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Southern Regional College’s Higher Education graduates have been celebrating their academic achievement across a range of subjects with family, friends, and College staff in a major ceremony at the Armagh City Hotel last week.
This special event recognised individual and collective success as 179 graduates were conferred with Foundation Degrees, Higher Level Apprenticeships, and Professional Qualifications spanning a wide variety of courses delivered at the College’s Newry, Armagh, Banbridge, 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 nineteen 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 Deborah Loughran, founder of King Communication as guest speaker to the event. Deborah is a communications and marketing consultant who has worked with local and international brand names. Deborah is a keen lifelong learner having both undertaken additional learning courses and mentoring others.
Speaking at the event, Deborah said “I would encourage any graduate to never stop learning. I spoke about getting my Diploma way back at the start of my career and I have tried to never stop learning. I do one major course every year especially in the face of the world that we live in, without constant learning we get left behind. Today is not about the end of your learning, it should be opening the door to what comes next and there is plenty of people in this room that can help and guide you as SRC’s core value is ‘Putting the Learner First’.”
Mr. Raymond Sloan, Chief Executive of Southern Regional College, in his first public event as the newly appointed Chief Executive, welcomed graduates, their families and friends, and paid tribute to the work of the College staff in providing an excellent learning experience for graduates.
Mr Sloan said “To all graduands, I offer my warmest congratulations on your academic successes – the culmination of many years of dedication and hard work. You, your family and friends, and all College staff are extremely proud of your achievements. You are graduating from one of the best Colleges in the UK, a phrase I don’t use lightly, but which has been bestowed on us for our renowned excellence in teaching, student success and award-winning support services.
"Through significant effort and fortitude, you have all achieved something remarkable and today we have the opportunity to celebrate and reflect on those achievements."
The Chief Executive continued "Today is your day in the academic spotlight - it is a time for celebration, a time to reflect on your success but we should also remember that you have had some help along the way. Your families and friends have been there to provide emotional, practical – perhaps even financial – support during your years of study, while the staff of the College have worked with you to ensure that you’ve had the best possible learning experience. So, on your behalf, I want to thank them all for the contribution they have made to your success.
"We wish you everything that you so richly deserve in the years ahead - it has been an honour and a privilege watching your progress and success!”
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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Graduation is always a celebration, but those celebrations intensify when there’s not just one, but two family members graduating from the same College. At Southern Regional College’s September graduation at the Armagh City Hotel there were two families with double celebrations ongoing.
Mairead Gallagher from Mayobridge and her niece Niamh Cunningham from Poyntzpass both graduated on Friday 1st September, Mairead from the CACHE Level 5 Diploma in Leadership for Children's Care, Learning & Development (Management) and Niamh with the Open University Foundation Degree in Digital Marketing Advertising Communications Higher Level Apprenticeship (HLA). Both undertook their courses at the College’s Newry campuses.
Mairead is the currently the Deputy Manager at Jellytots Playgroup in Mayobridge. This is not Mairead’s first experience of the College, having undertaken a Level 3 Childcare course once her own five children were of school age. Speaking on the day Mairead said:
“The Level 5 Diploma has helped me to gain loads of knowledge and build my confidence. The tutors were extremely supportive and encouraging. I have come away with a wealth of knowledge and many friendships!”
Niamh started her Degree HLA programme back in September 2020 in the midst of the Covid pandemic. For Niamh the course has provided her with excellent employment opportunities. As part of the course, Niamh gained a work opportunity in Keenans Foods where she continues to work. Keenans Foods is a biscuit and cookie business, based in Armagh, supplying major businesses including Lidl, Henderson Group and Nisa.
Other family members graduating include brother and sister duo Alli and Amy McKee. The siblings live in Newry but attended SRC’s Banbridge campus studying separate Creative Imaging Degree courses. Alli undertook the Liverpool John Moore's BA Hons Degree in Creative Imaging and has used the tools learnt to set up his own business “In Rainbows”, alongside offering his services as a designer on a freelance basis.
Speaking on his business, Alli said “My small business has given me the opportunity to meet and work with some incredible creatives and businesses, both local and further afield. I have had some of my creations stocked by local businesses, including Belfast-based Fresh Garbage and Paperxclips Books, and have shipped orders all around the world.”
Continuing from this, Alli hopes for the future include “Running my business on a larger scale and to have a dedicated studio/office space to operate out of. I would also love to be in a position to give back to the creative communities that I am a part of, whether that's through organising events such as markets and exhibitions, or through financial grants for up-and-coming artists/businesses.”
