Ulster Tatler January 2021 by Ulster Tatler

NORTHERN IRELAND’S NO1 GLOSSY

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THE TAP THAT DOES IT ALL 100°C BOILING, CHILLED AND SPARKLING WATER With a Quooker in your kitchen you always have 100ºC boiling water alongside regular hot and cold. Add a CUBE and you will also have chilled, filtered sparkling water – all from the same tap. When you purchase a CUBE at quooker.co.uk, installation is just £99† plus you will receive 5 CO2 cylinders FREE – the equivalent of 300 litre-bottles of sparkling water. Only when you quote code UT/13.

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FASHION, BEAUTY AND LIFESTYLE PODCAST

Featuring Maryrose Stewart Starlight & Stone.

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17/12/2020 14:26

BELFAST SKIN CLINIC

A unique clinic offering treatments for all skin conditions in all age groups. DERMATOLOGY PLASTIC SURGERY AESTHETICS LASER VASCULAR RHEUMATOLOGY Skin surgery including excision of skin cancer by Mohs surgery Skin Cancer screening and full body mole mapping • General Dermatology Varicose Vein Surgery • Hand Surgery • Laser Treatment • Allergy Testing Excess Sweating • Hair Loss • Rheumatology • Aesthetics • Nutrition • Skin Products For more information or to book an appointment, please call +44 (0)28 9066 7077, email: info@belfastskinclinic.com or visit www.belfastskinclinic.com

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16/12/2020 10:38

Winter Sale starts 4th January 2021 ask instore for details

F R E E C O N S U LTAT I O N A N D D E S I G N P R O C E S S We will design your kitchen to meet your brief, lifestyle and budget. Our 3D design program will allow you to see your kitchen in screen and virtually walk around it before making any final decisions. No job is too big or too small. We have an amazing team of tradesmen, or can work with yours, to transform your house into your dream home.

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Contents

January 2021

32 96 FEATURES

NEW YEAR NEW YOU Healthy living, makeovers and more

COLUMNIST – KATHY CLUGSTON All Made-Up

ARTS ROUND-UP

INSIDE TRACK Our top picks of the month

STAYCATIONS Where to go this winter

GIRL ABOUT TOWN UT’s columnist Nuala Meenehan

SOCIETY WEDDINGS

ARTS DIARY Renoir and the New Era

POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021 Back to school

MY TOP 10 Also throughout the magazine

95 141

JANE HARDY INTERVIEW Actor, Eleanor Methven

144

LOOKING BACK January 1982

This month’s cover features fitness and nutrition expert, Terrell, better known as Transformation Kid. Our cover star is now representing Ireland’s health & fitness industry in Australia. Check out page 70-71 to find out more about his 2021 LIVE FIT T-Kid Body Guide. Facebook: @TransformationKid Instagram: @transformationkid www.transformationkid.com

UT STYLE 53

STYLE WATCH

MY STYLE Fashion inspiration for local trendsetters

TRENDS FOR 2021

HAIR MATTERS With Andrew Mulvenna

KNOW THE LAW New Year, New Start

Full Colour

Keep In Touch With Ulster Tatler At:

9,200

1 Jan to 31 Dec 2019 CIRCULATION VERIFIED BY THE AUDIT BUREAU OF CIRCULATIONS

Black

Reverse

ANNUAL SUBSCRIPTION UK - £30.00 RoI - £60.00 Overseas - £60.00 ULSTER TATLER ISSN 0049 5107 39 Boucher Rd, Belfast BT12 6UT Tel: (028) 9066 3311 www.ulstertatler.com e-mail: info@ulstertatler.com Ulster Tatler Groups is a name used by Ulster Journals Ltd. Company registered in Northern Ireland, registration number NI005037, registered office as listed.

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Winter Warmer Warm up this winter at Titanic Hotel Belfast and enjoy: An overnight stay in one of our nautical themed rooms A two course evening meal in the Wolff Grill restaurant A complimentary glass of Prosecco in Drawing Office Two A Titanic sized breakfast the following morning And complimentary car parking for 24 hours From ÂŁ149 per room www.titanichotelbelfast.com | +44 (0)28 9508 2000 Valid Sunday to Friday on selected dates from January to March 2021. Subject to availability.

Editor’s Letter

No Time Like the Future In common with many facets of life in Northern Ireland, as a result of the pandemic, our schools have taken a real battering in 2020. They have had to try and function as normal in an extremely difﬁcult situation. Many children have been in and out of school like yo-yos while the principals and teachers have had to try and navigate their way through the various – and constantly changing – rules and regulations. Despite this, our schools remain the envy of many of our near neighbours. They consistently outperform other regions in the UK and Ireland and they remain a bright spot during this bleak and weird time that we are living through. Our

Post Primary Schools Supplement attempts to highlight the fantastic work being done across the country by the numerous unsung heroes of our educational sector. The foreword has been written for us especially by the Education Minister Peter Weir. As he says in his introduction “our ﬁrst-class education system places us very ﬁrmly on the international stage.” Hear, hear. I hope you had an enjoyable Christmas break and that 2021 will be good to you.

Chris Sherry Editor, Ulster Tatler

EDITOR: Christopher Sherry DEPUTY EDITOR: Joanne Harkness EDITORIAL MANAGER: James Sherry EDITORIAL ASSISTANT: Chloe Heaney SALES & MARKETING MANAGER: Lorraine Gill Gerry Waddell COPY CONTROLLER: Gemma Johnston PRODUCTION MANAGER: Richard Sherry PRODUCTION/DESIGN: Tatler Type

Only NI based social magazine audited by ABC.

QUOTE FOR THE MONTH

“You can get excited about the future. The past won’t mind.” 9,200

Hillary DePiano, author.

1 Jan to 31 Dec 2019

Room for more Start your fostering journey with us

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COLUMN COLUMN / LIFE & TIMES

Kathy Clugston Kathy Clugston is a freelance radio presenter. She chairs the long-running BBC Radio 4 programme ‘Gardeners’ Question Time’ and presents the weekly entertainment show ‘The Ticket’ on BBC Radio Ulster.

ALL MADE-UP

This month, Kathy Clugston chats about her experience of interviewing an award-winning movie legend and what it is like behind the scenes of television filming.

It’s early December as I write this, and it’s beginning to look a lot like Christmas will be downsized and the New Year celebrations devoid of acquaintances old or new. Disappointment at this unfestive state of affairs is tempered, though, by news of the vaccine(s); cautious optimism is beginning to take hold, although the whats and whens are still up in the air – as I hope Santa Claus will have been by the time you read this. I’m fairly sure he’s a key worker and will be exempt from any travel restrictions. As this January edition of Ulster Tatler starts to curl up at the corners – although

that might take a while, the paper we use is extremely high quality – so our memories of this turbulent festive season, and indeed the whole annus horribilis, will begin to fade. Thanks to the efforts and expertise of many wonderful people, we have hope that 2021 will be the year we kick COVID-19 into touch and hug everyone we love until our arms ache. There is much uncertainty ahead, of course, and the repercussions of this awful year will stretch far into the future, but let’s not dwell on that. Let me instead share some recent glory. In last month’s column I wrote about how my career in radio has been persistently and woefully glamour-free. Well, I take it all back. A few weeks ago, I was invited by the Belfast Media Festival 2020 to interview a proper, bona fide film star. My working life has thrown up a few surprises over the years. I never thought I’d play the ukulele live on Radio 4’s Today programme (it was John Humphrys’ fault); I did not expect to appear in concert at The Proms shouting through a megaphone (I can’t remember whose fault that was); nor did I imagine that my first words to the award-winning movie legend Sir Kenneth Branagh would be “Ken, you’ve turned me into a giant GREASEBALL!” But thus it was. My Illustration by interview with him was Jacky Sheridan being filmed, so I was slightly hysterical due to

THIS MONTH’S OBSESSIONS: Nora Ephron - the late screenwriter of romantic mega-hits Sleepless in Seattle and When Harry Met Sally was also a renowned journalist and essay writer. Her collection I Feel Bad About My Neck is essential reading for women of a certain age (or any age).

Hasselback potatoes: - slice new potatoes, but not right through to the bottom (cutting them on a wooden spoon helps) so they look like little toast racks. Bake them in oil, butter and sea salt.

the stress of finding something to wear that wasn’t a hoodie, all the hairdressers being closed, and having to slather on makeup (remember makeup?) which I clearly wasn’t doing very well as the big light shining on my face was making my pores produce oil at a rate that would make OPEC rejoice. At least we were zooming, so there was a chance Sir Ken mightn’t spot the ever increasing sweat circles on my ill-advised silk shirt. While I frantically powdered, he chatted happily, looking fresh, relaxed and totally matte. We talked about Belfast, where he lived until the age of nine. He has strong memories of the city, the comings and goings in Mountcollyer Street and many happy hours spent in the Capitol Cinema on the Antrim Road. I was reminded of the showbiz adage that the truly talented are the most self-deprecating and generous. To which I would add: they have such skin as dreams are made on. Speaking of John Humphrys, which I did briefly earlier, I once had a taste of what a showbiz life should be like when I acted as his stand-in during a technical rehearsal for Mastermind. The Queen of Quiz Shows is produced in Belfast nowadays, and someone was needed to sit in the host’s seat and read out lots of questions while the camera positions, lighting etc were sorted out. I had the most fabulous day. Yes, there was a lot of hanging around, and the massive letter M everywhere made me crave chocolatecovered ice cream, but I had my very own dressing room – with my name on the door! (It was a bit of scribbled-on A4 attached with masking tape, BUT STILL.) There were bottles of water. Someone brought me coffee and – this is the best bit – I had my own fruit bowl. Fruit! Just for me! It’s another world, television. I’d be a very undemanding TV star. I wouldn’t need a limo or bottles of premium champagne, or bowls of sweets with the brown ones taken out. Just give me a cappuccino and a couple of grapes. Oh, and maybe a make-up artist.

Who the Hell is Hamish? - an Australian true-crime podcast, charting the devastation caused by an unbelievably callous con-man. A chilling story, excellently told.

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STRICTLY OPEN BY APPOINTMENT ONLY

Retail Showroom of the Year Finalist 2018 CELEBRATING OVER 40 YEARS IN BUSINESS

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InsideTrack Ulster Tatler gives you our top picks for this month.

CHECK OUT

OUT AND ABOUT

EAT & DRINK

Grazing boxes have been an emerging trend, with takeaway treats giving us all a much needed pick-me-up. Thyme & Graze, based in Ballyclare is the newest graze box company in town. They provide boxes for any occasion, filled with only the finest produce, made fresh on the day. Boxes can be tailored to your specifications and dietary requirements, and include a range of cheeses, meats, fruit, breads and crackers. These delicious sharing boxes will definitely be the centre of attention at your next gathering.

Craig Kenny is a professional artist from Comber, his passion for art is developed in a style of hyperrealism that captivates the mind and explores what he sees and inspires him. Along with his sister Lyndsey has opened Willow Tree Café Gallery in the heart of Comber square. The gallery offers a selection of original paintings, hand embellished prints, with gift and merchandise section. It also offers a trendy café bar serving Italian coffee, teas, desserts, traybakes and homemade fresh scones – a new extension of his family’s own business The Willow Tree Restaurant.

A brand new fine foods store and delicatessen has opened on the edge of Stranmillis. Ward & Co Fine Foods aims to bring you an exciting place to experience local tastes and flavours right on your doorstep, promoting local produce under an ethical and sustainable ethos, for like-minded foodies. It is a great place to pick up appetising lunches, tasty fresh salads and sandwiches, veggie and meat mains, as well as a huge collection of mouthwatering cured meats, cheeses, coffees and wonderful cakes and pastries.

Check out @ThymeGraze on Facebook

10 Comber Square, Co. Down

7A Lockview Road, Belfast

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A different perspective Some furniture is made for the here and now. Some is built to stand the test of time. At Neptune, we believe that the best can do both. Because good design never grows old. Neptune Belfast, Ormeau Road, 028 9691 9988 Neptune by Malone & Smyth, Fermanagh, 028 6774 1885

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15/12/2020 09:39

GIRL ABOUT TOWN

EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

Nuala Meenehan works in the media and is a leading model.

GET Y O U R G L OW ON!

BOOK IN FOR A PROFESSIONAL FACIAL Facials might seem like an indulgence but they provide more of a complexion boost than you might realise. While there are numerous at-home treatments aimed at dealing with various skincare concerns, some things are best left to professionals. Top of the list is the Guinot Hydraderm Cellular Energy treatment from Ulster Tatler ‘Beauty Salon of the Year’ 2019 and Guinot Crown Salon for the last four years, Beauty Culture. Known in the beauty world as the Rolls Royce of all facials. This award-winning electrical facial is one of the most popular anti-aging and results-driven facials on the market today. The specially designed anti-aging treatment focuses on the eyes, neck, and face and combines the dynamic ionisation of the Hydraderm Cellular Energy Treatment followed by thermal energy to increase the skin’s circulation bringing oxygen to the skin and energy to the skin cells. Lie back and relax, 60 minutes later your skin is glowing, fresh, rejuvenated, and rested! Visit Beauty Culture, Bloomﬁeld Road, Belfast. www.beautyculture.co.uk

I have long since left making New Year’s resolutions, too much pressure and too many broken, like shattered Christmas baubles. I am however particularly drawn to the start of every New Year, there’s something crisp and inviting about starting with a blank page not yet written. I like to start with setting myself some simple achievable self-care goals to look after my physical, mental and emotional wellbeing. After the excess of Christmas and the stress of 2020, like the poor winter doormat, our general skin health and complexions are taking a battering! Here are some of my favourite self-care tips to get your glow on and put your best face forward for 2021.

