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Pupils from the Sacred Heart Grammar School in Newry celebrated their achievements at the schools annual A Level prize night just before Christmas.
The Year 14 students and their families gathered together with school staff and guest speaker, Elena McIlroy De La Rosa, to acknowledge their success. The school celebrated another year of outstanding results, with 84% of pupils achieving 3 A – C grades, thirty-five pupils achieving three A*/A grades, and one pupil achieving four A*/A grades, Principal Shane Comer advised the gathered audience to never fail to be proud of their achievements.
The guest speaker Elena McIlroy De La Rosa was a past pupil of the Sacred Heart and both her parents were members of staff – Mrs Margarita McIlroy and the late Sean McIlroy. After receiving a first-class honours degree in Actuarial and Financial Studies from UCD, a fluent Spanish speaker, Elena has gone on to thrive in the financial sector and is currently deputy CEO and Chief Transformational Officer at Santander Insurance, Ireland. Speaking of her time in Sacred Heart, Ms McIlroy De La Rosa spoke of the legacy of the values that were laid here. On women’s position in business and the world stage, she advised the students to advocate for each other as women.
Also on the night Julie Conlon awarded the Brian Conlon Medal to former Year 14 Pupil, Lauren Coghlan. The annual award is presented to the pupil who reflects Brian’s spirit, as nominated by the school. The Gilmore Trophy, the school’s most prestigious award for representing outstanding school spirit, was awarded to former Head Girl, Nicole McKay.
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St Colman's College pupils Ronan Scullion and Laochra Hill will be in Dublin this weekend showcasing their project at the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition. The boys are finalists in the annual competition with their project which comes up with a novel way to tackle the blue-green algae issue in Lough Neagh.
'An 'egg'citing way to treat phosphate run off in Lough Neagh' will be on show at the exhibition and who knows where it will take their future careers, with past winners of the competition including Patrick Collison the founder of Stripe.
Fourteen projects from eight northern schools are finalists and this year BT celebrates 25 years as custodian and organiser of the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (YTSE), and under the organisation’s stewardship, the organisation has launched several initiatives that have evolved the exhibition even further in Northern Ireland
A total of 550 projects from 225 schools will be on display, spanning the five exhibition categories of Technology, Biological, and Ecological Sciences, Social and Behavioural Sciences, Chemical, Physical and Mathematical Sciences and Health and Wellbeing. A judging panel of 85 experts from the world of STEM and business will have the challenging task of choosing over 200 prize winners, including the overall BT Young Scientist & Technologist (s) of the Year, awarded £6,200.
The BTYSTE, which is one of the leading school science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) exhibitions in the world, annually showcases incredible STEM focused ideas in project entries from secondary school students aged 12-19 years.
The 61st exhibition is a particularly significant milestone for BT, as the organisation celebrates 25 years as custodian and organiser of the Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition (YSTE). Since Dr. Tony Scott and the late Fr. Tom Burke created the YSTE in the 1960s, the exhibition has inspired many generations to look to STEM to improve the world around them, and in the past 25 years, BT Ireland has introduced several initiatives that have evolved the exhibition even further.
Initiatives include:
Education Minister Paul Givan said: “The BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition is an educational initiative, that provides a key opportunity for young people in Northern Ireland to increase their engagement in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM).
“With an ever-growing demand globally for people who are well-qualified in STEM subjects, it is vital that these subjects are offered and delivered in our schools. Success in STEM not only enables young people to pursue an exciting and creative career pathway, it is also essential to boosting economic growth in Northern Ireland.”
Paul Murnaghan, Regional Director of BT Business Northern Ireland said: said: ‘’We are delighted to welcome the students from the eight Northern Ireland schools and their teachers participating in the 61st exhibition. This year’s exhibition is particularly momentous for all the BT team across the island of Ireland as it marks 25 years since we became custodian of this remarkable event."
The BTYSTE opens to the public from Thursday, January 09 to Saturday January 11, with a full programme of fantastic events and something for everyone to enjoy, as well as all the student projects on display throughout. Additionally, 50 brilliant stands from the exhibition’s partners, including the Department of Education, Analog Devices, Amgen, Permanent TSB, Stripe, Re-turn, and RTÉ will be on display throughout the RDS.
For more information on the exhibition, please visit the BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition website or follow @BTYSTE on Facebook, Instagram, X (Twitter), YouTube or Snapchat.
A limited number of tickets are still available at ticketing.btyoungscientist.com
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St. Malachy’s Nursery School at Carnagat is inviting prospective parents to apply for a preschool place for their child in the 2025/2026 year.
