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Three courageous Business Level 3 Advanced Technical Award Extended Diploma students from Southern Regional College entered the Dragon’s Den this week to pitch their business proposition to five judges, both internal and external, representing a cross section of business expertise.
Facing the Dragons on 7 May were students from across the College’s Newry, Armagh and Portadown campuses, who had all previously faced first round competition activity on their respective College campuses.
The final round, brought together top students from the three campuses, all of whom had advanced through earlier rounds of campus-based competition. Each finalist had just 10 minutes to present their idea, justify their strategy, and convince the judges that their micro-business had real potential.
Representing the Newry campus was Tiernan Patterson McKnight from Banbridge whose business plan consisted of a home organisation and decluttering service. From the Portadown campus was Sophie Vernon from Craigavon who planned to set up a yoga and Pilates studio, and from the Armagh campus Clodagh Tennyson from Annaghmore. Building on the current sustainability movement Clodagh pitched a sustainable fashion business aimed at reviving thrifting and challenging fast fashion culture.
The entrepreneurs were rigorously questioned on every aspect of their business plans to ensure they had fully considered the current business environment. This included who their competitors were, competitors’ strengths and weaknesses and where the current market niche existed to enable their business to succeed.
Judges went into minute detail examining and questioning the entrepreneurs on their pricing structures, sales forecasts, cash flow position and anticipated income and expenditure analysis with no detail left to spare. The entrepreneurs were challenged on how they planned to market their businesses and succeed in an often-crowded competitive online sphere, with questions flowing on marketing businesses to succeed.
In a close contest, Sophie Vernon emerged as the overall winner. Drawing from her experience as a qualified gymnastics coach, she outlined a business model focused on delivering inclusive and enjoyable movement-based classes, including yoga, Pilates, and baby gymnastics. Her detailed presentation, which included identified premises and staffing plans, impressed the panel with its depth and clarity. Tiernan and Clodagh were both commended for their compelling ideas and finished in joint second place.
Commenting on Sophie’s win, Louise Groves, Lecturer at Southern Regional College, said: “Sophie delivered a passionate and inspirational presentation. She was exceptionally well prepared and demonstrated outstanding verbal and non-verbal communication skills. The panel was fully engaged and captivated by her delivery from start to finish.”
All three students undertook the Dragon’s Den competition as part of their Business Level 3 Advanced Technical Award Extended Diploma assessment on pitching a business. All students are advancing to higher education courses at the College.
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Students from Southern Regional College (SRC) took part in The Construction Industry Training Board NI (CITB NI) annual SkillBuild NI Regional Qualifier Competition 2025 competition at South Eastern Regional College (SERC), Downpatrick campus earlier this week.
The competition is designed to test skills, technique, ability within tight timeframes, and identifies the top performers in 11 different trade areas within construction apprenticeship programmes from across Northern Ireland. It is a showcase of the wealth of talent, and professionalism from the brightest recruits throughout the industry.
Over 100 of the top performers within construction apprenticeship programmes across Northern Ireland, competed against each other, with SRC student apprentices building on previous strong competition performances with 20 students competing. Competition trade categories were Brickwork, Furniture & Cabinet Making, Carpentry, Electrical Installation, Fire Installation, Security Installation, Joinery, Plastering, Drylining, Plumbing, Wall & Floor Tiling.
SRC students placing at the competition were:
|
Skill |
Name |
Hometown |
Course |
Placing |
|
Wall & Floor Tiling |
Alan Holubowicz |
Tandragee |
Wall & Floor Tiling Level 2 Apprenticeship |
1st |
|
Plastering |
Thomas Maguire |
Newry |
Brickwork (Wet Trades) Level 2 Apprenticeship |
2nd |
|
Plumbing |
Jake Elliot |
Banbridge |
Domestic Plumbing & Heating Level 2 Apprenticeship |
3rd |
|
Electrical Installation |
Leon Rountree |
Portadown |
ElectroTechnical (Electricial Installation) Level 3 Apprenticeship |
3rd |
|
Plastering |
Mathew McCready |
Kilcoo, Newry
|
Brickwork (Wet Trades) Level 2 Apprenticeship |
3rd |
|
Bricklaying |
Ruairi McAvoy |
Annaclone, Banbridge |
Bricklaying (Construction) Level 3 Apprenticeship |
3rd |
Barry Neilson OBE, Chief Executive CITB NI, said:
“A huge congratulations to all the apprentices who took part in the SkillBuild NI Regional Competition 2025. This competition is an opportunity for young people to meet with other like minded people, who are dedicated to being involved in the future direction of the industry. It is also an opportunity to encourage and continue to develop the work force of the future – this is crucial for industry growth and shaping the future. I would like to take this opportunity to thank our partners CITB (GB) and SERC and look forward to the SkillBuild UK National Finals in November.”
