Ulster Tatler
POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2020 Royal Belfast Academical Institution // Antrim Grammar School // Campbell College // Rockport School // Wellington College // Victoria College // The Wallace High // Glenlola Collegiate School // Banbridge Academy // Grosvenor Grammar // Bloomfield Collegiate School // St. Columbanus College // Ballyclare Secondary School // St. Joseph’s College // Ashfield Girls’ High School // St Louise’s Comprehensive College // Breda Academy //Kilkeel High School // Saintfield High School // Sperrin Integrated College // Lagan College // Liverpool John Moores University // University of Dundee // St Mary’s University College Belfast
POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2020
THE NEXT STEP
With many post primary schools opening their doors in January to prospective pupils, now is the time to start thinking about which school is best for your child. Moving on from Primary School into Secondary Education can be daunting for both children and parents. Ulster Tatler’s Post-Primary School Guide has been designed to give you a helping hand. Throughout this feature we explore the best the province has to offer in a range of different schools, including Secondary Schools, Grammar Schools, Integrated and boarding schools, as well as universities. With many of the post-primary schools opening their doors at the start of the year you can make the most of their Open Nights to take a look around and see what they have to offer. You will also get the chance to talk to staff and teachers directly and ask whatever questions you may have. Tips for choosing the right school: - Look at previous exam results. Schools will have clear percentage figures of pass rates for GCSE and A-Level, this will give you an idea of the school’s performance in exams. - Word of mouth. Hearing other parents and pupils’ experience of the school can be extremely helpful. - Don’t panic. Education standards are higher than ever so whatever school your child chooses, it will be satisfactory for their wants and needs. In the end, the potential lies in each child and will flourish if they put in the hard work. - Be practical. Choose a school that is close in location to avoid long commutes back and forth.
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CONTENTS 137. Campbell College 138. Rockport 140. Clongowes Wood College 142. Victoria College Belfast 144. Grosvenor Grammar School 146. Bloomfield Collegiate School 148. St Columbanus’ College 150. Wellington College 152. Lagan College 154. Cookstown High School 155. The Royal Belfast Academical Institute 156. Ballyclare High School 158. Assumption Grammar 159. Ashfield Girls’ High School 160. St Joesph’s College 161. Banbridge Academy 162. University of Aberdeen 163. Liverpool John Moores University
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LANYON PLACE BELFAST
TITANIC QUARTER
An independent day and boarding school for Boys and Girls 3-18
SYDENHAM
HOLYWOOD
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Rockport School, Craigavad, Holywood, Co. Down, BT18 0DD
POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2020
A LEADING BOARDING SCHOOL IN THE HEART OF CO. KILDARE
POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2020
Clongowes wood college
STEEPED IN TRADITION YET UTTERLY MODERN The 18th-century Georgian castle at Clongowes Wood College is the first glimpse of the 205 year-old school that many visitors see as they approach the school along the beautiful tree lined avenue. Whilst the castle and grounds have remained unchanged since the first students arrived in 1814, within the walls beats the heart of an ever evolving and truly modern boarding school. Clongowes is home to some 450 boys from all over Ireland and abroad, all who enjoy the full, 7-day boarding education that consists of a rich variety of academic and co-curricular programmes encompassing a wide variety of sports, music, drama, debating and the arts. We believe that boarding school life should mirror the very best of family life and the family home. The best homes are full of life and laughter. They offer understanding and patience; they provide support and comfort when things go wrong. The best homes give children clear boundaries. They set high expectations and they instil values by which to live. A strong family life nurtures the self-esteem that young people need to go out into the world with confidence. This is what we aspire to do, and more, complementing modern family life in our boarding school.
Clongowes is well known for the success of our graduates that have gone on to be leaders in business, social justice, sports and politics. To understand what has led to the success of our past pupils, we must first look at the nature of Jesuit education. Holistic in nature, and focusing on the ‘three Cs’, it aims to develop the student’s Competence in terms of academics, sport and the arts; Conscience to allow him to discern what is right and good and Compassion for the less fortunate. Through these Jesuit values, a Clongowes education aims to inspire students to become ‘men for others’ – developing their unique talents in order to share those with the world. Supported by excellent teaching staff, students complete a six-
year academic cycle towards the Leaving Certificate. A globally recognised qualification, the Leaving Certificate allows our graduates go on to third level education in Ireland, the UK, Europe and the US. Facilities for living and learning are second to none at Clongowes. An ambitious and sustained capital development plan has enabled the school to recently open a new 25M indoor swimming pool, a 4G full sized rugby pitch, dedicated spaces for cooperative learning such as the James Joyce Library and the Bellarmine Learning Centre, a state of the art Sports Hall and a new Science, Art and Technology Building.
For more information contact: Clongowes Wood College, Clane, Co. Kidare, Ireland Tel: +353 (0) 45 838258 Email: admissions@clongowes.net www.clongowes.net PAGE 141
To discover Clongowes for your son, please contact our Admissions team to request more information or arrange a visit to the school. Our open day for 2021 entry will take place on May 16th 2020.
