Ulster Tatler Post Primary Guide 2024

Ulster Tatler’s essential guide to help you make the best post-primary choice for your child.

LIST OF SCHOOLS INSIDE Campbell College / The Royal Belfast Academical Institution / Grosvenor Grammar / Victoria College / Rockport / Wellington College / Sullivan Upper / Strathearn School / Banbridge Academy / Saintfield High / St Louis Grammar / St Joseph’s College / Ashfield Girls’ High School / Antrim Grammar / OCN NI / Integrated Education Fund / Lagan College / Slemish College / Sperrin Integrated / Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate / Clongowes Wood / Alexandra College / Dundalk Grammar / Laura Walker Ballet / Learning Unlocked / Youth Lyric

CONTENTS

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

TAKING THE NEXT STEP

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WITH MANY POST-PRIMARY SCHOOLS OPENING THEIR DOORS THIS MONTH TO PROSPECTIVE PUPILS, NOW IS THE TIME TO START THINKING ABOUT WHICH SCHOOL IS BEST FOR YOUR CHILD.

Moving on from primary school to secondary education can be daunting for both children and parents. Ulster Tatler’s Post-Primary School Guide has been designed to give you a helping hand. Throughout this feature, we explore the best the province has to offer in a range of different schools, including secondary schools, grammar schools, Integrated and boarding schools. With many of the post-primary schools opening their

102 104 106 108 110 111 112 114 115 116 117 118

Campbell College The Royal Belfast Academical Institution Grosvenor Grammar School Victoria College Rockport Wellington College Sullivan Upper Ashfield Girls’ High School Strathearn School Banbridge Academy Saintfield High School St Louis Grammar Antrim Grammar St Joseph’s College

Integrated Education 120 Integrated Education Fund 122 Lagan College 124 Slemish College 126 Sperrin Integrated Boarding Schools 128 Queen Ethelburga’s Collegiate 129 Clongowes Wood College 130 Alexandra College 131 Dundalk Grammar

doors at the start of the year you can make the most of their open nights to take a look around and see what they have to offer. You will also get the chance to talk to staff and teachers directly and ask any questions you may have.

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Tutoring & Extra Curricular 117 Laura Walker Ballet 119 OCN Northern Ireland 140 Learning Unlocked

Join our 2024 Open Night Friday 12th January 2024 6:00-9:00pm Boarding Places Available

Discover more at CampbellCollege.co.uk

THE ROYAL BELFAST ACADEMICAL INSTITUTION

OPEN DAY

FOR P6 AND P7 TRANSFER PUPILS AND THEIR PARENTS

Saturday 13 January 2024 9.30am - 12.30pm th

ON THE DAY The Principal, Ms Williamson, will welcome guests in the Common Hall at 10.30am and 11.30am.

A full range of School activities will be on display, as will classrooms, laboratories, the Centre of Technological Innovation, the Sports Hall, Swimming Pool and Christ Church Building.

Students who are considering A Level courses are very welcome.

Alternatively, tours will be held on Tuesday 6th February from 4pm-5pm.

INNOVATIVE With specialist facilities like our Centre of Technical Innovation we can nourish inventive young minds and best prepare them for future careers in fields like design and engineering.

The next generation of world builders are having essential career cornerstones instilled right now at RBAI.

INCLUSIVE Having the best possible start in life is what everyone wants for their child, and the diverse range of friendships made at RBAI not only last a lifetime, but nurture open minds and a positive world view.

Sporting prowess is encouraged at RBAI along with academic excellence, as we seek to maximize the whole potential of a child.

INCOMPARABLE From our iconic black and yellow school ties to our premier location in the heart of the capital, RBAI is distinctively cosmopolitan without being overtly urban - an oasis of culture and learning conveniently close to the bus and train termini at Great Victoria Street.

When asked to sum up what RBAI has to offer, we simply describe it as…

INSTPIRATIONAL

But don’t take our word for it, come and join us on the day.

www.rbai.org.uk The Royal Belfast Academical Institution, College Square East, Belfast BT1 6DL.

Tel: 028 90 240461

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

LIFE AT GROSVENOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL

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POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

GROSVENOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL, BELFAST

RELATIONSHIPS - RESPECT - RESPONSIBILITY At Grosvenor, the pupils consistently achieve outstanding examination results at GCSE and A Level. The school prides itself on providing a caring and supportive learning environment in which all are inspired to achieve high standards and to become tolerant and confident adults.

Music and drama have always been two of our most successful extra-curricular fields, and events such as the carol service, spring concert and annual school production have provided the perfect opportunity for Grosvenor pupils to showcase their amazing talent.

In sport, Grosvenor pupils have enjoyed fantastic success and the school welcomes families and friends to its Saturday morning fixtures, while the pupils have also benefitted from many sporting and educational trips to varying destinations such as Spain, Germany, France, Portugal and Poland in recent years.

Grosvenor Grammar School is located in the Castlereagh area of East Belfast and benefits from fantastic, modern facilities.

Happiness breeds success in Grosvenor and everyone is encouraged to get involved in the school community.

The school has a proud tradition of providing a high-quality education to all of its pupils, enabling them to participate in

a superb range of curricular and extracurricular activities.

The school ethos is underpinned by the three values of: relationships, respect and responsibility. Pupils are welcomed into the Grosvenor family and its dedicated staff members work hard to ensure that pupils feel supported and encouraged at every stage of their educational pathway.

Further information is available on the school’s social media accounts and on the school website (details below) where, amongst other things, you will be able to enjoy our promotional videos.

Oscar winner and former pupil Ross White, pictured alongside Principal Dr F Vasey and Miss S R Rainey OBE, Chairperson of the Board of Governors.

