Shared Education Sparks Friendship and Fun in Parkanaur Forest

The initiative, designed to foster friendship, outdoor learning, and digital skills, saw 46 excited pupils from Knocknagor PS join their 29 counterparts from Queen Elizabeth II PS for a day of interactive activities in the scenic Parkanaur Forest, facilitated by the Speedwell Trust.

From orienteering and forest trails to team games filled with laughter, the day was a celebration of connection, collaboration and friendship. Beige Baxter, principal of Knocknagor PS, shared her enthusiasm:

“The funding and support from PEACEPLUS ASPIRE has made this all possible. Our school has never had the opportunity to take part in Shared Education before, and we are delighted we can finally take part with Queen Elizabeth II.”

Christopher Nesbitt, principal of Queen Elizabeth II PS, echoed the excitement:

“Both the staff and pupils from our school are looking forward to the fun activities and making lots of new friends, this is what Shared Education is all about.”

Stephen from Speedwell Trust highlighted the deeper purpose behind the programme:

“Both schools will be participating together in a range of activities to help them learn about each other, their backgrounds, their traditions, and hopefully create the basis for lasting friendships.”

The forest echoed with the sounds of discovery and joy as pupils navigated nature trails and worked together in orienteering challenges. The day marked the beginning of a series of sessions aimed at building friendships and nurturing understanding between communities.

With more activities planned, the spirit of Shared Education is alive and thriving in this new partnership— proving that when children come together in nature, friendship and learning flourish.