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When something doesn’t light a fire within you, keep going until you find your passion. Mum of three Emma McVerry from Crossmaglen did just that. Emma recently graduated from the Graphic Design Higher National Diploma at Southern Regional College, on Friday 29 August, and picked up the part-time ‘Student of the Year’ Award for her immense efforts during her programme of study. No stranger to education, Emma has a degree in Software Development from DKiT. However, it wasn’t the right fit.
Like many young people considering their future, Emma had originally intended on becoming a teacher and took A-levels in Religious Studies, Business Studies and ICT, but was swayed down the path of Software Development, as that’s where the job market was.
“When I first went to university, I studied Software Development at DKIT. While I enjoyed working on front-end design, the creative and technical aspects of designing the user interface ensuring they were appealing, user-friendly, and efficient, I didn’t enjoy the back-end coding side of things. It made me realise that my interest lay more in the visual and creative aspects.”
With a Software Development degree under her belt, Emma leaned into her creative side, using the Photoshop and InDesign knowledge she had gained over the years on small projects on the side at home finding enjoyment in that line of work.
A few years later and now with three young children to care for, Emma decided to return to education and study something she genuinely enjoyed, but that would also fit around family life. Emma said:
“The HND in Graphic Design at Southern Regional College felt like the right choice. It was creative, practical, and offered part-time study, which made it manageable alongside other commitments.”
Returning to study is no mean feat. It’s an adjustment for everyone in the household. Emma highlights that one of the most challenging aspects returning to education was the adjustment to allocating time for studies. She says:
“Getting back into the routine for studying was hard at first. That first assignment was overwhelming as it had been years since I’d studied properly and I found it hard to get into the mindset again. But once I got into the rhythm of it, everything clicked.”
For her final project, Emma combined photography and illustration to create ‘Oscar the Brave’, a piece which she and others could get something back from.
“I created a children’s book based on my sister’s horse-riding school, Tate Hill Stables. My sister Amy works with a lot of children with additional needs who have developed an attachment with the horses at the riding school, so I thought it would be nice for the kids to have something their parents could read to them, or the kids themselves could flick through in their own time.”
She continued: “I photographed the stables and the horses and created illustrations for the book called ‘Oscar the Brave’. Alongside the printed book, I made a large physical two-metre-tall wooden book, with laser cutouts, for the end of year exhibition. I then hand painted the wooden pieces to replicate the illustrations in the book.”
Alongside running two social media pages, one which she created to document her coursework and another offering freelance design services, from personalised illustration projects, banners to bespoke gifts, Emma plans on returning to Southern Regional College in September to undertake the part-time Creative Imaging BA (Hons) top-up degree at the College’s Banbridge campus, …where she is already thinking about what she may produce for her final exhibition in 2 years’ time.
Connect with Emma on Instagram via her social media handles @emmamcvdesign or @idesign_emv
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Returning to education after nearly a decade away can feel daunting, but for Declan Heaney it has been life changing. Declan’s journey demonstrates that a second chance at education can be the most rewarding of all and a challenge to be embraced head on.
At eighteen years of age, Declan was headed to university to study Law and Politics with a bright future in front of him. After becoming disillusioned with the course, Declan took up a full-time position lured by the appeal of a paycheck. However, this wasn’t to last after seeing colleagues with degrees advance in the workplace.
Declan said: “Once I started earning, I felt that working was better than studying as I was earning money. But over time, I recognised the long-term value of having a degree. The Covid pandemic really made me reflect, it showed me that higher education makes you more valuable to an organisation and provides better job security.”
The pandemic was the turning point for Declan. While working full-time at Sam Aerospace (NI) Ltd, Declan enrolled as a part-time student at Southern Regional College (SRC), first completing the Business Studies Higher National Diploma (HND) and subsequently the Business Studies BSc (Hons) Degree top-up.
This all proved to be a juggling act. Attending classes, keeping on top of coursework, helping family, all whilst saving and buying his first house, and planning for his upcoming wedding with fiancée Orla, taking place this coming New Year’s Eve 31 December 2025. Declan’s strategy for success involved implementing a strict weekly timetable and planning out studying and coursework to finite detail. Sacrifices were also made. With only 24 hours available in a day, Declan had to forgo his passion for playing football and Gaelic.
Declan added; “I had to be very disciplined, even giving up football over the past two years so I could fully focus on my degree. It was a sacrifice, but one I knew would benefit my future.”
That focus paid off. Declan was named Student of the Year at both his Business Studies BSc (Hons) graduation at the end of August 2025 and his previous Business Studies HND graduation in 2023 at SRC. Declan has also been recognised at the FE Excellence Awards, and in February 2024, he took home the prestigious Vocational Award at the British Education Awards. On winning the British Education Award, Declan added; “I was completely shocked to be nominated as a finalist, winning the award was both humbling and surreal, especially given the calibre of other finalists.”