Victoria College Belfast
VICTORIA
COLLEGE
BELFAST
An exceptional school in South AN EXCEPTIONAL, HAPPY ANDto Belfast inspiring each pupil FORWARD THINKING SCHOOL WHICH realise their full potential FOSTERS CONFIDENCE, INDEPENDENT THOUGHT AND A LOVE FOR LEARNING
Victoria College is a leading nondenominational day and boarding school that provides an outstanding and rounded educational experience. Victoria College Belfast is conveniently located between the The College is conveniently located Lisburn and close between theMalone LisburnRoads and Malone to town close and country Roads, to townbus androutes country bus and the local railway network routes and the local railway network; and pupils travel from a wide hence pupils travel from a wide catchment catchment area area across to availNorthern of the high Ireland avail ofand the learning. high quality quality to teaching teaching and learning. Year 8 and pupilstakes are accommodated The9school pride in its strong on the Richmond Campus which record of academic achievement, provides ideal environment for sporting an success and outstanding transition from primary to postpastoral care. Pupils are inspired, primary school. Junior pupils supported and challenged to benefit reach from their own their having full potential andschool achieve their community have a aspirationalwhere goals.they The personalised strong pupil voice allowing learning needs of each pupilthem are to develop in self-confidence and met through a broad and balanced to assume key leadership curriculum allowing each roles. individual pupil to blossom, whilst enjoying “the A particular offully the school freedom strength to explore all the is the emphasis listening educational and placed culturalon opportunities to the pupils and developing their available. values, attitudes and dispositions; as aexceptional consequence, the pupils “An school that display high of confidence, provides highlevels quality education. independence resilience.” Staff members and show real care, -dedication ETI and display a high level of professionalism to ensure that In the Preparatory School each the College provides a safe, secure class is teacher led and pupils and challenging environment benefit from high quality for students to learn andteaching grow and learning across a broad academically, emotionally and curriculum specialist personally.”with Inclusion andteaching Quality in Music, Modern Languages, Mark Assessor PE, swimming and Drama. The Preparatory School extends to offer teacher led day care facilities. Victoria College is an exceptional open 2020 girls’ school withday a strong record of academic achievement, sporting success andJanuary high quality 2020 pastoral 11th care. Pupils are inspired and challenged their fullsee Pleaseto dorealise visit us and potential achieve goals what and we have to their offer…..be and they avail of aof wide range of a part VCB! opportunities, developing skills, values, attitudes and behaviours which will prepare them for adult life.
The personalised learning needs of each pupil are met through a broad and balanced curriculum allowing each individual pupil to blossom as she enjoys the freedom to explore fully all the educational and cultural opportunities available to her. “The care and support of each pupil is afforded a high priority by the school and is very effective in supporting the pupils’ learning and achievement. All members of the school community work collegially to create a respectful, inclusive and nurturing environment where the pupils are empowered to believe in themselves.” Careers Education, Information, - Advice ETI and Guidance (CEIAG) is an Victoria College pupils represent Ulster and Northern Ireland in a range of sport at local, national and international levels and in school avail of an exciting range of sports from athletics, gymnastics, hockey, netball, squash and tennis to swimming, trampolining, rugby, camogie, Gaelic games, golf, dance and equestrian events. A new sports hall opened on campus in September 2017 and the PE Department also benefits integral part from of theaccess schooltoexperience facilities at the Queen’s and across thenearby Key Stages pupils are University Belfast and Stranmillis. engaged in innovative programmes. Pupils may also avail of a wide range “of Pupils benefit significantly from extra-curricular opportunities the opportunities provided for allowing them to develop the participationskills, in anvalues, extensive knowledge, attitudes range of sporting, cultural and them and dispositions which prepare other additional enrichment for success in work and in life. activities, which further develop their personal social skills.” In sports pupilsand represent Ulster and - Northern ETI Ireland at local, national and international levels and in school Music, theatre, they can enjoylanguages, an exciting art range of and humanities are real strengths activities from athletics, gymnastics, within thenetball, schoolsquash as is the STEAM hockey, and tennis agenda with thetrampolining, College having to swimming, rugby, camogie, Gaelic games, golf, dance
been recognised as a Science Specialist School. The educational experience for both pupils and staff is enhanced through partnerships with schools at home and abroad and through a wide range of educational trips and visits each year, while the College’s boarders bring an additional international dimension to the school community. The College retains its International School Award and pupils gain the cultural understanding, respect for others and the skills they need to live and work as global citizens. The College also holds the Investors inand People Bronzeevents. award, the Green equestrian A new sports Flag award and the hallEco recently opened onprestigious campus and Inclusion Quality Mark (IQM) in the PE Department also benefits recognition ofto the positive, from access facilities at diverse the nearby and inclusive ethos and practice Queen’s University Belfast and that underpins all aspects of school Stranmillis. life. The IQM Assessor stated that the College is an significantly exceptional school “Pupils benefit from that high quality education theprovides opportunities provided for for young women in extensive Belfast. range participation in an Staff memberscultural show real of sporting, andcare, other dedication display aactivities, high level additionaland enrichment ofwhich professionalism to ensure further develop theirthat personal the College provides and social skills.” ETIa safe, secure and challenging environment for girls to learn andlanguages, grow academically, Music, theatre, art and emotionally humanitiesand are personally.’ real strengths within the school as is the STEAM agenda. The educational experience for both pupils and staff is enhanced through partnerships with schools at home and abroad andDAY through a wide range OPEN 2019 of educational trips and visits each 12th January year,Saturday while the boarding community 10am 1pm furtherfrom augments the–international dimension thatbest permeates the school. The College’s ambassadors are its pupils and staff, who will be The College’s best ambassadors delighted to welcome prospective are its pupils and staff who pupils and their parents onwill ourbe delighted to welcome prospective Open Day, or by appointment. pupils and their parents to Open Day on the 11th January 2020 from 10am to 1pm, or by appointment.
www.victoriacollege.org.uk
POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2020
Grosvenor Grammar School prize winners pictured alongside their Principal, Dr. Vasey, and Dr Alan Gillespie, former Chairman of Ulster Bank.
