Loop Mag : Holywood June 2018

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OOP LMag #66

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June 2018

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Contents

Welcome to Loop A local, family owned business

03

Welcome June 18

HOLYWOOD EDITION #66 • JUNE 2018 •

What’s Inside?

10 ROCKPORT

06 | CADETS Those youngsters never take a breath. Adventures continue.

08 | CINEMAGIC Local film trainees get the chance to work with the pros

10 | ROCKPORT An extraordinary scholarship opportunity is available

12 | AWARDS 28 HOME

22 THE ARTS

A local Holywood business scoops a superb award

16 | ORCHARDVILLE The local charity hosted a huge awards event at Titanic Belfast

20 | STORMONT 1.5 miles of brand new trails to explore in the grounds

22 | STRAND ARTS Celebrating the 5 year anniversary of this arts hub

LOOP

PUBLISHER • DESIGN • EDITORIAL STUART COLLINS STUART@LOOPMAG.NET SALES • ACCOUNTS JUANITA COLLINS | JUANITA@LOOPMAG.NET TEL: 02890 200988

Loop Mag was formerly known as Bloom before rebranding in Jan 2015. Any views expressed within are not necessarily endorsed by Loop Publications Ltd. Reference to any specific product or service does not constitute or imply its endorsement or recommendation by Loop Publications Ltd. Links and contacts are provided for reader convenience and do not constitute or imply endorsement or recommendation by Loop Publications Ltd. Any reproduction without permission is prohibited.

26 | HAIR Sabrina Robinson with some expert advice for the summer

28 | GLASS ACT Jill from ReFound offers advice on vintage bottles

04

Headlines Jun 18

News

Under The Sky @ Steiner School Steiner education is a proven method of teaching that has been around since the 1920’s. This summer, the Steiner parent’s association, are running a scheme that will include many of the daily activities that take place at a typical Steiner school, and a few extras!

A

ctivities include, Forest School, Woodwork, Yoga, Art, Circus School, Games and many more.

Forest School Teacher, Thomas ‘Children will play in the school’s natural woodland environment by being engaged in woodland games, identifying flora & funa, building dens and Practicing fire lighting skills. The emphasis on this outdoor play is to learn new skills, but more importantly to allow the children to use their

own initiative to solve problems while having fun’.

Circus Session Teacher, Martin It’s not about wigs and fake red noses. ‘Circus training allows for improved concentration in school, greater teamwork, and an increased self-esteem, social confidence, and sense of belonging, among many other benefits. Play games, learn new skills and find out what you’re really capable of. Make your own Juggling balls ( Years 10+) and

learn the basics of how to use them. There will also be a wide range of other circus equipment and everyone can have a go and try something new.’

When? July 23th-27th. & August 13th-17th. 9.45am to 2pm.

Where? Steiner School Holywood, Croft Rd. How much? £50 per child, per week.

For bookings and information holywood-steiner.co.uk/events/

News

05

Headlines Jun 18

Holywood Launches New ‘Sing For Health And Wellbeing Classes’ Holywood Library — Every Friday 11.30 - 12.30 from 25th May The first in a series of 10 community singing session set up through the British Lung Foundation for anyone living with a lung condition, carers and friends “There is increasing evidence that singing helps people living with lung conditions such as COPD to preserve their lung function and quality of life,” Mayana McDermott, British Lung Foundation. “In my work as a singing teacher and coach I have seen the therapeutic effect group singing has on wellbeing and health”, Elizabeth Drwal, director

of Belcanto singing School, Holywood and course tutor.

“I found my sessions very clearing to my lungs”, said Sheila, former participant, “and would encourage others to give it a go’,” This is a new initiative for Northern Ireland, and the class in Holywood Library is one of only 4 groups in the North. Each group leader is a professional musician

and teacher and has been given additional training by the BLF to ensure they can make a positive difference to each singer’s lung health. These initial sessions are sponsored by the Lottery Funding.

For more information or to arrange to see the singing class in action, contact: Elizabeth Drwal Tel:07988 046849 or estuttard@icloud.com

Ulster Orchestra

On Your Door Step at Bangor Abbey The Ulster Orchestra will make a welcome return on Friday 15 June as part of their On Your Doorstep series of regional concerts.

N ENJOY Expect a little Italian sunshine, with Tchaikovsky’s ever-popular Souvenir de Florence – perfect for a summer evening of music!

ow in its third year, this initiative, sees the Orchestra play in as diverse a range of venues as possible across Northern Ireland.

Two baroque favourites open this programme; JS Bach’s dazzling Concerto for Two Violins, and the same composer’s famous Brandenburg Concerto no.3, led by the Ulster Orchestra’s Associate Leader, Ioana Petcu-Colan (violin). Expect a little Italian sunshine, with Tchaikovsky’s ever-popular Souvenir de Florence – perfect for a summer evening of music! For over 50 years, the Ulster Orchestra has been at the forefront of musical life in Northern Ireland. Founded in 1966 and comprising of 63 full-time musicians, the orchestra forms the region’s only professional symphony orchestra and celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2016. Speaking about the event, Ards and North Down Borough Council’s Arts Officer, Patricia Hamilton said: “Once again we are delighted to welcome the Ulster Orchestra to Bangor Abbey.