St. Malachy’s is a standalone nursery school, providing 52 funded full time places. The school boasts a newly refurbished outdoor play area that provides preschool children the opportunities to engage in well-planned, energetic outdoor activities, enabling each child in the nursery school to become active and explorative learners.
As part of the Education Training Inspectorate new School Inspection Process an ETI Inspector noted: 'The school’s motto, "Nurture the seed and it will grow”, permeates every aspect of the life and work of the nursery.’
‘There is a happy and inclusive ethos in the nursery. The nurturing and highly skilled staff respond sensitively and insightfully to the needs of individual children’
‘The staff and governors of St Malachy’s Nursery School are committed to creating a caring, warm and stimulating environment where every child feels safe, valued, supported and inspired to learn and grow’.
‘The breadth and quality of the children’s learning experiences have been enriched greatly as a result of the significant transformation of both the indoor and outdoor learning environments and provides a range of high quality learning opportunities for the children across all areas of the pre-school curriculum’
Check out their Facebook page to get an insight into all the exciting things that are happening at St Malachy’s Nursery School at www.facebook.com
To apply to St Malachy's click www.eani.org.uk
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Southern Regional College’s Big Apprenticeship Event returns this February at the College’s Newry West Campus.
Taking place on Tuesday 4 February from 5pm to 7:30pm the Big Apprenticeship Event is a one stop shop for those seeking to start a new apprenticeship course from level 2 to level 5 from September 2025.
The event seeks to match potential apprentices with employers with over 40 employers and support organisations expected to attend the Newry event. College staff will also be present discussing course modules, entry requirements and assessments.
Student ambassadors from various programmes of study will be available to give a first-hand account of what it is like being an apprentice as well as sharing their incredible journeys and giving the low down on the reality of studying whilst being an apprentice. Employers, support organisations, lecturing staff and student ambassadors alike will be answering questions from attendees.
Lee Campbell, Principal & CEO of Southern Regional College commented: “We are delighted to once again host The Big Apprenticeship Event in our local community. The event provides attendees the unique opportunity to start conversations and directly engage with a wide and varied range of employers.”
“Attendees will have the opportunity to gather information on the various programmes of study and gain an understanding of the benefits of studying an apprenticeship. Apprenticeships offer value by combining hands on vocational training, equipping individuals with the skills and experience currently in demand by employers.”
“Whether you are a school leaver, a career changer, or someone seeking professional development, this event promises to deliver a wealth of knowledge and inspiration to help you shape your future.”
Now in its 7th year the Big Apprenticeship Event, run in partnership with Newry Mourne and Down District Council has consistently provided opportunities to young people and adult returners alike to develop skills and gain relevant experience with recruiting employers.
Apprenticeships and higher level apprenticeships are flexible career pathways providing the chance to earn a salary while pursuing qualifications. With course fees funded by the Department for the Economy, now has never been a better time to start an apprenticeship or higher level apprenticeship at Southern Regional College.
Apprenticeships are offered at level 2 and 3 at Southern Regional College in over 30 areas ranging from business, children’s care, construction, engineering, hairdressing & barbering, hospitality & food manufacturing to motor vehicles.
Higher Level Apprenticeships provide participants with recognised foundation and honour degrees, referred to as level 5 and 6 qualifications in 20 subject areas. This ranges from accounting, business, finance and marketing, computing, construction, engineering, science, sports & exercise and tourism, hospitality & events management.
The College has successfully run Higher Level Apprenticeship programmes of study for 10 years, providing over 1,200 people with jobs since the inception of the programme. This year could be attendees’ opportunity to add a degree and a new source of employment to their accomplishments.
Councillor Pete Byrne, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council said “For individuals looking to start or enhance their careers through an Apprenticeship route, attendance at SRC’s Big Apprenticeship Event is a must. Supported through Newry Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership, the event will be an excellent opportunity to engage directly with local cross-sector employers, ask questions, and learn about the skills and qualifications needed in today’s job market.”
“Discover how apprenticeships can pave the way for a successful career, create pathways to growth, and contribute to the development of a skilled workforce across the Newry, Mourne and Down District Council community. Don’t miss out on this chance to connect with employers and take proactive steps towards your career goals!”
With many career opportunities available, attendees are encouraged to make their way to their closest Big Apprenticeship Event. Free tickets are now available to book using the registration link: src-big-apprenticeship-event
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Southern Regional College in Newry has announced the date for its Open Day in March offering the opportunity for prospective students to explore their future educational pathways.