LIFE AT GROSVENOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL
POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2020
GROSVENOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL, BELFAST
Relationships - Respect - Responsibility
Grosvenor Grammar School is located in the Castlereagh area of East Belfast and benefits from fantastic, modern facilities. Happiness breeds success in Grosvenor and everyone is encouraged to get involved in the school community. The school has a proud tradition of providing a high-quality education to all of its pupils, enabling them to participate in a superb range of curricular and extracurricular activities. The school ethos is underpinned by the
three values of Relationships, Respect and Responsibility. Pupils are welcomed into the Grosvenor family and the dedicated staff members work hard to ensure that pupils feel supported and encouraged at every stage of their educational pathway. At Grosvenor, the pupils consistently achieve outstanding examination results at GCSE and A Level. The School prides itself on providing a caring and supportive learning environment in which all are inspired to achieve high standards and to become tolerant and confident adults. The school is highly involved in charity work, for example, last year it raised in excess of £10,000 for various organisations whilst also reaching out to those in the local community by supporting the East Belfast Mission’s Neighbours in Need Appeal. Music and drama are two of our most successful extra-curricular fields and events such as the Carol Service, Spring Concert and annual School Production provide the perfect opportunity for Grosvenor pupils to showcase their amazing talent. In sport, Grosvenor pupils have enjoyed fantastic success at both team and individual levels and the school welcomes families and friends to its Saturday morning fixtures. The pupils have also benefitted from many sporting
and educational trips to such varying destinations as Spain, Germany, France and Poland. The School is celebrating its 75th Anniversary in 2020 and is recognising this in the following ways: Service of Thanksgiving: Bloomfield Presbyterian Church, Sunday 9 February 2020 at 3.00pm. Spring Concert: Ulster Hall, Wednesday 18 March 2020 (Tickets may be purchased from the Ulster Hall Box Office). Gala Dinner: Parliment Buildings, Friday 24 April 2020. For further information, please contact the school via email address below.
Dr Vasey, Principal.
Further information is available on the School website at: www.grosvenorgrammarschool. org.uk, or you would be most welcome to visit the school during Open Nights on Wednesday, 8 or Thursday, 9 January 2020.
For more information contact: Grosvenor Grammar School, Marina Park, Belfast, BT5 6BA Tel: 028 9070 2777, Fax: 028 9097 7019 Email: info@grosvenor.belfast.ni.sch.uk, www.grosvenorgrammarschool.org.uk Twitter: @GrosvenorGS PAGE 145
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SUCCESS AT BLOOMFIELD COLLEGIATE SCHOOL
POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2020
Bloomfield collegiate SCHOOL
EXCELLENCE IN A CARING COMMUNITY The Ragdogs Young Enterprise team had a very successful day at the Young Enterprise Belfast Area Trade Fair, winning three awards: Best Customer Service, Best Digital Presence and Best Overall Company. The girls then progressed to the NI Finals where they smashed it, winning Company of the Year. And they didn’t disappoint at the UK finals, where they were runners-up in the Delta Pursuit of Opportunity category. This is a remarkable achievement.
Principal with pupils.
Bloomfield Collegiate School has a distinctive and special ethos. Academic success remains a priority and high expectations are set with a curriculum that allows all of our pupils every opportunity to become confident leaders in the global marketplace. While our results at GCSE and A Level remain impressive, we know the skills required for the future are not found uniquely in the classroom. STEM is an important element of our teaching, and the Science, Technology and Mathematics departments provide opportunities for the pupils to develop their abilities and interests beyond the whiteboards and desks. Year 10 pupils took part in the recent Hive Academy Competition organised by PWC, scooping first and third places for their wonderful app designs. The performing arts also play a vital role in our community and the Music Department continues to deliver excellent productions. One of the musical highlights of last year was Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat. The huge number of pupils involved on stage and behind the scenes was remarkable and their incredible efforts ensured the show was a great success. The Carol Service is always enchanting and, as part of the KIC Drama programme, our troupe performed brilliantly at The Lyric Theatre. Dance enables many of our girls to excel in a national and even international
forum. Once again, our teams enjoyed tremendous success. For example, at NICMAC, we were awarded first place for Junior, Intermediate and Senior prizes. Participation in sport adds a real sense of community and camaraderie, especially during our Sports Day at the Mary Peter’s Track, which is organised by the talented PE Department. Our senior hockey teams are consistently competitive in the Schools’ Cup and Superleague, the Year 8 team were runners-up in the Lynsey Waller Memorial Tournament, and our athletes regularly qualify for the Ulster Athletics finals. Lucy Kerr’s Gold in 100m and Silver in 200m in the regional finals are particularly commendable. Katie Poots and Emily Flynn are both ranked top of their age group and older in Ireland at golf and table-tennis respectively.
There was the ski trip to Italy, the A Level Modern Language pupils’ adventures in Spain, and the Year 8s’ terrific camping experience in Ballykinlar. We also have strong partnerships with the wider community with many pupils volunteering at, for example, Towell House and Tor Bank Special School. Our Scripture Union, Film Club, Eco Club and Community Service Volunteers all continue to thrive under the leadership of our enthusiastic teachers. There are many more exciting stories we would like to share and we are confident your daughter will benefit from the quality of education offered at Bloomfield Collegiate School. To find out more, our pupils and staff will be delighted to welcome prospective pupils and their parents to our Open Evening on Wednesday, 15th January 2020, from 6.00 pm to 9.00 pm.
Then there are our debating and public speaking societies and teams. One team of Year 10 girls were runners-up in the Irish Federation of University Public Speaking Competition at QUB. It is worth noting that Olivia Porter won best overall speaker and went on to represent the school, and Northern Ireland, at the Irish finals. Our Combined Cadet Force contingent goes from strength to strength. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme is another way of developing resilience and determination. Last year, many pupils successfully completed Bronze, Silver and Gold Awards.