This will be an entertaining evening of classical music in a beautiful venue and we would encourage everyone to come along and enjoy this fantastic event.” Tickets for the concert cost £10 for adults and £6 for children and are currently on sale at: www.ticketsource.co.uk/ardsandnorthdown

Cadets

06 • Features #66 • June 2018

Challenge The relentless cadets are up to all sorts again

PEAK Hundreds of young people headed for the hills recently, tackling the seventh annual Mourne Mountain Adventure.

Onward And Upward For Holywood Cadets & Colleagues A record entry of 400 teens took part and Cadets from across North Down were there to support the challenge by sharing their outdoor adventuring skills with young participants.

T

he annual venture provides young people from a range of backgrounds with the opportunity to engage in a thrilling risk-taking adventure in the stunning natural setting of the Mourne Mountains. It is staged thanks to a unique partnership forged between Newry, Mourne and Down Policing and Community Safety Partnership, South Eastern Regional College, The Northern Ireland Fire & Rescue Service, the Police Service for Northern Ireland, the Ministry of Defence, NI Water and the Reserve Forces & Cadets Association of Northern Ireland … together with a generous helping of youthful energy! Setting out in teams of six, the young people had the choice of two routes. The

3-5-hour Challenge route was designed for mountain climbing ‘newbies’, while the Expedition route was for those who were more familiar with trekking through the mountains and took approximately 6-7 hours to complete. When they arrived at Silent Valley, the teams were treated to a barbeque lunch and a range of fun activities including archery, laser shooting, a climbing wall, an inflatable assault course as well as a Viking Village display, complete with axe wielding! In recognition of their hard work and achievement, the young people were awarded commemorative certificates and medals.

Thanking the North Down Cadets for helping to make the day an outstanding success,

PICTURED TOP (from left) Aaron McShane (15), Kurtis McDonald (16), Joel Burns (14) and Toni Dickson (18), all from Training Ship Formidable (Holywood).

BOTTOM members of Training Ship Formidable (Holywood) Sea Cadets. Pictured are, from left) Melissa Gibson (14), Kirk McDonald (16), Charlie Clayton (13) and Justin Copeland (13).

Colonel Johnny Rollins, Chief Executive of the Reserve Forces and Cadets Association for Northern Ireland said, “Yearround, our Cadets have some fabulous opportunities to build their adventure training skills and they really enjoyed sharing their experience and expertise with other young people.

Our Cadets approached the event with a great sense of responsibility and worked hard to help ensure that The Mourne Mountain Adventure was both fun and safe out for all concerned. They also encouraged those who most enjoyed the event to think of joining their local Cadet Detachment where adventure is a regular feature of the syllabus!”

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The Arts

08 • Features #66 • June 2018

CALI BOUND Local film trainees work alongside professionals

FILM Cinemagic’s new short film, SASHA OF THE SEA, an inspiring story of teenage bravery, love, growing up and friendship.

Holywood Cinemagic Trainee Works On Film Screened in California SASHA OF THE SEA’s plot centers on how a young Irish girl’s fondness for the sea is tested when her father goes missing in a fishing accident - opening her eyes to the greater meanings of life and love.

T

he short film has been crafted by a Northern Ireland born team. It was written by Maire Campbell, directed by Sammy Nutt and produced by Cinemagic Chief Executive, Joan Burney Keatings MBE. A host of Northern Ireland actors feature in the short film including Erin Galway Kendrick (from Newtownards); Richard Clements (from Bangor) and Karen Hassan (from Belfast). Twenty-four local Cinemagic young film trainees were given the opportunity to work alongside industry professionals to bring the story to life on the screen.

Joan Burney Keatings explains why it’s important for local productions of this nature to be shown at international film festivals: “We are thrilled that SASHA OF THE SEA was selected to feature in The Newport Beach Film Festival (NBFF) programme.

This festival seeks to bring to Orange County, California, the

best of classic and contemporary filmmaking from around the world. It has the largest shorts program within a major film festival in the United States. NBFF accepts and screens well over 200 short movies culled from submissions received from all over the world. During the festival up to 40 shorts programs are presented each year.

“For SASHA OF THE SEA to have secured a position in the programme line up is a fantastic achievement. It is particularly rewarding for the young film trainees who were involved in the creative process. The fact that their short film is entertaining captive audiences around the world and prompting discussions is an amazing achievement.”

Ms Burney-Keatings adds: “It is so rewarding for Cinemagic to know that we are creating platforms for young people to demonstrate their talents. In fact, the last four years have been particularly exciting for

PICTURED L-R Brian Livingstone film industry professional; Tony Devlin, Panavision; Joan Burney Keatings MBE, Chief Executive, Cinemagic; and Cinemagic film trainees Carley Magee from East Belfast and Jamie McBrien from Holywood.

Cinemagic. We have produced two feature films; secured worldwide distribution for our first feature film A CHRISTMAS STAR; developed two “behind the scene” documentaries, produced over 45 short films and supported hundreds of young trainees to work in the film and television industry. We’re also in the process of planning the world premiere of GRACE AND GOLIATH this year!”