The SRC West and East Campus will hold their Open Day on Wed 5 Mar from 5pm to 7pm
Showcased will be the diverse range of courses, state-of-the-art facilities, and industry partnerships that make Northern Ireland's further education colleges the ideal choice for both school leavers and those wishing to return to education. The Open day is designed to inspire, inform, and ignite passion in potential students, helping them make informed decisions about their educational journey.
Key Highlights
In 2024, FE Colleges throughout the north welcomed a staggering 14,000 visitors to their open days
Southern Regional College Open Day Dates
Portadown Tue 4 Mar: 5pm to 7pm
Newry (West & East) Wed 5 Mar: 5pm to 7pm
Armagh Mon 10 Mar: 5pm to 7pm
Banbridge Tue 11 Mar: 5pm top 7pm
Lurgan Wed 12 Mar: 5pm to 7pm
More information can be found at www.src.ac.uk
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A Dundalk Institute of Technology-led project involving the Southern Regional College and other higher education faculties has been awarded almost €10 million in PEACEPLUS funding to transform education and industry in the area.
The project will be run by Southeast Higher Education/Further Education/Industry Cross-Border Alliance (SECBA), a collaboration between Higher Education, Further Education and Industry.It will directly address regional skills challenges through a strategic cross-border skills partnership with Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT), Southern Regional College (SRC), Monaghan Institute, Cavan Institute as well as industry in the area.
Dr Diarmuid O’Callaghan, President, DkIT, said: “We are delighted to receive this PEACEPLUS funding in collaboration with our valued partners Southern Regional College, Monaghan Institute and Cavan Institute. This initiative will be invaluable in addressing skills challenges in the region. The programmes which will be specifically developed for skills advancement and employment security in the region and cluster areas will provide the regional workforce with skills to address the immediate needs of businesses and mitigate employment risks due to technological advancements. I look forward to seeing the significant impact that SECBA will have in the Eastern border region between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland.”
Approximately €9.74 million in PEACEPLUS funding has been awarded and the collaboration, which will commence this year is designed to transform the region, strategically bridging the gap between educational outputs and industry's evolving needs. The project will directly address regional skills challenges through a strategic cross-border skills partnerships with three DkIT Schools- Informatics and Creative Arts, Health and Science and Business and Humanities, and the Institutes of Further Education.
Commenting on the initiative SEUPB Chief Executive Gina McIntyre said: “The programme and the joined-up approach will enable cross-community and cross-border collaboration between education and training-based collaborations that maximise the capacity of the programme area to address existing and emerging skills gaps, and opportunities for reskilling."
SECBA will develop and implement an area-based skills strategy that aligns with both national and sub-regional government strategies, while catering to the specific needs of local industries and the public participants. This initiative is expected to significantly boost employability, reach out to under-represented groups, spur innovation, and stimulate sectoral growth, aiming to improve cross-border labour mobility. SECBA will also develop an employer-focused brand for employers to ensure it meets their needs.
A Cross-Border Skills Strategy will be established encompassing three clusters. These include:
The jointly developed strategy led by industry experts will be translated into actionable steps that outline specific initiatives for skills development and employment security in the region and cluster areas. The project will concentrate on equipping the workforce with skills to address the immediate needs of businesses and mitigate employment risks due to technological advancements.
Educational Pathways will be implemented through structured educational levels from basic to advanced skills, including Return to Education (ROI NFQ Level 4, NI Level 2), Fundamental Skills (ROI NFQ Level 5, NI Level 3), Introductory Skills (ROI NFQ Level 6, NI Level 4), and Advanced Skills (ROI NFQ Level 7-9, NI Level 5-7). Bridging 2+2 will also be implemented, enabling students performing a Level 6 (NI Level 4) programme in one of the SECBA partner FE institutions to perform an additional 2 years in DkIT and obtain a Level 8 (NI Level 6) qualification and a new work-based degree shall be developed for the Biopharmaceutical sector.
SECBA will deliver tailored training for 2,459 participants, offering a new cross-border "SECBA Certificate," updating curricula with key topics, and forming industry-academia partnerships for real-world innovation, benefiting participants, local industries, educational institutions, and the broader regional economy.
SECBA will introduce cutting-edge subjects into traditional education, establish an industry-education feedback loop, and embrace a collaborative governance model with clear cross-border efforts. The project’s strategy and cross-border collaboration will set a new benchmark for regional development. Governance measures ensure transparent and effective management, supported by the PEACEPLUS Programme for cross-community collaboration and resource efficiency. With a focus on both businesses and minority communities, SECBA aims to address immediate industry needs while fostering long-term regional growth and competitiveness.
