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BT have announced early entry for the BTYSTE 2025 to coincide with its 25-year anniversary as custodian and organiser of the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition
It should allow students from the north more time to formulate ideas and develop their project. The upcoming exhibition will mark BT’s 25th year as custodian and lead sponsor of the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition. Project submissions will close at 5pm on September 27, 2024
The 2025 Exhibition will take place in Dublin from 8 - 11 January, 2025.
Secondary school students aged 12-19 years old are encouraged to start brainstorming ideas now, for submission to the 2025 exhibition. By extending the submission period, students will have more time to research and develop their ideas over the summer months.
The 2025 exhibition will showcase project entries from students in five categories: Technology, Social and Behavioural Science, Biological and Ecological Science, Chemical, Physical, Mathematical Science, and Health and Wellbeing. 250 prizes, across a prize fund of over £45,000, will be awarded across all five categories and all age groups, including the overall BT Young Scientist & Technologist of the Year Award of £6,750.
The 2025 exhibition marks a silver anniversary for BT’s custodianship of the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition and speaking on the call for entries to the BTYSTE 2025, Paul Murnaghan, Regional Director for BT Business in Northern Ireland, said: “It has been a great privilege that BT has been custodians and organiser of the Young Scientist and Technology Exhibition for the last twenty-five years. Over that time, we have seen so much STEM talent from Northern Ireland schools at the exhibition.
“While BTYSTE alumni have gone on to develop innovative companies and contribute significantly to academic research, more importantly, the exhibition has provided a platform for Northern Ireland students to develop a love of STEM and positively contribute to broader society. We are delighted to announce that entries have opened earlier this year and I’d encourage all Northern Ireland students to get involved.”
Entrants will need to fill out an application form and the all-important one-page proposal outlining their idea. To submit a project to the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2025, please visit enter.btyoungscientist.ie
To find out more information on the Exhibition, please visit BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition or follow @BTYSTE on Instagram, Facebook, X, YouTube and Snapchat (username BTYSTE).
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Last week the Southern Regional College welcomed Economy Minister Conor Murphy alongside other Department Officials to their Greenbank Campus in Newry. Mr Murphy was welcomed by the College's Interim Principal and Chief Executive, Lee Campbell and other senior staff members who gave him a comprehensive tour of the campus, with staff showcasing the state-of-the-art facilities and industry-leading equipment available to students.
Greenbank Campus serves as SRC's hub for construction trades in Newry, offering a diverse range of apprenticeships in fields such as bricklaying, electrical installation, plastering, plumbing, and more. These programmes provide a dynamic blend of hands-on vocational training and recognised qualifications, equipping individuals with the skills and experience highly sought after by employers.
The visit coincided with the Minister's recent announcement of new skills interventions to support his Economic Vision, including a new Skill Up programme and the expansion of the apprenticeship system and provided an opportunity for further discussions on the College's plans to foster a robust educational future ensuring they continue to provide highly qualified and skilled individuals. The College is also committed to ensuring they help deliver a collaborative approach to skills development across the island of Ireland and recently signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Louth Meath Education and Training Board (LMETB) to create and deliver advanced manufacturing training programmes. During the visit, College staff had the opportunity to elaborate on their plans ensuring individuals develop skills that meet the needs of the emerging economy on an All-Island basis.
Interim Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College, Lee Campbell said “We were delighted to welcome Economy Minister Murphy and other Department Officials to our Greenbank campus today. This visit was an excellent opportunity to showcase the transformative learning environment available at Southern Regional College and discuss our ongoing commitment to advance the skills of learners through new partnerships and collaborations”.
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The Eco-Schools programme, led by the Foundation for Environmental Education (FEE), celebrated its 30th anniversary in Northern Ireland at Stranmillis University College. Supported by RiverRidge and Translink, over 500 attendees, including teachers and pupils, honoured schools' achievements in environmental stewardship. Launched in 1994, the programme, operated by Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful and supported by DAERA and local partners, involves young people in environmental challenges. Northern Ireland has awarded the Green Flag to 2253 schools to date, with Downpatrick Nursery receiving the first in 1994.
