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Newry's Southern Regional College (SRC) Greenbank Campus will host the SkillBuild NI 2026 regional competition on Tuesday 19 May 2026, with construction apprentices and traineeship students from across Northern Ireland set to compete for top honours.
The annual competition, announced by the Construction Industry Training Board NI (CITB NI) in partnership with Southern Regional College, is a search for the top performers across 11 different trade categories, ranging from brickwork to wall and floor tiling. It is designed to test skills, technique and ability within tight timeframes, while also serving as a showcase of talent and professionalism within the construction industry.
The competition is supported by the Department for the Economy, along with local suppliers and construction companies. Winners from the NI Regional Competition will go on to represent Northern Ireland at the SkillBuild UK National finals later in the year.
Among those helping to announce SkillBuild NI 2026 was Alan Holubowicz, an SRC wall and floor tiling apprentice and 2025 SkillBuild National Finalist, who was joined by Gareth Mone, SRC Curriculum Area Manager, Rachel Dorovatas, CITB NI Director of Industry Training and Support, and Peter Farrelly, SRC lecturer and mentor.
The Newry campus previously hosted the SRC intercampus SkillBuild competition in February, where close to 70 apprentices and traineeship students competed across eight trade categories, with top performers now progressing to the regional stage.
SkillBuild NI 2026 takes place at Southern Regional College's Greenbank Campus in Newry on 19 May 2026.
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Southern Regional College’s Higher Education GAA team are celebrating after a landmark achievement, winning the HE All Ireland GAA Final title, their first since 2019 with a composed victory over Atlantic Technological University (ATU) Connemara at Abbotstown. The team train in Newry with many of the players playing for local GAA teams.
After a tentative start from SRC, it was ATU Connemara who struck first in the Corn Comhairle Ardoideachais final, registering 1-1 in the opening exchanges. SRC soon settled into the contest, with Conor Ward leading the charge scoring 1-1 to bring the game level.
Building on that momentum, SRC piled on the pressure. Martin McKinley split the posts for a superb two-pointer, before a penalty won by Conor Ward led to a crucial goal. Although Darragh McNulty’s initial strike rattled the crossbar, he reacted quickest to finish to the net. Further points from Odhran Hynes and captain Conor Cunningham stretched SRC’s advantage to six approaching half-time.
ATU Connemara responded strongly before the break, converting a penalty and adding a two-pointer of their own to narrow the gap. At half-time, SRC led by the slimmest of margins, 2-5 to 2-4.
SRC emerged for the second half with renewed intensity. Early scores from Danny McLogan and Odhran Hynes helped steady the side, while dominance around the middle third proved pivotal. Donal Coffey, Kyle Clerkin, Dara Óg McCoy and Martin McKinley took control in midfield, consistently winning primary possession and driving SRC forward.
The decisive moment arrived when substitute Oran Wilson made an instant impact, coming off the bench to fire home a vital goal and give SRC valuable breathing space. From there, SRC finished strongly, adding further points to their tally, while a disciplined defensive performance restricted ATU Connemara to just three points in the second half.
Final score: SRC 3-12 ATU Connemara 2-7
Conor Ward was awarded Man of the Match.
Co-Team Manager and SRC staff member Rory McGreevy praised the team’s performance, saying: “This group showed outstanding character all season, but especially in the final. After going behind early, they trusted the work they’ve put in and delivered when it mattered most. To bring the title back for the first time since 2019 is a huge achievement for the players and for the College and we couldn’t be prouder of them and this result.”
Mrs Lee Campbell, Principal & Chief Executive of Southern Regional College added: “This achievement reflects not only sporting excellence but the strength of teamwork, leadership and ambition across the College community. The future of SRC Gaelic football is bright and this victory sets a new benchmark for future seasons. Congratulations to the SRC Gaelic team and team managers Rory McGreevy and Ronan Haughey for their tireless work throughout the season, guiding the team to this All-Ireland success.”