For more information contact: Bloomfield Collegiate, Astoria Gardens, Belfast, BT5 6HW Tel: 028 9047 1214 www.bloomfieldcollegiate.org.uk
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LIFE AT ST COLUMBANUS’ COLLEGE
POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2020
ST COLUMBANUS’ COLLEGE, BANGOR
high performing inclusive education St Columbanus’ College is a well-established and very successful 11-19, all-ability, coeducational, Catholic College located on Ballymaconnell Road, Bangor. We are proud that our school attracts people of all religious denominations and is a community where diverse beliefs and cultures fuse together to form a vibrant college where the academic, pastoral and spiritual growth of our students are valued equally. At the school’s core are the values of equality and inclusion, providing individual support and learning to all pupils, from the highest academic achiever to the child who needs more focused support and encouragement. All children are welcome within the College both by their peers and by highly motivated teaching staff who uphold a pastoral care system which ETI have determined to be outstanding. When you combine passionate and caring staff with a highly effective pastoral structure, you get a community designed to ensure that all children are included and equally valued. From the minute you start at St Columbanus’ College, you will be
cared for by staff in a close-knit, caring environment, with student services and support focused on the individual needs of our children. We have been described as “a happy school with a can do attitude”. It is our belief that happy and content children working in a climate of cooperation and high expectation will achieve their full potential. The College works successfully in partnership with families to promote the successful development of their children. It is a school that is firmly committed to the communities it serves, thriving at the heart of the Bangor and Ards area parishes and community life. The aim of St Columbanus’ College is to provide every child with academic knowledge and skills with a culture of challenge and success whilst maintaining an equal focus on their moral, physical, spiritual, emotional and social well-being. Our academic success speaks for itself. In August 2019 we had another outstanding set of GCSE and A Level results, celebrating the best in the College’s history. 89% of our pupils
achieved at least 5 A*-C grades at GCSE level, 63% including English and Maths. In all of the indicators used by authorities to measure academic performance, our College performed at levels well above the National Average at KS3, GCSE and A Level. We strive to achieve success in a happy and hard-working environment and this success can be measured by our outstanding results. The College is proud to be a strong Catholic College firmly rooted in Christian teaching and principles. We welcome children of any faith or none and we pride ourselves on inclusion and acceptance according to the teachings and values of the Gospel. The college’s ethos encourages young people to “Live with God’s law in their heart”, to have love and respect for one another and to display the values of honesty, integrity, respect and hard work in all that they do. St Columbanus’ College is committed to providing every pupil with an education for life.
For more information contact: St Columbanus’ College, Ballymaconnell Road, Bangor BT20 5PU Tel: 028 9127 0927, Email: info@stcolumbanuscollege.bangor.ni.sch.uk Web: www.stcolumbanus.org.uk Twitter: @StColumbanusCol Facebook: @StColumbanusCollege PAGE 149
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Pupils have many opportunities to demonstrate their musical skills.
The annual Musical allows pupils to shine both front of House and backstage.
A FLAVOUR OF WELLINGTON COLLEGE
The annual Wellington Bake Off produces spectacular results.
Colour Run in aid of Habitat for Humanity.
lar activities on offer at There are many extra-curricu the Photography Club pictured Wellington College including anic Gardens. here at their annual trip to Bot
Pupils have many opportunities to exp and their horizons on College trips.
1st XV Rugby Squad on tour.
POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2020
wellington college
ENGAGE - EDUCATE - EMPOWER Wellington College is a co-educational grammar school situated in one of Belfast’s most attractive and accessible locations. The College is close to main arterial routes into and out of Belfast and its pupils benefit from dedicated transport services. Accommodated in first class buildings, Wellington College offers superior facilities including sophisticated practice and recording rooms in the music department, state-of-the-art ICT facilities, a Lecture Theatre, fitness suite, tennis courts, sports hall and astro turf pitch. Wellington College has a well deserved reputation as a caring school with a strong pastoral and academic ethos. The College emphasises individual fulfilment and the pursuit of excellence in all aspects of education and holds high expectations of all pupils in terms of behaviour and school work. It aims to empower young people to achieve the best results of which they are capable. Whilst academic success remains a priority at Wellington College, it believes that all students should benefit from a broad range of extra curricular opportunities. At Wellington pupils are expected to take part in the full, rich and diverse life of the College. In music, pupils can join one of the choirs or singing groups, the
Concert Band, Orchestra or one of the many instrumental ensembles. In sport they can participate in hockey, rugby, football, netball, athletics, badminton, tennis and golf to name but a few. Other opportunities for extra curricular success include debating/public speaking, ICT club, Art club, Science club, Astronomy club, Chess club, the Duke of Edinburgh Award scheme, Scripture Union, the various College magazines and the annual Kids Literature Quiz which Wellington hosts each year. In addition the College puts on a musical performance each year which allows a huge number of pupils to take part both on stage and backstage. Wellington College wants every pupil’s experience to be exciting and inspirational. It takes every opportunity to broaden horizons and place learning in context. Pupils take part in trips, visits and courses in a range of local, national and international settings including sporting trips to Italy, language trips to France and Spain and the annual ski trip. The College believes that to prepare all pupils for the challenges they face in the future, its job is to present them with as many different situations as possible in which they can adapt, compete and develop into successful citizens of the future.
Guest of Honour at the College Prize day the Rt Rev John McDowell, Bishop of Clogher, with Principal Mr David Castles, Head Boy Ben Anthony and Head Girl Molly Graham.
Year 8 enjoying their Team Building day at Crawfordsburn.
The annual Ski Trip.
1st XI Hockey Squad on tour to Holland.
The College open nights on Thursday 9th January 2020 and Monday 13th January 2020 at 7.00pm will allow you to see for yourself the true nature of Wellington College and the excellent facilities from which both pupils and staff benefit. Its best ambassadors are its young people, and a few minutes in their company will give you a real insight into Wellington College.
For more information contact: Wellington College Belfast 18 Carolan Road, Belfast, BT7 3HE Telephone 028 9064 2539 or take a look at our website at www.wellingtoncollegebelfast.org PAGE 151
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LIFE AT LAGAN COLLEGE
POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2020
Lagan College
Northern ireland’s future Founded in 1981 with 28 students, Lagan College was Northern Ireland’s first planned integrated school. Today, there are over 1300 students. The College is the flagship of integrated education. The central aim of Governors, Principal and staff is to educate together to the highest standards Catholics, Protestants and those of other religious beliefs or none. The College is a Christian school for the whole family which is open to boys and girls of all abilities. It is a day school for students aged 11-18 which is grounded in two central beliefs: firstly, that it is both permissible and desirable for Catholics and Protestants and others to be educated together under the same roof; and secondly, that it is unnecessary and damaging to the community for children of the same family to be labelled as ‘successes’ or ‘failures’ at the age of eleven and educated apart in segregated schools.