In recent years Cinemagic trainees have gone on to secure work with various film and television companies including BBC, HBO, Disney, Sky Atlantic, RTE, and Bedlam Productions.

Cinemagic patrons include Liam Neeson, Pierce Brosnan, Saoirse Ronan, Colin Farrell, Paula Malcomson and Julian Fellowes, to name a few. Cinemagic, which is an award-winning Belfastbased charity, is the largest film and television festival designed for and by young people in the UK and Ireland.

Visit www.cinemagic.org.uk

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Schools

10 • Features #66 • June 2018

Opportunity A wonderful offfer to join a local historic school.

Rockport School Offering Scholarships for September

P5

Rockport School in Craigavad, Holywood... is offering a number of scholarships for Key Stage Two pupils starting this September in P5. We spoke to Headmaster, Mr. George Vance to learn a little more about Rockport and the scholarships currently on offer.

B

uilding on the existing ethos of diversity, the scheme aims to provide places at Rockport to families who may not have thought private education was within their reach. It will also add to the existing talent, of which exists in abundance! From dancing to drama to sports and academia, the children are encouraged to find their

‘thing’. As the only independent day and boarding school, the traditional curriculum is followed in terms of GSCEs and A Levels, but with added flexibility to make decisions efficiently, based on what is right for the children and staff.

Situated on a beautiful estate only 6 stops/17 minutes from Belfast Central station, on the shores of Belfast Lough, and

home to the only school-based golf academy in Ireland - seeing is believing!

The school boasts a strong academic performance which continues to grow year on year – many of the students continue into higher education, or are equipped with the skills needed to enter the workplace.

But the Rockport ethos is not focussed centrally on academia;

June 2018 • #66 • Features • 11

From dancing to drama to sports and academia, the children are encouraged to find their ‘thing’

Rockport is a member of a global network of schools called Round Square which exist in 50 countries on six continents, sharing a passion for experiential learning and character education. Rockport is the only member school in the whole of Ireland.

The Round Square approach is built around six ideals of learning: Internationalism, Democracy, Environmentalism, Adventure, Leadership and Service – as a school Rockport are extremely proud to have these IDEALS at the very core of their culture. Making this kind of education accessible is important and the school has always had a number of children on some kind of fee remission,” said Mr. Vance. “The idea behind our scholarship opportunity programme is to allow places for pupils at Rockport for those who otherwise might not be able to. It’s good for us to do that as

it brings additional talent to the school and creates a diversity that we want and need as a Round Square School.”

Key Stage Two (P5/6/7) is known at Rockport as ‘Upper Juniors’ and it’s a very exciting time to be at school!

How is Rockport different to other Primary schools?

What Rockport provides and what Mr.Vance refers to as ‘Education Plus’ takes many forms. Entry into Upper Juniors is a step forward in independence from Early Years and this gradual growth is a solid foundation for content and focussed children.

The pupils divide their time between class teacher but also move throughout the day to specialist teachers for subjects including science, STEM, French and drama. This begins a soft approach to building their confidence in preparation for transition into Year 8.

Quite simply, the Rockport

culture is about encouraging self-confidence, expression of individuality, problem solving, realising and challenging potential. And of course having fun! With PE every day, golf, afterschool clubs including photography, KNEX, Lego, art and Junior Dramatic Society there’s a balance of focus on working hard to achieve academic potential and learning beyond the classroom.

So if your child is currently in P4 and due to start P5 in September and you think they’d make a great ambassador and role model, we invite you to get in touch to take advantage of this exciting scholarship opportunity. The application process requires a request of the application pack which will provide more information about the school and scholarships. Postapplication there will be a meeting, tour and interview.

For more information please contact the school office on 028 9042 8372, email schooloffice@rockportschool.com or for more information visit www.rockportschool. com. Or you can also say hi to us via our social media: Facebook – rockportschool | Instagram – rockportschool | Twitter - Rockportschool

Awards

12• Features #66 • June 2018

Innovation A local business scoops a prestigious award

CON GRATS Babocush is one of Seven of Northern Ireland’s most ambitious companies and two individuals who have been recognised for their achievements at the tenth annual Aer Lingus TakeOff Foundation Business Awards.

CEO and Founder of Babocush Kerry Nevins, a mother of two and mentor to many, had a vision to create a new kind of company that would offer today’s busy mother a very real solution to meeting the physical needs of a newborn as well as the emotional needs of the family. www.babocush.com

Holywood Business lifts Excellence in Marketing Award The Awards lunch took place on Tuesday 8th May in the palatial surroundings of the Institute of Directors Headquarters on Pall Mall, London and was attended by some of Northern Ireland’s most impressive and innovative companies.

A

mongst those honoured was Holywood-based Babocush, the innovative baby comfort cushion, designed to provide relief from symptoms of colic and reflux, who lifted the Excellence in Marketing Award. Research indicated that desperate parents around the world were searching on Google and Youtube for a solution to stop their baby crying from colic.

The strategy for the ‘Stop your baby from crying campaign’ was born. Unique video content demonstrating the benefits of Babocush went viral resulting in over 200 million views of the Babocush on Facebook. The product was featured in global and local publications as well as on the Snapchat and Instagram personal pages of celebrities.