TOP UP ON VITAMIN C Some skincare ingredients are so effective that once you’ve tried them, you’ll wonder how you ever lived without them. This is how I (and many others) feel about vitamin C. This powerhouse ingredient is quickly becoming a staple of the beauty industry; it’s a true multi-tasker, a powerful antioxidant, helping to protect against the free radical damage that occurs to our skin throughout the day. This little baby slows down collagen breakdown, discouraging wrinkles and sagging. It has unparalleled brightening abilities and is particularly excellent at evening skin-tone and treating UV photo-damage. For brightening a dull complexion and erasing sun spots, vitamin C is the gold standard of ingredients. Beauty Editors everywhere are obsessed with SkinCeuticals C E Ferulic serum, this grand dame delivers results! Stock up by going to www.youniqueaesthetics.co.uk GIVE YOURSELF SWEET DREAMS Sleep plays a vital role in good health and well-being. Give yourself sweet dreams with Mrs R’ganics Organic Pillow Mist. Handmade with a luxurious blend of organic essential oils to enhance and create a tranquil, relaxing environment before you go to the land of nod! Made from a combination of Northern Irish spring water, drawn from organic land and a blend of ﬁve beautiful organic essential oils, there’ll be no need to count sheep, just spritz on your pillow and wake to feel refreshed. Give yourself a proper pamper with the ‘wee mini Rescue set’ that includes a mini pillow mist, a mini rescue and a lip balm. Go to www.mrsrganics.com

BE GONE DRY WINTER SKIN Relieve dry winter skin with Mrs R’ganics Rescue Balm. This little pot of wonder balm, works a treat on dry cracked hands, cold sores, minor burns, even new tattoos! This beautiful product from Northern Ireland self-care brand Mrs R’ganics is handmade using fresh, sustainable, and ethical & eco-friendly organic ingredients. It will soothe, restore, calm and aid chapped dry skin, soothe roughness, redness and minor skin irritation. Go to www.mrsrganics.com

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16/12/2020 11:25

GIRL ABOUT TOWN

EDITED BY NUALA MEENEHAN

Nuala Meenehan works in the media and is a leading model.

S H A RP D RE S S IN G F O R S MA RT G U Y S

THE OVER SHIRT Like a regular shirt, but heavier. Wear a fresh white or navy t-shirt underneath to create the layered look.

Despite there being a common assumption that women are the biggest shoppers, research suggests that men actually spend more on clothes and shoes every year than women. It appears also that instead of jumping from trend to trend, men have a tendency to invest in fewer, better pieces. Men’s clothing has become increasingly casual, much less restrictive than before. I recently had a good ‘ol chinwag with Mr Style himself, Steven Simpson, Managing Partner of Rio Brazil and MrandMrsStitch.com and here are the four key trends for guys who want to look sharp in 2021.

THE SHACKET Men’s fashion has changed dramatically in 2020, with the structured jacket and suit exiting for the foreseeable future. To replace it we see the introduction of the casual shacket (shirt jacket). A ﬁne unstructured cardigan or shirt style jacket. Cool and understated, taking their heritage from 1930 New York dock workers.

Oliver Spencer, Cromwell, Field Jacket – available from Rio Brazil.

Wax London, Windowpane Twill Overshirt – available from Rio Brazil.

TECH OUTERWAER As we all explore our new normal, more people are heading outdoors. It doesn’t take fashion long to catch up. Designers are now producing outerwear made from the best and most durable technical material so they deliver on practicality and style.

SPORTS LUXE Sweaters have always been around, but more than ever the sweater has become a main staple for men’s wardrobes. Wear with denim or loose cotton pants, (relaxed chinos) – the sweater not only delivers on comfort, but also delivers on style. Feeling conﬁdent, then go for a graphic logo sweater.

Parajumpers, Jayden hooded puffer jacket – available from Rio Brazil.

A.P.C Rufus embroidered logo sweater – available from Rio Brazil.

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16/12/2020 14:28

ASIA CRUISE

Singapore to Hong Kong Cruise (ROME) CIVITAVECCHIA

ROUNDTRIP

Vietnam has a lot to offer. Emerald paddy fields, delicious cuisine, friendly locals and oh so stunning scenery make up only the half of the country’s charms; the rest is the dizzying, yet joyful, chaos that makes up its cities. Three full days in Ho Chi Minh plus a day in Chan May and Da Nang will leave you thirsty for more. Well-timed sea days come as welcome respite, prior to ending with an overnight in ethereal Ha Long Bay.

Voyage: 5731C Departure date: 11 Nov 17 Days: 4 | Ship: Silver Spirit

VERANDA SUITE FROM £1,250pp Date 11 Nov 17 12 Nov 17 13 Nov 17 14 Nov 17 15 Nov 17

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Arrive 9:00 am 8:00 am 9:00 am 8:00 am

Depart 6:00 pm 10:30 pm 5:00 pm 7:00 pm

Rome, Italy

What’s Included

DEPARTURE

05 Nov 2021

DURATION

12 NIGHTS

SHIP

SILVER MUSE

Book before 31 January and save £400 per couple. • Economy Class Air Roundtrip from Belfast City Deposit £750 per person • 1-night pre-Hotel Must be paid in full by 28 February 2021 • Transfers (between airport, hotel and ship) • Spacious suites – over 80% with private Sail from Singapore & visit Ho Chi Minh City, verandas $300 to spend • Butler service in every suite Vietnam (2 overnights in Port), Da Nang, onboard • Unlimited Comlimentary Wifi Vietnam, Chan May, Vietnam, Ha Long Bay, per suite . • Personalised service – nearly one crew Vietnam (1 overnight in Port), Hong Kong. member for every guest • Multiple restaurants, diverse cuisine, open-seating dining Superior Veranda Panorama Suite Classic Veranda Monte Carlo, Monaco • Beverages in-suite and throughout theA hop, skip and a jump across the Mediterranean to discover why from £5220 pp from £4400 pp from £4950pp ship, including champagne, select wines the region is considered one of the most diverse and interesting and spirits Representing an exciting evolution of Silver Spirit, Silver Muse redefines ultra• 24-hour dining service in the world. With the glory Eternal City this and spacious allluxury ocean travel of - enhancing the bookending small-ship intimacy • Onboard entertainment suite accommodations that are of theMonte hallmarks of the Silversea experience. compact voyage, revel in the glamour Carlo, play • Complimentary transportation into town Silver Muse significantly raises the bar in the ultra-luxury cruise market with boules anda taste an authentic bouillabaisse in Marseille and in most ports AL wealth of enhancements to the onboard experience, while satisfying the • Onboard gratuities uncompromising requirements comfort, service, and quality of the world’s enjoy traditional Florentine fancies inforbeautiful, whimsical discerning travellers. Firenze. A most mid-winter must.

• Spacious suites – •

‘ATOL protected and booked with Oasis Travel operating as an agent for the relevant ATOL holder. Prices per person & based on 2 sharing unless otherwise stated. All details subject to change and availability. Booking conditionsButler apply. Please ask for full details.’

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THE SCENE

BPW Secretary Teresa Curran and William Curran.

BPW Chairman Rene Mullin.

BELFAST PRINT WORKSHOP Congratulations to the team at Belfast Print Workshop, who worked hard to curate, manage and hang their ďŹ rst members joint show. They have created a space for members to exhibit their work, in a year that had very few opportunities for exhibitions, putting on an excellent socially distanced opening night. If you would like to arrange a visit give the team a call or email to book a designated time slot. www.bpw.org.uk

Caoimhe and Jonathan Brennan and the Brennan family.

Thomas Robinson and artist Laura Murphy.

Printers Declan Byrne, Bill Penney and Nair Berenguer.

Printer Declan Byrne.

Fiona, Michael and Gabriella Nicholson.

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16/12/2020 11:43

THE SCENE

Artist Dylan Molloy with a few pieces of his artwork.

DYLAN MOLLOY EXHIBITION LAUNCH An eminent Irish artist, Dylan Thomas Patrick Molloy has revealed his fresh collection to be displayed in the centre of the coastal village of Portaferry. Molloy is known worldwide for his seductive portrayal of the female form. He has previously hosted several successful exhibitions in a number of cities across the globe, including Belfast, New York and New Delhi. An autodidactic, Dylan describes this show as an amalgamation of contemporary vintage pin-up noir and the Indian spiritual enlightenment. Molloyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creations are for sale along with a selection of limited edition signed prints.

Dylan Molloy at Portaferry Market House.

@Dylanthomasmolloy/Instagram @Dylanthomasarts/facebook Dylanthomasnewyork@gmail.com Photography by Antonia Cameron and Ian Campbell

Skye Bompas and Niamh McComish.

Artist Dylan Molloy with his artwork.

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16/12/2020 12:03

Winter Sale starts Boxing Day Great Discounts 20 months Interest Free Finance (T&C’s Apply)

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16/12/2020 11:40

THE SCENE

Margaret Craig Kerr and Dr Adrian Kerr.

Paul Murphy and Jennifer Platt.

DINNER AT THE CLUB The Reform Club held a Christmas dinner for members and their families in the magniďŹ cent dining room. Guests had a choice of the traditional turkey dinner, as well as roast cod or slow cooked lamb. The event was held in line with COVID-19 restrictions.

Joan and John Hunter.

Anthony and Tiarna Bradley.

Marty Douglas, Andrea Nelson and Frankie. Roisin and Chris Sherry.

Helen and Philip Black.

Club President Jonathan McAlpine and Chris Sherry.

The Cairns family left-right Charlotte, Sophie, Fionnuala and Michael.

John and Moira Stewart.

John and Anne Hunter.

Heather and Gilbert Cameron.

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18/12/2020 12:29

A stylish wardrobe for a stylish fashionista

this exact thing, to help keep all her clothes neat, tidy and stored away. She loved the fresh, tidy and timeless look of a mirrored wardrobe and the options Sliderobes® were able to present offered this and more.

Cathy Martin

Sliderobes® offer an exceptional service designing bespoke, high quality furniture, customised to all spaces in the home. For clients this can be designing home offices, living spaces or help organising a bespoke wardrobe for their clothing, shoes and accessories and everything else in between. As we are now spending more time at home than ever before, there has never been a more prevalent time to make our home beautifully organised and functional. This is where Sliderobes® can help.

With clean lines, contemporary yet minimalist design and a generous mirrored area in her bedroom, Sliderobes® were able to design the perfect selfie backdrop for Cathy. She had existing sliding wardrobes but “didn’t like the style; they were sticking and they didn’t have that ‘slide and glide’ feel.” She wanted “the real thing, to make the investment and to ensure the job was done right.” After a visit to the Sliderobes® Showroom on the Boucher Road in Belfast, Cathy was able to see the full range to choose from, remarking;

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THE SCENE

Janice Morgan, Julie Heasley and Kerry Coey (Tropic Skincare).

Fay Bailey and mum Onrah Bailey celebrating mum’s birthday at the Secret Garden restaurant.

CHRISTMAS TWILIGHT MARKET AT THE SECRET GARDEN

Christmas singer Sharon Morrow.

Natalie Morton with daughter Linda Morton and grandson Jorge.

The Secret Garden at Dundonald Nurseries held a fabulous Twilight Christmas Market to get everyone in the festive mood. There were an array of stalls with jewellery, crafts, keepsakes and much more – perfect for Christmas gift giving.

Zoe, Samantha and mum Elaine Bailey-Wood and Tracy Mackay.

Jacqueline Agnew and Claire Russell.

Ellie Gordon and Elaine Wishart.

Daniel Montgomery and Secret Garden owner Malcolm McCully.

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18/12/2020 10:01

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16/12/2020 11:38

Column /

Arts Diary Kellie Burch arts@ulstertatler.com

RENOIR AND THE NEW ERA The Ulster Museum is undoubtably one of my favourite spots in Belfast and so I was delighted to be able to visit it once again when it re-opened to the public on 11th December. With a quality range of visiting collections, such as ‘A Unique Silence’, an exhibition of etchings by Rembrandt, and the 139th Royal Academy Annual Exhibition, already installed, I was already keen to book a visit to the museum. However, this desire hit new levels after the announcement that the Ulster Museum would celebrate its re-opening with the unveiling of a series of Impressionist works, including a masterpiece by Pierre-Auguste Renoir. I visited the Museum the day after it re-opened and made a beeline for Renoir and the New Era: Impressionist works from The Courtauld. As you enter the space your eye is immediately drawn to Renoir’s renowned ‘La Loge’ (1874) which is on loan from The Courtauld, London. Renoir and the New Era looks specifically at the 1874 ‘First Impressionist Exhibition’ that featured ‘La Loge’ and how the painting itself, and the Impressionist movement, represented the emergence of democracy within culture and a new era of thought around art, politics and representation. Accompanying ‘La Loge’ is a selection of etchings, drypoint and graphites on paper by Berthe Morisot, Édouard Manet and Camille Pissarro, also on loan from The Courtauld. These shine a light on the portrayal of women in Impressionism, as well as the new approaches to drawing the figure, and depicting daily life. The female in ‘La Loge’, modelled by Nini Lopez, typifies how women in French society at this time were regarded as an object to be looked at, whilst the male in the portrait is in shadow; he is not there to be judged, instead he is actively looking elsewhere, passing judgement on others. It is interesting to see this piece in contrast to the pieces by Berthe Morisot, who was the only woman to be included in the first Impressionist exhibition. Morisot removed the role of the observer from her piece ‘Young Woman Reclining’ and as a result exerted control over how she - and in turn her artwork - is viewed. Renoir and the New Era is a truly remarkable experience and will be complemented by a series of online events and activities as well as a smARTify tour of the exhibition and a new podcast series entitled The Fine Print. Tickets for Renoir and the New Era: Impressionist works from The Courtauld at Ulster Museum are free for everyone and can be booked online in advance. Renoir and the New Era runs until 11 April 2021. www.nmni.com

Lydia Eakin and Sara McKeown.