Alli credits his time at the College with honing his skills “My time at college has without a doubt helped me develop the skills and confidence that I needed to grow my business. I was able to develop my skills in using industry-standard creative software such as Adobe Photoshop, Illustrator and InDesign, as well as having the opportunity to experiment with a range of more physical creative processes including printmaking, batik and analogue photography, among others. I was also given the opportunity to work on live design briefs with real-life clients which gave me a valuable insight into what to expect from a career in design.”
Sister Amy undertook the Pearson BTEC Higher National Diploma in Creative Media Production and is returning to the Banbridge campus to undertake the same Degree programme as her brother. Amy’s reasons for returning to the College include loving SRC’s approach to work.
Amy commented “I got the opportunity to work on client briefs and obtain real-time feedback. I learnt new skills alongside likeminded classmates. The course is a close as you could get to working in industry.”
Of course, we can’t forget those family members who support a loved one through their studies. A graduation is very much their celebration too, and not just the Graduate!
For further information of the range of Higher Education courses and Degree options available at SRC, check out the website at: www.src.ac.uk. The College is still accepting applications onto its Higher Education courses commencing in September. For information on clearing places available, visit the website.
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At the formal launch of the Employ Me employability programme at Southern Regional College’s Newry Campus on 7 September, 80 guests including local businesses, community organisations and elected representatives were updated on initial progress made and future plans.
Employ Me is a two-year employability programme providing training, employability and wraparound support for Economically Inactive people aged 16+ to reduce barriers, develop skills, achieve qualifications and enhance employability to enable progression to employment/self-employment. Special emphasis is given to participants who have a disability, are aged 50+, women returners, those in, or at risk of entering, the justice system, single parents and carers.
Southern Regional College is the lead delivery partner for the programme. Together with community lead partner Clanrye Group and organisations Community Advice and Women’s Aid Armagh Down, partners are working to evolve the lives of participants. Since the programme commencement in April 2023, 270 participants have enrolled, with 62 securing employment and 41 undertaking volunteer opportunities, and a further 15 commencing work placements. To date, participants have undertaken 137 training courses. Courses with Southern Regional College are due to commence this month meaning these figures are set to rise.
Since the programme’s conception, partners have been working with employers to ensure the programme’s delivery is mutually beneficial. Learning points from the past five months have been taken into account to ensure both employers and participants have they support they need. This includes bridging the gap from being economically inactive to employment through taster work placement sessions, providing participants with the skills and confidence to develop.
During the event, emerging themes from participants journeys were reflected on. Ongoing wraparound support, such as counselling has been seen as vital to ensure participants succeed.
Libby Shackels, Director of Curriculum at Southern Regional College commented “Southern Regional College (SRC) remains committed to widening participation of those who face significant barriers to education and training including those economically inactive, those with learning difficulties and disabilities, those from under-represented groups in society and those not in employment or training.
"The Employ Me programme is an example of how the College aspires collectively to create a dynamic ecosystem where partnership with community is a key priority. SRC is delighted to have secured funding from the UK Shared Prosperity People and Skills fund to bring forward a new and innovative approach to provide training and employability wrap around support for people in both the Newry, Mourne & Down, and Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Council areas. This funding will help economically inactive people, aged 16+ to achieve their career aspirations and personal goals.”
Liam Devine, Chief Executive Officer at Clanrye Group further commented “Together we can do so much more. In the challenging times that we are in, now is the time to set aside old ways of working and embrace change, partnership and growth. It is our intention to do just that and I look forward to working with SRC and our fellow partners Community Advice and Women’s Aid Armagh Down.”
We are actively seeking participants to join the programme, so if you are interested or wish to find out further information, please email employme@src.ac.uk.
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Translink is calling on schools to enter a special prize draw for the exclusive opportunity to win a masterclass with NI-based Australian street artist Danni Simpson.
The initiative is part of Translink’s Life Better. Connected campaign, celebrating how public transport delivers connections that really matter. It brings to life how Translink strengthens communities, supports the economy, sustains the health and education of local people, and how switching to public transport is vital to tackle the climate crisis.
As part of the campaign, Danni recently created an urban-style mural illustration depicting well known places and connections around Northern Ireland. Translink has been touring towns and cities with the mural, giving local people the opportunity to explore the theme of connectionby colouring-in the bespoke artwork.
Announcing the masterclass opportunity, Danni Simpson said: “Our recent Life Better. Connected mural roadshow was a great success with so many people showcasing their artistic talent.