Dr Vasey, Principal.

Our open nights are on Wednesday 10 and Thursday 11 January 2024 from 6.30pm – 9.00pm.

For more information contact: Grosvenor Grammar School, Marina Park, Belfast, BT5 6BA Tel: 028 9070 2777 Email: info@grosvenor.belfast.ni.sch.uk, Website: www.grosvenorgrammarschool.org.uk Facebook: Grosvenor Grammar School X: @GrosvenorGS Instagram: @grosvenor_gs PAGE 103

VICTORIA COLLEGE BELFAST YOU AN EXCEPTIONAL SCHOOL IN SOUTH BELFAST INSPIRING EACH PUPIL TO REALISE THEIR FULL POTENTIAL Victoria College is a leading nondenominational grammar school that provides an outstanding and rounded educational experience.

The College is conveniently located between the Lisburn and Malone Roads, close to town and country bus routes and the local railway network; hence pupils travel from a wide catchment area to avail of the high quality teaching and learning.

The school takes pride in its strong record of academic achievement, sporting success and outstanding pastoral care. Pupils are inspired, supported and challenged to reach their full potential and achieve their aspirational goals.

The personalised learning needs of each pupil are met through a broad and balanced curriculum allowing each individual pupil to blossom, whilst enjoying the freedom to explore fully all the educational and cultural opportunities available.

“An exceptional school that provides high quality education.

Staff members show real care, dedication and display a high level of professionalism to ensure that the College provides a safe, secure and challenging environment for students to learn and grow academically, emotionally and personally.”

Inclusion and Quality - Mark Assessor

Please visit our school website and social media to experience our vibrant school community.

BE A PART OF VCB!

Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) is an integral part of the school experience and across the Key Stages pupils are engaged in innovative programmes.

Pupils may also avail of a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities allowing them to develop the knowledge, skills, values, attitudes and dispositions which prepare them for success in work and in life.

The College boasts a modern sports hall on campus and the PE Department also benefits from access to facilities at the nearby Queen’s University Belfast and Newforge Sports Complex.

“Pupils benefit significantly from the opportunities provided for participation in an extensive range of sporting, cultural and other additional enrichment activities, which further develop their personal and social skills.”

- ETI

In sports, pupils represent Ulster and Northern Ireland at local, national and international levels and in school they can enjoy an exciting range of activities from athletics, cross-country, badminton, gymnastics, hockey, netball, basketball and tennis to swimming, trampolining, rugby, golf, dance and equestrian events.

Music, theatre, languages, art and humanities are real strengths within the school as is the STEAM agenda. The educational experience for both pupils and staff is enhanced through partnerships with schools at home and abroad and through a range of educational trips and visits each year, further augmenting the international dimension that permeates the school.

SCAN TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE.

BE EXCEPTIONAL BE CREATIVE BE INSPIRED BE YOU.

BE VISIONARY CONSCIENTIOUS BRILLIANT BE YOU www.victoriacollege.org.uk

www.victoriacollege.org.uk

OPEN DAY | SAT 13TH JANUARY | 10AM - 1PM

Rockport School An independent, co-educational day and boarding school for boys and girls, aged 2½ - 18.

15 Rockport Road, Craigavad, Holywood, BT18 0DD www.rockportschool.com / info@rockportschool.com 028 90428372

Why Rockport?

Idyllically situated on the shores of Belfast Lough and a proud member of Round Square, we have strong values and a sense of adventure.

Combine everything that makes us ‘Rockport’ and you have an inspiring environment and an education which goes far beyond the classroom.

GOLF ACADEMY The first school-based golf academy in Ireland. Offering a highperformance sport programme and a first-rate international education.

LOCATION Overlooking Belfast Lough and only 7 stops/18 minutes via train from Belfast. Easy and convenient!

Lanyon Place Titanic Quarter Sydenham Holywood Marino Cultra Seahill

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POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

Pupils have many opportunities to demonstrate their musical skills.

The annual musical allows pupils to shine both front of house and backstage.

A FLAVOUR OF WELLINGTON COLLEGE The annual Wellington Bake Off produces spectacular results.

Colour Run - one of the many charitable fund raising events each year.

n College, including r activities on offer at Wellingto There are many extra-curricula Botanic Gardens. to trip al annu their at here the photography club, pictured

Pupils have many opportunities

1st XV rugby squad on tour.

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to expand their horizons on Colle

ge trips.

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

WELLINGTON COLLEGE

ENGAGE - EDUCATE - EMPOWER Wellington College is a co-educational grammar school situated in one of Belfast’s most attractive and accessible locations. The College is close to main arterial routes into and out of Belfast and its pupils benefit from dedicated transport services. Accommodated in first-class buildings, Wellington College offers superior facilities including sophisticated practice and recording rooms in the music department, state-of-the-art ICT facilities, a lecture theatre, fitness suite, tennis courts, sports hall and astro turf pitch.

Wellington College has a well-deserved reputation as a caring school with a strong pastoral and academic ethos. The most recent ETI Report (May 2022) found ‘the pupils courteous, polite and well-disposed to learning.

They contribute well to the life of the school and the wider community. Their behaviour both in and out of the classroom is exemplary’. The report went on to say that ‘parents commented positively on the work of the school, communication between home and school, and the excellent pastoral care system’. The report concluded that Wellington College rated ‘Good’ in all aspects inspected from quality of provision for teaching and learning, leadership and management and governance.

The College emphasises individual fulfilment and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of education and holds high expectations of all pupils in terms of behaviour and school work. It aims to empower young people to achieve the best results of which they are capable. Whilst academic success remains a priority at Wellington College, it believes that all students should benefit from a broad range of extra curricular opportunities.