Paul and Jackie Bates.

Peter and Yvonne Robinson.

Jordan Gamble and mum Anne Maureen Gamble.

Maeve McCann, Deirdre Magill, Eliz Byrne and Ann Marrion.

“The female in ‘La Loge’, modelled by Nini Lopez, typiﬁes how women in French society at this time were regarded as an object to be looked at” 38

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16/12/2020 11:42

DYLAN QUINN

Artistic Director of Dylan Quinn Dance Theatre.

10. FAVOURITE Movie: Back to the Future 1 2 & 3 Band/Musician: I don’t really have one, but Bob Dylan has been a big part of my life. My father is a big fan and handed it down to us. But I listen to worldwidefm. net all the time. Brilliant music! Book: I have a real fondness for The Secret Garden by Frances Hodgson Burnett Restaurant: Don’t get out that much in truth, however I do really like Dollakis Enniskillen. I used to go with my youngest daughter as a treat after school when she ﬁnished early. Loved it!

1. What do you love most about your job? The diversity of activities, the people, the opportunities to travel, to be creative and to have my own office space… all on my own! 2. What has been your career highlight to date? When world famous ballet dancer, Mikhail Baryshnikov, was taking pictures of me whilst I was performing in his New York Theatre. Or maybe the fact that despite the challenges of running a dance organisation from Fermanagh we are still actually alive! 3. What are your favourite hobbies/ activities outside of work? Walking in the wonderful Fermanagh countryside, music, podcasts and social/ politics/cultural reading and the garden – I love to grow things that you can eat. It is very rewarding, everyone should do it. 4. What is your daily routine? No day is the same but I almost always get out of bed and spend some time stretching before starting my day with a three-course breakfast (my wife says I do that) and coffee... there’s always coffee. 5. Do you have a fitness regime? It is part of how I live, so less a regime and more a lifestyle. I deliver regular dance fitness

classes as part how we stay financially afloat as a small rural based dance company, but also because it keeps me fit. I also love to do yoga though I need to get more committed to finding a reasonable about of time to do it. 6. Do you have any tips for staying positive during this time? Everyone’s experience is different so it is always hard for one approach to work for everyone, but I work on the idea that I want to make life happen for me not have life happen to me. When time get hard I do try to remember that like everything, “this too will pass.” I know that getting out under the natural sky really works for me, as does music and obviously dancing. I regularly just go outside and dance in my garden with my headphones on. It is very good for the soul! Lucky I live in a rural setting, so no one can see me… not that I am sure in that state I would care much. 7. What do you think is the best thing about living in Northern Ireland? The opportunities for change that exist. The worst thing is the slow pace of that change. Also the countryside and the size, we could be so much more engaged in the major decisions that impact on our lives due to how close we can be to political decision makers. 8. What is your mantra or favourite quote that you live by?

Holiday Destination: Anywhere – I just love to travel, but it’s always for work. Unfortunately holidays are not a thing when running a dance company and a family of six. There is not a lot to spare! So Donegal beaches and Fermanagh lakes for day trips! Drink: Coﬀee/Red Wine/Guinness Meal: A platter of cheese, olives, grapes, chutney, bread and wine, oh absolutely!

With the current situation there is a lot of talk about wanting to get back to “normal” I believe the previous normal was not a satisfactory place to be, and many people felt left out. I feel we need to create a new, better “normal”. I can only be responsible for what I can do and in doing that, I want to try and do something. 9. Who has been your biggest influence? I can’t pull that down to one person, it’s my family, my friends and those I work closely with. Lots of people along the way have had small but not insigniﬁcant inﬂuence in my life and I value that rather a lot. Dylan Quinn Dance Theatre is based in Fermanagh, the dance company run weekly community dance workshops, annuals dance festivals, award-winning productions and a wide range of multidisciplinary art projects locally and nationally, supported by the Arts Council of Northern Ireland. www.dylanquinndance.com

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16/12/2020 11:42

Mad About Fabrics

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16/12/2020 11:42

THE SCENE

Ballet dancer Zoe Kyte performs for christmas shoppers in Rodgers & Browne estate agents.

Adam Dougal performs for shoppers in Mortgage IQ ofﬁce window.

WINDOW WONDERLAND Peter Corry Productions put on a fantastic festive ‘Window Wonderland’ in Holywood, just before Christmas. Retailers welcomed artists into their shops to deliver some seasonal joy and Christmas spirit, to shoppers in the county Down town.

Concern book store staff Neil Hughes, Liz Jones and Brian Glendinning.

Orla McCormack sings for passing Holywood shoppers.

Alison and Jack Allen and Lyndsay Hanna.

Finn Carragher as ’Wee Willie Winkie’ at the White Bicycle fashion store.

Blake and Serena Heath.

Holywood shoppers enjoying the festive window wonderland performers.

Fleur Mellor and Peter Corry.

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16/12/2020 11:46

THE SCENE

Sophie Crothers and Jack the cob with Sara and Danny Osman.

Pius Kulama from Uganda with event organiser Joan Cunningham.

SAINTFIELD CHRISTMAS CHARITY SANTA RIDE The 14th Annual Saintﬁeld Christmas Charity Santa Ride, took place on a glorious sunny winter’s day. Following a mulled wine and mince pie reception, the Santas mounted up and headed off. Led by the “Real Santa” in his magniﬁcent carriage. The fourmile route was lined with well wishers. Children screamed with absolute joy and delight when Santa arrived at the Christmas Tree in the middle of the town and alighted from his carriage to meet and greet them. Ride Organiser Joan Cunningham said all money raised will go to The Pius Kulama Ugandan Project Fund. The BBC’ S Hugo Duncan, Box Car Brian and Gerard Dornan entertained the crowds until the arrival of Santa.

Cara Norman and Paddy, Catherine Patterson and Ollie and Pippa Robinson and Amber.

James, Hannah and William Steele.

Claire Dobbin, Martynas Cizauskas and Alexander on Charlie.

Michelle and Christine Hagan with horses Kerry and Oscar.

Efﬁe Torrens-Spence with Sally, Berni and Jeffery Torrens-Spence.

Ruth Loney and Judy Maxwell.

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16/12/2020 11:44

ALISON CLARKE

Founder of ACA Models and Miss NI competition.

10. FAVOURITE Movie: I don’t have one, my husband’s is Top Gun! Band/Musician: It used to be the Bay City Rollers

1. What do you love most about your job? I started ACA Models 30 years ago in 1990 and had been organising the Miss Northern Ireland Contest, before that – for 34 years now, since 1987. Before me, the contest had been running here since the 1950s. I won in 1982! When I took over the reins, the Miss Northern Ireland winner got direct entry into the Miss United Kingdom Contest. Since 2000 our girls have now had direct entry into the Miss World final wherever that may be in the world. This year, 2021 will be my 35th year of the contest. It is the event I enjoy most and the one that I put most effort and time into. It is a year-long process from start to finish. Last year, due to the COVID pandemic I had to postpone the whole event and push it in with 2021, which makes it doubly exciting. I really hope that we can shortly announce within the government guidelines, of course, our 2021 plans. I love seeing the young ladies enter at the heats in the bars and restaurants throughout the province and how they grow and learn through the entire contest process. It is such a fun time, albeit hardworking for them all, and I personally train them on many events before the final to teach them the many qualities required to win; from public speaking to strutting their stuff on the catwalk, to showing off the fabulous looks from our dress sponsors Rosie’s Closet. 2. What has been your career highlight to date? It is hard to say really as the last 35 years have been an amazing experience of life’s ups and downs, dealing with all people, their personalities, and egos, dealing with clients, their needs and fulfilling their expectations. I am a perfectionist and I love to over deliver if I can. The smiles on the faces of all people I’ve worked with and for is always a huge highlight and I’m proud of that. In measurable terms of success I guess awards like the Belfast Telegraph Business Woman of the year and the Ulster Tatler Business Woman of the year are very high up there, as it is someone elses opinion that counts.

3. What are your favourite hobbies/activities outside of work? Outside of work, I like to relax, to chill out and do very little. I live by the beach in Portrush, so beach walks with friends and their dogs are good exercise. That helps as I also love eating out! My parents live in Strabane, so on a weekend off I visit them and experience my mum’s amazing homemade cooking. 4. What is your daily routine? It depends where I am, what I am doing and who I am with. Right now I am working from home as sadly with COVID, which is the same for many of us, it was not safe due to social distancing needs and also not cost effective to run and manage our Belfast office. Breakfast is usually natural Greek yoghurt with fresh berries and some granola, unless it is a Sunday morning and Darren is around and he makes a very good Ulster fry! I have a couple of daily mental challenges I do on my phone to get me focused, I check my emails and look at my to-do-list. Then I weave my way through the day sorting all I have to. Contacting, arranging, delivering, talking, driving, meeting, telephoning, zooming, paying, emailing, interviews and more. No two days are ever the same. 5. Do you have a fitness regime? Not really, I should but I don’t right now. I keep telling the girls at Athena Athletics, which is exclusively personal training for us females that I will visit... and I will. It is just getting the first session sorted. I do try and walk plenty each day and get to at least 10,000 steps. 6. Do you have any tips for staying positive during this time? It really is mind over matter. It has been such a tough year for everyone, mainly due to COVID, but of course there are other issues affecting a lot of folk too. I try to keep myself upbeat and positive, but there are times we all hit the wall. No matter how bad any situation is, I always say and tell people, there are those worse off than us. I have a small circle of great, trustworthy, loyal, genuine, funny and thoughtful friends. They know who they are, and all I need to do is talk to them to get advice, to make me smile or laugh. It is two way traffic, we are there for each other and our secrets stay within the friendship walls. We

Book: The Secret Restaurant: Zen in Belfast Holiday Destination: Abaco in The Bahamas Drink: Pink Champagne Meal: Home made chips

call it the circle of trust. They would pull me up if I was hanging over a cliff by a thread... others might just push me over! 7. What do you think is the best thing about living in Northern Ireland? I get asked this a lot having travelled quite a bit through my life. The first thing is the size. It is easy to get anywhere in Northern Ireland within a two-hour drive. Although we think traffic is bad at times, when you experience huge traffic congestion in cities throughout the world, we have it very easy. It makes you appreciate home. Next is the people, the majority of the time we are good people. We say hello, we smile, we welcome visitors, we mix with everyone, we entertain, we cheer on, we look after and out for each other, we can have a laugh, we have our own superstars in all walks of life on the world stage, we can do it! Thirdly, is the views around us. Look around at the place. World famous attractions, amidst private little beaches and pretty picnic tables half way up mountains. 8. What is your mantra or favourite quote that you live by? I don’t live by one mantra or quote. There are many good sayings, I live by them all. I am always honest and say it as it is, I would rather that than be fake. With me you know where you stand ! 9. Who has been your biggest influence? In my personal life, my parents, Jim and Helen Smyth. They taught me values, respect, the 10 commandments. I have inherited my mums good genes and my dads dry sense of humour and his ability to get a good bargain. For more info on Miss Northern Ireland 2021 go to website to enter www. missnorthernireland.co.uk and check Alison on Instagram @AlisonClarke381

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16/12/2020 11:43

The Word

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18/12/2020 10:21

NEWS

SPREADING THE NEWS We look at some of the stories making headlines this month.

GETTING CREATIVE The Arts Council of Northern Ireland has awarded, on behalf of Department for Communities, £1,075,335 capital funding to 108 arts and cultural organisations to help them prepare to safely reopen following the COVID-19 pandemic. 70 awards, totalling £499,997k, were made through the Small Capital Programme and 54 awards, totalling £575,338k, were made through the Health and Safety Capital Programme. The Small Capital Programme is designed to enable organisations to purchase equipment and carry out minor works to their premises that enhance their artistic services and may include; lighting equipment, stage equipment, sound equipment, minor building works, transport and ofﬁce equipment. The Health and Safety Capital Programme is designed to support arts and cultural organisations as they prepare to safely re-open by providing funding for the necessary adjustments and protective equipment required by venues and organisations to ensure that social distancing is maintained and that audiences, performers and staff are kept safe. For a full list of awardees visit: www.artscouncil-ni.org

Drake Music Project NI senior musician, Tim Leathem picture with his sister Helen Leathem.