At the same time, his studies strengthened his career. Declan has applied theory from modules such as supply chain management directly to his work, contributing to a series of promotions at Sam Aerospace leading to his most recent promotion of Tooling Room Lead last September.
So, what can top these achievements? Graduating for a second time with his top-up degree in Business Studies at SRC marks another milestone, but Declan isn’t finished yet. Looking ahead, Declan is keen to continue his advancement in the workplace and move into a senior management position. Long term, ambitions include helping other businesses with the skills he has learnt. He says:
“I would love to own my own business, perhaps offering consultancy services in data analytics. I believe data drives decision-making; you can’t argue with facts. I want to be in a position to use data to analyse issues and offer practical solutions to businesses.”
Declan’s advice to others thinking of returning to higher education, “Be open-minded, take each day as it comes, and don’t shy away from extra reading, it really pays off.”
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One of the north's most distinctive schools competitions is calling on pupils starting Yr. 11 to step up for the new ABP Angus Youth Challenge. Teams of two-four individuals have the chance to win an opportunity of a lifetime that includes a rare chance to gain hands-on experience of beef production with their own mini-herd of Angus cross calves and valuable work-life skills.
Organised by the agrifood business ABP in partnership with Certified Irish Angus, teams can represent a school, club or society in the competition. Following successful participation at a farm-to-fork exhibition this October, four teams will then be shortlisted to enter the finalist’s programme. They will be awarded a mini herd of Angus cross calves, valued at approximately £4,000, to rear through to finishing stage. Guided by a CAFRE adviser, finalists will then sell their finished cattle to ABP and pocket the proceeds from their sale.
The finalist programme runs for a year and is designed to complement GCSE studies with teams working on assignments relating to sustainable beef farming and food production. The programme equips participants with practical knowledge of food production and strengthens skills required to secure employment in the agri-food sector. For many, the highlight of the experience is an international study tour at the end of the summer term.
Entries for the 2025 Challenge open on 1 September and close on 3 October. Entry is by way of a short video submission via the ABP Angus Youth Challenge website. Selected entries will then be invited to an exhibition day at Balmoral Park later in October, where a judging panel will select the finalists. The overall winning team will also secure a £1,000 cheque for their school or club.
George Mullan, ABP’s Managing Director in Northern Ireland, said: “The ABP Angus Youth Challenge gives young people a practical insight into the agri-food sector while developing the skills that employers value most. It is about preparing the next generation to take their place in an industry that is vital to Northern Ireland’s economy and sustainable future.”
The competition is open to all 14–15-year-olds, regardless of a farming background and participation can also count towards the skills section of the Duke of Edinburgh/Joint Award. The outgoing finalist teams are Markethill High School, Enniskillen Royal Grammar School, St. Joseph’s Crossmaglen and Lecale Trinity Grammar School, Downpatrick. The overall winning team will be announced on 23 October at an awards ceremony in the Logan Hall Balmoral Park.
Further details on how to enter can be obtained by contacting:schools@certifiedirishangus.ie or visit abpangusyouthchallenge.com
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Southern Regional College is celebrating another year of academic excellence as students last week received their A-Level results with pride and excitement. Joining thousands of learners across the country, SRC students were rewarded for their hard work and dedication, resulting in an impressive 94.3% overall pass rate.
Several subjects also recorded a remarkable 100% pass rate - Biology, English Literature, Geography, History, Maths, Nutrition & Food Science, Physics and Sociology, highlighting the high standards of teaching and learning at the College.
Among the high achievers were:
Niamh McParland from Armagh, who achieved an A* in Government & Politics and now plans to pursue her goal of becoming a primary school teacher at either St Mary’s University College or Stranmillis University.
Adam Baird from Dungannon, secured B grades in Biology and Digital Technology and a C in Chemistry, he is set to study Pharmaceutical Sciences at Queen’s University Belfast.
Gary Freeburn from Markethill, who received a B in Physics and will now progress to Cardiff University to study Mathematics.
Academic success at SRC extends beyond traditional A-Levels with many students achieving 3 BTEC Distinction Stars (D*D*D*), equivalent to three A* grades at A-level. Among those receiving exceptional results were Erin Wall from Richhill, Sean Rodgers from Warrenpoint and Sophie Miskimmons from Markethill. These students have great plans to pursue university degrees in areas which include Forensic Science, Software Engineering and Occupational Therapy.