A SRC spokesperson added "A special word of thanks goes to captain Conor Cunningham and goalscorer Oran Wilson, who both lined out for SRC for the final time. After years of dedication and commitment, it was fitting that they signed off with an All-Ireland medal.
"Finally, sincere thanks to team managers Rory McGreevy and Ronan Haughey for their tremendous hard work and dedication throughout the season, guiding the lads to All-Ireland success"
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Last month more than 120 secondary school pupils demonstrated their vocational skills at Southern Regional College's annual inter-campus competition.
Seventeen schools took part in this year's event, including Newry High School, St Joseph's Boys High School, St Paul's High School, St Joseph's High School Crossmaglen and St Mark's High School, alongside Markethill High School, Rathfriland High School, City of Armagh High School, Brownlow College, Craigavon Senior High, Lismore College, Newtownhamilton High School, St Louis Grammar School, Newbridge Integrated College, St Patrick's College, Banbridge High School and Dromore High School.
Competitors took part across a wide range of vocational disciplines. In construction trades, pupils demonstrated their expertise in brickwork, joinery, tiling, plumbing and plastering, while others were tested in motor vehicle studies and engineering principles. Professional services categories were equally competitive, with entries in catering and contemporary cuisine, beauty therapy, upstyling, blow drying, manicure nail art, childcare and graphic design.
The competition represents the culmination of work carried out by pupils who attend Southern Regional College each year to study vocational and academic programmes alongside their secondary school studies. It gives participants the opportunity to measure their progress against peers in real-world, industry-aligned challenges.
Majella Kelly, Schools Partnership Programme Manager at Southern Regional College, said: "This year's competition highlights the ambition, creativity and technical ability of our young people. They are not just learning, they are applying their skills in live, competitive environments that mirror industry standards. The level of talent on display this year was exceptional and these pupils are building strong foundations for future careers. We are proud to work in partnership with local schools to create meaningful pathways that give students the confidence, direction and opportunity to succeed."
The annual event continues to strengthen the relationship between the College and schools across the region, reinforcing the role of vocational education in preparing young people for further study, apprenticeships and employment.
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Southern Regional College had much to celebrate at the Newry, Mourne and Down Chairperson's Civic Awards, held on 20 February at the Millbrook Lodge Hotel, Ballynahinch, with both staff and a student recognised for their outstanding contributions.
Electrical Installation apprentice Rachel Carvill took home the Youth Impact Award, which recognises young people under the age of 18 who have made a positive impact through their achievements, leadership, creativity or community contribution. At 17, Rachel has secured two gold medals at the World TaeKwonDo Championships alongside Ulster and All-Ireland boxing titles. She is also among a growing number of young women pursuing a trade apprenticeship at the College. Her employer, Murray and McEvoy, praised her strong work ethic and commitment, and Rachel has developed particular expertise in solar panel installation.
Lecturer Dr Liz Finnegan and the wider ICAS team were recognised in the Arts, Culture and Heritage Award for their commitment to the Newry, Mourne and Down region. ICAS, the Interdisciplinary Conference in Arts and Science, takes place each January at the College's Newry campus, sparking conversations in art, literature and heritage and attracting artists, writers and researchers from across the globe.
Sarah Ryan from the College's Organisational Development Team and Jason Brennan from the Student Engagement Team were commended for their fundraising efforts. Both lead on the College's social responsibility work, which includes charity fundraising, foodbanks and toy appeals.
Mrs Lee Campbell, Principal and Chief Executive of Southern Regional College, said the recognitions reflected the very best of the College. "These recognitions by The Chairperson's Civic Awards reflect the dedication, talent and community spirit within the College. To be recognised at the Chairperson's Civic Awards is a significant achievement. It affirms the impact our students and staff are making across the region and reinforces our commitment to excellence, opportunity and service to the community."
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A Newry-based butchery apprentice from Southern Regional College has been named Best Abattoir Worker/Apprentice 2025 at one of the most prestigious events in the UK meat industry calendar.