ALL LOVED UP

WORK THAT BODY

The ﬁve-star Culloden Estate and Spa, which has entertained A-list couples such as Victoria and David Beckham and Catherine Zeta-Jones and Michael Douglas, is celebrating after picking up the major accolade of Best Hotel for Romance at the prestigious Readers’ Travel Awards 2020 organised by Luxury Lifestyle Magazine. Over 20,000 readers internationally deliberated over the shortlisted nominees of some of the industry’s most showstopping destinations, hotels, cruise lines and tour operators. Part of the Hastings Hotels Group, the Culloden is a favourite destination with couples from around the world wishing to enjoy a romantic break in a magniﬁcent estate in the suburbs of Belfast’s gold coast. www.hastingshotels.com

Co. Antrim mum of two, Caroline Girvan has become a YouTube sensation after her online health and fitness classes became a phenomenon during lockdown. Her videos achieve over 300,000 daily views, and people tune in from 190 different countries. Caroline, a full-time certified personal trainer who usually trained one-to-one with clients before the pandemic, found herself having to come up with new and innovative ways to coach and train due to social distance restrictions. The 36-year-old fitness enthusiast began creating workout videos for her clients to follow whilst they weren’t able to train together. Caroline’s videos went viral and they have created a huge online fitness community, with people from American, India, Canada and Italy tuning in. Her YouTube channel has gained 374,000 subscribers. To get involved with Caroline’s free online workouts, visit: www.carolinegirvan.com 48

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16/12/2020 11:48

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INTERVIEW

Jane Hardy is a feature writer who has interviewed a few of the big names from Arlene Foster to Mrs Thatcher.

A CLASS ACT Actor Eleanor Methven, who recently appeared in Channel 5’s hit show, The Deceived, tells Jane Hardy about her acting career, her time in lockdown and passion for preserving the arts.

leanor Methven isn’t really a Christmas person. But she tells me down the line from Dublin, where she now lives, that the year of COVID-19 has ruined her usual plans for the end of December: “I normally go to friends in west Cork. Obviously I won’t be doing that.” She adds that she is sad on behalf of people with extended families who will have a zoomed Yule rather than actual hugs around the tree: “It is very sad for grandparents and families who can’t be together.” Eleanor has a daughter and two grandchildren. Stoically, Methven adds: “But we have to make the best of it.” Professionally, this acclaimed actress, who stole the show in the psychologically scary The Deceived on Channel 5 recently, has certainly made the best of lockdown. She says one of her most satisfying cultural experiences was a poetry and music event held near her home at Dublin’s Museum of Modern Art: “It was based on The Great Hunger by poet Patrick Kavanagh. Different actors took different stanzas. We had an audience of 15, socially distanced, and we did four performances a night.” Yet Eleanor Methven acknowledges the coronavirus shutdowns have proved tough for the arts sector: “I’m single, but we have an arts family and I know my colleagues in the North have had a terrible time. We need a national campaign for the arts, which produces a good deal of money. After all, writers write that stuff we see on television, actors act in it. And musicians in particular are in a hell of a pickle. With no places to perform – they’re going back to producing albums.” She adds that there is a kind of creativity in the constraint: “People are looking inward more, reading more. But I hope live performance will renew itself.” When the coronavirus struck, Eleanor was mainlining culture in France, as she explains: “When it all began, I was at the Irish Cultural Centre in Paris, where the director is another Ulsterwoman. It’s a marvellous place and I had

a bursary to work on a play I have written, set in the ‘60s in County Derry. Suddenly I was scrambling for the last helicopter out. When I came back from that, there was no theatre. And we didn’t know for how long.” But, as Methven says, some people have embraced the time out. She had to self-isolate for two weeks, but says she has worked on a “wonderful” short film by Sean O’Mahoney and Lisa Dwyer Hogg. She worked in her bedroom and delivered the role using the net: “Things moved onto Zoom” – and phone.” To relax, Eleanor has got involved with a Masterchef-style competition with her Facebook group. She laughs at the question about her signature dish, noting she’s made a couple of decent chicken Kievs. The cooking has had consequences and Methven adds she has joined Slimming World: “I’ve put on so much weight.” It’s been about the drink as well as the food and the actor says in an aside: “Everybody has found their inner dipsomaniac!” Methven’s brilliant career began at the Rainey Grammar School in Magherafelt. Although drama wasn’t on the curriculum, an enlightened deputy head, George Johnson, known as Buckshot, produced plays every other year. As Eleanor recalls: “I was a definitive Lady Bracknell at the age of 14.” I can’t persuade her to do Lady B’s immortal line “Handbag?” from The Importance of Being Earnest, on learning that her ward’s intended was born in a Gladstone bag in a railway station. She says: “Thank God there are no videos around...” There was no acting in the family, although Eleanor’s grandfather was known for his Harry Lauder impressions. Born to older parents, Methven says her father was the local district electoral official. Her mother had been a trained poultry and dairy farmer pre-marriage. “She was very into organic food, before it was fashionable.” The home cooking was good and Eleanor said she had to sit there until she consumed everything on the plate.

Drama school wasn’t considered a suitable future and Eleanor’s father persuaded her to try university ﬁrst. “I went to Reading University, had a miserable ﬁrst year and left.” She did, however, like many big names in theatre, do a summer stint with the National Youth Theatre, and remembers training alongside Timothy Spall: “Yes, Tim Spall made a big impression.” The budding actor learnt on the job. Methven’s talent was noted at school and she says famed Rainey English teacher, Bertie Dunbar, wrote up one of her performances for the local paper. “It’s the best notice I’ve ever had.” She adds that although she didn’t attend drama school, she sits on the board of the Lyr Academy and that it gladdens her heart to see the new young talent being fostered: “There are two from Ulster to watch out for, Eloise Stephens and Barry Simpson.” Although joining the business has sometimes proved a mixed blessing as Methven reveals: “You might take a taxi somewhere and the driver asks you what you do. If you say you’re an actress, you get a surprised look as you’re supposed to look like Sophia Loren!” Ireland, north and south, tends to punch way above its weight in the arts, producing here in Ulster reams of world-class names, from Liam Neeson to James Galway, Lisa McKee to Van Morrison. Has Eleanor any explanation for this? “We’re good examples of people who earn money from the imagination. Our drama scene is very strong. We kept things going during the Troubles and there was a cultural committee in my hometown, Magherafelt.” Eleanor Methven was a youth representative and served alongside my late mother-in-law, Marie Conaghan. In the 1980s, Eleanor Methven joined Marie Jones to found one of the key Northern Irish theatre groups, Charabanc. It had a feminist philosophy, as she explains, saying: “That was a very special time. We did Lay up Your Ends about the women’s mill strike in 1911

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and had no idea it would be such a huge success. Another stand-out production was Somewhere oﬀ the Balcony, set in Divis Flats, an extreme black comedy about living with a complete lack of normality.” Theatre can, if not heal, at least harmonise society. Eleanor says: “You can use theatre as an exemplar to get people together if you use the imagination. It’s about compassion, enabling people to know what it’s like to be the other person. Theatre can get rid of hate and prejudice.” Eleanor namechecks Kabosh theatre company as an example of artistic positivity: “They do wonderful work on reconciliation. If everything goes online, we lose something.” Eleanor Methven took the road south because of work. “I came down to Dublin properly in 2000. I was doing so much work down here from the late 90s that it made sense. I have relations down here, so it wasn’t like emigrating. And the theatre community in Ireland is a good place to be.” We bat about the old chestnut about it being tough for women as they get older to ﬁnd good roles. “Things have changed in terms of ageism. That was part of the impetus behind Charabanc. You were always someone’s wife or sister, but you want to be the someone.”

She quotes the longevity of one of her acting heroes: “Look at Glenda Jackson, one of my heroes. She’s come back after serving as a Labour MP. I saw her King Lear – if you come back to theatre, you might as well play Lear – and although she’s frail and tiny looking, my God, the voice...” She adds that a gender shift can work well and help us see roles anew, especially in Shakespeare. Methven has also played some impressive ‘someones’ in her career. She was on TV in The Deceived as the unsettling mother of the supposedly missing, betrayed wife of philandering lecturer Michael Callaghan. Methven says she enjoyed making the popular Channel 5 series. “Oh, it was a happy shoot in Donegal. The house was genuinely spooky and played an extra character.” Another happy role was opposite one of her acting heroes, Derek Jacobi, who was brieﬂy her stage husband. “I played Derek Jacobi’s wife in the Titanic Blood and Steel series. He’s funny, very warm and so generous, a real darling.” She adds enthusiastically: “When I did the BBC’s Little Women, I acted with Michael Gambon and met Angela Lansbury who was just acting royalty. She was funny, warm, giving, as the best people are.”

“Things have changed in terms of ageism. That was part of the impetus behind Charabanc. You were always someone’s wife or sister, but you want to be the someone.”

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17/12/2020 11:02

THE SCENE

Natalie, Tanya and George Hoy.

Artist Glenn Thompson.

ST GEORGEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S MARKET

Bernadette Catney and mum Annmarie.

St Georgeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market has always been a popular spot, no more so than this year as people aim to support local. Our photographer was on hand to capture shoppers and traders as they browsed the stalls for fresh produce, gifts and delicious treats.

Katie Stewart, Emma Welsh and Sarah Wallace.

Rachel and Michael Muldoon.

Brenda Rennick (Belfast Pet Supplies).

Patricia and Paul Gorman.

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17/12/2020 09:58

ULSTER TATLER

S T Y L E Linda Bryans and son Chris.

Style Watch EACH MONTH ULSTER TATLER SHOWCASES OUR FAVOURITE LOOK SNAPPED OUT AND ABOUT. Fleur Mellor and Peter Corry, pictured out and about at Window Wonderland in Holywood. 53

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16/12/2020 12:09

U T

S T Y L E

MY STYLE As said by fashion guru Coco Chanel: “fashion changes, but style endures“. Each issue, we introduce you to stylish local people who enviably manage demanding work schedules while looking polished to perfection.

Daisie Conway Soprano Singer

How would you describe your style? I like a very natural sun-kissed look, but do love my red lipstick. My hair is very much part of my signature style and my haircare routine is really important. I go for a more casual fashion style during the day and tend to keep it simple with a few accessories to match. I also have an eclectic wardrobe of vintage style clothes that I love to mix and match depending on where I am going. I’m always trying out new styles and love shopping! What are your wardrobe staples that you can’t live without? I cannot live without my jeans and love experimenting with clothes depending on what I am dressing for. I have a lot of modern retro trousers with high waists, baby doll dresses and floaty maxi skirts at the minute and love shoes, jewellery and scarves! Do you have a favourite designer or high street brand? For formal wear, special events and concerts, my go-to is Geraldine Connon a Northern Ireland-based fashion designer, from my home town in Larne, who has created some amazing bespoke dresses for me. She styled my wardrobe for a recent photoshoot with Khara Pringle for my new single, which was fantastic. Some of my favourite brands include Calvin Klein for their leisure and underwear, Urban Outfitters for something casual and quirky, French Connection, and Hollister. Do you have any style icons? I like Taylor Swift’s modern, retro look. She always looks polished and flirty with some vintage touches. Her new country glam look is lovely. Lily James has an effortlessly demure look and a cool fashion edge, which is beautiful. How has your style changed over the years? My style has evolved over the past couple of years as my figure is changing. I now have a more curvy figure, so I am enjoying finding new looks for myself that suit my shape and make me feel confident. What are your fashion pet peeves? I don’t really have any major pet peeves as I think that fashion style is a personal thing and linked to personality, self-esteem and confidence. I personally try to avoid the wrong underwear beneath an outfit, poorly fitted clothes and too much bling.

Check out the website daisieconwaymusic.co.uk or Facebook, Instagram and YouTube. Email hello@daisieconwaymusic.co.uk or Tweet @DaisieConway. Daisie is currently writing her first album and rehearsing for wide range of upcoming events. Aside from weddings and corporate events, these include the Songbirds International Livestream Valentine’s Day Concert, Social Enterprise NI Event and the Friends Goodwill Festival with Hot House Flowers and Eddi Reader in May 2021.

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16/12/2020 12:12

U T

S T Y L E

MY STYLE

Aoife Malone Belfast born, New York based blogger and fashion Graduate. How would you describe your style? I’ve always been a huge fan of 80s movies and that’s definitely influenced my style. I’m often found wearing a varsity style bomber jacket or super high waisted wide leg suit trousers however I’m also a sucker for a glam dress or co-ord set! What are your wardrobe staples that you can’t live without? I have a few pairs of high waisted wide-leg trousers that I adore. That’s definitely what I feel the most confident in. I think everyone needs a white trainer and a good investment pair of jeans in their wardrobe. Do you have a favourite designer or high street brand? I love Zara, Mango and & other stories but I also take inspiration from Australian boutiques like Verge girl, Sabo Skirt and Princess Polly, the Aussies know how to do it! Do you have any style icons? Honestly I get the majority of my style inspiration from bloggers and that’s been the case since I was around 14. At the minute I’m obsessed with @smythsisters @stylebynelli and @ tarmarz. Pinterest is a huge source of style inspiration for me, particularly for scandi style inspo! How has your style changed over the years? Absolutely. It’s so funny to look back on the things that I loved a few years ago and never thought I’d get sick of them, but of course, everyone’s style changes and evolves. I’ve found recently that I’m investing more in good quality, staple pieces. At the moment I’m loving neutrals and more minimal pieces. What are your fashion pet peeves? Crocs & VPL are just two things I’ll never be able to get past!

61 55

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16/12/2020 12:14

FASHION

TRENDS FOR 2021 2.

2.Oliver Bonas - Masks will still be around for 2021, so might as well k e e p t h e m t r e n d y, £ 1 6

1.George @Asda – An on-trend shacket, £26, teamed with joggers, £15 and trainers, £15.

3.Mulberry-Alexa b a g i n d e e p A m b e r, £1,295

5 . Pr i m a r k - floral print knitwear co-ords.