"We’re now calling on all budding young artists out there to encourage their school to enter Translink’s special prize draw for the chance to win this unique masterclass visit.I’m really looking forward to sharing my own experience as a young artist and helping pupils explore their creative potential.”
At the masterclass, pupils will enjoy an informative presentation from Danni about who she is and what inspires her work as a young artist renowned for her unique and vibrant style; a showcase of her Translink Life Better. Connected mural; and the opportunity to create their own original artwork guided by Danni’s expertise.
The prize draw is open to primary schools and post primary schools up to Year 10. For full details and the chance to enter, simply visit winwithtranslink.com
Deadline for entries is 30 September 2023.
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It's Musical time once again at the Sacred Heart. There has been a strong tradition of musicals within Sacred Heart Grammar School dating back to 1956. The school has staged a show every second year since then until covid hit! The school is delighted to be reviving this important tradition once more by staging the colourful Andrew Lloyd Webber extravaganza ‘Joseph and The Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat’ in October.
The magnificent musical score includes the hit songs ‘Any Dream Will Do’ and ‘Close Every Door’ and many more.
This show is a MUST SEE… it has inspired choreography by Donna Magee, flamboyant costumes courtesy of Elizabeth Stagewear, ingenious direction by Mrs Molly Hodgett and outstanding musical numbers directed by Mrs Linda Turley!
The show opens on Thursday 19 October at 7.30pm in Sacred Heart School Assembly Hall and it also plays on Friday 20 @7.30pm, Sunday 22 @ 3pm, Monday 23 October @ 7.30pm and Tuesday 24 @ 7.30pm.
Tickets are available each day in the school foyer from 12.30pm-1.30pm from 5 October and cost just £10!
‘Go, Go Go……’ get your ‘JOSEPH’ tickets! (Cash or cheques only)
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NextGen Skills Academy visited Southern Regional College’s Banbridge campus on Tuesday 27 September to speak with students on upcoming projects. The College recently partnered up with NextGen to increase students’ employability prospects within the creative gaming industry, one of Northern Ireland’s fastest growing sectors. Gaming, Animation and Visual Effect courses are offered on SRC’s Newry and Banbridge campuses.
Students will collaborate with industry partners to build skills and expertise in gaming, animation and visual effects. At the event students heard about how they will be working on the ‘Spaceship Fleet Challenge’, a week-long project where students are pitted against other students from different Colleges to develop 3D modelling, communication and team working skills. Students will have the chance to showcase their art, maths, science, physics, computer coding and even some music skills, in an attempt to wow the experts. During the placement, Industry partners will provide valuable feedback on projects, and the top-performing team from each college will have the chance to present their work to a panel of Industry professionals.
NextGen works with employers to develop formal qualifications and training to address the skills gap and shortages in the Games, Animation and Visual Effects industry. SRC is uniquely positioned to address this shortage with its Level 3 Games, Animation and Visual Effects Extended Diploma, equivalent to three A-levels, after which students can progress to the Level 5 Higher National Diploma in Creative Media Production – Games Development. The Level 3 Extended Diploma is offered on SRC’s Banbridge and Newry campuses, with the HND offered exclusively at the Newry campus.
NextGen works in partnership with industry partners and educators to offer students exceptional opportunities to develop the skills employers truly value. By enrolling on the Level 3 Extended Diploma students can actively engage in game creation rather than just passively consuming content. The NextGen partnership brings together Further Education curriculum with the practical realities of the industry, under the guidance of experienced lecturers who provide students with the tools and practice to advance their career prospects.
Marie McArdle, Curriculum Area Manager for Computing, Design and Academic Studies at Southern Regional College commented “We are excited to be offering students the opportunity to collaborate with some of the biggest names in Games Development. Students will have the opportunity to work on some of the biggest briefs in Games Development. This kind of exposure to real life projects will pay students back ten fold in terms of experience, as it will give them the edge as they move into the industry post education”.
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One hundred and fifty places are being offered by the Northern Ireland Civil Service as part of its 2024-25 Student Placement Competition across government departments.
The scheme, now recruiting for its fourth year, offers valuable experience for aspiring Civil Servants, providing an excellent opportunity for students to put into practice their classroom learning, develop personally and professionally and undertake meaningful work which directly impacts the lives of our citizens. In turn the Civil Service also benefits from fresh views and skills and offers staff the opportunity to guide and share their professional experience to those who wish to pursue a career in public service after university.
Opportunities are available for students across a range of degree areas including accountancy, architecture, communications, economics, engineering, geographic information systems, planning, ICT, surveying and science. These are paid placements with an annual salary of £21,053 per annum (under review).