The College open day is Saturday 11th January 2020 at 9.00am - 12.30pm. Principal’s address 9.00, 10.00, 11.00 and 12.00. P6 and P7 families are most welcome as well as prospective sixth form students.
For more information contact: Lagan College, 44 Manse Road, Belfast, BT8 6SA T: 028 9040 1810 E: info@lagancollege.com www.lagancollege.com PAGE 153
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The commitment and dedication of Year 13 Music student Nick Thomas has been recognised with his attaining a position in the prestigious National Youth Orchestra of Ireland.
Head of School Keelan Sloan performed an unparalleled version of ‘You Raise Me Up’.
Year 14 A Level Music student Jack Kelly played a range of instruments on the evening.
R B AI C h ari ty Conc e r t M M XIX The RBAI Charity Concert was once again a resounding success with wonderful performances on both a collective and individual level. The evening’s programme ranged from pieces by Handel, Bizet and Haydn to Tears for Fears and U2. The variety and scope of the music, arranged and conducted by Mr Bolton MBE, accompanied and supported by Mrs Harshaw, was astounding. With spectacular lighting effects, superb performances from the choir, orchestra, the Jazz Band, and soloists and stunning music to match, the RBAI Common Hall witnessed a concert like no other, and one which will remain in the minds of both the audience and the performers for many years to come.
The scope of the music performed by the choir and orchestra was again transporting.
Mr Philip Bolton MBE, Head of Music, conducts the orchestra and choir.
THE HIGH SCHOOL,COOKSTOWN EXCELLENCE, OPPORTUNITY, SUPPORT The High School has been a feature of the sporting, educational and cultural life of the greater Mid Ulster area since its foundation by Rev. Thomas Millar in 1806. It occupies splendid wooded grounds just off the town centre, is easily accessible and boasts some of the finest outdoor sports facilities in Ulster including two AstroTurf pitches, two splendid grass pitches and two rugby pitches. As a combined grammar and secondary school with a Christian ethos, it admits pupils to distinct grammar, secondary and vocational pathways. Pupils are admitted to grammar provision on the basis of their academic ability as evidenced in primary school and do not need to sit additional ‘transfer’ tests. Secondary pathway pupils who perform highly may move onto the grammar pathway.
Pupils on all pathways are expected to work hard; bespoke careers provision ensures they choose the GCSE subjects most appropriate to their needs so they can succeed and pursue their life goals. Pupils on the vocational pathway avail of the school’s links with local employers for work experience and courses at the Further Education College. It also has an excellent Learning Support Centre where pupils with moderate learning difficulties thrive in a supportive, nurturing environment. The school places a strong emphasis on character development and community engagement with over forty extra curricular activities on offer. Pupils are offered a wide range of co-curricular opportunities such as Bar Mock Trial Competitions, BT Young Scientist, Francofest, and wide array of Engineering competitions.
Coolnafranky Estate, Molesworth Street, Cookstown, BT80 8PQ 028 8676 3620 www.cookstownhighschool.org 154
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THE ROYAL BELFAST ACADEMICAL INSTITUTION
PERMA ENSURES EXCELLENCE AT RBAI As we look with enthusiasm towards another year of ‘excellence and participation’ at RBAI, it is a good time to reflect on the impact our focus on pupil wellbeing through PERMA has had on the enjoyment, interaction and results of our pupils. PERMA, the focus on Positive Emotions, Engagement, Relationships, Meaning and Accomplishments, reinforces the core principles of Inst’s values, placing highly effective teaching and learning, along with pupil engagement, at the centre of our approach. Inst has traditionally equipped pupils to excel in both academic and extra-curricular pursuits. Head of Wellbeing, Mr Jack Allen, believes “At Inst we have developed a Wellbeing programme which complements the foundations that are at the core of our school.” Current Head Boy, Keelan Sloan, is an excellent example of how PERMA has positively influenced his engagement in both curricular and co-curricular pursuits. Though he achieved 4 A grades in his recent AS exams, he was able to maintain his commitments to music in school and performing through a scholarship scheme with St Polycarp’s choir while simultaneously completing a gruelling training regime for rugby.
Relationships: Nick Irvine, Dr Zoe Williams and Dylan Nagar explore positive relationships which are promoted at Inst.
Keelan believes “The focus on wellbeing in school has led me to value the curricular and co-curricular opportunities I have been given at Inst; the balance between study, indulging my love of music and the physicality of rugby allows me to be at my best.”
Meaning: Curricular and co-curricular pursuits alike at Inst create and reinforce meaning.
Positive emotions: the 1st XV enjoyed the ‘Tackle Your Emotions’ campaign.
Engagement: Staff and pupils engage together in Run In The Dark; this promotes even better relationships in the classroom.
Accomplishments: The balance of participation at Inst leads to our pupils’ accomplishments across a range of fields.