The categories were; Excellence in Marketing, Business Person of the Year, Best SME Award, Most Innovative Company; Exporter of the Year, Best Business Start-Up, Fast Growth Business, Overall Excellence and the Lifetime Achievement Award.

The winners were: Excellence in Marketing: Babocush; Business Person of the Year: Cathal Grant, CGDM Construction Ltd; Best SME Award: STATSports Group Ltd Innovative of the Year Award: See. Sense; Best Business Start-Up: AG Electrical NI Ltd; Fast Growth Business Award: FIN TrU Ltd; Exporter of the Year: Brookvent; Overall Excellence: Selective Travel Management Lifetime Achievement: Trevor Annon, Mount Charles

Andrea Hunter, Business Development Manager of Aer Lingus NI said: “Aer Lingus is delighted to be at the helm of these very prestigious business awards again this year, to celebrate genuine innovation and to connect businesses with opportunities globally every day via our Belfast City to Heathrow route and to Europe and the US from Dublin,” she said. “Receiving an Aer Lingus TakeOff Foundation Business Award is a fantastic accolade as the standard of entries was exceptionally high this year and each award was extremely hard fought. It’s been a pleasure to select and reward the winning companies and we’re are very much looking forward to hearing about their continued success in the future.”

Open Day Saturday 2nd June 10:30 - Noon www.rockportschool.com

We are family We are currently inviting applications for Key Stage 2 Scholarships.

If your child will begin P5 in September and you’d like to explore this exciting opportunity to join the Rockport family, we welcome you to contact the School Office for more details.

Rockport School Open Day

info@rockportschool.com • 028 9042 8372

Saturday 2nd June 10:30 - Noon

www.rockportschool.com

www.rockportschool.com

Sport

14 • Features #66 • June 2018

Sport Local schools take part in a huge sporting event

Maxol’s Primary School Mini Rugby Festival

RUGBY

Pupils from Campbell Prep along with Stranmillis Primary school, Inchmarlo Prep, Cairnshill Primary School, were among the 32 primary school teams who attended Kingspan Stadium recently for the Maxol Primary School Mini Rugby Festival.

The four-day festival, ran from Tuesday 8th May to Friday 11th May

PICTURED Campbell Prep from Belfast were among the 32 primary school teams who attended Kingspan Stadium

T

he four-day festival, which ran from Tuesday 8th May to Friday 11th May, gave young rugby enthusiasts the chance of a lifetime - the opportunity to play at the home of their Ulster Rugby heroes. Speaking following the Festival last week, Brian Donaldson, CEO of The Maxol Group, said: “We are delighted to see so many young people come together to enjoy the Maxol Primary School Mini Rugby Festival. We really see the importance of supporting our local schools and communities at a grass roots level and our partnership with Ulster Mini Rugby has enabled us to foster

and build meaningful longlasting relationships with our local communities. We’re also thrilled to be able to not only provide the young players with opportunities to stay active, but also give them the chance to meet their sporting heroes in the number one rugby stadium in the country.”

Each day at the Maxol Primary School Mini Rugby Festival, eight schools from across NI participated that were split into two pools of four, with each school playing three 14-minute matches. Primary Schools rugby has grown significantly over the past number of years, with over 60 schools now involved in mini rugby. Maxol, Northern Ireland’s

leading family owned forecourt and convenience retailer, is the official sponsor of Ulster Mini Rugby. In addition to the Maxol Primary School Mini Rugby Festival, the sponsorship also includes 7 Mini Rugby Festivals across each season involving more than 4,000 children from over 44 local rugby clubs spanning Northern Ireland.

Maxol first supported Ulster Mini Rugby festivals in 2013 and recently renewed its sponsorship for the third time, taking the partnership through until 2019. This major investment

by The Maxol Group reinforces its brand ethos of ‘at the heart of it’ in local communities across Northern Ireland.

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Awards

16 • Features #66 • June 2018

Congrats A huge awards ceremony hosted by Orchardville Society

Over 100 Local People With Learning Disabilities And/Or Autism Recognised At Awards Ceremony In Belfast Orchardville is a charity...

Which has offices in East Belfast, Bangor, Lisburn and Derry, provides accredited training and skills development. These include occupational and vocational skills, wellbeing support, skills for life and work, OCN (Open College Network) accredited training, school transitions services and work placements.

S

peaking at the Orchardville Awards Ceremony 2018, which was sponsored by Bombardier and hosted by its partner Titanic Belfast, Joan McGinn, chief executive, Orchardville, said: “Orchardville’s Annual Awards event has gone from strength to strength each year. The Awards recognise the progress and achievements of our service users in getting paid employment, completing qualifications and overcoming barriers to progression.

“Orchardville supports people with a learning disability to prepare for a job, learn new skills, grow as a person, try new things, meet people and become more independent.

We very much focus on the person’s ability, not disability, and this greatly helps to build their confidence to get a job or work voluntarily. We support over 250 local people to access employment opportunities every year, and as we continue to grow, we have been able to extend our services to South Eastern and Western Health & Social Care Trust areas.

Orchardville works closely with over 100 employers across

Northern Ireland encouraging and supporting them to provide structured and meaningful work placements and employment opportunities.”