At Wellington, pupils are expected to take part in the full, rich and diverse life of the College. In music, pupils can join one of the choirs or singing groups, the concert band,

Year 8 enjoying their team building day at Crawfordsburn.

or one of the many instrumental ensembles.

In sport they can participate in hockey, rugby, football, netball, athletics, badminton, tennis and golf, to name but a few. Other opportunities for extra curricular success include debating/public speaking, ICT club, art club, science club, chess club, the Duke of Edinburgh award scheme, scripture union and baking club. In addition the College puts on a musical performance each year which allows a huge number of pupils to take part both onstage and backstage.

Wellington College wants every pupil’s experience to be exciting and inspirational. It takes every opportunity to broaden horizons and place learning in context. Pupils take part in trips, visits and courses in a range of local, national and international settings including sporting trips to Italy, language trips to France and Spain and the annual ski trip. The College believes that to prepare all pupils for the challenges they face in the future, its job is to present them with as many different situations as possible in which they can adapt, compete and develop into successful citizens of the future.

The annual ski trip.

A virtual tour as well as other information can be accessed via our website at www.wellingtoncollegebelfast.org

1st XI hockey squad.

Caring for the community with our foodbank appeal.

Our open evenings will take place on Thursday 11th January 2024 and Monday 15th January 2024 from 7.00-9.00pm.

‘Leadership opportunities in the College’ - senior prefects and heads of houses.

For more information contact: Wellington College Belfast 18 Carolan Road, Belfast, BT7 3HE Telephone 028 9064 2539

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POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

SULLIVAN UPPER SCHOOL, HOLYWOOD

WELCOME TO SULLIVAN UPPER SCHOOL

Sullivan Upper School is a nondenominational, voluntary grammar school. The school was founded in 1877 and, since 1939, has occupied extensive grounds on the edge of Holywood. The school’s aims remain very much as they originally were: to provide the best possible education for all pupils, regardless of race, gender, background or religious denomination.

is extended through a wide range of cocurricular and extracurricular activities, for example, in sports, music and drama. Pupils enjoy competing in a range of sports from rugby to fencing, from hockey to badminton and the arts also flourish at the school. Many pupils contribute to the school’s excellent instrumental and choral groups such as the band, jazz group and orchestra and there is a range of high-quality drama productions. We aim to broaden the horizons of our pupils with many exciting trips, both locally and overseas.

We take great pride in the character that our pupils exhibit, and so community service and the support of a range of charities are important aspects of school life.

A dedicated team of teaching and nonteaching staff help each individual pupil develop his or her talents to the full and to prepare themselves effectively for the challenges and responsibilities of adult life.

Sullivan Upper School’s emphasis is strongly academic and we place a high value on academic achievement. The vast majority of pupils remain at school after GCSE to take A Level courses before heading off to universities at home or further afield, including Oxford and Cambridge. Sullivan Upper’s proud record of outstanding results in public examinations shows that all pupils are empowered to realise their potential.

To find out more, visit our school website www.sullivanupper.co.uk

Pupils come to Sullivan from a large catchment area, covering North Down, Ards and East Belfast. Sullivan Upper takes great pride in providing its pupils with a broad and balanced curriculum, supported by a muchpraised pastoral care system – truly living up to the school motto ‘lamh foisdineach an uachtar’ or ‘the gentle hand foremost’, a constant reminder of the virtue of gentleness in dealing with others. At Sullivan we believe that what goes on outside of the classroom is also very important. In order to ensure that all pupils are granted a well-rounded education in every aspect, the curriculum

OPEN MORNING SATURDAY 13 JANUARY 2024 9.30 AM TO 12.30 PM P7, P6 and Sixth Form pupils and their parents are warmly invited to visit the school.

ALL SO WELCOME

Sullivan Upper School, Belfast Road, Holywood, BT18 9EP Tel: 028 9042 8780 Email: info@sullivanupper.holywood.ni.sch.uk Website: www.sullivanupper.co.uk

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Ashfield Girls’ High School

OPEN EVENING

Tuesday 23 rd January 2024 6.30pm to 9.00pm “Ashfield Girls’ gave me the confidence to achieve my dream career.”

Amy ~ Past Pupil Biomedical Scientist

FUTURE

SCIENTIST Your future starts in Ashfield Girls’

Strathearn School 188 Belmont Road, BT4 2AU T: 028 9047 1595 E: info@strathearn.belfast.ni.sch.uk

ENCOURAGE EMPOWER EXCEL

Strathearn School OPEN MORNING

Saturday 6 January 2024, 9.15am - 12.30pm

ased on East Belfast’s Belmont Road, Strathearn School consistently ranks among the UK’s top grammar schools – most recently ranked, once again, as the top girls’ grammar school in Northern Ireland by Parent Power in The Sunday Times Schools Guide 2023.

Whilst these rankings focus on outstanding examination results, Strathearn’s success transcends all aspects of school life. Our ethos as a school centres on a caring and nurturing environment in which every pupil is celebrated for their own individual talents and is supported to realise their full potential across a wide range of both curricular and extra-curricular areas.

This success also extends to our Preparatory Department, Penrhyn, where an average of 97% of P7 pupils secure a place at a grammar school of their choice each year, alongside the many tremendous achievements recorded by girls in P1-7 in music, drama and sport.

“

Strathearn Principal Nicola Connery said:

At Strathearn, we support our pupils to develop their love of learning, make life-long friends and take advantage of the wealth of marvellous opportunities on offer here.

At our Open Morning, prospective pupils and their families will meet with our teachers and pupils, hearing their own experiences of life at Strathearn. You will have the opportunity to explore our state-of-the-art school facilities

“

B

school community, are encouraging and empowering our pupils to excel in everything they do.