Jochyl Mier, who is developing her skills with ABP Group in Newry, was presented with the award at the annual prizegiving hosted by the Institute of Meat and the Worshipful Company of Butchers. The ceremony took place on 26 February 2026 at Butchers' Hall and was attended by a record audience of more than 150 guests.
Competing against apprentices from across the UK, Jochyl was presented with a certificate of achievement by Institute of Meat Chief Executive Dave Smith and Gwyn Howells, Master of the Worshipful Company of Butchers. She also received a £250 prize and a year's honorary membership of the Institute of Meat.
The annual awards recognise outstanding achievement among butchery apprentices, as well as the contributions of their employers and training providers. Nominations are reviewed by a panel of industry experts, with just 12 awards presented nationwide.
Dave Smith, CEO and Fellow of the Institute of Meat and a Master Butcher since 2014, paid tribute to Jochyl and those who supported her. "Huge congratulations to Jochyl Mier and also of course to Southern Regional College and ABP Group Newry. Achieving this award has meant an exceptional amount of hard work and dedication from all three."
He added: "Jochyl is part of a forward thinking, innovative industry. With the continued support of their training provider and employer I am sure they will have a future just as bright as the industry itself."
Micheal Prunty, lecturer at Southern Regional College, who trained Jochyl, said the college was proud to see her recognised on a national stage. "Since starting the Meat & Poultry Skills Industry Level 2 Apprenticeship with the College, Jochyl has developed her skillset and progressed onto the Food Industry Skills Level 3 Apprenticeship."
Prunty added: "This award recognises not only her hard work, but also the quality and ambition behind our butchery apprenticeship at Southern Regional College. Our learners continue to earn national and international acclaim in the butchery industry, and Jochyl's achievement reinforces that track record."
Southern Regional College's butchery programme has built a strong reputation for producing industry-ready professionals, and Jochyl's win at Butchers' Hall is the latest in a series of national and international achievements for its apprentices.
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The Northern Ireland and Irish regional heat of Super Trowel, the ultimate bricklaying competition took place last month at Southern Regional College’s Greenbank campus. The competition saw 8 pro competitors along with their hod carriers and 7 junior competitors and hod competitors battle it out for a place in the UK national final.
The heat was the first of the 2026 regional heats to take place, with a further six heats due to take place between now and the UK national final. The top two pros placing will now be invited to compete at the national finals.
They were Chris Quinn in first place with 665 bricks laid and 593 bricks scoring after deductions, followed by Damien O’Neill in second place with 578 bricks laid and 553 bricks scoring.
Pro competitors had a pressurised 60-minutes to lay bricks with a following 20-minute jointing up period. No further bricks were allowed to be placed during this period. Both are now in with a chance to scoop a prize fund of £50,000 at the UK National competition and go forward to Vegas to compete in the SPEC MIX Bricklayer competition and represent the UK.
In the junior series, the top student was named as Arran Barr who claimed the win with 145 bricks laid and 135 bricks scoring in a 30-minute bricklaying competition followed by a 20-minute jointing period.
Gareth Mone, Curriculum Area Manager at Southern Regional College spoke of their delight at hosting the competition: “Southern Regional College were delighted to host the 2026 Northern Ireland and Ireland Regional Super Trowel competition. 2026 marks the second time the College has hosted this regional competition and we are looking forward to its return next year. The standard of competition was incredibly high and it was great to see both experienced professionals and the next generation of bricklayers showcasing their skills under pressure.”
The UK national final takes place on Friday 31st July and Saturday 1st August 2006 in Hertfordshire.
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A play examining control and violence in relationships has been watched by more than 1,000 post-primary school students across the Newry, Mourne and Down Council district, as part of the council's ongoing campaign 'Ending Violence Against Women and Girls' (EVAWG).
The Voice Within, written and directed by Spanner in the Works Theatre Company, follows a teenage partnership and examines the behaviours and attitudes that can lead to control and violence in relationships. The production was specially commissioned as part of the council's EVAWG campaign and each performance was followed by an interactive workshop focused on recognising the signs of harmful and coercive behaviour.