Ms McGinn added: “The Annual Awards Ceremony is an important event as it brings service users, their families and employers, Orchardville staff team and the wider community together to celebrate successes that would not have been possible without commitment, hard work and tenacity. I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate everyone involved.”

Discussing Joshua Miller, 19 from East Belfast, the winner of the Joanna Tuffy Endeavour Award, Brendan McNally, Joshua’s mentor said: “Before Joshua came to work at the Orchard Café in East Belfast he struggled with crowds, the clamour of voices and loud noises, and in particular the unpredictable sounds that young children and particularly infants tend to make! Indeed, his first few shifts in the café were very tough, especially considering that Joshua’s day is a Friday, invariably a non-stop day at the Orchard. We employed ‘time-out’ techniques and Joshua was able

CONGRATS

to ‘escape’ to the office, put his head-phones on and listen to music until he could restore internal calm.

“Joshua persevered and very quickly learnt how to cope with the café’s most hectic times.

He is a great team-player, full of positivity, support and reassurance for others – he is an extremely worthy recipient of the Joanna Tuffy Endeavour Award.

Congratulations Joshua!”

Another award recipient was Jack Gardiner (24) from Bangor who joined Orchardville in 2016 and now has a paid job at Titanic Belfast. Jack commented: “I have always been interested in working in the catering industry.

As I had no qualifications or experience within this career I had to start at the beginning.

I took up a place in Orchard Café in East Belfast which is an internal training hub of Orchardville that gives on the job training. It gave me an understanding of the role and what was expected of me. I absolutely loved the experience and was sure I had picked the right career path for myself “My Employment Officer explained that it was very important to have the appropriate training

June 2018 • #66 • Features • 17

PICTURED (l-r) Heather Graham, Head of HR, Titanic; award recipient, Jack Gardiner, 24, from North Down; and Joan McGinn, chief executive, Orchardville.

He joined Orchardville in 2016 and now has a paid job at Titanic Belfast. Jack received his award for qualifications in Food Hygiene, Skills for the Workplace, Vocatinal Skills and Managing Personal Finance

and qualifications to work in the catering industry. Thanks to Orchardville I was able to complete a range of catering related training from Food Hygiene and Food Nutrition to Health and Safety in the Workplace.”

Jack continued: “Once I completed my training and gained experience from The Orchard Café I started a placement at Titanic Belfast within the Bistro. I was able to experience serving customers, taking orders and clearing tables. I absolutely loved it and I am very proud to say that in August last year I became a permanent member of staff at Titanic Belfast. I now work 10 hours a week in Titanic Belfast and continue to progress within my role with support from my Orchardville employment officer and staff members to develop my skills. I can now serve food

and am learning how to make different drinks for customers.

“Overall, I have had a really positive experience working at Titanic Belfast. It has helped to develop my independence and confidence and I am constantly meeting new people. I love my job and don’t mind getting out of bed in the morning!”

Titanic Belfast has been working with the charity since 2016 on initiatives ranging from training through to work placements and currently employs three Orchardville service users.

Heather Graham, Head of Human Resources at Titanic Belfast commented: “It was a privilege to host the awards at Titanic Belfast again this year but today was especially special as all three of our Orchardville service users, including Jack, were recognised. Accessibility is something we, at every level at Titanic Belfast, are passionate

about for both visitors and our employees, therefore today was extremely special.”

The inspirational guest speaker at this year’s awards was Laura Green, the young entrepreneur from Cheshire, England, who has Down’s Syndrome. Laura founded Serendipity, a fashion accessories business, over ten years ago and now provides work experience for young people with additional needs to build their confidence. Laura has proved that you can be your own boss despite having a disability and she is determined not to let her condition hold her back.** Orchardville’s projects and services are funded by Northern Ireland European Social Fund, Department for Communities, Belfast Health and Social Care Trust, South Eastern Health and Social Care Trust, Western Health and Social Care Trust, Coca Cola Hellenic and Big Lottery Fund.

Playgroup

18 • Features #66 • June 2018

Result A new name and an outstanding achievement

KIDS It has been one of the most popular pre-schools in North Down for over twenty years, and today, Crawfordsburn Playgroup has been given a brandnew name and a new ‘Outstanding’ inspection report results for the third consecutive time.

www.ballygilbertpreschool.co.uk

‘Outstanding’ Result for Crawfordburn Playgroup The newly branded Playgroup will be known as Ballygilbert Pre-School from September 2018 to reflect the quality and excellence of the teaching as well as the ‘high level of capacity for sustained improvement in the interest of all learners’.

T

he ‘Outstanding’ result – which is the highest accolade possible - was obtained following an Education and Training Inspectorate which is carried out on a five-yearly basis by the Department for Education.

This is the third time consecutively that this result has been achieved by the school (2005 and 2012) and is one of only a handful of nurseries in NI to receive such a highly coveted result. The new logo, which has been designed by internationally renowned artist, illustrator and children’s author, Oliver Jeffers, ‘encapsulates what we are as a pre-school, creative, fun with a strong desire to give our children the foundations and a strong base for life-long learning’ explains, Rosemary Mulholland, who has managed the playgroup for over 20 years, in partnership with colleagues Ann Doherty and Lynn Robertson.