For more information contact: The Royal Belfast Academical Institution, College Square East, Belfast, BT1 6DL Tel: 028 9024 0461 www.rbai.org.uk Facebook: @RoyalBelfastAcademicalInstitution PAGE 155
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developing lifelong learners in a caring, creative COMMUNITY
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Ballyclare high school “We know you will find a place here where your child will prosper” Dr Rainey, Principal
‘There is a happy atmosphere which is apparent when you walk through the door.’ Parent, Kirkland Rowell Survey Ballyclare High School is a competitive grammar school with a proven record of academic distinction and extra-curricular excellence. It is steeped in a tradition of high performance that reaches back over one hundred years and is best represented in the school motto, “Industria et Probitate”, which emphasises that hard work and personal integrity are at the heart of our values. In our determination to blend the best of long-established processes and cutting-edge contemporary approaches to learning, we believe that we offer an approach which provides an ideal basis for our pupils to advance into the adult world with confidence and success. ‘Ballyclare High is an excellent example of a digital school where the learning, teaching, assessment, monitoring and administration are seamlessly supported by digital technology.’ Digital School’s Award 2018 Assessor’s Report. The culture is one of mutually respectful relationships based on clearly defined and agreed values. It is one of aspiration and of expectation. Pastoral care is the bedrock of all we endeavour to do. High standards of academic results and behaviour are realised through a belief in the empowerment of the individual. We have a rich history of academic attainment and conspicuous success across an outstanding range of co-curricular opportunities that strengthen confidence and spirit.
Pupils regularly represent Ulster, N.I. and Ireland across a range of sports and are winners across a vast array of sporting, science and cultural competitions at a local and national level. We, uniquely, have secured the International School Award for the seventh consecutive occasion. Such an international perspective shapes many opportunities for pupils who, recently, have visited a range of European countries as well as New Zealand, Ethiopia and South Africa. A belief in the importance of leadership and adventure is reflected in the fact that more pupils complete the Duke of Edinburgh programme than any other school in Ulster. ‘Pupils have excellent opportunities to engage in a wide range of extra-curricular activities. This extensive and appealing aspect of provision contributes significantly to their wider educational experiences and is valued highly by the pupils.’ Education Training Inspectorate Ballyclare High School is the only school to be awarded accreditation against the Investors in People Standard at Gold Level and the Health and Wellbeing Award at the highest level, thus demonstrating the commitment to realising the potential of our people. ‘Investors in People accreditation is the sign of a great employer, and an organisation committed to achieving success by realising the potential of their people.’ Paul Devoy, Head of Investors in People
‘My school is a place where no matter how big or small, or how quick, or how shy you are, there is something for you here.’ Pupil Kirkland Rowell Survey Our pupils make our school special. They are nurtured by a highly-motivated and professional staff with a can-do attitude, who consider themselves also to be lifelong learners. Here there is a child-centred approach with focussed investment in the holistic development of each one to ensure they grow into well-rounded young adults with a range of competencies, emotional intelligence and resilience. Our pupils feel safe and happy. Regardless of their starting point, the majority thrive in the creative environment around them; there is a curiosity about learning here. ‘My school is a place where we believe you never stop learning.’ Pupil Kirkland Rowell Survey A broad curricular offer complements a careers programme that is continuously abreast of labour market information, so our children are equipped to compete in a globalised and technologies-driven world. Right from well-developed links with our primary schools through to the end of sixth form we have crafted an approach to supporting our young people to fulfil their potential and to prepare them for adulthood, not only academically, but emotionally, morally and physically.
Ballyclare High School 31 Rashee Rd, Ballyclare, BT39 9HJ Web: www.ballyclarehigh.co.uk
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Open Night Tuesday 7th January
Principal’s Welcome - 6.30pm and 8pm.
POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2020
Assumption grammar
FULLY ALIVE IN EDUCATION Assumption Grammar School is one of the finest Catholic Schools for Girls in Ireland, situated on a beautiful, elevated site on the edge of the historic Co.Down market town of Ballynahinch. The easily accessible, state-of-theart building serves pupils with wide-ranging talents and abilities from all over South Down and Belfast. Just 25 minutes from Belfast City Centre, a place at Assumption provides parents and pupils with a hassle-free journey to and from school, with minimal rush hour traffic and a bus service accommodating pupils from Belfast, Lisburn, Newtownbreda, Four Winds, Carryduff and the neighbouring Lecale, Ballynahinch, Newcastle and surrounding townlands. Assumption Grammar is a truly outstanding educational facility – right on your doorstep! At Assumption Grammar we take great pride in our inclusivity, welcoming students of all faiths and cultures. We take pride, too, that within our culturally diverse student body, respect, tolerance and understanding are cornerstones for the relationships that exist. Assumption is a Specialist School for Music and Physical Education and is renowned for its quality learning and teaching. Our pastoral provision is second to none. Pupils are encouraged to develop as responsible, caring and competent individuals who are ‘Fully Alive’. A highly skilled pastoral team ensures that all pupils are cared for and that their individual needs are met. We strongly believe in and support parent and student participation and involvement in decisions about the Assumption experience. We take on board the needs of individuals and tailor our provision accordingly. We look forward to welcoming you into the very heart of our school community. Please come along and join our community to witness firsthand the warm welcome you will receive and experience the real-life journey that our pupils embark on - The Assumption Way.
P7 & POST-16 OPEN DAY Saturday 18th January 2020 10am-1pm. Principal’s Address: 10:00am & 11:00am For more information contact: Assumption Grammar School, 24 Belfast Road, Ballynahinch, Co. Down, BT24 8EA Tel: 028 9756 2250 www.assumptiongrammar.org.uk Twitter: @assumptionlive Facebook: www.facebook.com/Assumptionlive PAGE 158
POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2020
Ashfield girls’ high school
each different, each talented, all valued
As an all-ability learning community, we challenge and support our pupils to excel in their academic studies; to develop sector prescribed standards through vocational qualifications; to participate in the varied crosscurricular and extra-curricular opportunities through the extended schools programme and to fully embrace a wealth of pupil leadership roles. Our GCSE and A-Level examination results are a continued source of great pride, which reflect positively on the challenging and supportive learning environment. One of the strengths underpinning our excellent results is our pastoral care provision, we care. All form tutors and class teachers work diligently with our pupils to support their individual aspirations and expectations. We are fully committed to further developing our pupils’ individual curiosity, creativity and love of learning. As a learning community built by learning leaders, we focus on providing a broad and balanced curriculum that builds the knowledge and skills essential for success in a continuously changing and technologically advancing global economy. Our school motto is “Each Different, Each Talented and ALL valued”. We are proud to see our pupils leave Ashfield Girls’ High School as independent, confident and articulate young people ready to embark on their chosen career pathway. On Tuesday 21st January 2020 we will be holding our annual Open Evening for Year 8 and Sixth Form Admissions from 6.30-pm – 9.00pm.