The play was organised and delivered across the council's seven District Electoral Areas and is supported by The Executive Office EVAWG Momentum Funding. The series of performances concluded at Newry Town Hall in February.
Councillor Philip Campbell, Chairperson, Newry, Mourne and Down District Council described the production as a powerful and deeply moving portrayal of the need to end violence against women and girls and commended everyone involved. "The play helps young people understand behaviour that can lead to control and violence in a relationship, with the compelling narrative resonating with them. The Voice Within gave a voice to experiences which are too often silenced," he said.
"The play provided an insight into the harmful, coercive behaviour that can lead to women and girls experiencing violence and abuse in their relationship. Such behaviour has no place in society. Women and girls should feel safe at all times."
Cllr Campbell said the council remains determined to tackle the issue and that the play has given students a meaningful insight into controlling behaviour. "The Voice Within sheds a light on experiences that are all too often silenced. It confronts difficult realities, helps educate young people, challenge them and inspire them to play their part in ending violence against women and young girls. Indeed, we can all play our part," he said.
He added that the play serves not only as an educational tool but as a call to action. "We all need to commit ourselves to doing everything we can to end violence against women and girls. The reality of what is happening was brought to life by The Voice Within which, I know, will help make a lasting difference," said Cllr Campbell.
"Women and girls have a right to live free from threat or harm in any shape or form," he added.
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A Newry woman who wanted to enter the working world quickly without moving far from home has spoken about how studying at Dundalk Institute of Technology (DkIT) set her on the path to a marketing career back at home.
Lauren Travers, a former student of St Mary's High School in Newry, studied A-Levels in Sport Science, Business, and Health and Social Care before learning about DkIT through her school careers teacher. With the institute just 15 minutes from Newry and the student loan system equivalent to what she would have encountered had she chosen to study in Belfast, the decision made practical sense from the outset.
"The location was a major factor for me, just 15 minutes from home, DkIT offered the perfect balance of independence and convenience. The cost of living and social life was more affordable compared to Belfast, making it an attractive option. My mum, Caroline, was definitely a massive driver in getting me to DkIT and supporting me to reach my goals. I couldn't have done it without her!" Lauren said.
She chose to study Business, drawn in part by the three-year degree structure which allowed her to move into employment sooner. Despite initial concerns about university life, she found the environment at DkIT to be supportive and personal, with lecturers who took time to get to know their students and offer one-on-one guidance where needed. She also points to the DkIT Students' Union as a valuable resource for students throughout their studies, providing support across both academic and personal challenges.
Lauren is now working as a Marketing Executive with Pure Engineering in Newry, where she manages social media, marketing campaigns, event management and photography.
For Lauren, the choice to study at DkIT was about more than obtaining a degree. It was about finding the right academic, financial and personal fit while still being close to home.
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Newry, Mourne and Down District Council has celebrated the achievements of young digital innovators at a special showcase event marking the conclusion of its Digital Makers Programme, delivered in partnership with Sentinus and funded through the Council's Regeneration, Business Support department and the Go Succeed Programme.
Students from St Joseph's High School, Crossmaglen, took the top prize at the event for a prototype travel app called Atlas, designed to allow holidaymakers to store relevant documents in a single digital format.
The programme gives students across the district hands-on experience in digital technology, app development and innovation within real business contexts, with the aim of developing the technical, creative and problem-solving skills increasingly sought within the local economy.
Newry, Mourne and Down District Council Chairperson, Councillor Philip Campbell, attended the event and praised the talent on show. "It is a real pleasure to join you today and witness the creativity, ambition and technical talent that has grown through the Digital Makers Programme," he told students. "This initiative is a shining example of the kind of forward-thinking investment that helps shape the future of our district. I would also like to offer my warmest congratulations to the winning team from St Joseph's High School whose project truly stood out."
Cllr Campbell added: "The ideas and digital solutions developed by these young people show imagination, teamwork and a willingness to take on a challenge — qualities that will serve them well wherever their future paths may lead."
The Chairperson also thanked teachers, school staff and the judging panel for their support in delivering the programme.
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