She continued: “We are absolutely over the moon to have received such a glowing report and would like to thank the children and their parents for their co-operation during our inspection time over the past few months. We as a team passionately believe that pre-school education is absolutely fundamental to a positive life-long learning experience and it is essential to prepare children not only for primary school but for the beginning of their life in the world.”

Kerry Alexander, Chairperson of the Parent’s Association of Ballygilbert Preschool said: “This is a fantastic recognition for an exceptionally well-run pre-school and one which I am proud to represent in my chairperson role.

My son Harry attended here for one year which was fun- filled, educational and set him up perfectly for primary school. My

PICTURED Heidi Hunter and Ted Rollins are pictured with Samuel Sheriff, Skye Wilson and Tom Reid and Ann Doherty

other son, Ollie will join next year.

I wholeheartedly recommend Ballygilbert Pre-School for anyone who is unsure where to send their child for their pre or pre-preschool years.”

Rosemary concluded: “As our school year draws to a close, we are sad to say goodbye to our pre-school children but look forward to welcoming our new pupils in September to our newly branded “Ballygilbert Pre-School” which we are proud to say reflects our ethos of being an exceptional foundation in pre-school education, but also reflects our location in Ballygilbert Presbyterian Church. We are not affiliated with the church in any way, but we have happily shared their excellent facilities for over two decades and would like to take this opportunity to thank them for their help and cooperation over the years also.”

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Adventure

20 • Features #66 • June 2018

GO Visitors are flocking to Stormont Estate for the recently launched three new adventure trails.

Dive In 1.5 miles of new trails to explore in Stormont

Visitors flock to The Stormont Estate’s New Adventure Trails The trails that now span over 1.5 miles of the woodland estate are a new initiative uniquely designed to encourage locals and visitors to the area to learn more about the environment, wildlife and history of the estate.

PICTURED Allan Hamilton, CEO, Brilliant Trails Ltd with Duncan Morris, Laura Morgan and Gina Brown, Stormont Estate Management Unit

D

esigned by award winning company, Brilliant Trails Ltd, the trails are supported by an interactive map and quiz and encompass three main themes which showcase the richness of the woodland and natural environment as well as detail the history that shaped the area.

In addition to the many health benefits, the trails provide a rich source of information; providing a visitor experience, that is historical, educational and fun for all ages. All trails are free of charge and open seven days a week.

A Department of Finance spokesperson said that it is

continuing to promote and enhance the Stormont Estate as a visitor and tourist attraction: - “The introduction of the trails will help to connect visitors, families and particularly young people with the rich biodiversity of the Stormont woodlands and provide an insight into the history of the Estate.

Feedback from the opening of the trails has been very positive and the Stormont Estate Management Team is delighted with the initial public reaction to the trails which are a great addition to the beautiful Estate grounds.”

Allan Hamilton, Chief Executive Officer of Brilliant Trails added

PICTURED Features included in the Sensory Woodland Trail at Stormont Estate

“We are delighted to see so many visitors at Stormont. Our sensory trails are designed to provide a unique opportunity to explore, learn new facts and interact with the local environment. It’s a different way of learning and provides an experience that everyone can get involved in.”

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Explore Ards and North Down

WALKS AND TOURS April - November

Pick up your FREE guide and plan a journey steeped in history, nature and stunning scenery.

Explore the borough by boat, bus or on foot with one of our unique tours.

You can download the guide from visitardsandnorthdown.com or pickup a copy from a VIC. Bangor Visitor Information Centre: 028 9127 0069 bangorvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk Ards Visitor Information Centre: 028 9182 6846 ardsvic@ardsandnorthdown.gov.uk

27 Church Road, Holywood Tel: 028 9042 8597

The Arts

The Arts Time to support your local cinema and arts centre

22 • Features #66 • June 2018

ARTS From an intimate gig with Van Morrison and the premiere of Good Vibrations to creative activities for kids and large-scale youth musicals, no two days have been the same at the Strand Arts Centre, currently celebrating its fifth birthday.

Strand Arts Centre Celebrates First 5 Years As Local Community Rallies To Secure Its Future The not-for-profit charity took over the tenancy of Northern Ireland’s oldest cinema building in 2013 with the aim of securing both its short-term survival and long-term redevelopment. Since then it has enjoyed a new lease of life as East Belfast’s only dedicated arts venue.

A

lmost 60,000 people each year now attend a busy programme of live theatre and music, performing arts classes and filmmaking workshops for children in addition to film screenings.

The Strand is widely used by many festivals and by the local community for school visits, local film premieres and charity fundraising events.

Mimi Turtle, Chief Executive of Strand Arts Centre, said: “The Strand has enjoyed tremendous support from the people of East Belfast and beyond since we opened our doors. We’ve demonstrated an overwhelming appetite for more live entertainment and community engagement for

all ages, from our Saturday Minors Club for families to Silver Screenings for older audiences, proudly supported by Specsavers Connswater.

“All of this, however, has been delivered in a building that is physically deteriorating, has limited disabled access, and inadequate facilities to meet the demand for its activities.