6. 6. Dune London Platform ‘Episode’ trainers, £99

4 . N ex t – f l o r a l boho chic top, £38

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16/12/2020 12:15

Ferryquay Street, Derry-Londonderry 028 7126 1326 kularfashion.com

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18/12/2020 09:49

The Word

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This seriously special facial leaves skin intensely hydrated, plumped and glowing. HydraFacial is a medical grade facial that combines lymphatic drainage with deep cleansing and pore extraction, before saturating the skin with treatment serums and ﬁnishing with intensive infrared. This is the only procedure that combines cleansing, exfoliation, extraction, hydration, antioxidant protection and red LED light therapy all in one. HydraFacial is designed to provide instantly visible results after every treatment, alongside improvement in the health of your skin, giving you a complexion that you’ll love It’s like no other facial that you’ve ever experienced!

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Contact the Aesthetic Skin Clinic 02890-319060 or visit their new website www.askinclinic.co.uk for information and live treatment videos.

Open Monday - Saturday 9.30am - 5.00pm

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17/12/2020 12:52

COLUMN / HAIR MATTERS

Hair Matters... with Andrew Mulvenna

Andrew Mulvenna has been a hairdresser for over 30 years and his career has spanned the full spectrum of product development, global campaign shoots and shows, international education, session-styling and creating runway collections. His true passion is working at his three storey salon [a converted Victorian bank] in Belfast City centre, developing his 30+ team and making clients very happy.

‘JUST DO IT’ Something tells me this slogan is going to be used a lot in 2021 and for many reasons good and bad, however let’s not just keep it for the dream holiday or that little bit of ‘essential maintenance’. Why not nudge yourself and use it the next time your stylist suggests something fresh and new for 2021? Firstly I need to just say that any hairchange is about trust, trust in your stylist and trusting their skills. I think we have all learned last year that we can waste far too much energy thinking about things rather than just doing them. So with that in mind I’m just going to say it, it’s time to take a controlled breath and jump off that fence (we can all sit on) and take that overdue plunge into this new decade. For it is a new decade, remember it’s the ‘twenties’. It’s time to let go of the ‘maybe next time’ or the ‘let’s keep it the same’ we can say when we are not on board or fully committed to change. Next time you are challenged with that moment take a controlled breath and just do it! Evolution is change and change is good for us.

BE READY.. GET SET.. GO! As this very page goes to print COVID vaccines are excitedly yet nervously rolling out to our most vulnerable and front-line workers. That then leaves the rest of us and I do think we all (for the most part) are pretty darn keen to get this wee jab. Buoyed on by this new hope and energy I am (like everyone else) beginning to dare that dream when all of this horrendous COVID crisis will be solidly behind us and life will return to a somewhat near normality. With this new collectively shared hope and energy in mind the fashion/ hair /beauty industries are revved up and chomping at the Gucci-bit (so to speak) to delight us with all that is going to be the ‘fashion explosion of Spring/Summer 2021’. Now is most certainly the time to entertain the thought of just ‘going for it’ so strap yourself in and get ready for a most interesting year of change and transformation. LONGER HAIR Longer hair this year is here to stay but always evolving with layers of long and choppy 90’s fringes. The 80’s and 90’s are big inﬂuences, so think also a bit of Seattle grunge with gelled roots and a light tousled sweep-over or slick it all back for a ‘Wall-Street polish. No spiralled glamour waves this year, just looser ﬂatter waves and unfussy textures. Ask your stylist to show you how to achieve this. Try Tsuki blow-dry mist by Shu Uemura £27.20.

STYLING HAIR IN 2021 Going Out - Either wear up with minimal volume and accessorise, accessorise, accessorise or go big with an 80’s flick over or an extravagant Pucci / Bardot roller set! Getting that new 2021 fresher finish and texture can instantly transform your existing cut and bring you bang up to date. Day to day - A great haircut and great hair condition are key to a 2021 finish. This means less product and less fuss with the hair on a day to day basis. Fresh in texture and natural in finish. Style with light oils, curl mousse for ‘lived-in’ effect and pastes, clays and light texture gels.Try Shu Uemura Kaze Wave mousse £18.90.

SHORTER HAIR Shorter hair this year. Does it ﬁt? Does it suit? Does it work? Yes to all of the above if done correctly. You wouldn’t wear a dress that’s four sizes too small so it’s the same with hair. It is about bone structure and balance. A great stylist should be able to do this with skill. Shorter hair is a slow but massive trend this year and yes it’s here to stay. This time around though (unlike the 80’s) it’s not going to be for everyone so not that same pressure as there was with the long hair trend in the ‘noughties’. Balance and framing are key. Work with the textures and movement. More structured wash and wear shapes for low fuss. Textured ﬁnish is best with light clays and balanced layers. Try Shu Umera Ushi Paste £27.20.

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16/12/2020 12:18

A NEW LOOK AT JACK MURPHY JEWELLERS Ulster Tatler speaks to Gemma Murphy, Partner and Manager of Jack Murphy Jewellers about the recent extension and renovation of their existing showroom. Jack Murphy Jewellers is located in the heart of Newry City, having been based in its Hill Street showroom since its opening in March 1972. Over 48 years later, Gemma, the daughter of Jack and Pat Murphy, has overseen the significant expansion of the existing business into the corner unit next door. A prominent position on Newry’s high street, that has taken the small family-run jewellers to new heights, offering a truly memorable and overall enhanced customer experience in-store. The extension and refurbishment of the existing showroom, further reinforce the strong reputation built up over the years by the Murphy family. It is now more reflective of the highly recognisable brand presence that has been garnered in recent years online. What influences have inspired the store design? The rise of social media and the need for ‘instagrammable’ locations for millennials and gen-z to visit and ultimately share their experience online was a key consideration when designing the new extension and overhauling the existing showroom. All of these factors had to be taken into account whilst balancing the needs of our traditional customers and their desire for privacy when making important purchases. Inspiration for the showroom design now consistent across both old and new was taken from already established luxury fashion and jewellery houses located in New York and London. It was hugely important for me that the design of the showroom offered customers an experience to remember and a desire to return. What new features are now included? Throughout the showroom a mix of soft furnishings, textured fabrics, wooden panelling and iconic metal work have been used to create a sense of luxury and feeling of romance. All while remaining welcoming and homely in such a vast space, which was very important to us as the showroom is a BreastFeeding Friendly space. We are also working towards making the showroom Autism Friendly. Strategically placed, gold jewellery cabinets run down the centre of the newly extended showroom, each positioned under striking glass chandeliers drawing the eye up to the magnificent dropped ceiling. Floral centrepieces in dramatic gold vases add to the luxuriousness of the showroom, updated as and when new wedding flower trends emerge.

Shopping for jewellery is an experience, how do you help create this experience in your showroom? The design and displays used throughout the showroom were heavily influenced by our combined knowledge and experience gained from working in the industry over the years. It was further influenced by the needs and wants of our loyal customer base and their previous interactions with us in-store. The showroom, now almost triple its original size has allowed for cleverly curated jewellery displays that enable storytelling. It also highlights the vast range of services available in-store. For example the unique opportunty to ‘Bespoke Your Ring’! With seven consultation areas, including five that are completely private, beautiful soft furnishings are used throughout to ensure customers feel comfortable and at home. These areas are located throughout the showroom, fully utilising the additional space gained from the extension. We then brought the inside of the showroom to the outside with eye-catching window displays incorporating grey suede and gold metal trimmed jewellery displays. The metal detail acts as a subtle nod to the metal work and display cabinets inside the showroom. Is there a focal point? If so, please explain this and its relevance to the design. My main consideration when designing the showroom was the customer experience offered in-store. Since 1972, my dad and our dedicated team have been creating magical moments that our customers will cherish forever. These treasured moments deserve to be celebrated, and with that in mind, our champagne and coffee area was born – bringing back memories of our Belfast store in 1986 that was designed similar to a bar with booths and champagne on display. The purpose of recreating this area in our Newry showroom was to offer customers an exclusive and relaxed experience. Positioned at the top of the newly extended showroom, the branded champagne and coffee area with champagne stacked shelves and LED lighting, is hard to miss! This area creates a sense of luxury and also, the opportunity to indulge in a little extravagance – sparkles and bubbles. It also offers the perfect backdrop for customer photographs, and will be a focal point for future in-store photoshoots and promotional events.

What do you hope the launch of the store will offer for customers in terms of experience and atmosphere? The opening of the new extension couldn’t have come at a better time for us as it has provided ample space for physical distancing that wouldn’t have previously been possible. This has been hugely advantageous in the current climate as it has offered customers comfort in knowing that they can visit the showroom and still feel safe. A significant deciding factor for today’s customer when choosing where to shop, hence influencing their overall experience in-store. The luxurious finish of the showroom will also show the standards set by Jack Murphy Jewellers, not only in the design of our new showroom but also our quality offering. Offering an experience to customers in-store that is more reflective of the online brand presence, taking our small family-run business to the next level.

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16/12/2020 12:19

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU SPECIAL FOCUS

New Year, New You In this month’s edition of Ulster Tatler we take a look at some of the ways you can focus on making yourself into the best version of yourself this new year. What better time to pick up new habits than at the beginning of a new year, and a new decade! We have made a list below of some ways you can focus on improving your lifestyle in 2021.

need in the future. By clearing your closet, you will be surprised at how much it will clear your mind! Diet Take some time to think about the food you are putting into your body. Think of food as a way to enrich your body with nutrients and what each type of food can do for your body. Seeking advice from food specialists and personal trainers at this time of year can be extremely beneficial for our health. Metaphorically speaking, our bodies are like cars and if we don’t feed them with the right type of fuel, they won’t function properly!

Reduce, reuse, recycle: say no to plastic! Think about how much plastic and wasteful packaging you are using on a daily basis and try to make some efforts to reduce this. We can all do small things every day that will make a huge difference in the long run. Start by switching to reusable water bottles and coffee cups instead of throw away ones. Shop locally as much as possible and pop into one of NI’s new zero waste stores. Visit www.saynotoplastics.com to find more ways on how you can do your bit!

Screen detox & Reading Make a conscious effort to step away from your screen throughout the day. Some of us work in an office enviroment where this can be difficult but it will do you the world of good to walk away from the desk every once in a while throughout your working day and probably increase productivity levels for the rest of the day.

Meditation & Yoga Taking the time to meditate and stretch during the winter months will really do you the world of good, mentally and physically.

New hobby It’s refreshing to learn new skills and activities and improve on them. A good hobby can be entertaining, fulfilling and will enhance your life. There are many mental benefits of having hobbies. But hobbies can often also be very expensive. Luckily, there are still lots of cheap and even free hobbies that are fun, educational and rewarding. The internet and YouTube offer so many opportunities to expand your knowledge on any topic! We are living in a world of abundance with education at our finger tips!

Fitness Do all you can to get your heart rate up for at least 30 minutes a day. This will speed up your metabolism and get your blood flowing, which will flood your body with happy chemicals (endorphins). Minimalism & Simplify Do a clear out and de-clutter things from your life which you do not need. It is so easy to collect and hold onto things that we think we may

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16/12/2020 12:20

“A quality of cosiness and comfort with a feeling of contentment & well-being, a place to enjoy the little things in life.”

Ulster Tatler chats to Chloe Ewing, Proprietor of HYGGE Luxury Hair Salon.

Tell us your full name and job title. My name is Chloe Ewing and I am the owner, manager and head stylist in HYGGE Hair salon, Omagh. What has been your career to date? I have worked in the hair industry for six years and I am currently completing my HND in Hair and Beauty Management. I am an award-wining stylist and colourist and have been successful in competitions throughout Ireland and the UK. Tell us a bit about the new salon. What sets HYGGE apart from other hairdressing salons? When creating Hygge, my vision was to create a luxury salon for people to come in for an ‘escape’, somewhere to take time to themselves in a positive and friendly environment while being looked after by my professional team. I wanted to create a salon that you just feel as if time has stopped and you can enjoy the little

The Ultimate luxury Hair Salon Experience

Chloe Ewing, proprietor

things in life, such as getting your hair done, enjoying a cup of coffee and taking that well-deserved time out to yourself. What sets Hygge apart from other salons is that with each and every service we look at the whole picture. Every little thing matters, with each of our client’s visits. We always provide a friendly welcome

into our homely salon. We want every client to feel important and we will always do our best to give professional advice and expertise. We make sure that every part of their visit creates an overall luxury experience. Interior Designer Doris McCrabbe came in to design the salon. She made my vision become a reality, making Hygge the top-end, luxury salon that it now is.

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16/12/2020 12:20

We have imported our styling chairs from Italy, designed by designer Sarah Lavoine. She made this collection of furniture to promote the experience of well-being through a ‘cosy and reﬁned atmosphere’. The designer’s aim was to bring us a hair salon where you ‘feel at home’. This has always been the aim for my salon and also the meaning behind ‘Hygge’. What services are available at the salon? At Hygge, we provide all colouring services such as, all over applications, babylights, balayage or foilyage. We also cater for all your styling needs, be it a weekly blow-dry or bridal party upstyling. We offer all types of cuts for all lengths of hair. We also provide special scalp services aimed to help with issues such as dry scalp, oily scalp or sensitive scalp. One of these treatments is an exfoliation for your scalp, it’s my favourite! We also retail these products for use at home, in between visits. If you feel you are in need of a little extra treat for yourself, we also do a ‘luxury blow-dry’ which involves spending some extra time on our luxury massage chairs, getting a conditioning treatment and a scalp massage. A real treat for both you and your hair! What do you predict the hair trends for 2021 will be?