We very much look forward to welcoming you to Strathearn on Saturday 06 January.

For more information about Strathearn School, visit:

www.strathearn.org.uk

Banbridge Academy “The pursuit of excellence in a caring and supportive community.”

Banbridge Academy was founded in 1786 and moved to its impressive present location, Edenderry House, in 1950. During the last 30 years there have been two major building projects which have blended the best of modernity with the school’s family ethos and distinguished heritage. The modern and attractive educational facilities, combined with a talented and dedicated teaching staff, enable Banbridge Academy to provide an excellent standard of education where high quality Teaching and Learning is prioritised.

Educational activities spread far beyond the confines of the classroom. From experiencing life in World War One trenches in Bayernwald, Flanders, to a field study in the Rocky River, Mourne Mountains, its pupils enjoy broad and varied learning experiences. Recent visits have included educational trips to Boston, Barcelona, Berlin and to Iceland.

The ethos of Banbridge Academy is: The pursuit of excellence in a caring and supportive community. Pupils excel as a community of learners, in an atmosphere of academic enquiry, where they are encouraged to become articulate, reflective and independent learners.

Current and former Academy pupils have excelled in sports at regional, provincial, national and international level. Rugby continues to grow, having won a number of trophies in 2023,

including the Danske Bank Ulster Schools’ Bowl and the Ulster Schools’ Medallion Trophy. In 2022, the boys’ 1st XI hockey team won the All Ireland Final. In recent years, the girls’ senior hockey team have enjoyed success, including winning The Belfast Telegraph Ulster Senior Schoolgirls’ Schools’ Cup and the Kate Russell Subway All Ireland Championship.

Pupils are always encouraged to get involved in as many extra and co-curricular activities as possible. Over seventy opportunities exist in the school’s rich extra-curricular provision, complemented by the school’s thriving House System, named after significant local figures: Crozier, Dunbar, McWilliam and Waddell.

In the last ten years, Banbridge Academy pupils have raised in excess of £182,000 for various local, national and international charities. The outstanding quality and variety of the Drama Society’s theatrical productions contribute to the inclusive ethos of the school. Recent productions have included Guys and Dolls, The Sound of Music, Show Stoppers and The Wizard of Oz. The Principal, Mr Robin McLoughlin, extends a welcome to our Open Night on Monday 29th January, 2024. Please take time to visit the school website and experience the warmth and energy of the friendly, caring ethos that defines Banbridge Academy.

Open Night

Monday 29 January 2024 Primary 7 pupils and their parents are warmly invited to attend.

Principal’s talk in Assembly Hall at 7.00pm and 8.00pm.

Sixth Form Presentation Lecture Theatre at 7.30pm.

T: 028 4062 3220 or visit www.banbridgeacademy.org.uk

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

ST LOUIS GRAMMAR SCHOOL, KILKEEL

LIFE-LONG EXPERIENCES FOR ST. LOUIS STUDENTS Nestled between the foothills of the majestic Mourne Mountains and the expanse of the Irish Sea, lies the fine academic institution - St. Louis Grammar School, Kilkeel. Founded in 1922 by the St. Louis Sisters, this co-educational grammar school celebrated its Centenary last year. A yearlong series of events to mark this milestone in the school’s history also provided an opportunity to reflect on the school’s contribution to the lives of so many young people throughout numerous generations.

St. Louis Grammar School, Kilkeel, is a coeducational Specialist School in Technology and Computing, that caters for students aged 11-18. With over 750 students on roll, the school includes a thriving Sixth Form offering pathways into a variety of careers, from preparing students for their university courses to preparing students to step immediately into the world of employment.

St. Louis prides itself on its holistic approach to education with the needs of the students being central to its vision.

Over the years the school has adapted, evolved and grown in size. However, the ethos and charism remain the same and the high standards of education and pastoral care continue. The school takes great delight in hearing about former and current pupils reaching the highest standards academically and in other areas.

St Louis provides an education which challenges students to be the best they can, and academic success comes about through strong relationships between students, their parents and their teachers.

The school has a strong tradition of success associated with its promotion of Gaelic sports. Throughout its history, St.

St. Louis Teachers and students complete the ‘Mud Run’ in Castlewellan in aid of Cancer Research.

Year 9 Student wins All-Ireland Credit Union Environment Poster competition.

St. Louis quartet fnishing as runners up in the UK Quadcopter Competition.

Senior pupil reaches for the sky for St. Louis.

St. Louis Students in Paris.

Louis girls have experienced success on the Camogie fields, winning numerous Ulster School’s titles and even appearing in two All-Ireland schools’ finals. St. Louis girls also have experienced success in Ladies Gaelic football, securing an Ulster title in 2017.

Boys’ Gaelic football has been promoted with an Ireland School’s title captured in 2004, as well as two appearances in the MacRory Cup finals in 2005 and 2006.

Although numerous other Ulster titles have been secured over the years, St. Louis is proud of its contribution to Down football, providing a substantial number of players to wear the red and black. St. Louis students are also engaged in other sports, including hurling, athletics and golf.

St. Louis students are also challenged in other ways as the school is competitive in many extra-curricular academic challenges.

The world of science and technology offers students opportunities to develop their skills and talents in this field. Involvement in competitions such as the BT Young Scientist of the Year, and more recently, the UK Quadcopter Challenge, have seen St. Louis students bask in success as they attained national recognition for their talents

St. Louis U-15 Peadar Barry Shield winners.

and creativity. Numerous individual awards and scholarships have been secured by St. Louis students, exemplifying the excellent standards being promoted by the school.

