‘Conflict, Memory and Meaning’ TPL course provides additional support in teaching the Troubles in classrooms

Group of educators and facilitators gathered during a PEACEPLUS ASPIRE training programme. They are standing in front of a projector screen in a room in Ulster Museum. Projector displays the names James Greer, Billy McManus and Bronagh McConville with an image of them on stage.

The sessions brought together educators from across Northern Ireland and the Border Counties, aiming to strengthen their skills and confidence in teaching the complex and sensitive histories associated with the Troubles and contemporary issues in the region.

Centred on the BBC documentary Once Upon a Time in Northern Ireland, the event enabled educators to engage with powerful personal testimonies and lived experiences, supporting deeper reflection on themes including conflict, trauma, memory, identity, and reconciliation. The resource provided a compelling foundation for exploring the human impact of the Troubles within a safe, structured, and curriculum‑aligned framework.

A highlight of the programme was a live panel discussion featuring three participants from Once Upon a Time in Northern Ireland: Bronagh McConville, Billy McManus, and James Greer. The panel was chaired by Rachel Hooper of Walk on Air Films, whose thoughtful facilitation created a sensitive and insightful space for participants to reflect on their experiences.

The programme was further enriched by facilitation from experienced classroom practitioners currently teaching History across Northern Ireland:

Denver Charles, Magherafelt High School
Patricia Marcus, St Malachy’s Grammar School
Mairtina McCormick, St Mary’s Grammar School

Their practical classroom insights, real‑world experience, and deep understanding of the demands of the curriculum helped ground the training in everyday educational realities.

Emma Foster, Development Officer with PEACEPLUS ASPIRE, said:

“This programme provided teachers with the opportunity to engage deeply with some of the most challenging aspects of our history. Using the personal testimonies from Once Upon a Time in Northern Ireland encouraged meaningful reflection and discussion. The contribution from the Ulster Museum’s Education Service was invaluable, and feedback shows that teachers left feeling more equipped, informed, and confident in supporting students to navigate these complex topics with sensitivity.
The panel discussion, expertly chaired by Rachel Hooper, brought powerful authenticity to the programme, and we are deeply grateful to Bronagh, Billy, and James for the honesty and generosity they shared with our participants.”

Strengthening partnerships and professional practice

Over the two days, educators explored practical strategies for delivering Key Stage 3 and GCSE History content, including the Changing Relations: Northern Ireland and Its Neighbours module. Workshop discussions focused on how to support students to critically evaluate differing perspectives, develop historical empathy, and engage responsibly with the legacies of conflict.

Sectoral input from the National Museums NI Education Service showcased the Ulster Museum’s Contested Histories provision, highlighting how collections, exhibitions, and artefacts can support schools in navigating sensitive narratives with care and confidence.

The event strengthened collaboration between participating schools, the Ulster Museum, and the wider PEACEPLUS education network—reinforcing a shared commitment to promoting good relations, shared learning, and an informed understanding of the past.