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Hair trends at the moment are very natural in both colour and styling, a lot of ladies now love the ‘natural waves’ and subtle colouring. I think that 2021 will bring more of these low maintenance colours. I would predict that we will see a lot healthier, creamy, warmer blondes rather than the icy greys we have been seeing a lot of before now. I also think that brunettes will love the new techniques of subtle balayage which just adds some lighter tones such as caramels or hazelnuts to frame the face. This is similar to a technique called ‘hair contouring’. The brunette subtle balayage is really beautiful, especially when curled. It’s very brave to open a salon during the current pandemic, what inspired and encouraged you to take the plunge? At ﬁrst, I thought the idea of opening a salon in the middle of a pandemic was mad, but I knew this was something I would do one day. With being unable to work due to the Covid-19 restrictions, this was my opportunity and I had the time I needed to commit to opening my salon. I can not put into words how grateful I am for the support that I have got from my other half and of course my family. They have continuously supported me throughout opening and I am so thankful to have them.

Have you got any exciting plans for the salon in 2021? I have some very exciting plans for 2021. I always like to have something to look forward to, something to aim for. I am planning an expansion this year so I can create a luxury training space to do courses in expert colouring, cutting and styling, as well as building in some extra private treatment rooms which will be available to rent in 2021. I am looking forward to these plans and cannot wait to get started on them this year. It’s going to be a very exciting 2021 for Hygge!

10 Foundry Lane, Omagh BT78 1ED T: 028 8225 9703 W: hyggeomagh.com E: hygge.omagh@outlook.com

16/12/2020 12:21

BEAUTY

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2 . AY U – Signature Eye S h a d o w Pa l e t t e w w w. a y u . i e 1. Bobbi Brown – H i g h l i g h t i n g p o w d e r, Rosy Glow Collection, £36.50

3. 4.

4. White to Brown – Self tanning mousse £19.96 and coconut body spritz, £8.95 w w w. w a y t o b e a u t y. c o m

3. Thalgo – Kiss Collection, lip balm w w w. t h a l g o . i e

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16/12/2020 12:21

gis

te r

cli

AESTHETIC SKIN & LASER CLINIC

Treatments: • Facial Aesthetics • Laser Hair Removal • Specialised Skin Clinic • Epionce stockist Meadows Shopping Centre, Meadow Lane, Portadown BT62 3TN Telephone: 028 3833 2279 Mobile: 07718 617 080 E: info@riversidebeautyandwellbeing.com W: riversidebeautyandwellbeing.com

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16/12/2020 15:21

COLUMN

Deborah Elwiss-McNally

Jackie Donnelly

Deborah is an advanced aesthetic nurse practitioner.

Jackie Donnelly is proprietor of The Clinic on 184 Lisburn Road.

NEW YEAR, NEW YOU – SKIN HACKS TO IMPRESS YOUR LOVED ONE ON VALENTINE’S DAY Here at The Clinic, we have a number of enhanced safety measures in place to protect all clients and staff, including temperature checks, hand sanitising stations and all staff wearing full PPE.

to fade. By injecting tiny amounts of non-animal based hyaluronic acid into the skin, dermal filler treatments give you the opportunity to temporarily halt or even reverse the aging process by restoring volume and elasticity where you need it most. After one short treatment, the skin’s surface is ‘plumped up’, the appearance of lines and wrinkles are diminished and there is a marked improvement in suppleness. Safe and long lasting, dermal fillers provide a youthful lift to your appearance and an invaluable boost to your confidence.

For many, we will be glad to see the end of 2020, and as the new year approaches, there’s no better way to start afresh than showing yourself some much-needed self-care and self-love ahead of Valentine’s Day. After the indulgent festive season, our skin can feel tired, lacklustre and even a bit lumpy. But all is not lost, with the best non-surgical treatments by skin experts at The Clinic, you will be looking and feeling your best for your special someone.

Age gracefully There’s only so much romantic lighting can do for your skin so don’t be caught out! The Clinic offers the latest anti-aging treatments including Botox and Dysport that will leave your skin looking youthful by reducing ﬁne lines and wrinkles. With real, noticeable results, no surgery and no recovery time, there are many reasons why anti-wrinkle injections have been chosen by millions of men and women to enhance their skin. The treatment is safe, virtually painless and results are visible within three to seven days, lasting four to six months and in some cases, even longer.

Natural Kissable Lips Lips are arguably the most sensual feature of the body and often the first thing people look at. At The Clinic, lip fillers are used to enhance the natural look of your lips, giving them a more pleasant shape and size. Lip filler treatments are performed using hyaluronic based products which help restore the lip’s fullness and definition. Lips will not only appear more attractive, they will also feel healthier, softer and more hydrated. These injectable lip fillers can also help reverse a downward smile, add volume to thinning lips and smooth out vertical lines that extend from the lip’s border or that extend downward from the corners of the mouth. Smooth youthful skin Dermal fillers are a non-invasive cosmetic treatment for smoother, more youthful skin. As we age, our skin loses its natural elasticity and the smooth complexion we took for granted as teenagers begins

For more information, contact Jackie at The Clinic for a conﬁdential complimentary consultation on the best treatment for your skin. We look forward to safely welcoming you to The Clinic soon.

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a complimentary consultation

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17/12/2020 14:14

BOOK A COMPLIMENTARY IMPLANT CONSULT* TODAY DAVID NELSON BDS MSC (IMP DENT) CLINICAL LEAD

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15 Windsor Avenue Belfast BT9 6EE 028 9038 1822 www.cranmoredental.com *Non clinical consultation with Patient Care Coordinator.

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16/12/2020 11:49

EXPERIENCE CHANGE With Attracta Brown Counselling In Northern Ireland 1 in 5 of us will face a mental health problem sometime in our lives. With the help of counselling you can experience a change within yourself to help deal with what life can throw at you. 2020 has been a difficult year for everyone. I do not think anyone can say they haven’t been impacted in some way by COVID-19. Social media for many has become the main means of communication, this is a help but also a hindrance. Some individuals

feel completely overwhelmed by information, confused by its meaning and frozen by the threat of getting COVID-19. I can help with a wide range of areas that affect day-today life such as anxiety and depression, low self esteem, stress, addiction, grief, life transitions, trauma and anger management. My approach to counselling is unique and tailored to each client. Counselling is about personal development rather than something

“WITH THE HELP OF COUNSELLING YOU CAN EXPERIENCE A CHANGE WITHIN YOURSELF TO HELP DEAL WITH WHAT LIFE CAN THROW AT YOU.”

that is stigmatised - there must be something wrong with you. It takes real strength to look for help to make life better. I help clients to see things differently and to feel proud again of who they are. I offer a hand to hold in what can be a dark time in someone’s life. To help to calm the inner turmoil and to find the strength to keep moving forward. Finding the reason, the root and the cause as to why someone has particular problems can be so empowering for permenant change. I can work over long distance using Skype or Facetime. I use a range of techniques alongside counselling including clinical hypnotherapy and havening. Clinical hypnotherapy uses hypnosis to alleviate a range of psychological issues. Havening is a psycho sensory approach, using touch which adjusts the chemistry in the brain, allowing the mind to work in sync with the body. Havening is easy to learn, can be self applied, is rapid, gentle and essentially without side effects.This technique is highly successful in the treatment of trauma but can also be used in positive ways to build self-esteem, confidence and performance (sports and professional).

1 1 A R AT H F R I L A N D R O A D , H I L LT O W N , N E W R Y B T 3 4 5 TA T : 0 7 8 8 0 7 2 1 74 9

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16/12/2020 11:50

Are you ready for a change?

After this pandemic has impacted on our lives so much I’ve heard so many say they’ve fallen prey to the lockdown stone. There’s no better time to get motivated and kickstart your health with a Cold Pressed Juice Cleanse. The first wealth is health. Whether you are bloated, you have irritated bowels or a sensitive stomach, a juice cleanse can help reset your gut. When you drink only cold pressed, raw fruit and vegetable juice, you’re greatly reducing the amount of input and stress that your gut experiences. Juice cleansing allows your digestive system to rest. As digestion is made easier for the body, the energy that would normally be used to break down foods can be redirected and focused into healing other tissues and organs. This gives your body the time to heal and recharge, while also taking in essential vitamins and phytonutrients. Adding prebiotics and probiotics to your cleanse will help you get back to feeling how you want to. Boost Your Energy Juice cleansing floods your body with nutrients in their natural state creating a lasting, clean energy; not the ups and downs and crashes we can get from coffee and sugar. With cold pressed juice, the enzymes and nutrients are liberated from fibre allowing them to be quickly assimilated into your body. Goodbye Inflammation Studies have shown that juice cleanses followed by a plant based diet can greatly reduce inflammation in your body. We’re living in a time of chronic inflammation; from the air we breathe, from meat, dairy, alcohol and the processed foods that we eat, to the products that we use. Your body responds to all of these toxins with inflammation. When you clean things up and cut out those outside toxins, while at the same time adding the beneficial nutrients readily available in cold pressed juice, you’re allowing your body optimal toxin removal and cell repair. Eating a plant based diet can greatly reduce allergies, arthritis, IBS and even cardiovascular and autoimmune diseases.

Healthy Weight Loss Juice cleanses can be a gateway to a more balanced diet. A kickstart to your healthy habits. When you remove harmful, toxic, and processed foods, saturated fats and empty refined carbs, and replace these foods with vegetable and fruit juices and plant based foods you’ll naturally lose weight. Part of this is water retention, but if you can maintain a plant based diet following your cleanse you will see a sustained weight loss. Hydration More than 50% of people are dehydrated – consuming less than the recommended daily 5-6 glasses of non-caffeinated, beverages. Drinking adequate fluids like water and cold pressed juice helps the body function more efficiently, improves energy, and helps remove toxins more effectively. Drinking water throughout the day, even while on your juice cleanse helps keep everything moving. Hydration also makes your skin glow. Regular hydration, helps remove toxins while juicing helps bring your cells healing nutrients that can transform how you feel and look. Earth Rainbow offer tailored juice cleanses depending on your circumstances. Make yourself a priority. At the end of the day you are your longest commitment. Nichaan Brice M.A.R CNHC M.A.R.R Executive creative Consultant

Be in for a chance to win a 3 day juice cleanse to kickstart your health. Please email us with how you feel you would benefit. Draws will be taken to pick the winner on 12th January 2021.

Visit Earth Rainbow online at:

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FROM ANTRIM TO AUSTRALIA MEET YOUR GOALS WITH THE

NEW

T-KID BODY GUIDE

ur cover star Terrell Riley, NI’s Transformation Specialist is now representing Ireland’s Health & Fitness Industry in Australia.

So how’s T-KID coping in the new world era we find ourselves in, and how can we do it ourselves? I might be on the other side of the globe, but instead of striving to survive I’m thriving and it’s because of one simple rule that I always make sure to follow: I’m keeping it healthy or as my new brand slogan reads “live fit”. Even in the deepest and darkest of times I’ve ever faced it’s the one thing that’s never failed me.

BEFORE

PAGE70-71.indd 2

AFTER

Mental anguish, physical stresses, their kryptonite is always the same. Great nutrition and moodboosting, strength fortifying exercise are the only way to roll. Since my move to Australia I was forced to adapt from the very start. With the eminent threat of a global pandemic on the horizon constantly in my mind as I traversed the airports towards my new destination in March, it was very clear that it was no ordinary journey. Before I left our beautiful country there was fear and panic, but that was nothing compared to what I faced at the airports. I was prepared for Belfast, but as soon as I arrived in London the full reality of the sheer scale

BEFORE

AFTER

“Great nutrition, a little exercise and a positive attitude can carry you a long way”

18/12/2020 10:50

FROM ANTRIM TO AUSTRALIA

of COVID-19 hit me. People were scared, paranoid, and exhausted. The weight of the virus was clearly taking it’s toll on people’s shoulders as they rushed around the airport in panic. I could see it in their eyes. People where questioning if they were safe and wondering who could be infected around them. This is when it hit me hardest I think. I realised the high price that this would have on everyone for the foreseeable future. How would we cope best throughout this and how would we be able to implement a strategy that would keep us mentally and physically in the condition required to beat this? Like I’ve mentioned above there’s a

Transformation KID

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sure fire way to bolster your mind and body to help combat the depravity that follows a crisis such as the one of today. With a little bit of knowledge, some willpower, and the drive to want to make a difference, everyone can. Great nutrition, a little exercise and a positive attitude can carry you a long way and it is the best way to aid you through any trouble. Home workouts and simple to prep meal ideas, will take up less of your time than you might think! In no time you will be feeling great in mind body and soul. The new revitalised 2021 LIVE FIT T-Kid Body Guide is here to help you get there in style.

transformationkid

www.transformationkid.com 18/12/2020 10:50

The Word

HELP WITH SKIN PROBLEMS DURING COVID

Is your immune system a bit run down, Have you heard about Enzyme Yeast Cells?

Belfast Skin Clinic is experiencing record numbers of patients booking consultations with Dermatologists, Plastic Surgeons, Allergy Specialists, Vascular Surgeons and Rheumatologists during the recent lock down and restrictions. Due to the additional pressures on the NHS, hundreds of Dermatology appointments and procedures for skin conditions, including skin cancer, have been cancelled leaving patients Dr Pamela McHenry with serious skin problems very concerned. For optimal results, it is best if treatment can be completed as early as possible.