Ashfield Girls’ High School, Holywood Road, Belfast, BT4 2LY Tel: 028 9047 1744 www.ashfieldgirls.org PAGE 159
POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2020
St joseph’s college, Belfast
ACHIEVING EXCELLENCE THROUGH PARTNERSHIP St. Joseph’s College is a vibrant and exciting place to be in every day. Prospective pupils and their parents are invited to come along and see why during the college’s open night on January 16, 2020. Positive relationships and respect are the driving forces for what they do well. The school are proud of our students’ successes; they do well academically, excel on the games field and stretch themselves in many different ways through the variety of activities on offer. They develop and explore their talents and interests. The school gives an education that goes beyond academic excellence and all their other achievements. A St. Joseph’s College education provides the girls and boys with a spiritual compass to guide them through adult life. Principal, Michele McCormick said: “I am so proud and privileged to lead this school. It is an ideal setting to constantly create, innovate, think outside the box and achieve. We achieve excellence through our partnership between pupils, parents, staff and being a school for the whole community.”
For more information contact the Principal: Michele McCormick St Joseph’s College, 518-572 Ravenhill Road, Belfast, BT6 0BY Tel: 028 90491280 / 90491474 Web: www.saintjosephscollege.co.uk Email:info@stjosephs.belfast.ni.sch.uk
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Open night thursday 16th january 2020
Banbridge Academy “...known personally and cared for individually.” Banbridge Academy was founded in 1786 and moved to its impressive present location, Edenderry House, in 1950. During the last 25 years there have been two major building projects which have blended the best of modernity with the school’s family ethos and distinguished heritage. The modern and attractive educational facilities, combined with a talented and dedicated teaching staff, enable Banbridge Academy to provide an excellent standard of education where high quality Teaching and Learning is prioritised. Educational activities spread far beyond the confines of the classroom. From experiencing life in World War One trenches in Bayernwald, Flanders, to a field study in the Rocky River, Mourne Mountains, its pupils enjoy broad and varied learning experiences. Recent visits have included educational trips to Boston, Barcelona, Berlin and to New York. The aims of Banbridge Academy are to empower and develop its pupils and it is committed to delivering an education which is an enriching and enabling experience. Pupils excel as a community of learners, in an atmosphere of academic enquiry, where they are encouraged to become articulate, reflective and independent learners. Current and former Academy pupils have excelled in sports at regional, provincial, national and international level. Rugby continues to grow, having won a number of trophies. In 2015-2016, the boys’ 1st XI hockey team won an unprecedented number of titles, including the Tasmanian AllIreland Title, The Burney Cup and the HDM European Cup. In 2018, they lost narrowly in the All Ireland Final. In 2016-2017, the girls’ senior hockey team enjoyed an unforgettable season, winning The Belfast Telegraph Ulster Senior Schoolgirls’ Schools’ Cup and the Kate Russell
Subway All Ireland Championship. In 2018, they lost narrowly in the NI Superleague Final.
have included A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Guys and Dolls, The Sound of Music and Show Stoppers.
Pupils are always encouraged to get involved in as many extra and co-curricular activities as possible. Over seventy opportunities exist in the school’s rich extra-curricular provision, complemented by the school’s thriving House System, named after significant local figures: Crozier, Dunbar, McWilliam and Waddell. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme continues to be very popular with expeditions to the Lake District and the Trossachs. In the last ten years, Banbridge Academy pupils have raised in excess of £179,000 for various local, national and international charities. The outstanding quality and variety of the Drama Society’s theatrical productions contribute to the inclusive ethos of the school. Recent productions
The Principal, Mr Robin McLoughlin, extends a welcome to Open Night. Come and visit the school and experience the warmth and energy of the friendly, caring ethos that defines Banbridge Academy.
Open Night
Monday 27th January, 2020
Primary 7 pupils and their parents Talk for prospective are warmly invited to attend. A Level students in Lecture Principal’s talk in the Assembly Theatre at 7.30pm. Hall at 7.00pm and 8.00pm.
T: 028 4062 3220 or visit www.banbridgeacademy.org.uk BBA Ulster Tatler Dec 2020.indd 1
13/12/2019 17:21
Banbridge Academy “...known personally and cared for individually.” Banbridge Academy was founded in 1786 and moved to its impressive present location, Edenderry House, in 1950. During the last 25 years there have been two major building projects which have blended the best of modernity with the school’s family ethos and distinguished heritage. The modern and attractive educational facilities, combined with a talented and dedicated teaching staff, enable Banbridge Academy to provide an excellent standard of education where high quality Teaching and Learning is prioritised. Educational activities spread far beyond the confines of the classroom. From experiencing life in World War One trenches in Bayernwald, Flanders, to a field study in the Rocky River, Mourne Mountains, its pupils enjoy broad and varied learning experiences. Recent visits have included educational trips to Boston, Barcelona, Berlin and to New York. The aims of Banbridge Academy are to empower and develop its pupils and it is committed to delivering an education which is an enriching and enabling experience. Pupils excel as a community of learners, in an atmosphere of academic enquiry, where they are encouraged to become articulate, reflective and independent learners. Current and former Academy pupils have excelled in sports at regional, provincial, national and international level. Rugby continues to grow, having won a number of trophies. In 2015-2016, the boys’ 1st XI hockey team won an unprecedented number of titles, including the Tasmanian AllIreland Title, The Burney Cup and the HDM European Cup. In 2018, they lost narrowly in the All Ireland Final. In 2016-2017, the girls’ senior hockey team enjoyed an unforgettable season, winning The Belfast Telegraph Ulster Senior Schoolgirls’ Schools’ Cup and the Kate Russell
Subway All Ireland Championship. In 2018, they lost narrowly in the NI Superleague Final.
have included A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Guys and Dolls, The Sound of Music and Show Stoppers.
