Staff from the Education Authority joined with the Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People at a recent visit to the Specialist Provision at St Columban’s Kilkeel.

Since then, the specialist provision has gone from strength to strength enhancing not only the learning experiences of the pupils within the provision but also the wider school community.  Further to which they have expanded to include an additional 2 classrooms and are now supporting other schools in the development of specialist provisions within the local area.

Principal Julian Kelly said:

“I am delighted to welcome the Commissioner to our school and share the journey of our pupils within the specialist provision, it is wonderful to watch them flourish as they continue to progress daily.

“The ethos of our school is inclusivity; our mainstream pupils are the biggest champions of our children within the specialist provision enhancing the learning experiences of all.  As a school we remain committed to supporting all children to reach their full potential.”

Peter Canavan, EA SEND Placements Programme Director commented:                      

“The EA are committed to ensuring that all children and young people with Special Education Needs and Disabilities (SEND) get the right support from the right people, at the right time and in the right place.

“It was a privilege to meet with the Commissioner, Principal and staff at St Columban’s Primary School to see first hand how the specialist provision has enhanced the learning experiences of all children within the school.

“EA remain committed to supporting schools to ensure that all pupils have access to an education which meets their learning needs and enables them to flourish.”

Chris Quinn Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People said:

“I was delighted to visit St Columban’s Primary School. The ongoing great work, dedication and commitment from school staff was clear to see.

“The highlight of the day, however, was – of course – engaging with pupils, and it was brilliant to see so many happy children enjoy the school’s facilities.

“I look forward to visiting more SPiM units over the coming months.

“Addressing the SEN crisis is a priority at NICCY. In light of significant, escalating concerns, I recently hosted a roundtable, with MLAs from the five main parties, at Stormont, on the need for an emergency response.

“I will also be meeting the Education Minister, Paul Givan, next month, and I look forward to fruitful discussions that help to address the SEN crisis.”