Shared Education showcase event for parents

The morning celebrated the shared learning journey pupils have been on together, with a strong focus on literacy and outdoor learning. The event was led by Justin Toner, principal, Our Lady’s PS and Linda Kerr, teacher, Killylea PS, who spoke to parents about the wide range of opportunities the Shared Education programme has provided for children across both schools.

Highlights included a visit to Slieve Gullion, where pupils enjoyed an imaginative fairy-hunting adventure, bringing learning to life through storytelling, exploration and collaboration in an outdoor setting. Parents were given a real insight into these experiences through a lively montage of photographs, capturing many memorable moments from the programme.

Pupils also played a central role in the event, singing for their parents and showcasing the confidence and friendships developed through Shared Education. One parent shared their experience, saying:

“My daughter has participated in Shared Education for the last two years in Year 1 and Year 2. It has been a really fulfilling programme, and I have enjoyed hearing her coming home on a Wednesday excited by all the outdoor play, outside-the-classroom learning opportunities and all the friends she has made.”

Linda Kerr also spoke about the benefits for staff, highlighting how Shared Education has doubled opportunities for professional collaboration, shared expertise and the development of lasting friendships between colleagues.

Following the presentations, pupils enjoyed outdoor play while parents had the opportunity to meet informally over a cup of coffee before joining their children, reinforcing the strong sense of community created through the programme.

Pat Mallon, member of the Board of Governors at Our Lady’s Primary School, spoke with EA PEACEPLUS ASPIRE staff during the visit, saying he was extremely proud to be part of the school community and to witness first-hand how Shared Education has evolved and strengthened relationships over the years.

The PEACEPLUS ASPIRE project is led by the Education Authority in partnership with Léargas, Early Years – the organisation for young children, the National Childhood Network, and the Fermanagh Trust. The project is funded by PEACEPLUS, a programme administered by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).