 1
Introduction to Irish 1
Buntús Gaeilge 2
Year 2
Gaeilge Mheánleibhéil 1
Gaeilge Mheánleibhéil 2
Duration
2 years part-time (evening provision only)
Assessment
Years 1 and 2
January: Class test for Years 1 and 2
February – April: Coursework: Three short essays (Year 1); two essays + one letter (Year 2)
May: Two class tests and an oral exam (Year 1); two written exams and an oral exam (Year 2)
Awarded by
Ulster University
Fees
Tuition - £422
Exam - £330
Progression
On successful completion of this course students may be permitted (subject to interview and the APL process) to transfer into Year 1 of Ulster University’s part-time BA Irish Language and Literature course or Year 1 of Ulster University’s full-time BA course.
Contact
John Mc Caul M.A, B.Ed (Hons), B.A (Hons)
Telephone: 0300 123 1223
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BM Quizzing is excited to announce the arrival of the BM Quizzing Championships (BMQC), Northern Ireland’s largest quizzing competition, available to all secondary schools across Northern Ireland. This unforgettable experience will be held live in-person between 6-27th of October 2022 in the Abbey Christian Brothers Grammar School, Newry, showcasing students spectacular general knowledge as they face tough questions from a challenging matrix of topics, while enjoying the thrill of team spirt, while boosting thier confidence and immersing themselves in the intense, competitive atmosphere of the BMQC.
The event is organised by BM Quizzing, a non-profit organisation, set up to advance education in a way that is directed to the “development of a child’s personality, talents and mental and physical abilities to their fullest potential”. The BMQC provides the opportunity for talented young minds to be brought together in an intense, exciting, rewarding event. BM Quizzing hopes to ignited passion within young minds, transforming them into what every teacher hopes their student will become- a lifelong learner. That’s the central mission of Brain Master Quizzing; ‘to capture students curiosity and expand their knowledge to new horizons’. The BMQC is an invitation to schools, all across NI, to harvest the full potential of all their students and motivate them to learn more by allowing and encouraging them to team up with friends and get involved in an unforgettable quizzing tournament.
Schools who wish to enter must finalise a team and submit all registration details using the online registration form available at www.bmquizzing.com before the 30th September 2022. It only takes a few minutes. One team maximum may be submitted per school. After registration closes all team’s applications will be considered before eight teams are chosen to qualify for competing in the competition.
Students
The winning team will be bestowed with the honour of holding the prestigious title as "BM Quizzing Champions of the Year". Their achievement shall be marked with the receipt of the BM Quizzing Championships perpetual Trophy and a signed certificate awarded to each member.
Teachers
Teachers will see real, long-term benefits by getting involved. It’s a great way to get pupils inspired to learn new things. Also, one lucky teacher will be selected to win a special award showcasing excellent organisational skills, work ethic and support from students.
Schools
Participating in the BMQC is a brilliant way to showcase your school’s academic pedigree and an ideal opportunity to build relationships with other NI schools. The winning school will also be awarded the Brain Master Quizzing Championships Perpetual Trophy, commemorating their success.
The runners up receive the Brain Master Quizzing Championships Runners Up Perpetual Plate along with a signed certificate awarded to each member.
Students can also receive special awards for top answers and strong leadership.
For more information contact the organisers at info@bmquizzing.com
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Newry BID employee Aaron Bradley, a Higher Level Apprentice student at Southern Regional College has been awarded the Best Higher-Level Apprentice Award at the Newry Chamber Employee and Team Awards 2022 which was held earlier this month at the Canal Court Hotel, Newry.
Aaron is a current student on the Digital Marketing, Advertising, and Communication Higher Level Apprenticeship Programme. He attends SRC one day a week and works the remaining four days at Newry BID, where he successfully manages the company's social media platforms, creates campaigns, and improves processes and reporting. The judges praised Aaron for how quickly he has adapted to his job role and for how much he has learnt!
This award was sponsored by the College and presented on the night by Lee Campbell, Director of Finance & Planning at Southern Regional College. Lee said “I am absolutely delighted that Aaron has received the Best Higher-Level Apprentice Award. It’s great to see Aaron’s dedication and hard work being recognised. He is a role model to all students, and I wish him every success in the future. Well done!”.
Southern Regional College currently offers ten different Higher-Level Apprenticeships which aim to equip individuals with both theoretical knowledge through the qualification and relevant technical and employability skills. They are an attractive alternative route as opposed to University.
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Bolster Community recently brought together local youth organisations to St Joseph’s High School Newry for 'Your Youth, Your Wellbeing'- a full school day filled with motivational speeches, wellness workshops & resilience challenges.
The day was aimed at Year 8, 9 & 10 and aimed to engage boys in Northern Ireland aged 11-13 on wellness, positive mental health and motivation.
Representatives from P.I.Ps Newry & Mourne explained self-care and what this can look like, giving practical and relatable examples as well as coping mechanisms.
Motivational speaker Billy Dixon, CEO of ‘Challenge, Change & Be Different’ gave a passionate speech on resilience, reflecting on his own life story. Dixon is one of Europe's leading authorities and commentators on personal projection, communication and team dynamics, so had a lot of information to help the boys on their journeys.