Lee Campbell, Principal & CEO of Southern Regional College added:
“Congratulations to all the apprentices who took part in the SkillBuild NI Regional qualifier. These competitions are a true test of determination, resilience, and skill, and the results are a credit to both the apprentices and our dedicated lecturers who continue to prepare students for success at regional and national levels. We now look forward with anticipation to the announcement of the UK national finalists in July. Well done to everyone who earned a place in this highly competitive regional event.”
The SkillBuild NI Regional Competition serves as a qualifier for the national finals of SkillBuild UK, SkillPLUMB, and SkillELECTRIC, which will be held in November this year. Students who perform well in the regional heats may have the chance to represent Northern Ireland at the national level. However, they’ll have to wait until July to find out if they’ve made it through. Only the top eight highest-scoring competitors across all regional events will progress, with the final regional qualifiers wrapping up in July.
SkillBuild is delivered by the Construction Industry Training Board (CITB GB) and showcases some of the brightest talent in construction. Supported by the Department for the Economy and local construction companies, the competition provides an opportunity to showcase the high level of skills and the impressive talent within the workforce, as well as raising the status and standards of professional and technical education and training.
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A decision by the Economy Minister to roll back on a potential increase to tuition fees has been seen as a vindication of the voices of young people by Newry and Armagh MLA Justin McNulty. It comes after universities jointly called for an increase.
Mr McNulty was speaking after the Economy Minister said she would not increase fees, having initially refused to rule it out.
Mr McNulty said: “I’d like to pay tribute to the work of student activists who have left the Economy Minister and Executive with no choice but to abandon plans to increase student fees. Without the pressure exerted by our students and the SDLP Opposition over the past few weeks, it appears the Minister was willing to consider placing the burden of cost on our young people.
“The SDLP wants to see a fair funding settlement for our universities who contribute so much to life here. If they are to continue to deliver high quality education and research then it is essential that the Executive provide certainty through leadership and decision-making that is all too often lacking.
“This climb down demonstrates the value of a constructive Opposition, determined to hold the Executive accountable for their decisions and to provide a voice to groups such as young people who all too often struggle to have theirs heard. Sinn Féin had repeatedly committed not to increase fees for students in the North and by holding their feet to the fire on this, we are relieved they have seen sense on this important issue.”
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Luke Rushe, a second-year higher level apprentice foundation degree student at Southern Regional College has been awarded ‘Apprentice of the Year’ at the Insider Made in Northern Ireland Awards held at the Titanic Museum in Belfast last month. Luke currently studies the Engineering (Technical Design & Manufacture) foundation degree higher level apprenticeship at the College in Newry whilst working with Lisburn based conveyor belting manufacturer Smiley Monroe as a design engineer.
In scooping the award, Luke faced stiff competition from four other finalists but was delighted to receive the title as ‘Apprentice of the Year’. Speaking on his win, Luke said: “It was amazing to even be nominated for the award. Sitting there at the awards ceremony, I thought my chances of winning were slim to none, so when I heard my name called out it was a real shock. I honestly didn’t think I was going to win.”
When selecting the winner for ‘Apprentice of the Year’, judges were on the lookout for the individual who showed the greatest achievement, contribution to their employer’s business and overall potential.
Luke mainly works in the product development team at Smiley Monroe but also supports the manufacturing engineering team. His role involves designing new products, improving existing products and supporting day-to-day engineering tasks. In awarding Luke with the ‘Apprentice of the Year’ title, the judges were hugely impressed with Luke’s skill levels, as well as his enthusiasm and determination. This was exemplified by him going into the workplace each week showing new sketches and prototypes he made at home.
This year’s Insider Awards marks the tenth year of the awards and celebrates the most successful and inspiring manufacturing businesses across Northern Ireland. As the Northern Ireland regional winner, Luke will now progress to the ‘Made In the UK Awards’ national event which takes place on Thursday 19 June in Liverpool.
Caitriona Hamilton, Lecturer in Engineering at Southern Regional College commented:
“Luke winning Apprentice of the Year at the Made in Northern Ireland Awards is a fantastic achievement and a real testament to his hard work, dedication, and talent. It’s wonderful to see his efforts being acknowledged, and we wish him every success as he goes on to represent the region at the Made in the UK finals. We’ve no doubt he’ll do himself, his company, and the College proud.”
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Southern Regional College’s (SRC) Music and Performing Arts students took centre stage for two wonderful nights of performance, passion, and creative brilliance at the Marketplace Theatre last month.