“The Strand is full of character and we want to preserve its heritage. But it urgently needs renovated and in doing so we can provide so much more for our audiences and the local community.”

An important first step towards securing the Strand’s future has been made with Belfast City Council’s offer of £1.8 million from its Belfast Investment

Fund. The overall project cost is estimated at £4.2 million.

Leading figures from the creative industries, tourism and the East Belfast community are urging support for the Strand’s proposed redevelopment.

Actor and director Sam McCready, no stranger to the stage of the Strand, said: “It’s a gem in the East Belfast crown, not only as a piece of architecture with those art deco elements to it, but also as a meeting place for people within this community.”

Novelist and screenwriter, and Strand ‘Champion’ Glenn Patterson said: “It’s impossible to overstate the importance of the Strand for the city of Belfast, and for East Belfast in particular.

The Strand has been here for

June 2018 • #66 • Features • 23

PICTURED Actress Christina Nelson, harpist Ursula Burns and Chief Executive Mimi Turtle celebrate the Strand’s 5th anniversary as an arts centre

80 years and it’s always been adaptable. It’s been resilient.

It’s managed to change with the times. When you come into the Strand, you can feel a real buzz off the place.”

Noirin McKinney, Director of Arts Development at Arts Council of Northern Ireland, said: “East Belfast has an incredible legacy of producing artists of exceptional talent right across the spectrum – painters, musicians, performers and writers. Unfortunately it’s never had the facilities to match and incubate that talent, so the redevelopment of the Strand into a state of the art centre has huge potential for the whole area.”

John McGrillen, Chief Executive of Tourism NI, said: “Our industrial heritage is a

very significant element of our past, and what people did and where they went during those times is very important in that regard as well, and the cinema was a central element of the community.”

Lisa Barros D’Sa, co-director of Good Vibrations, said: “I think it’s really exciting to see what’s emerging here at the Strand. These hands-on workshops for animation, filmmaking and music production are the kind of thing I would have really relished when I was starting out. The creative industries are so much on the rise in Northern Ireland and we really need our young people to be able to take advantage of those opportunities. And it’s this kind of skills development that’s going to

give them those chances.”

Strand Arts Centre is encouraging its audiences, past and present, to share their memories and future aspirations for the building.

“I know there are many people who have fond memories of the Strand,” said Mimi. “Many went through the life cycle of attending the Minors Club as children, progressing to courting in the back row and subsequently bringing their own children, and sometimes grandchildren too!

And let’s not forget the dozens of projectionists, usherettes and concierges over the years.”

You can find out more about the Strand’s plans and how to share your memories at www.strandartscentre.com or on social media.

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After

Hair

To the Root In depth advice from local hair stylist Sabrina Robinson

26 • Features #66 • June 2018

Lighter Brighter Hair For Spring / Summer !

By Sabrina Robinson • SR Hairdressing

In spring/ summer hair will naturally go lighter, so generally clients like to control that and make it the exact tone that they are looking for.” So whether it’s to blonde , bronde or balayage, here are a few things you need to know before going lighter PREPARE YOUR HAIR You can’t just walk straight in to the salon; a significant hair change requires preparation. My advice to clients are to treat their hair with a hair mask or treatment a few weeks beforehand to strengthen and condition the hair that way your colour will look great. There are some ways you can start to prepare your hair now for that magical mane you want to rock this spring and summer, your way to lighter, brighter hair for spring. Shampoo less often, Some people complain their hair gets so oily and you have to get past that point because a lot of times it’s the over-cleansing that causes your scalp to overproduce oil. Shampooing less will help!

STYLIST’S ADVICE Don’t be afraid to ring and book a separate consultation with your stylist to discuss the in’s and out’s of going lighter. It is important for the client and the stylist to discuss the journey you want to take your hair colour.

BE REALISTIC, GO GRADUAL The biggest mistake people make is being too dramatic with the change. As a colourist, I would only ever recommend moving the

ADVICE

client’s hair to gradually build up on the blonde that way you can see what shade / lightness suits them and hair is still in healthy condition.

FINDING THE RIGHT COLOUR When choosing the right tone, a colourist generally looks at their natural hair level, eye colour, skin tone and client’s expectations.

For lighter skin tones, for golden, strawberry or light blonde tones.

Warming up your hair with highlights can add some colour and interest to your locks and your face, if you’re more mediumtoned, you can add more colour to your hair, such as a golden hue, beige-blonde or even a light blonde. Just be sure to maintain some warmer tones to match your skin. For darker skin tones, lifting hair a few shades than your natural hair colour, sticking to darker blonde shades. Blended Caramel or golden highlights can be beautiful on this skin tone.

THE HAPPY EVER AFTER Going lighter takes a lot of hard work, so home-care is essential and by using professional

shampoos and treatments they will preserve your hair colour and if you’re going for an allover shade, you will require more frequent touch-ups at the salon. Consider Balayage If regular salon trips just aren’t manageable, this is still huge trend in the colour business and helps colour last longer consider choosing highlights to lift the hair rather than a full colour transformation. Bronde is one of the most popular colours at the moment, a mix between blonde and brown, hair contouring also is perfect low-maintenance colours . With your hair colour being revamped its time to do the same with your makeup ,Your hair colour won’t be the only thing changing.