Bolster Community also brought in Pathways who set up an obstacle course and other fun, practical, immersive outdoor activities reflecting life’s various challenges.
Another workshop was First Aid hosted by a representative from Newry, Mourne & Down District Council.
Bolster Community wishes to recognise The Magnet Centre, Newry who kindly donated 250 hygiene packs for each student to take away. Each included shampoo, shower gel, deodorant, toothpaste and a toothbrush, equipping the boys with practical ways to practice cleanliness & self-care in order to be the best versions of themselves.
Closing up the day, Funk Soul Media brought a creative rap workshop. Some enthusiastic students were invited on stage to have a go at shooting their own rap video with equipment such as Sony cameras, drones as well as microphones. This was a chance to show alternative employment paths for young people in NI. Also featured was a live performance (taken from FunkSoul Media’s Youtube page) Newry/South Armagh born and raised hip hop artist Cú Chulainn of his tribute song “Wee Conor”- dedicated to the life of his childhood friend Conor Kearns, a young South Armagh man who tragically died of a drugs overdose aged only 23 years old in March 2019.
Tracy, Training & Development Officer at Bolster Community commented, “With the increasing rise of mental health issues in young men we were delighted to host a full wellbeing day for the year 8, 9, & 10 students of St, Joseph's High school. (Your Youth, Your Wellbeing). Using this type of platform, we are encouraging young men to build resilience and educate them on the importance of looking after their mental health and making healthy informed choices.
There were lots of smiling faces while the young men engaged in a full line up of interactive activities for the day. The young men soaked up the words of inspiration from our guest speakers. They learnt about body language and the importance of standing tall and how to present themselves to the world, the value of staying connected to family and friends and promoting self-confidence. “An all-round brilliant day!” said one of the students.
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Last month Southern Regional College’s Higher Education graduates celebrated their academic achievement across a range of subjects with family, friends, and College staff in a major ceremony at the Armagh City Hotel. This was the first in-person Graduation Ceremony in three years.
This special event recognised individual and collective success as 189 graduates were conferred with Foundation Degrees, Higher Level Apprenticeships, and Professional Qualifications spanning a wide variety of courses delivered at the College’s Armagh, Banbridge, Newry, Lurgan, and Portadown Campuses. Many more SRC graduates attended ceremonies held at Ulster University and Queens University Belfast among others.
Honours Degrees were delivered in conjunction with Ulster University, Liverpool John Moores, and Stranmillis University in subjects such as Creative Imaging, Early Childhood Studies, English & History, and Business Studies. The event saw students of all ages achieving success in these areas.
Southern Regional College is deeply invested in the Higher Level Apprenticeship Programme (HLA) offering ten Higher Level Apprenticeship courses that create opportunities to gain quality training and a recognised qualification all helping to aid the skills gap within many industry sectors across Northern Ireland. During this special event, many of our HLA graduates were recognised for their achievements. The College has strong working relationships with many of the employers being in attendance.
SRC welcomed Mrs. Caroline O’Neill, Director of Digg for Success, Co-Founder of the NI Social Media Awards, and Founder of the Digg Podcast and Digg Mama. Caroline spoke about her own personal career path and provided a great deal of insight into how to make yourself and success, advising students to “Work hard, enjoy the good times, learn from your mistakes and never be afraid to say, I don’t know.”
Caroline awarded individual students special prizes for their outstanding academic achievement across all four facilities both full time and part time.
Mr. Brian Doran, Chief Executive of Southern Regional College, welcomed the graduates, their families, and friends and paid tribute to the work of the College staff in providing an excellent learning experience for graduates.
“We are delighted to officially mark and celebrate the achievements of our students who have worked extremely hard for their qualifications. Their hard work and dedication to learning is to be highly commended and we’re exceptionally proud of this year’s ‘class of 2022”.
“It certainly hasn’t been the most ‘normal’ or easiest of educational journeys for our students. To get to this stage they had to adapt to online learning and reduced interaction with staff caused by the pandemic; so congratulations on your exceptional achievements”.
“The number of graduates and range of courses this year clearly demonstrates the pivotal role which Southern Regional College plays in diversifying the higher education system”.
“I would also personally like to pay particular tribute to the work of our staff for providing an exemplary learning experience, guidance, and support during uncertain times which have contributed to this year’s graduate success”.
“May this journey lead to even greater achievements in life. Many congratulations on becoming a graduate of Southern Regional College”.
Case Study - Aisling O’Hara, SRC Human Resources Business Partner graduated in CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management
Aisling O’Hara, a Human Resources Business Partner at SRC graduated in the CIPD Level 7 Advanced Diploma in Strategic People Management course. Aisling studied this course to help aid her career progression. She previously completed Levels 3 and 5 with the College and felt it was a natural progression to complete Level 7.
Aisling remarked on how the small class sizes size ensured everyone was engaged and lead to a very personalised learning approach. Aisling commented on how the course was challenging but ultimately very rewarding and a great way to develop the skills needed for her current role.
For more information on the range of courses available, contact Southern Regional College on 0300 123 1223 or visit www.src.ac.uk.
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