Every corner of the Music Department was represented, from electrifying live sets by student bands to powerful solo performances, all delivered with polish and confidence. Exclusive video highlights from key events offered a behind-the-scenes glimpse at the College’s dynamic creative journey. Audience members were also treated to sneak previews of upcoming student Extended Play (EP) recording releases, generating excitement for what’s to come.
The production, managed and crewed entirely by Foundation Diploma year 2 Creative Music & Audio Production students, ensured a seamless night. The audience was left buzzing, overwhelmed by the sheer depth of talent on display. “This was more than a showcase – it was a statement,” said one attendee. “SRC is producing the stars of tomorrow.”
The ‘Respect’ Showcase celebrated student talent and gave back to Aspire NI, a charity the SRC Music Department partners with. £1,000 was raised to support Aspire NI’s work, including the Aspire Academy, a programme run by SRC’s Foundation Diploma year 2 students.
The following night, the second year Level 3 Extended Diploma Performing Arts students performed a breathtaking adaptation of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-Time. The performance, a culmination of two years of dedication, held the audience spellbound from start to finish. It ended with a standing ovation.
These events have solidified SRC’s position as a powerhouse of creative talent in Northern Ireland. Follow SRC Music Department and SRC Performing Arts on Instagram (@srcmusicdept & @srcperformingarts_) for more excitement and updates on future events.
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Sacred Heart Grammar School, Newry has been recognised as an Enterprising School by Young Enterprise NI.
The prestigious designation acknowledges the school’s commitment to enterprise education and empowering students with entrepreneurial and financial skills.
“We are thrilled to receive this recognition from Young Enterprise,” said Shane Comer, Principal of Sacred Heart Grammar. “We recognise the need to providing our students with a strong foundation in skills for their future careers. This Enterprising School reflects the work of our staff with Young Enterprise to provide insightful and engaging programmes to empower our students to develop entrepreneurial skills that will set them apart in their future careers.”
The Young Enterprise Enterprising School programme recognises schools that demonstrate a strong commitment to enterprise and financial education across the curriculum. To achieve this designation, Sacred Heart Grammar has demonstrated that it provides a high level of enterprise education across the curriculum.
“At Sacred Heart Grammar, we recognise the need to develop skills for the future workforce,” said Mrs Jackson, Learning for Life and Work (LLW) Coordinator, “It’s about developing critical thinking skills, fostering responsible decision-making, and preparing students for future success.”
As an Enterprising School, Sacred Heart Grammar has fostered a strong working relationship and will continue to work with Young Enterprise to provide students with opportunities to learn about enterprise skills for an entrepreneurial workforce.
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Southern Regional College students, friends and family gathered together for a night of celebration on Wednesday 11th June 2025 at the Canal Court Hotel, Newry. The event covered all aspects of life at the College, from celebrating students’ academic successes, to sporting, fundraising and successes in regional and national competitions. A vast array of awards were presented to current and recent past students by Lee Campbell, Principal and CEO of Southern Regional College and Dr Thomas Moore, Chair of the Governing Body, Southern Regional College.
Employers had a voice in the awards, with a special category, the ‘Employers Choice Awards’ presented to four special students. These students excelled during their work placements and demonstrated exceptional growth, motivation and a willingness to learn.
Students from the Newry area receiving ‘Employers Choice Awards’ were:
Callum McElearney, a Level 2 Professional Chef Traineeship student, employed by Killeavy Castle who was awarded an Employer’s Choice Award. Callum’s achievements did not end there, as he also received recognition awards for his success as the Generation Chef Regional Winner for Rotary Ireland alongside students Danielle Grant and Leon Ruddy. Callum also successfully reached the finals of the Knorr Professional Student Chef of the Year 2025 challenge.
Emmet Osborne, a Level 3 Electrotechnical Apprenticeship student awarded an Employer Choice Award. Emmet was nominated by his employer Colin O’Connor Electrical who commented on his professionalism, teamwork and leadership qualities.
Other students receiving awards were: Holly McCaffery, an Engineering (Technical Design & Manufacture) foundation student addressed fellow students on her educational and professional journey to date working as a Technical Engineer at MJM Marine. In addition to her speech, Holly received a Student Recognition Award in recognition of her nomination for the Department of the Economy’s Apprenticeship Awards earlier this year.
Eimear Devlin was recognised as ‘Student of the Year’ within the Faculty of Professional Services, commended for her work ethic and interest in every activity in the College. Eimear was appointed class representative for the Business Administration level 2 Traineeship and showed exceptional dedication by volunteering weekly in the College’s Graduate Restaurant.