Professor Fergal Mc Caffery, Head of School of Informatics and Creative Arts at DkIT said:
“We are delighted to work closely with our Further Education partners and industry stakeholders within this region. These institutions have been carefully selected to contribute their unique strengths and capabilities and bring a wealth of experience in vocational training and further education to this collaboration. With a strategic focus on fostering cross-border collaboration, advanced research capabilities and technological innovation, the initiative aims to develop a workforce aligned with industry needs and prepared for the evolving business landscape.”
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A major careers fair hosted by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has successfully connected over 1500 local students with potential employers and educational institutions. The event, held at Newry Leisure Centre on 21 January brought together students from 12 post-primary schools across Newry, Crossmaglen, Kilkee and Newtownhamilton.
More than 50 exhibitors participated in the fair including First Derivative, Viltra, Norbook, Wood Innovations, Collins Aerospace, NIE, NIHE, NI Bodyshop Alliance, Re-Gen, BT and CAFRE. Queen's University and Ulster University also provided information about higher education pathways.
The event was organised through the Newry, Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership (NMD LMP), with funding from the Department for Communities. This year the fair collaborated with the Newry and Mourne Area Learning Community for the first time.
Speaking at the event, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Pete Byrne said, "It is fantastic to see so many young people in attendance as the Careers Fair eager to find out more about the variety of opportunities available to them as they progress through their school years and plan for their next steps.
"Newry, Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership was delighted to host this Careers Fair in partnership with the Newry and Mourne Area Learning Community which is a new initiative this year and certainly proved to be very worthwhile given the feedback I received from pupils, teachers, principals and exhibitors alike".
Mr Cormac McKinney, Principal of St Colman's College and Chair of the Newry and Mourne Area Learning Community, said, "The Newry and Mourne Area Learning Community (ALC) was delighted to join with the Newry, Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership in the very successful Careers Fair.
"The event allowed Year 12 students to engage with representatives from a wide range of further and higher level colleges and universities, employers and training groups. The students found the event to be very informative, which provided many with food for thought at this very important stage of their educational journey. Teachers and members of staff alongside students from schools in the ALC, took the opportunity to hear about the wide range of opportunities which are available locally in terms of training and employment, and the wide range of apprenticeships and third level courses which are available through the regional colleges and universities."
Students received one-on-one guidance from the Careers Service and local support agencies, covering essential skills such as CV writing and interview preparation. Representatives from regional further education colleges SERC and SRC were also present to discuss training opportunities, while the 'Go Succeed' team provided guidance on self-employment options.
The overwhelming positive feedback from all participants has established this collaborative initiative between the Area Learning Community and NMD LMP as a valuable addition to the region's educational calendar.
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Southern Regional College held their annual Schools Partnership Programme intercampus competition series across their campuses at the end of January. One hundred and thirty-eight secondary school students from across County Down and Armagh participated in a range of vocational skills competitions.
Schools in attendance included Markethill High School, City of Armagh High School, Brownlow College, Craigavon Senior High, Lismore College, St Ronans, Newry High School, Newtownhamilton High School, St Joseph’s Boys School, St Louis Grammar School, St. Marks High School, St. Pauls High School, St. Joseph’s High Crossmaglen, Newbridge Integrated College, Rathfriland High School, St. Patricks College, Banbridge High School and Dromore High School.
Students competed in a vast range of disciplines which included brickwork, joinery, tiling, fabrication, hairdressing and up-styles, blow-drys, childcare, plumbing, motor vehicle, plastering, catering, beauty, manicure nail art and graphic design.
The Schools Partnership Programme enables participating secondary school students undertaking GCSEs the opportunity to experience a wide range of vocational and academic areas and gain accredited qualifications through access to a broad and balanced curriculum at Southern Regional College. Not unusually, young people learn best by experiencing practical scenarios. The programme and the intercampus competition make the learning process more engaging, by linking theoretical knowledge with practical application.
Speaking on the competition Majella Kelly, Schools Partnership Programme Manager at Southern Regional College said: “The College was delighted to host the much-anticipated Schools Partnership Programme intercampus SkillBuild competition. This year we had 18 schools enter students in 13 disciplines covering a broad spectrum. The competition provides secondary school students the opportunity to develop personal, professional, and academic growth during a crucial developmental stage.