Newry, Mourne, and Down District Council’s schools received 14 Green Flag Awards at Ballyholland Primary School, Bessbrook Primary School, Blackwater Integrated Primary School, Glasswater Primary School, Killyleagh Primary School, Sacred Heart Grammar School, Sacred Heart Primary School, Spa Primary School, St. Bridgid’s Primary School, St. Bronagh’s Primary School, St. Clare’s Abbey Primary School, St. Colman’s Primary School, St. Joseph’s High School and St. Mary’s High School.
Bessbrook Primary School's Rob Belt and Leo McQuaid were named Eco-Teacher and Eco-Pupil of the Year, respectively. Rob highlighted Eco-Schools' impact on student engagement with the environment.
Glasswater Primary School won Eco-School of the Year, excelling in healthy living, biodiversity, and waste management. Carol Forster from Keep Northern Ireland Beautiful commended the schools' dedication to inspiring environmental awareness in youth, aligning with the organisation's vision of a resilient and healthy environment.
The event also launched Generation Nature, an outdoor learning site at Stranmillis University College, supported by Energia’s Greener Possibilities Fund. Dr David McKee emphasized the importance of integrating environmental education into teacher training. For more information, visit www.eco-schoolsni.org
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Sixteen students from Southern Regional College have earned their spots in the prestigious WorldSkills UK National Finals. The finals are scheduled to take place in Greater Manchester from 19 -22 November 2024.
To qualify for the finals, these students had to excel in regional competitions, competing against their classmates as well as other students from different Colleges.
SRC’s finalists showcased their skills in various disciplines including Automation, Automotive Refinishing, Culinary Arts, Electrical Installation, Foundation Skills: Restaurant Services, Health and Social Care, Industry 4.0, Laboratory Technician, and Mechatronics, resulting in achieving the highest number of competitors from across NI Colleges.
In the national finals, students will compete against participants from across the UK in various specialist skill areas, striving for success and aiming to secure their title of 'Best in the UK' for the third consecutive year.
WorldSkills UK is a partnership between education providers, industry and the UK government to champion skill sets and raise industry standards. The competition celebrates the best of young talent and even provides young people with the opportunity to progress to European and WorldSkills competition series.
The Competitors
|
Competition |
Name |
Hometown |
|
Automation |
Eve Hillen |
Hilltown |
|
Automation |
Ethan Park |
Rathfriland |
|
Automotive Refinishing |
Ben Robertson |
Portadown |
|
Culinary Arts |
Annabelle Hughes |
Armagh |
|
Electrical Installation |
Jonathan Gough |
Craigavon |
|
Foundation Skills: Restaurant Services |
Phelim McArdle |
Newtownhamilton |
|
Health and Social Care |
Clara Rose Cooney |
Kilkeel, Newry |
|
Industry 4.0 |
Patrick Sheerin |
Portadown |
|
Industry 4.0 |
Caolan McCartan |
Camlough, Newry |
|
Laboratory Technician |
Ruth Douglas |
Banbridge |
|
Mechatronics |
John Doherty |
Portadown |
|
Mechatronics |
Jason McVerry |
Belleeks, Newry |
|
Mechatronics |
Ross Graham |
Banbridge |
|
Mechatronics |
Carter McKnight |
Moira |
|
Mechatronics |
Sean Treanor |
Co. Monaghan |
|
Mechatronics |
Neil King |
Warrenpoint |
SRC Electrical Apprentice Jonathan Gough has also been successfully shortlisted for the UK National Final of SkillELECTRIC which will be held in Milton Keynes in November.
Lindsay Bronte, Development Manager at Southern Regional College said:
“I extend my congratulations to all our finalists competing in the WorldSkills National Finals in November. I am immensely proud of each student and commend their commitment, motivation and dedication to reach this stage. Everyone at Southern Regional College wishes you all the best of luck for the finals.”
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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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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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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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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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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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