St. Louis also offers a wide range of school trips which have provided enriched life experiences for generations. Recent school trips have seen students travel to Barcelona, Paris, Italy and New York.

St. Louis offers a broad and balanced education for all its students. With up to 20 GCSE/BTEC Level 2 courses and over 26 AS/A2/BTEC Level 3 courses to choose from, St. Louis can certainly cater for the needs of all who attend the school. As St. Louis celebrates its 100th birthday, its position as one of the top schools in Northern Ireland is certainly secured for generations to come.

St. Louis Grammar School, 151 Newry Road, Kilkeel, Co. Down BT34 4EU Principal: Mr. Kevin Martin Tel: 02841762747/028 4176 0303 Email: info@stlouisgrammar.kilkeel.ni.sch.uk / www.stlouis.org.uk PAGE 116

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

AFTER SCHOOL ACTIVITIES

BALLET CLASSES Laura Walker Ballet School laurawalkerballet@hotmaiI.com

It is undeniable that extra curricular activities are beneficial for children. It allows them to develop a range of skills that can carry right through to their working adult lives. Sporting activities promote teamwork and dedication, while the likes of drama clubs enhance their social skills and confidence. Post-primary schools across Northern Ireland provide their students with an abundance of after-school activities to suit every child and their passions.

Not forgetting, when students reach the end of their school life and want to move on to university, extra curricular activities provide precious UCAS points, which may help them get into their preferred university. As children leave primary school and enter into secondary education their commitment to clubs and activities can be tested, as they tend to stick with their select group of friends and don’t like to branch out. It is at this pre-teen stage that they should be encouraged by both the school and parents/ guardians to pursue their passions and not give up.

Contact Laura on 07711643958, Facebook Laura Walker Ballet School Classes in: St Johns 141 Malone Road, Belfast Tuesday and Thursday Holywood Old School Church Road, Holywood Wednesday and Fridays Carnmoney Presbyterian, Saturdays

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POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

ST JOSEPH’S COLLEGE, BELFAST

ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE THROUGH PARTNERSHIP St Joseph’s College is a vibrant and exciting place to be in every day. Prospective pupils and their parents are invited to our open night on Thursday 18th January 2024.

Positive relationships and respect are the driving forces for what we do well. The school is proud of our students’ successes; they do well academically, excel on the games field and stretch themselves in many different ways through the variety of activities on offer.

They develop and explore their talents and interests.

The school gives an education that goes beyond academic excellence and all their other achievements. A St. Joseph’s College education provides the girls and boys with a spiritual compass to guide them through adult life.

Principal, Michele McCormick, said: “I am so proud and privileged to lead this school. It is an ideal setting to constantly create, innovate, think outside the box and achieve. We achieve excellence through our partnership between pupils, parents, staff and being a school for the whole community.”

OPEN NIGHT THURSDAY 18TH JANUARY 2024

7.00pm - 9.00pm Principal’s Address at 7.00pm All primary 6/7 pupils, prospective 6th form students and their parents are welcome

For more information contact the Principal: Michele McCormick St Joseph’s College, 518-572 Ravenhill Road, Belfast, BT6 0BY Tel: 028 9049 1280 Web: www.stjosephscollegebelfast.org.uk Email:info@stjosephs.belfast.ni.sch.uk

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Northern Ireland’s Leading Professional and Technical Awarding Organisation Our mission is "To develop and award qualifications which engage, enrich and equip learners for life".

As an independent, self-financing charitable organisa�on OCN NI has a proven track record of delivering and contribu�ng to the NI skills agenda. As an indigenous Awarding Organisa�on based in Belfast, our priority is to develop and maintain qualifica�ons tailored to meet the demands of people living and working in NI. Our flexibility and responsiveness to economic need ensures our qualifica�ons are tailored to the requirements of educa�on and training providers, employers, learners and align to the objec�ves of the ‘Skills for a 10x Economy’.

Working in partnership with our recognised educa�on and training providers, we have developed economically relevant and learner engaging curricula, which has helped to tackle educa�onal underachievement and contribute to a skilled workforce to meet the demands of the NI economy and beyond.

If you are interested in offering any of our qualifica�ons, get in touch with us today: Email: info@ocnni.org.uk Web: www.ocnni.org.uk Tel: 028 90 463 990

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024 Why would my school consider becoming Integrated?

In Integrated schools, children of all backgrounds learn side by side every day in the same classroom.

INTEGRATED EDUCATION

CELEBRATING INTEGRATED EDUCATION

Integrated Education has demonstrated that it can: • Provide an excellent education • Add value to a child’s educational experience • Develop positive social attitudes and respect through daily interaction and relationship building • Nurture and improve community relations among young people Schools who have gone through the process of Transformation report many positive benefits, such as giving pupils opportunities to broaden their perspectives and to prepare for a more culturally diverse world.

Ballyhenry Primary School pupils celebrating their successful parental ballot to transform to Integrated status.

There is a sense that real momentum is building for Integrated Education. Gaining Integrated status for a school comes about by consensus and intention, not accident.

Every year across Northern Ireland more parents and schools are saying ‘Integrated Education, we’re in.’

Pupil numbers have grown with almost 28,000 children currently being educated in 71 Integrated schools. Within the last year, several schools have successfully held parental ballots for Transformation and will seek Department of Education approval to become Integrated.

Parents’ Perspective Why should I #ChooseIntegrated for my child?

‘To me integration means inclusivity and respect; these are things I want my children to learn and be around.’ Parent of a child at an Integrated Primary School Pupil from Ballymena Nursery School, who recently voted to transform to Integrated status.

BACKGROUND What is Integrated Education?