"It is encouraging to see students honing their skills through real-world experiences, building confidence and self-esteem, and exploring various career paths to make informed decisions on available career pathways. The competition not only serves to boost young peoples’ sense of accomplishment but also adds significant value to their CVs. Congratulations to all students who participated within the competition. We look forward to hearing of your future successes.”
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The Southern Regional College’s Big Apprenticeship Event last week at the College’s Newry West Campus saw almost 1000 people attending the showcase event locally for prospective apprentices.
Apprenticeships and higher level apprenticeships offer potential students the opportunity to gain a recognised qualification, while gaining relevant experience with an employer. There’s currently a huge range of qualifications available which includes foundation degree and top-up degree programmes. Degree programmes are externally validated by leading universities.
Current Southern Regional College apprenticeship students spoke at the event, as part of the ambassador programme.
Apprenticeships are open to applicants of all ages, from school leavers to adult returners and those seeking a career change. There are no tuition fees associated with pursing an apprenticeship or higher level apprenticeship due to funding provided by DfE. While undertaking an apprenticeship or higher level apprenticeship, students earn a wage, so therefore there remains no financial burden or student loans to consider while undertaking one of these programmes.
Many local school pupils were in attendance. Year 14 St. Mary’s High School, Newry students Sarah McGinn and Katie Havern were there investigating career and course options post A-levels. Sarah is keen on pursing a foundation degree higher level apprenticeship in business and Katie was torn between foundation degree higher level apprenticeships in sport and accounting.
Attendees at the event heard about upcoming apprenticeship and higher-level apprenticeship opportunities starting September 2025 with over 40 employers and support organisations in attendance at the event.
Local Newry accountancy practice Mooney Matthews, with offices also in Armagh and Belfast attended the event, hoping to recruit an accounting technician higher level apprentice to their drive business forward. Speaking on value of higher level apprenticeship routes, Lisa Garvey from Mooney Matthews commented: "At Mooney Matthews we have been hiring apprentices for the last 7 years. We believe they are invaluable members of our team and vital in helping our firm to grow."
Dylan Mooney, Recruitment Consultant at Randox commented: "We are actively recruiting apprentices in several main areas including life sciences, accounting, engineering and mechatronics. We are offering apprentices the opportunity to gain professional hands-on experience at a global company that makes a difference."
Jodie Crooks, a current life science foundation degree higher level apprentice at the College and employed with Randox Laboratories added: "From the perspective of an apprentice it's really beneficial to gain corporate experience before entering the workforce full-time. I am gaining valuable experience that will set me apart from peers and gaining in-depth knowledge at the same time."
DfE’s theme for this year’s apprenticeship week was “Getting it Right for You” highlighting the many varied and flexible opportunities that exist with an apprenticeship. Southern Regional College offer 12 distinct level 2 apprenticeship opportunities and 13 level 3 apprenticeship opportunities across the College’s 5 campuses. Popular sectors include business, children’s care, construction, engineering, hairdressing & barbering, hospitality & food manufacturing to motor vehicles.
For apprentice’s seeking to pursue degree level foundation and top-up degree qualifications, higher level apprenticeships are available in 20 areas including accounting, business, finance and marketing, computing, construction, engineering, bioscience, analytical science, sports & exercise and tourism, hospitality & events management.
Lee Campbell, Principal & CEO of Southern Regional College commented: “It has been incredible to witness the increased interest and enthusiasm for all things apprenticeships. The College has continuously developed the range of apprenticeship opportunities available, catering for the diverse interests and career pathways of people within the southern region.
Apprenticeship and higher level apprenticeships offer participants the distinct opportunity to train for a career in a chosen field, whilst being in employment. Our aspiration is to enable as many people as possible to start a career they enjoy and are passionate about. We look forward to September when we will be welcoming new apprentices starting their journey with Southern Regional College.”
Councillor Pete Byrne, Chairperson of Newry, Mourne and Down District Council further commented: “SRC’s Big Apprenticeship Event was truly inspiring! It was wonderful to witness the enthusiasm and engagement from both prospective participants and local employers in our District. Events like these not only provide valuable opportunities for apprentices to engage with potential employers, but also enable our businesses to innovate and grow with new talent and skills. The partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership highlights the collaborative effort towards fostering meaningful career pathways and job creation in the District. It's great to see such initiatives shaping the future for both individuals and businesses alike!”
The event was held in partnership with Newry, Mourne and Down Labour Market Partnership and took place during the Department for the Economy’s (DfE) Apprenticeship Week 3 – 7 February 2025.
A full list of apprenticeship opportunities is available at www.src.ac.uk
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