Dr. Wolz yeast cells produced by Nobel Prize winning research, ensures their yeast cells are able to deliver all the essential nutrients and be absorbed directly into our own cells. Helping to protect and nourish them and their mitochondrial structure. No matter what we take, absorption is key, without being able to absorb what you take and eat you do not get the benefit. Enzyme rich beneficial yeast cells are fed and absorb a special blend of substances, such as vitamins, minerals, immune boosters, proteins, amino acids, essential fatty acids and enzymes. All this is fermented and oxygenated to create substances for healthy cell function and therefore promoting good health.

As Ireland’s main centre of excellence in Dermatology and Associated Specialties, Belfast Skin Clinic is uniquely placed to help patients in this difﬁcult time. It is equipped with the latest technology for the diagnosis and treatment of all skin and skin related problems in adults and children and has established a reputation for excellence.

Find it at your Health Store, Medicare or at Rossmore Health

www.rossmorehealth.com

For more information or to book an appointment visit: www.belfastskinclinic.com or email: infro@belfastskinclinic.com

RASPBERRY & BANANA SMOOTHIE BOWL RECIPE Ingredients: • 1 frozen bananas • 100g frozen mixed berries • 50ml dairy-free milk • 1 tsp Linwoods Milled Flaxseed, Almonds, Brazil Nuts, Walnuts & Q10 Toppings: • Coconut yoghurt • 1/2 banana, sliced • Raspberries, puréed • Raspberries • Cacao Nibs • Linwoods Milled Flaxseed, Almonds, Brazil Nuts, Walnuts & Q10 Method: Blend the smoothie ingredients together in a blender for a few minutes until smooth. Empty into a bowl and top with coconut yoghurt, banana slices, raspberry purée, raspberries, cacao nibs and Linwoods Milled Flaxseed, Almonds, Brazil Nuts, Walnuts & Q10.

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16/12/2020 11:54

COLUMN

KICKSTARTING NEW YEAR HEALTH EFFORTS

Supporting 2021 health and fitness plans with quick and easy nutrient boosts from Linwoods Health Foods maintains ALA (Alpha Linolenic Acid) found In Omega 3. Breaking the seeds down through this process makes it easier for the body to absorb the fibre and nutrients from them, providing maximum benefits. Linwoods Milled Organic Flaxseed can be easily incorporated into meals at any time of the day by sprinkling onto salads, soups and pasta dishes, making it ideal for those with busy lifestyles. Linwoods Shelled Hemp Packed full of vitamins, Linwoods Shelled Hemp (RRP. £6.49) is bursting with health properties to help enhance the daily diet. Shelled Hemp is a natural source of iron and zinc which both support the normal function of the immune system while helping combat tiredness and fatigue.

Ready to ring in the New Year after an unprecedented 12-months, many consumers are already looking ahead to new beginnings for 2021 and are hoping to kickstart their health and fitness regimes in January. As consumers prepare to begin their fitness efforts, it is important that they keep their bodies fuelled and energised as they take on new challenges and intense workouts. Health and immunity are expected to remain a priority in 2021 and it’s crucial to maintain the adequate nutrients required to keep fit and healthy, as well as supporting the immune system during the winter months. Linwoods Health Foods range of seed blends are perfect additions to the daily diet, providing quick and simple ways to maintain adequate levels of fibre, protein and vitamins for increased energy and immune support. Ideal for those on the go,

the Linwoods range can be easily added to any healthy dish, shake or smoothie. Linwoods Milled Organic Flaxseed Linwoods Milled Organic Flaxseed (RRP. £2.99 - £4.99) is formulated to maintain ALA (Alpha Linolenic Acid) which is found in Omega-3. The addition of ALA contributes to the maintenance of normal blood cholesterol levels, reduces inﬂammation and increases metabolism. The additional Vitamin D also helps the body absorb calcium and contributes to the maintenance of normal bones and teeth. Unlike many other brands, the ﬂaxseeds are cold milled during production which helps

Shelled Hemp can be used for added goodness in a protein shake, an extra sprinkle on salads or making the perfect crispy topping on a pasta bake. Simply add 20g of Linwoods Shelled Hemp to dishes for an added boost of energy through the working day and beyond for an evening gym session. Linwoods Active Nuts Perfect sprinkled on salads or as a postworkout snack, Linwoods Active Nuts (RRP. £3.99) are ideal for a quick boost of energy through the day. Available in three ﬂavours (Organic Almonds, Organic Walnuts, and Organic Walnuts with Apple, Cinnamon & Bio-Cultures) the nuts come in a handy resealable pack for the on-the-go consumer. A quick and healthy snack, Active Nuts have no added salt or sugar and are packed with vitamins, minerals and Bio-Cultures to help build the body’s natural defences. Linwoods full health foods range is widely available from all leading supermarkets, Holland & Barrett, all good independent health food stores and online retailers including Amazon and www.linwoodshealthfoods.com/uk.

Support your immune system this winter

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TRIEDCOLUMN & TESTED

“APEX HEADACHE CLINIC CLEARED MY HEADACHES, ALLOWING ME TO ENJOY LIFE AGAIN”

56-year-old Alison Chambers from Banbridge had been suffering horrendous headaches for four years. During these terrible years, she had tried everything in the hope of getting even a little relief, but nothing helped. She came to the conclusion that headaches were something she was going to have to live with but after hearing about Apex Headache Clinic, with nothing to lose, Alison decided to try it out. Here, she shares how the clinic’s unique regime of specialist manual physiotherapy treatment for headaches, called The Nelson Headache ApproachTM, cleared her headaches, meaning she could finally get her life back on track. Alison, when did your headaches begin? My headaches started four years ago and it started with a real burning feeling at the back of my head, like my head was on fire. The burning sensation went into my back and down my spine. The pain was excruciating and would go on 24 hours, day and night with no let up at all for about six weeks at a time. This seemed to happen about twice a year. In between this I would have short bouts of pain for maybe a week, which would start in my back and the pain would go right up into my head. At times the pain was so bad I even lost my vision and had to be hospitalised as they thought I was having a stroke. How did the pain affect your life? This affected my life completely! When the pain was excruciating my blood pressure would rise significantly resulting in me having to be hospitalised to get my blood pressure down which is something I had never had before these headaches. This also really affected me at work as I had to travel for work and when I had the headaches along with the high blood pressure it was a concern and I even had to come off a flight at one stage. This ultimately led to me having a fear of flying which was something I had done all my life for work. The headaches affected every aspect of my life, both my home life and my work life and I had to take time off work sick for long periods. What led you to Apex Clinic? I was in the dentist’s surgery when I read an article about Apex Headache Clinic but

I didn’t think anything else of it until I was chatting to a friend about my headaches and how I really was at my wits end. During the four years I had suffered with this I had been everywhere to see if I could get some help with my headaches and the pain. I had seen Neurologists and gone privately and couldn’t get to the bottom of it. It was only when my friend said she had heard about a clinic in Belfast which specialised in treating headaches that I thought that must be the place I read about. My friend then gave me the name and phone number and I organised an initial consultation at Apex Headache Clinic. After this initial consultation I came out feeling emotional as this was the first time in years that anyone had understood and knew the type of symptoms I was having. When I first started seeing my Specialist Headache Physiotherapist, I was given advice on things that I was doing that could be making my symptoms worse. Implementing these changes to my day-today life along with the manual physiotherapy treatment has meant that I haven’t had a severe headache since I started treatment. I have had the odd twinge here and there but it is a year past in August since I had my last severe headache, which is unbelievable! How has your life changed since having treatment? Having treatment at Apex Headache Clinic has been a life saver for me as my headaches were impacting my life and my family’s life for years. I am getting much better at getting on flights and when I last travelled for a conference with work, my

colleagues were commenting on how well I looked as they knew how much I had been suffering with my headaches and the pain for such a long time. What advice would you offer someone suffering from migraines? I’ve tried reiki, pilates and acupuncture just to name a few things that I have given a go in the last four years but to no avail. It was only when I came to Apex I started to get relief. I couldn’t recommend them highly enough and I know that if I have a problem I can lift the phone and they will be there to help me. If anyone is suffering from headaches I would definitely say, go to Apex Headache Clinic. To book an appointment at Apex Headache Clinic, call 028 9048 4153. No GP referral is necessary.

apex

™

clinic

headache clinic

physiotherapy

podiatry

chiropody

massage

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COLUMN

Rebecca Nelson

Rebecca is founder and Director of Physiotherapy at Apex Clinic and Apex Headache Clinic.

SAY GOODBYE TO YOUR HEADACHES & MIGRAINES FOR GOOD THIS NEW YEAR

Are you living with recurring headaches or migraines? Make it your New Year’s Resolution to take the headache out of 2021. This month, Apex Headache Clinic Founder and Spinal & Headache Physiotherapy Specialist, Rebecca Nelson shares her expert advice on a headache-free 2021. January sparks the start of a brand-new year, but for some, the thought of another year plagued with headaches or migraines is devastating. Headaches and migraines can ruin the quality of your life At Apex Headache Clinic, for years, patients have been travelling from all over Ireland, the UK and further afield to avail of our specialist treatment. We witness on a daily basis just how devastating the effects can be on lives, leaving sufferers desperate to find some relief. Most people attribute tension or stress as the cause of their headaches, and so they reach for painkillers, which provide no long-term relief. However, usually there is actually a physical cause for their headaches or migraines and so without treating the source, their headaches will persist, in many cases, for years or a lifetime. Many people are unaware that headaches and migraines can be triggered from the upper neck region of the spine, even when the person doesn’t experience any neck pain. The upper neck area of the spine could have been overloaded or injured by poor posture from hours spent hunched over desks, from repeated heavy lifting, or a previous accident. Painkillers are not the cure At Apex Headache Clinic, we adopt a very clear stance when it comes to pain: The cure for pain isn’t painkillers. We firmly believe in tackling pain at its source. Getting to the

actual root of the problem will reduce the need for pain medication, which only ever masks the pain, often with terrible side effects. Here at Apex Headache Clinic, our team of specially trained physios have been successfully treating headache and migraine sufferers for years. We are very proud of our high success rate in curing persistent, longstanding migraines and headaches, using The Nelson Headache Approach™. This is my own unique regime of manual physiotherapy treatment to the neck region of the spine. At Apex Headache Clinic, our specialist physiotherapists have all been extensively trained in this regime which is offered in no other clinic in the UK or Ireland. We use this technique to help sufferers of all ages, including young children through to the very elderly. Clear your headaches & migraines to get your life back on track “My migraines affected everything I did. I was missing school so my school work suffered and I couldn’t play rugby anymore. I had no concentration and felt tired all the time. I couldn’t sleep because I was having vivid nightmares. There were times when I couldn’t see or hear anything. Light really irritated me, and I have scars on my face because I was scratching my skin so hard. There is much of this time that I can’t actually remember and a consultant told me that during times of trauma, the brain can shut off memory. It was a horrendous time. Since having treatment at Apex Headache Clinic

I am now migraine free and everything is just a whole lot easier. I can finally socialise without worrying that I’ll have to leave because of a migraine. The best thing of all is that I have been able to get my driving licence, like anyone else my age. My life has completely changed!” – Daniel Matthews from Lurgan, aged 17. Don’t suffer in silence If you suffer from persistent headaches or migraines, help is at hand. Book an initial assessment and treatment today at Apex Headache Clinic and allow our specialist physiotherapists to restore the quality of your life. To book an appointment, call Apex Headache Clinic on: 028 9048 4153. No GP referral is necessary.

apex

™

clinic

headache clinic

physiotherapy

podiatry

chiropody

massage

Ire la n d ’s le a d in g p h y s io th e ra p y & s p o r ts in ju r y c lin ic in fo @ a p e x c lin ic .c o .u k w w w .a p e x c lin ic .c o .u k

in fo @ a p e x h e a d a c h e c lin ic .c o .u k w w w .a p e x h e a d a c h e c lin ic .c o .u k

5 -1 1 S u m m e r h il A v e n u e B e lfa s t B T 5 7 H D

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HOLD ON TIGHT AND PREPARE FOR FLIGHT WELCOME TO CIRQUEfit NI! We’re a boutique fitness studio located in East Belfast providing unique personal training, individual open training sessions, and Coach lead classes. CIRQUEfit NI is owned by local Belfast residents Rochelle and Danny. Both were accomplished competitive Pole Sport athletes, professional Aerial Circus performers, and experienced movement coaches independently before they first met 5 years ago. A conversation about how exciting they were to see Pole Sport becoming an internationally recognised sport quickly turned into the creation of a new fitness concept that is now CIRQUEfit NI. The goal was to make Aerial Circus and Pole Sport accessible to everyone in the form of credible fitness focused activities

as a fun alternative to traditional gymbased exercise. There’s lots of different classes to choose from including Pole Sport, Aerial Hoop, Trapeze, Skills, Calisthenics, Aerial Yoga and Flexibility. Plus Personal Training services tailored to meet your individual needs. By joining CIRQUEfit NI you will discover the amazing health benefits of Aerial and Pole Sports: - full body fun workouts - build strength and better coordination - improved mobility and joint health - mental health benefits from small group training - new friendships and social experiences - inclusive secure members only training environment - celebrate each others achievements and build self confidence As a CIRQUEfit NI member you’ll be guided every step of the way by our dedicated Coaching team. We all started as beginners and quickly became hooked. With a combined 60 years of experience, harnessed from various disciplines within the Aerial Circus, Pole Sport, Fitness and

Yoga industries, you’ll be learning from the best. Everyone can join us and safely progress at their own pace. There’s no need for any previous experience or existing level of fitness. The coaching methods and small group sessions maximise individual learning. The CIRQUEfit NI Coaches love sharing their passion and look forward to introducing all our new members to the fun of Aerial & Pole based fitness.