An Integrated school brings together pupils, staff and governors of different cultures and religious beliefs and those of no faith background, including reasonable numbers of both Protestants and Catholics. An Integrated school educates together those of different abilities and socio-economic backgrounds, it strives for inclusivity, celebrating religious and cultural diversity.

Pupils from Bangor Academy and Sixth Form, the largest school in Northern Ireland, celebrate after their parents vote yes to integration.

How does a school move towards Transformation?

A school Board of Governors can make a decision to explore Transformation, this results in the parents of the school being asked if they want their child’s school to become Integrated. The Integrate My School website gives parents the opportunity to confidentially register that they would like their child’s school to consider transforming to Integrated status.

Integrated Education plays an important role in Northern Ireland, as the pupils learn with, from and about each other on a daily basis.

This helps build a more shared society.

Integrated Education encourages children and young people to recognise what they share in common, as well as what makes them different. It promotes the expression of different cultures and traditions while accepting and nurturing the individual.

A Parent-Led Movement Every Integrated school has been built or Transformed to become Integrated because of the determination of parents. It is only with the will of a majority of parents that the road to Integration will begin. Any school can become Integrated, apart from hospital and special schools, and you can register support for your child’s school to explore this option at integratemyschool.com

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The Integrated Education Fund works to support the development and growth of Integrated Education in Northern Ireland through outreach, advocacy and providing grants.

If you would like to find out more about Integrated Education, then please contact us on 028 90 694099 or email info@integratemyschool.com.

Pupils from Hazelwood Integrated College.

“incredible”

integrated education we’re in More parents and schools than ever before are registering their interest in Integrated Education.

Visit IntegrateMySchool.com to find out how your school can become Integrated.

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

A SCHOOL FOR ALL CHILDREN AT LAGAN COLLEGE

UT SINT UNUM PAGE 122

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

LAGAN COLLEGE, BELFAST

NORTHERN IRELAND’S FUTURE Lagan College is Northern Ireland’s first planned integrated school. We are also an inclusive, all-ability, co-educational, 11-18 school that meets the learning styles and needs of all children within the same family.

We celebrate the diverse backgrounds and cultures of children from over 50 feeder primary schools, city and countryside-wide.

Founded by parents in 1981, our school promotes a strong integrated and inclusive ethos based on core values of respect, equality, reconciliation and service and we encourage our students and their families to embrace these values irrespective of Christian faith, other or none.

Our Pastoral Care team works together with our Chaplains and external agencies to support all students in terms of their wellbeing and care. We continually strive to educate our students in an environment not only where self-esteem and independence are developed as priorities, but also in a caring environment of respect for self and respect for others.

Lagan College continues to provide diverse opportunities and experiences for our students. Our students are encouraged to be ‘peacemakers’, and take an active role in service and leadership within our school environment via the Students Council, Mediation Team, Prefect Teams, student-led Eco Committee, or charitable work.

Lagan College is fortunate to be located in south Belfast, on a National Trust site of natural beauty, and to date, we have achieved 6 Green Flag Awards as well as holding the accolades of being an international ‘Cross of Nails’ Peace & Reconciliation School, a

‘Rights Respecting’ Community and an ICT award-winning learning hub.

Learning, developing and growing up ‘together’ is at the heart of what we do. We celebrate effort, achievements and diversity and we offer a diverse range of courses designed to appeal to all styles of learners.

Our students can choose from 53 GCSE and 29 A-Level courses, with 2023 outcomes representing the best in the history of the college, again showcasing the strong partnership between our students, our staff and our families.

We passionately believe we have something to offer every child. We focus on their strengths, interests, and talents - be that in music, drama, coding or those who enjoy public speaking, sport and STEM innovation. We pursue the ultimate goal of nurturing important personal qualities of self-belief, confidence and happiness in our students. We offer a range of learning opportunities and educational visits beyond the classroom, and our students can access over 40 different extra-curricular clubs.

We are extremely proud of our students and the varied pathways our alumni choose to take beyond Lagan College. We recognise the positive impact we can make, as an integrated school, on the future lives of children in our care, as they develop into young adults, intentionally ready to live within a shared and peaceful society.

For more information contact: Lagan College, 44 Manse Road, Belfast BT8 6SA Telephone: 028 9040 1810 web: www.lagancollege.com Email: info@lagancollege.com PAGE 123

Slemish College is a vibrant, forward thinking learning community with a wonderfully diverse family of learners.

Since our foundation in 1996, we have been striving to meet the needs of students who come from all faiths and traditions, backgrounds and academic abilities. We have grown from our first cohort of 84 students in 1996 to over 1000 today, reflecting the strong regard for Slemish by the local and wider community.

Our College Credo is ‘Learning Together for Individual Success’ and we are committed to excellence for every student entrusted to us.

Our success as a school is well documented, particularly for our focus on creative and innovative Teaching for Learning and our endeavours to build close partnerships with parents and families. The College has consistently achieved the top level of assessment in ETI Inspections. The quality of education has been further underlined by the number of teaching awards received by staff; as well as being the first Northern Irish school to win the highest level of award from The European Foundation for Quality Management, alongside numerous other globally recognised awards.

Our hallmarks are strong teaching, and strong identity as a college community. This has ensured that for many, Slemish has been a natural choice for all in the family.

We have the highest standards and expectations for our students, nurturing our gifted and talented, and fostering more practical strengths necessary for vocational careers. Students from Slemish progress to every occupation imaginable. Each year, our students are successful in gaining places on much sought after apprenticeships. Slemish consistently sends students to top Russell Group universities, including Oxford and Cambridge.

Whether a child is highly academic, or more practical in skills and abilities, our aim is that they will be able to attain the best opportunities available to them.