Nathan Maginn-Hillen who received a ‘Rising Star’ award within the Faculty of Building, Technology and Engineering. Nathan studies the Light Vehicle Maintenance and Repair Principles Level 3 Apprenticeship at the College’s Greenbank campus, and having secured employment with Prentice BMW, was recognised as a valued member of the team.
Other well deserving students recognised at the event were: Gemma Hughes from Warrenpoint, an Applied Industrial Science - Chemical Foundation Degree student, in recognition of her determination and commitment to excel and develop in all areas.
Aaron Clifford from Warrenpoint, a Sports & Exercise Science Foundation Degree student, in recognition of his sportsmanship within the Higher Education Soccer Team.
Caolan McCartan from Newry, an Engineering (Technical Design & Manufacture) Level 5 Foundation Diploma student for his gold medal success in Industry 4.0 at WorldSkills UK.
Dylan O'Reilly and Dominik Piotrowski from Newry, and Eoin Gribben and Josh Morgan from Cabra, all local students who experienced success for their performance on the pitch in Gaelic competitions.
Clara Rose Cooney from Kilkeel, awarded the ‘Student of the Year’ within the Faculty of Health & Social Care.
Lee Campbell, Principal & CEO of Southern Regional College commented: “This event was an incredible celebration of our students’ achievements. It was a privilege to witness the passion, talent, and resilience that define our College. Whether those who celebrated with us on the evening are continuing their studies, entering the workforce, or pursuing new opportunities, I hope they left feeling inspired — not only by their own accomplishments, but by the success of their peers. I wish each and every one of them continued success”.
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An Applied Science Student at SRC in Newry is taking 'one small step' to further her knowledge of space with a visit to NASA in the USA.
Eighteen-year-old Delta Van Heerden from Newry is set for an out-of-this-world adventure in July as she heads to Space School in Houston, Texas. A keen traveller with a passion for space, Delta is absolutely thrilled to be learning from experts at the heart of NASA.
Delta’s fascination with space began when she was young, watching YouTube videos and documentaries on Netflix about the universe and our place in it. “The facts and theories we’re still discovering are mind-blowing,” she said. “Getting the chance to visit NASA’s home base is such an honour. I’m honestly over the moon about it!”
Although she’s visited the United States before, this will be Delta’s first time in Houston and she can’t wait to explore the city, visit the famous Space Centre, and discover more about its rich history in space exploration.
A student of Applied Science at Southern Regional College’s Newry campus, Delta was offered the chance to attend Space School through the College’s international links. When she returns, she plans to start a degree in biology at university.
“Even though my focus is biology, I know this experience will stay with me for life,” Delta added. “It might not shape my career directly, but it will always influence how I think and feed my curiosity. This is something I’ve dreamed of since I was a child – and now it’s really happening.
Delta’s lecturer, Mark Kennedy, Science Lecturer at Southern Regional College added: “Delta will be heading off on her NASA adventure to Texas in July 2025, and we’re all incredibly proud of her. She’ll be a fantastic ambassador for Southern Regional College and for Northern Ireland. Delta is a dedicated and hardworking student who approaches everything with a positive, can-do attitude. We wish her every success with this incredible opportunity and have no doubt she’ll do brilliantly”.
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The sporting achievements of two local schools were recognised recently at a civic reception held by Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.
At the event Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell paid tribute to the rising stars of school sport by hosting Dromintee Primary School Girls and Jonesborough Primary School Boys football teams.
Held at the Council Offices in Newry, the receptions celebrated both teams’ exceptional success at the prestigious Malachy McGeeney Tournament, where they claimed victory in the Medium Schools A and Small Schools finals respectively.
Welcoming the young athletes, Chairperson Councillor Philip Campbell praised the teams’ spirit and determination, “As Chairperson, it gives me immense pride to host these receptions and recognise the amazing accomplishments of our local primary schools. The success of the Dromintee girls and the Jonesborough boys is not only a testament to their hard work but also a shining example of what can be achieved when young people are supported and encouraged.”
He continued, “Sport plays a powerful role in shaping our young people – building resilience, teamwork, and confidence. These pupils have shown great character both on and off the pitch, and I want them to know that their efforts have not gone unnoticed. As a Council, we are committed to celebrating youth achievement and promoting opportunities for every child to thrive.”
Chairperson Councillor Campbell also extended heartfelt thanks to the teachers, coaches, and families whose unwavering support has helped nurture the teams’ success, “Behind every win is a team of dedicated adults – the parents, teachers and coaches – whose encouragement and guidance make all the difference. Today’s victories belong to them too.”
After the formalities, players were treated to light refreshments and presented with commemorative gift bags as a small token of the Council’s pride in their achievements.
These receptions form part of the Council’s ongoing commitment to celebrating youth success and building a district where children and young people are empowered to reach their full potential.
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