The competition is open to students currently studying towards an undergraduate degree, who will have successfully completed their second-year examinations by the end of the 2023/24 academic year and who have the opportunity to undertake a placement for the 2024/25 academic year.
The competition is open for applications from Monday 9 October until noon on Friday 27 October 2023 with placements expected to start late July/early September 2024 for a period of up to 51 weeks.
Further information on the range of placements and details on how to apply are available at www.nicsrecruitment.org.uk
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In a glittering awards ceremony at the Culloden Hotel and Spa, the Institute of Hospitality Northern Ireland Awards for Professionalism 2023 saw over 350 hospitality professionals in attendance at the event, hosted by TV personality Pamela Ballantine. Southern Regional College received two accolades.
Keith Campbell, lecturer at the College picked up the coveted title of ‘Lecturer of Year’ pipping his fellow SRC colleague Sinead Boyle to the award. Keith teaches on a range of hospitality and patisserie courses at the College and is a former student at the College. Keith and his colleague Sinead faced a grilling by a panel of independent judges in June and were left to ‘sweat it out in the kitchen’ until September when results were finally revealed.
At the grilling, Keith prepared a presentation detailing his role within the College, working with students leading them to success at regional and national competitions, and how the College continues to work hand in hand with local businesses preparing students for the hospitality industry.
As part of the College’s sustainability plans, Keith even spoke on the development of a foraging qualification designed to introduce safe and sustainable foraging practices to influence dishes served.
Elsewhere, student Claire Ward who recently graduated from the College with the University Ulster Foundation Degree in Hospitality & Tourism with Specialisms, picked up the ‘Student Management Potential Award’ and former student Collen Lennon from hospitality business ‘The Oliver’ was a finalist in the Independent Chef of the Year category.
Matt Turner, Head of Faculty for Professional Services at Southern Regional College commented “I am beyond delighted to have so many lecturers, students and past students nominated as well as deserving winners at this year’s Northern Ireland Institute of Hospitality Awards for Professionalism 2023. Staff and students put a tremendous amount of work into a creative profession, and to see this effort be recognised is absolutely fantastic.”
Southern Regional College offers students the ability to learn a range of hospitality courses; from bakery and patisserie techniques, barista skills, cocktail making to traineeships, apprenticeships and degree level courses in Hospitality & Tourism. You never know, you might be the next student picking up an award at the Institute of Hospitality Awards. Start your journey with SRC by checking available courses at: www.src.ac.uk.
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With Southern Regional College (SRC) students at the Newry campus well into their first semester of college, Translink are reminding all 16-23-year-olds to avail of the free yLink card which offers card holders 50% off all bus and rail services across Northern Ireland.
Aideen McConville from Southern Regional College said: “With the Translink’s yLink card our students can travel to college for less. The card offers 50% off bus and rail travel and we believe all our students should be using this card. Travelling via bus or train is a more sustainable way to get to college and with Translink routes right outside our college it’s never been easier.”
More young people than ever are now choosing public transport as the smarter, greener way to stay better connected to university, college, work, and to socialise with family and friends with a massive 52% increase in journeys.
The latest figures were unveiled as part of Translink’s engagement with young people during the busy fresher week activities where Translink teams were on hand to showcase the yLink product and help students with all their travel and ticketing needs as they started the new student year.
Translink’s yLink card, is free to access for 16–23-year-olds, and currently offers a 50% discount on travel alongside a host of other discounts for partner organisations across NI including a range of social, leisure and lifestyle activities.
Maeve Nethercott, Brand Representative at Translink, said: “yLink is fast becoming a must-have card amongst young people who are increasingly aware of the importance of choosing sustainable travel options that don’t cost the earth or their wallet! We know young people are particularly impacted by the cost of living crisis and this card is a great way to make those limited funds go a bit further.
“We have also brought in innovations such as contactless payment technology across Metro, Glider and rail, and our cashless mLink app allows users to add their yLink card to their virtual wallet to make it really easy to travel and save.”
Chloe Ferguson, NUS-USI President, added, “Students are having to deal with greater costs, year-on-year, so any saving for essentials like travel are to be welcomed. Our student members are also acutely aware of the climate crisis and the important role sustainable transport plays in tackling this. With this in mind, we’re keen to promote greater use of public transport to help build positive habits which make a lasting difference and would encourage all young people to make use of a free yLink card to start benefitting from cheaper travel.”
To find out more about Translink’s yLink card and how to apply, as well as details of exclusive discounts and partner initiatives, visit www.translink.co.uk
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