Top performing students came from a range of level 3 subject areas, including Applied Science, Business, Construction & the Built Environment, Forensic & Criminal Investigation, Health & Social Care, Information Technology, Sport and Exercise and Uniformed Services and 28% of SRC students from BTEC Level 3 qualifications received at least three Distinctions (DDD), the equivalent of three A grades at A-Level.
SRC’s A- Level Academy at the Armagh campus enables students to study a broad curriculum of 14 AS and A2 subjects. This includes STEM subjects of Mathematics, Biology, Physics and Chemistry to popular A-Level choices, Government and Politics, Nutrition & Food Science, Sociology and Psychology
Stephen Rogan, Head of Faculty for Computing, Design and Academic Studies at Southern Regional College commented:
“This year’s impressive A-Level results are a true reflection of the hard work, resilience, and dedication that our students have shown, and the unwavering support from the teaching staff. I’m genuinely proud of each one of them, not just for their academic success, but for the personal growth I’ve seen along the way. Huge congratulations to all on these outstanding achievements!”
The College welcomes students who are studying A-Levels for the first time as well as those applicants seeking to undertake one or more AS or A-Level subjects.
Potential students interested in studying at Southern Regional College’s A-Level Academy, who have not yet applied, should visit the College’s website www.src.ac.uk to make an application. Once an application has been submitted along with evidence of GCSE results obtained, staff will be in contact to discuss options.
You can also contact the admissions team on 0300 123 1223 or visit the College’s Facebook page www.facebook.com for further information
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Six local students are embarking on the opportunity of a lifetime this month, as they travel to the United States to take part in the prestigious Study USA scholarship programme.
A total of 60 students from Northern Ireland are taking part in the programme, which gives participants the opportunity to spend a full academic year at an American college or university.
Managed by the British Council on behalf of the Department for the Economy, the students will be placed at institutions across 24 states from Texas to Washington, and Florida to Nebraska.
Past pupil of St Paul's High School, Bessbrook, Shanice McParland will spend her year at Edgewood College, Wisconsin.
Shanice a Business Studies student at Ulster University said: “I decided to apply for Study USA because I thought it was an amazing opportunity to study in America. When I was offered a place on the programme, I couldn’t turn it down, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I’m so excited to see what it entails. I’m most looking forward to living the American college lifestyle and making new friendships in the dorms and classrooms.
“I think this experience will really help build my confidence, especially in the classroom through engaging in smaller classes. It’s also a great opportunity to make new connections while I’m in the US. When I return home, I plan to finish my final year and possibly go on to a postgraduate degree in Accounting to pursue that career path.”
Meanwhile, Tara Phillips, who went to Our Lady's Grammar School, is currently studying Psychology at Queen’s University Belfast. She has secured a spot at North Carolina Wesleyan University in North Carolina.
She added: “I’ve always loved travelling and trying new things, so when I found out about the Study USA programme, I couldn’t say no. The chance to live and study in a completely different part of the world really excited me. I know this experience will help me stand out professionally, but it’ll also push me to grow personally. Moving so far from home is a big step, but I’m ready for the adventure.
“I’m really excited to meet new people, explore new places, and study subjects I wouldn’t normally get to at home. I’m hoping to get involved with clubs and teams on campus, and I can’t wait to travel to different parts of the U.S. while I’m there.
“As a second-year psychology student, I’m looking forward to trying something completely different. Studying in the U.S. will give me the opportunity to explore new subjects and see how psychology connects with other fields, especially business, which really interests me. I’ve heard amazing stories from past participants about how much they grew, gained confidence, and made lifelong memories, and I think this year will do the same for me. Living in a new country, meeting people from all over, and getting involved on campus will definitely push me out of my comfort zone — but in a good way. I know I’ll come home more independent, resilient, and with a broader outlook on life.”
The Study USA programme receives significant support from partner institutions in the United States, with annual funding exceeding more than €2 million. The generous scholarship package includes accommodation on campus, a full meal plan, tuition fees, book allowance, flights and a £1k bursary.
Launched in 1994 to support the Northern Ireland peace process, Study USA has been running for over 30 years.
Praising the programme’s long running success Economy Minister Dr Caoimhe Archibald said: “The Study USA programme offers an invaluable opportunity for students to grow academically, professionally, and personally. It also plays a crucial role in expanding students’ horizons and shaping future leaders as well as promoting positive perceptions of the north. I wish our students taking part this year all the very best on what I’m sure will be a great experience.”
Mary Mallon, Head of Education, British Council Northern Ireland, added: “Study USA offers students a truly life-changing opportunity - one that goes far beyond academics. As well as gaining valuable experience in the classroom, they’re encouraged to immerse themselves in a new culture, build lasting friendships and really make the most of everyday life in the US.