Whatever their aims and aspirations, Slemish seeks to provide courses that will help students achieve their goals, and the College aims to develop the strengths inherent in each individual character. The credo sums up our belief that our school is truly about Learning Together for Individual Success.

After 7 years with us, we want children to take away more than just a set of great results at GCSE and A Level. Our strong Christian ethos ensures that each and every member of our community develops a genuine sense of self-worth and respect for others - qualities that we hope will transcend the boundaries of the classroom to help shape a brighter, better future.

OUR VALUES MORE THAN JUST WORDS ON A WALL

COMMUNITY

HIGH EXPECTATIONS

INTEGRITY

KINDNESS

DETERMINATION

CREATIVITY

The values were chosen not just through careful consultations with students, parents, staff and governors. They were chosen because they reflect all that we want the people of Slemish College to be.

We are proud that as an integrated school, our students have the opportunity to learn together.

Students of the main faith traditions, and none, attend Slemish College. Integrated education is not about diluting faith traditions, it is about affirming and sharing them.

Additionally, we have the designated status of ‘bilateral’ which means that we are both a Grammar and All Ability School, providing pathways for students of all academic abilities.

35% of our annual intake is admitted through Grammar entry, and we are a host school for the new SEAG entrance assessment. The remaining 65% gain entry without any reference to academic ability. This ensures that we enrol a wide range of abilities and that we can provide excellence in curricular choice for all.

Primary School pupils and their parents are invited to attend our

OPEN NIGHTS

WEDNESDAY 24 & THURSDAY 25 JANUARY • 6:30 – 9:00PM

www.slemishcollege.org.uk

OPEN EVENT

17TH JAN 2023 18TH JAN 2023 5:30-7:15pm 3:30-5:15pm

BOOK ONLINE

Sperrin College is a highly successful, all ability integrated school educating young people in a creative and inspiring environment. Founded in 2002, the College attracts over 650 pupils from Magherafelt, Cookstown, Antrim and beyond.

Offering the opportunity to study in both Grammar and All-Ability pathways, the College provides a unique educational experience for pupils of all faiths and abilities. Pupils are afforded an exciting curricular and extracurricular experience.

In August 2023 at GCSE our outstanding results included 99% of pupils achieving 5 A*-C grades with both the Mathematics and English departments seeing 90% of pupils achieving A*-C grades. 92% of Year 12 pupils achieved 7 A*-C grades.

At A Level, the overall pass rate was 100% of pupils achieving 3 or more grades A* to E. Overall, 94% of all entries were A*-C grades, with 75% of all entries at A*-B improving upon the previous year’s record-breaking results.

Sperrin College, 39 Pound Road, Magherafelt, BT45 6NR || 028 7963 4177 || www.sperrincollege.com

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

BENEFITS OF INTEGRATED EDUCATION

Integrated education promotes equal opportunities and inclusivity for pupils of all abilities and backgrounds. The aim of integrated education is to provide an all-inclusive learning environment whilst encouraging diversity in a setting where students can learn, interact and grow together. Students from all different cultural, socio-economic and academic backgrounds learn side by side which enables them to gain an understanding and respect for one another’s differences. Integrated education helps develop a sense of belonging and acceptance for all and plays a vital role in helping prepare students for life after school where they are likely to be socialising in mixed environments whether it be in employment or further education.

For more information on the benefits of Integrated Education visit: www.ief.org.uk

WHY CHOOSE TO BOARD? Ensuring you have all the information you need about boarding schools will help you decide if this is the right path for your child. Boarding schools offer a number of benefits, including encouraging independence, promoting social skills and freedom for creativity.

Independence As children approach their teenage years they will naturally want to gain independence. Choosing to board for their post-primary education is a great way to nuture this independence. They will gain life-long skills that will benefit them later in life, while being under the guidance and supervision of trained mentors and pastoral staff.

Creating Friendships The nature of being together 24/7 means the bonds made in boarding schools will last a lifetime. It also provides young people the opportunity to meet students from different walks of life as boarding schools are known to be very diverse.

Academic Excellence Boarding schools typically offer smaller class sizes, allowing teaching staff to provide close attention to all their students. In a boarding setting students are supported with their homework and have constant access to educational facilities, such as libraries and IT rooms.

Extra-Curricular Activities Extra-curricular activities are a strong feature in boarding schools, helping students build for their CV in the future. The majority of boarding schools will have a number of on-site facilities, such as sports complexes, swimming pools, lecture theatres etc, where students can spend their spare time and flourish in their chosen hobby.

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queen ethelburga’s collegiate, york for students from 3 months to 19 years boarders from year 3 excellent facilities

over 100 enrichment clubs

book a private tour with our team > admissions@qe.org 01423 333333

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

CLONGOWES WOOD COLLEGE

s’agrublehte neeuq DISCOVER CLONGOWES kroy ,etaigelloc Founded in 1814, Clongowes is a Jesuit boarding school set in 550 acres in Co Kildare – just over 2 hours from Belfast.

Our school is a home from home for some 450 boys from all over the island of Ireland, England and further afield.

All students are boarders who enjoy our 7-day boarding education with long weekend breaks every month. Boarding life at Clongowes is fun with a rich variety of academic and co-curricular programmes like sports, music, drama, debating and the arts.

Clongowes is set in beautiful grounds with state-of-the-art facilities for teaching and learning and our wide ranging sports and co-curricular programmes. The sense of community amongst the students and staff is a real hallmark of boarding life at Clongowes. At the heart of our school is the Jesuit maxim, Cura Personalis or Care for the Individual. We really get to know our students exceptionally well; we get to know their strengths, their weaknesses and, importantly, guide and empower them to discover and nurture their talents in a safe and supportive environment.