Pupils are always encouraged to get involved in as many extra and co-curricular activities as possible. Over seventy opportunities exist in the school’s rich extra-curricular provision, complemented by the school’s thriving House System, named after significant local figures: Crozier, Dunbar, McWilliam and Waddell. The Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Scheme continues to be very popular with expeditions to the Lake District and the Trossachs. In the last ten years, Banbridge Academy pupils have raised in excess of £179,000 for various local, national and international charities. The outstanding quality and variety of the Drama Society’s theatrical productions contribute to the inclusive ethos of the school. Recent productions
The Principal, Mr Robin McLoughlin, extends a welcome to Open Night. Come and visit the school and experience the warmth and energy of the friendly, caring ethos that defines Banbridge Academy.
Open Night
Monday 27th January, 2020
Primary 7 pupils and their parents Talk for prospective are warmly invited to attend. A Level students in Lecture Principal’s talk in the Assembly Theatre at 7.30pm. Hall at 7.00pm and 8.00pm.
T: 028 4062 3220 or visit www.banbridgeacademy.org.uk BBA Ulster Tatler Dec 2020.indd 1
13/12/2019 17:21
Ancient university
Inspirational city
As it celebrates its 525th year, the University of Aberdeen welcomes applicants from Northern Ireland to join its supportive community in a self-contained, stunning campus.
At Aberdeen, we consider the quality of our teaching and student experience to be of paramount importance. Numerous indicators of teaching, student satisfaction and research excellence place Aberdeen in the highest tier of UK universities. Enhanced Study
In recent years over £280 million has been spent on new facilities with another £288 million planned investment over the coming years. Recognised as Scotland’s Safest City (Unbroken Britain Survey, Provident Financial 2018), we pride ourselves on an environment that welcomes new students and supports them on what can be a challenging phase in their lives.
Flexibility and individuality are our real strengths. We call this flexibility ‘Enhanced Study’. It provides the much needed versatility and adaptability necessary for gaining employment in the 21st century. This means that, whilst studying one main subject, there are opportunities to study other subjects and even change course.
Aberdeen City
Accommodation
The city truly has something for everyone Aberdeen is a friendly environment which is large enough for the big city experience while being small enough to easily make new friends and quickly find your way around. Our students enjoy the benefits of a dynamic, forward-thinking city during their studies and are wellplaced for employment opportunities after their graduation.
We guarantee* to find all new entrants to the University of Aberdeen a place in our portfolio of accommodation, either University owned or with one of our preferred partners - provided your application reaches us by the deadline. *Terms and conditions apply to the guarantee. For more information on accommodation please visit: abdn.ac.uk/accommodation
Getting Here
Visiting the University
Aberdeen has direct flights from Belfast and with cheap and regular air, rail and bus connections you will get around Scotland, the UK and Europe in no time. Aberdeen International Airport is only 5 miles from the campus. “Coming to the University of Aberdeen has allowed me to immerse myself in a diverse environment and meet people from all over the world. Everyone is friendly, helpful and approachable. Aberdeen has it all.” Matthew Edwards Law Student
Our Open Days, including medicine, will take place on 25th August and 3rd October. Our Medicine Open Day will take place on 13th June 2020. For more information visit: abdn.ac.uk/openday The University of Aberdeen operates an ‘Open Door’ visiting policy throughout the year. For more information visit: abdn.ac.uk/study/campus-visits
*Complete University Guide, 2020 | **HESA, 2018
KEEP IN TOUCH If you would like any further information about the University of Aberdeen, please contact: UK Student Recruitment Team, University of Aberdeen 01224 272090 study@abdn.ac.uk abdn.ac.uk/study @Universityofaberdeen @aberdeenuni uniofaberdeen uniofaberdeen
LIVERPOOL: A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE AND STUDY Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) is the number one destination university for Northern Irish students studying outside of Northern Ireland.* LJMU offers over 20,000 students an unbeatable experience in a modern, city centre based university. Famous for its warm welcome, Liverpool is a fantastic place to study, providing students with all the excitement of a major city but with the friendliness and sense of community of a much smaller town. LJMU has a special relationship with Northern Ireland, built over many years, and is committed to offering the best possible advice, support and guidance to Northern Irish students considering study at the university. Our dedicated recruitment team spend a great deal of time in Northern Ireland, attending Higher Education fairs and visiting local schools and colleges. We also invite young people to apply for a place on our annual Summer School Residential, an unmissable opportunity for Northern Irish students to experience LJMU firsthand.
Applicants who receive an offer will also be invited to exclusive Applicant Day events in Liverpool and Belfast, giving students and their families the chance to attend an event closer to home. Details of our invite-only events will be sent to successful applicants.
YOUR HOME FROM HOME We guarantee all new students a place in high quality student accommodation. Safe and affordable, our LJMU-approved student flats provide the perfect base to explore Liverpool and make new friends. Travelling to Liverpool from Northern Ireland couldn’t be easier too, with daily flights to Liverpool John Lennon Airport, and ferries that sail direct from Belfast.
OPEN DAYS Find out why LJMU has everything you need for a brilliant student experience.
19 June 26 September 17 October 18 November Go to ljmu.ac.uk/opendays for details
Email us at outreach@ljmu.ac.uk for details.
“I wanted to move away for university, but I wanted it to be easy to get back home if I needed to. Liverpool seemed like the perfect city with great travel links to Belfast.” MAYA DESHPANDE BELFAST
For more information contact: Liverpool John Moores University Tel: 0151 231 5090 Web: ljmu.ac.uk Email: courses@ljmu.ac.uk *The Department for the Economy Northern Ireland (DfENI) 2017/18