“From joining clubs and societies to volunteering and connecting with local people, students gain new perspectives and develop a deeper understanding of the world around them. These are the kinds of experiences that build confidence, adaptability, and global awareness - qualities that are hugely important in today’s interconnected world.
“We’re incredibly proud of this year’s cohort and confident they will embrace every opportunity, represent Northern Ireland with pride, and return home with fresh ideas, new skills and memories that will last a lifetime.”
Applications for the 2026–27 programme open next month. For more information, visit: nireland.britishcouncil.org/opportunities/study-usa
Study USA continues the British Council’s mission to build connection, understanding and trust between people in the UK and worldwide through education, arts and the English language. To learn more, follow the British Council Northern Ireland on Twitter, Facebook or Instagram.
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Sacred Heart Grammar School pupils received their AS and A Level results on Thursday past 14 August, with another set of well-deserved grades. Nearly 90% of pupils received 3A*-C Grades.
School Principal Shane Comer said “We are absolutely thrilled to be celebrating with our latest group of Sacred Heart students as they receive their A-Level and AS results. With 86% of pupils receiving 3A*-C Grades, this reflects the hard work, resilience, and determination of everyone involved.
"We also remember that grades do not define you. They are just one part of your story. What truly matters is your character, your effort, and the journey you have taken to get here. Whether today brought the results you hoped for or not, you have so much to be proud of."
Mr Comer added "As you start the next chapter, whether that’s university, another year with us, work, or something else entirely, we wish you all the happiness and success in the world. Congratulations to each and every one of you.”
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Our Lady’s Grammar School in Newry are celebrating the wonderful success of their A Level students following results day on Thursday.
A total of 40% of A Level grades in Our Lady’s were awarded at A*/A, 74% at A*- B and 93% at A*- C. Twenty seven students in the year group attained the equivalent of 3 or more A*/A grades.
Commenting on the results, Principal Mrs Fiona McAlinden, thanked the teachers for their dedication and commitment to ensure that every student met her full potential and all of the school staff and parents for their support.
Mrs McAlinden said “We are delighted for our students who in addition to excelling academically have demonstrated resilience and compassion and will move into the world as, in the words of our Mercy foundress Catherine McAuley, “shining lamps, giving light to all"."
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Abbey Grammar School Principal, Mrs Gina Savage has warmly congratulated all this year’s school leavers on their excellent results, highlighting the strong partnership between pupils, parents, and staff that lies at the heart of the Abbey’s tradition of achievement.
She praised the commitment, determination, and resilience shown by the students, many of whom overcame immense personal challenges, making their success all the more remarkable.
Mrs Savage said "As our leavers take the next steps into university, higher-level apprenticeships, or employment, we wish them every success in the exciting journeys ahead,” adding “They leave the Abbey not only with impressive qualifications, but also with the character, resilience, and ambition to thrive in whatever path they choose.”
Euan O'Neill from Dromintee was the top A Level achiever gaining 4 A*. Euan has been accepted for St Andrews in Scotland where he will study Applied Maths.
Mrs Savage commended the Lower Sixth students for their exceptional AS results, providing a solid foundation for future success. She expressed her gratitude to parents and the wider Abbey community for their unwavering support, and to the dedicated staff whose hard work and care have helped every pupil strive for and reach their potential.
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With students receiving their GCSE and A-Level results over the next two weeks, the region’s six Further Education (FE) Colleges are encouraging young people to explore the wide range of options available to them in both further and higher education.
Each year, thousands of learners take their next steps with the support of the FE Colleges, which offer high-quality education and training in a varied vocational and academic areas. Whether you’re aiming for university, employment, or developing a specific skillset, there is a route for you.
SRC Newry Events
SRC's Open Campus Event is taking place this year on Friday 22 August from 5pm - 7 pm on the Newry and Armagh campus. This event is a chance for students to drop in and speak with lecturers across all subject areas.
Enrol in person at the Newry campus between 6:00pm and 8:00pm on any of the following dates. No appointment needed, just drop in.
Thursday 14 August 2025 (A-Level Results Day)
Monday 18 August 2025
Thursday 21 August 2025 (GCSE Results Day)
Tuesday 26 August 2025
Wednesday 27 August 2025
What Are My Options?
Students receiving results this August may be uncertain about their future. FE Colleges provide a range of pathways tailored to suit diverse needs, including:
College Careers Advisors are available throughout the summer to provide personalised guidance on which option may be best based on individual results and career goals.
Waiting for results can be a stressful time, but it’s important for students and their families to know that there are always options available. Northern Ireland’s FE Colleges provide support, advice, and quality learning opportunities that help build bright futures.
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