A common mistake people make with going lighter is not changing their makeup palette, which is vital. When you venture over to the lighter shade, its important to also change your face, lip, eye shades to be compatible and complement your your skin with your new hair colour.

26 SANDOWN RD • • 9065 8579 • SRHAIRDRESSING@HOTMAIL.COM BLOG SRHAIRDRESSING.COM

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Home

28 • Features #66 • June 2018

Glassy Jill offers transparent advice on all things vintage

www.onthesquareemporium.com | www.refoundonline.com | Unit A3, 17 Heron Road, BT3 9LE off Airport Road

BOLD

Discover Refound showroom is a unique interiors emporium that offers a range of up-cycled, redesigned and vintage homeware and gifts. We turn the ordinary into the extra-ordinary!

OnTheSquare Emporium (OTS for short), is a treasure trove for lovers of antiques, collectables, industrial furniture and salvage

Jill Antique bottles can be used as colourful decorative ornaments by themselves or in groups or they can be repurposed as candle holders, flower vase, photo display or used to hold bath salts or cooking oil.

PICTURED CLOCKWISE FROM TOP LEFT 1. Victorian Chemical Bottles from, from £15, OTS 2. Vintage Polish Blood IV Bottle, £10, Refound 3. Poison Bottles in Cobalt Blue from £5, OTS 4. Small section of the 100s of bottles from £2, OTS 5. Label bottles from OTS, “Finest Glaubers Salt” £8, “Lung Tonic” £8, Zoflora £5, “Harp Lager £10, “Baby Bubbles £10.

Have You Got

The Bottle

A

ntique bottles are quirky and beautiful, but cheap (from a couple of pounds) and they ooze history and intrigue (don’t buy more expensive reproductions).

If you are reusing the bottles, be aware that bottles with vertical ridges especially in cobalt blue had poisonous substance in them. Bottles with a cracked top like the picture are not ‘broken’, they were made

like this and are called cracked or blast top, to make them safe insert a cork and seal with wax. Mix and match colours and look out for interesting labels as antique bottles held everything from ink to snake oil that cured everything. Vintage brands like beer and whiskey bottles can get a premium, but a quirky “Finest Glauber Salt” is only a few pounds. So don’t bottle up your glass enthusiasm!

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What’s On

Planner Plan your month ahead with the local event guide

30 • #66 • June 2018

HOLYWOOD REDBURN COMMUNITY CENTRE LIBRARY

HOLYWOOD FAMILY TRUST

Tel: 028 9042 4232.

Contact 028 9042 7842

Monday 55+ Group 2-4pm.

55+ Lunch Club 12.30-2pm Art Club 3.30-5.30pm | P1 - P7 | £1 Girl’s Group 7-9pm | P7 - Year 12 | £1

Tuesday After School Club 3.30-5.30pm | P1 - P7 | £1 Parent & Toddler 10am-12pm | Pre School | £1.50

Wednesday Patchwork Club 2-4pm | Any Age | £2 per week

Thursday Cookery Club 3.30-5.30pm | P1 - P7 Parent & Toddlers Group 10am-12 | Pre school | £1.50 Redburn Youth Group 7-9pm | P7 - Form 5 | £1

Friday Holywood Men’s Sheds 11am-1pm. Any age. £15 p/a

QUEEN’S HALL SULLIVAN PLACE Tuesday 55+ Group 2-4pm.

55+ Lunch Club 12.30-2pm After School Club 3.30-5.30pm | P1 - P4 | £1

Monday

Friday

Magic Kidz 3.15-4pm Age 6-8 years 4.00-4.45pm Age 9-11 years The weekly Magic Class for Kids: Learn Cool Tricks, Make New Friends, Grow in Confidence, WOW your friends and family with your skills and have fun!

Sign Up at www.magickidz.co.uk Tel: 07853214420 info@magickidz.co.uk

Junior Youth Club 6.30-8.30pm. Free. P7 - Year 9.

Youth Drop In 6.15-10.15pm. Free. Year 8+ Youth Drop In 2.30-4.30pm / 6.15-10.15pm Free.

Year 8 & over

Tuesday Rhythm & Rhyme 10.30am. Introduce children aged 0 - 4 years to the wonder of rhymes, songs and stories.

Wednesday

HOLYWOOD DISTRICT U3A Annual membership £20.

Reading, coffee, chat, gardening, history, bowls, creative writing, painting for pleasure, walking... www.u3asites.org.uk/holywood

Do you have an event you want to tell people about?

Knit & Knatter 10.30am -12. Knitting, crochet, Email info@loopmag.net cross stitch and other crafts.

Adult Reading Group 10.30am -12. Last Wednesday of the month. Share and enjoy.

Thursday Junior Reading Group 15.45-16.30 Second Thursday of the month. Children aged 9-11 Visually Impaired Group 14.30pm-16.00. Last Thursday of the month.

Bedtime Story Time 18.00 -18.30. Last Thursday of the month. Children aged 4-8

Friday

Junior Reading Group 14.15 - 15.00 Third Saturday of the month. Children aged 7-9.

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