With 150 acres dedicated to sports fields, including a 9-hole golf course, Clongowes’ students enjoy unrivalled opportunities for sport such as rugby, golf, athletics, tennis, athletic development, basketball etc. Golfers can now take advantage of, not only of our golf course, but also our new Trackman Golf Simulator.

The philosophy of “doing better” and being better at all we endeavour to do is key to life at the school. Our innovative and ambitious teachers work hand in hand with our dedicated and caring boarding team to inspire our students achieve to the fullest of their potential.

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children clear boundaries. They set high expectations and they instil values by which to live. A strong family life nurtures the selfesteem that young people need to go out into the world with confidence. This is what we aspire to do, and more, complementing modern family life in our boarding school.

We believe that boarding school life should mirror the very best of family life and the family home. The best homes are full of life and laughter. They offer understanding and patience; they provide support and comfort when things go wrong. The best homes give

To discover what makes Clongowes such a special place, please take a virtual tour of our college using the QR code. Our main entry points are 1st Year (aged 12), 4th Year (age 16) and 5th Year (age 17).

Limited spaces are available to join in other years.

Contact our Admissions team to request more information, find out more about our upcoming events or arrange a visit to the school.

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For more information contact: Clongowes Wood College, Clane, Co. Kidare, Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 45 838258 Email: admissions@clongowes.net www.clongowes.net

gro.eq@snoissimda 333333 32410 PAGE 129

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

ALEXANDRA COLLEGE, DUBLIN

BEYOND THE CLASSROOM

Alexandra College is an all-girls boarding and day school in Dublin, Ireland, that enrols students aged 3 to 19 in our preschool, Junior

and Senior Schools, with boarding students welcomed from age 10. With a Church of Ireland ethos, we welcome approximately 600 students to the Senior School from all across Ireland and internationally, of all faiths and none.

An Alex education goes beyond the classroom, equipping a girl with everything she needs to soar as a woman and preparing her for university and her career, while giving her a solid foundation for life.

All of our classes and activities are structured to help girls enjoy a challenge to do their best without pressure or anxiety. We

Alexandra College Dublin, Milltown, Co. Dublin admissions@alexandracollege.ie l +353 1 497 7571

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celebrate success and recognise the effort put in by our students; we are committed to the pursuit of excellence for all. Our students select from a list of approximately 27 subjects in the areas of language, science, maths, business, creative arts and social sciences. Our results are excellent: over the past five years our students have received A or B grades in two-thirds of all examinations taken. In the Irish Leaving Certificate more than 80% of exams are taken at Higher Level and our students obtain nearly 50% more points than the national average.

Boarding plays a central part in the life of the College, lending the school the energy, warmth and fun of a village community.

One in five students at Alexandra College is a boarder. The boarders in “Res”, our boarding house, form a close, supportive group of girls from all over Ireland, Europe, and the world.

As our students go through periods of great change and development during the years they spend at Alex, our staff are very experienced at looking after and supporting their needs.

We provide counselling care, faith care, and the students themselves play a great part as role models and friends, providing a natural support network for each other.

We are always delighted to talk to parents and girls about what we have to offer across the academic, creative, music and sporting aspects of College life. To learn more about our programmes, please contact our Admissions team.

SAPERE AUDE

DUNDALK GRAMMAR SCHOOL

Church of Ireland Day and Boarding School

Boarding has been an integral part of Dundalk Grammar School since its foundation in 1739.

Boarding students from Ireland and overseas have a unique opportunity to experience a wide range of cultural diversity and form friendships that will last a lifetime.

Our dedicated staff aim to provide students with an environment that is safe and happy.

c Church of Ireland ethos with students from all traditions welcome c First class accommodation offering 5-day boarding c Excellent career guidance and exam results – 97% of our students progress to 3rd level education, both in Ireland and in the European Union c Sports facilities include: floodlit pitches, full sized basketball and tennis courts c Multi-purpose hall for music, drama, sport and special events

For further information:

Dundalk Grammar School The Crescent, Dundalk Co. Louth, Ireland A91 FH00 T: +353 (0)42 933 4459 F: +353 (0)42 933 9100 E: admissions@dgs.ie

#dgsdundalk @DGSdundalk

POST-PRIMARY GUIDE 2024

UNLOCKING THE NEXT STEP Is it time for a change in your work life?

Do you need to step up in the career you are in or perhaps you need to step out into new opportunities?

Are you sensing you could do more than you are right now?

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If you have answered yes to any of those questions, then it might be time to make space for personal and professional growth with an experienced Coach. Coaching is an intentional investment in yourself or your team. Your coach will provide you with the tools necessary to move you from confusion to clarity, from contemplation to action, you will develop the skills and confidence you need to move forward and achieve your personal and professional goals.

At Learning Unlocked we provide a team of qualified and experienced coaches who will offer one-on-one coaching sessions bespoke to your requirements. Jenine Jamison heads up the coaching department at Learning Unlocked; Jenine is an experienced educator and executive coach, holding a CMI Level 7 in Leadership Coaching and Mentoring. Jenine works with professionals from across Northern Ireland to provide coaching programmes for individuals and organisations, motivating people towards improvement and empowering them to develop best practices in their roles.

If you would like to discuss your Coaching needs contact Jenine by email;jenine@learningunlocked.co.uk or by telephone-02894 465 298.

ING L OL R EN NOW

Nurture your side

We also have classes in: ▶ Strandtown Primary School ▶ Bloomfield Collegiate and ▶ Greenwood Primary School

Fully qualified staff Preparation for Trinity College exams grade 1-8 Annual productions

www.youthlyric.co.uk Honorary Patron James Nesbitt

Register for all classes online by scanning this code

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or at youthlyric.co.uk/student-registration-form/

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