CIRQUEfit NI 60a Hatton Drive, Woodstock Road, Belfast BT6 9BD cirquefitni@gmail.com www.facebook.com/cirquefitni/ PAGE76.indd 2

Instagram @cirquefitni 18/12/2020 12:14

The Belfast Rheumatology Clinic Joint, tendon and muscle pain or stiffness can be due to many different rheumatic conditions ranging from those that are mild and self limiting to more serious inflammatory disorders. In many cases the earlier these conditions are diagnosed and treated the better the long term outcome.

Dr Adrian Pendleton

Dr Andrew Cairns

he Belfast Rheumatology Clinic has been established by a partnership of three Northern Ireland Consultant Rheumatologists, Dr Andrew Cairns, Dr Adrian Pendleton and Dr Gary Wright. It is the first clinic in Northern Ireland dedicated solely to the investigation, diagnosis and management of patients with arthritis and musculoskeletal conditions. There are over 200 rheumatic disorders ranging from common musculoskeletal conditions such as tendonosis and bursitis (often related to work or sport) and arthritis (osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis, psoriatic arthritis and gout) to rare complex multi-system immune - mediated

disorders such as vasculitis and connective tissue disease. The partners have over 30 years of combined clinical experience at consultant level in rheumatology, both in the National Health Service and the private sector. The driving principal of the Belfast Rheumatology Clinic is to provide a centre of excellence for the diagnosis and management of patients with rheumatic disorders. All patients will have access to the skills of the multidisciplinary team of nurse specialists, physiotherapist, occupational therapist and podiatrist.

For appointments contact: Dr Gary D. Wright

HEALTH TALK Ulster Tatler’s Chloe Heaney chats to Patrick Woods, Director of Linwoods. Describe a typical working day for you? I live close to the office so I’m in work shortly after 8am. I usually plan for the day ahead when it is quiet and answer some of my emails. I normally have department meetings with the various teams within the business in the morning and then possibly project planning meetings or calls with customers in the afternoon. With COVID-19, these are all on zoom which means a lot less travelling but it is hard to beat face to face contact. Every day is different which is nice as it offers some variety. For someone who has never heard of Linwoods, tell us a bit about the company and what they do. Linwoods is a family business based outside Armagh. I am part of the third generation involved in the business. We have a small grocery store but our core business is our

range of health foods, derived from milled seeds and nuts. Our ingredients are carefully selected for their health benefits and we are selling them across Europe, with the UK, Ireland and Spain being our largest markets. What would be Linwoods’ most popular product at the moment? Since the start of the pandemic, we have seen an increase in the number of people now putting more focus on their health and well-being. People are turning to natural foods to fuel their bodies and support their immune system. A number of products such as our Flaxseed, Bio-Cultures and Vitamin D product helps to support the immune system and we have seen an increase in demand for it along with our other products with immune supporting properties. What are the benefits to incorporating Linwoods’ products in your diet? Linwoods range is easy to include into any diet. I add the Flaxseed, Nuts & Q10 product to my porridge in the mornings but the range can be added to various meals to give them a healthy boost. Each ingredient has its own unique health benefits. Flaxseed is high in Omega 3 which helps maintain normal cholesterol levels, as well as being high in fibre. Shelled Hemp is high in protein, which helps build muscle mass. It is an excellent source of protein for vegans or vegetarians.

What does 2021 have in store for Linwoods? In January and February we are launching a new range of crunchy seed clusters onto the UK and Irish markets. These are delicious breakfast toppers, made up of seeds, nuts and fruit clusters. We are all excited about this launch as it has already received really positive feedback. Following the successful rebrand and pack refresh of our milled seeds range in 2020, we will be rolling out our new look into the European markets such as Spain, France and Italy. We will also be stepping up our efforts to reduce our carbon footprint. We have installed energy efficient lighting and we plan to plant over 6,000 trees to create a new woodland in our local community.

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The Word

UNIQUE DESIGNED PODS WITH ZERO MAINTENANCE

GET ZINC FOR A RELAXING SPACE

Perhaps you have a smaller space or a large room that you want to create a stunning look for. Why not consider a corner sofa: as a standalone it can be perfect for your sofa needs or use pieces from a collection to furnish a bigger room. Harvey Norman has several collections with corner sofas, and the Zinc is a collection that offers choice and several pieces to complement the corner sofa making it an option for different spaces. With clean lines, contemporary yet minimal design and generous proportions for comfort, the Zinc corner sofa features an extended chaise to recline and relax on, with beautiful scatter cushions to complete the look. The Zinc has a selection of shades that complement the beautifully tactile fabric giving you choice to ﬁnd the perfect match for the colours in your room. The Zinc also offers the option of standard-back or pillow-back design, so you can tailor-make it to your comfort preference. This beautiful corner sofa is handcrafted in Europe and has a 10 year structural guarantee. With additional pieces in the collection, 2 and 3-seater sofas and an armchair, the Zinc corner sofa gives a contemporary look to your space, comfort and peace of mind.

Outer Space Pods build all sizes of home offices, garden rooms and extensions. All the pods come complete with lighting and electrical sockets. They can be fitted out with bathrooms and kitchens if necessary. Top quality materials and insulation mean the pods can be used all year and have zero maintenance. www.outerspacepods.com Telephone: 07784 546 285

Zinc chaise sofa - www.harvey-norman.co.uk/sofas/fabric-sofas/ fabric-corner-sofas/zinc-chaise-sofa.html

CLASSIC WING-BACK CHAIRS The classic wing-back chair, originally fashioned in the 1600’s as comfortable fireside seating with ‘wings’ to protect its occupants from both drafts and the heat of large open fireplaces. There is now a wing chair to suit every style of interior, and production methods have improved the comfort with a focus on ergonomics. Those featured here include the “Selkirk” which has been Beaufort’s most popular wing chair over the past 40 years. The classic, elegant styling and lumber-support are unsurpassed for this style of chair. The “Harvard” by renowned English sofa manufacturer Duresta, has a more linear shape and brings a more opulent style to the line-up. The “Vera Bergere” designed in 2019 by G&O Buratti for Italian manufacturer Porada continues the classic 4-legged wooden frame, but introduces exposed solid walnut with a leather back. Jean-Marie Massaud’s casual chic design “Santa Monica” also has a winged option that invites relaxation. The “Joker” designed for Poliform by Marcel Wanders is a new character, combining comfort with neat overall dimensions, and a swivel die-cast aluminium base. Finally, the red-dot design award winning “Caruzzo” by Leolux, which was launched by its designer Frans Schrofer in Beaufort’s London showroom, features a striking embroidered seam down the back and a reclining option. So no matter what your style, classic or contemporary, there is a wing-back chair for you! All available to order from Beaufort Interiors in Moira. www.beaufortinteriors.co.uk Tel: 028 9261 9508 78

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L isten now! Ulster Tatler MEET THE EXPERTS Photo by Matt Botsford on Unsplash

PODCAST Check out our fortnightly podcast to hear local interiors experts give practical tips on how to improve your home. Available on:

Featuring: Chris McCann, Armatile

Stephen Whalley, Artist

Raymond Morrison, Wardens of Newtownards

Glen Wright, Wrights Design House

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17/12/2020 15:28

Column /

Arts Diary Kellie Burch arts@ulstertatler.com

“In a period when human interaction increasingly feels nonexistent, the Vault Christmas Market … was just the tonic.”

VAULT CHRISTMAS MARKET After a date change due to lockdown 2.0, the annual Vault Christmas Market took place at the wonderful Vault Artist Studios, situated in the shadows of the Samson and Goliath cranes, on Tower Street, Belfast on 12th and 13th December. In what has been a frustrating and challenging time for local artists, this quirky market was even more eagerly anticipated this year with over 100 stalls of arts, crafts, clothes, prints, food, drinks and one-off pieces on display, creating the perfect opportunity to shop local and support small traders. The Vault Artists Studios, a community driven, not for proﬁt arts charity which works with creatives working across a variety of art forms, has become a major contributor to the cultural identity of Belfast. This was indisputable from the diverse collection of stall holders participating in the market. Some of the offerings on show included: prints, badges and t-shirts from Half Cut Prints, metal sculptures created using mixed media from Cathy Hart, hand painted up cycled light bulb decorations from Solas Designs, candles by Draíocht Crafts, pottery from David McComiskey,, and fabulous fermented food and kits from The Cultured Club. A highlight for me was spotting stalls by Nuala Convery aka ‘Wee Nuls’ - who I had the pleasure of seeing in action during the Hit the North street art festival in August - and visual artist Hannah Smith, who scooped the John Richardson Award for her piece ‘Sunrise’ at the 139th RUA Annual Exhibition (which is on display at the Ulster Museum until 3 January 2021). In a period when human interaction increasingly feels non-existent, the Vault Christmas Market, which was Covid-19 compliant with visitors wearing face coverings, a one-way system in operation and hand-sanitising stations throughout, was just the tonic. As I concluded my visit by devouring mouthwatering Poutine (a beloved Canadian dish of chips, gravy and cheese curds) from Oui Poutine whilst watching the breath-taking displays from Snatch Circus - a two woman punk circus from Belfast - it felt like all my Christmases came at once.

Catherine Quinn and Natalie Catherwood.

Snatch Circus performers.

Rachel O’Grady and Chris Upson with David and Adam.

Hannah McKinney and Courtney Kervell.

The Vault Christmas Market took place on 12th & 13th December 2020.

Mary Callen, Lisa Devlin, Siofra Caherty and Maggie McKeever.

Deirdre Scullion, Ceallach McSwiggan and Ciara Boyle. Erin O’Rawe and Will Reid. 80

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Arts Round-up LIVE FROM THE ULSTER HALL An exciting new digital entertainment experience, Live from the Ulster Hall, launched recently. The new, innovative digital event experience is proudly supported by The Arts Council for Northern Ireland and the Department for Communities. Through this investment the iconic venue enters a new era and the Ulster Hall stage is alive for the ﬁrst time since March with the sound of homegrown musicians. Through this platform, audiences throughout Northern Ireland and beyond will be able to enjoy live performances from the safety and comfort of their own homes. The Ulster Hall kicked off the new series with a performance by Ryan McMullan on 27 December. Although the atmosphere and buzz from a live audience is incomparable, Ryan was thrilled to be back performing for all his fans. Live from the Ulster Hall is testament to

Ryan McMullan

the team and the venue’s resilience and commitment to bringing the best of live entertainment back to Belfast. The new digital entertainment experience will provide a ﬁrst-class service, to which ticket holders can access exclusive content by live streaming each artist’s session. For more information: www.ulsterhall.co.uk

OPEN HOUSE’S NEW HOME Independent charity, Open House, is ofﬁcially the new owner of the beautiful

Alison Gordon and Kieran Gilmore, with Naomi Long, minister for Justice, at the Court House.

Victorian Grade B2 listed Court House building on the Bangor seafront which has been part of Bangor’s landscape since 1866. After raising £1.3m from a crowdfunding campaign, a charity ball and funding from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, Dept for Communities, Garﬁeld Weston Foundation, Ards & North Down Borough Council and Ulster Garden Villages, Alison Gordon and Kieran Gilmore of the Open House Festival plan to restore and transform the building into a year-round venue for music and arts events. www.openhousefestival.com

PLAYWRIGHT WINS BIG Playwright Fionnuala Kennedy has won the Writers’ Guild of Ireland ZeBBie Award for “Best Theatre Script” 2020, for her play, “Removed”. The 13th Annual ZeBBie Awards, which were hosted online this year, were voted for by members of the Guild and recognise the best scripts for radio, stage and screen that were written and produced in 2019. The Theatre nominees this year all came from Northern Ireland and included, “The Alternative” by Michael Patrick & Oisín Kearney, “A Queer Céilí at the Marty Forsythe” by Dominic Montague, and “Removed” by Fionnuala Kennedy. “Removed”, a theatre play by Prime Cut Productions, tells the story of Adam, a young person who has grown up in the Northern Irish Social Care system. Funny, affecting and hard hitting, “Removed” has become an award-winning and sell-out show. Actor, Conor O’Donnell delivers an intimate monologue offering a glimpse into the experiences of growing up as a ‘looked after’ child in the care system. “Removed” is not based on any one individual, but rather an amalgamation of the many interviews gathered by Fionnuala in collaboration with Voice of Young People In Care (VOYPIC). A group of young people with care experience shared their personal stories with the playwright. Due to the pandemic, live performances are on hold, however “Removed” has been performed virtually throughout lockdown. For more information about Removed and upcoming performance dates visit: https://www.primecutproductions. co.uk/removed

OUT TO LUNCH The Out to Lunch festival is back - but with a difference. For 2021, the extensive programme of events, which offer an eclectic mix of music, comedy, theatre, ﬁlm and lunch, will exist almost entirely in the digital realm. Taking place from 8-31 January 2021, all shows will be either live-streamed from the Black Box and nearby venues and broadcast on the Out to Lunch Youtube and Facebook channels or will take the form of Zoom webinars. Some of the hightlights of the 16th Out to Lunch festival include: Kevin McAleer, Joshua Burnside, Dea Matrona, Jordan Adetunji, Lord Carson Reﬂects (play), Catherine Bohart, Danny Boy (Irish Dance), Natalie Haynes, Spud (play), Alison Spittle, Malojian, A John Prine Afternoon, Brighde Chaimbeul & Aidan O’Rourke, Frederick

Douglass and Slavery (Webinar), Brian Moore @ 100 (Webinar), Matt McGinn, Grace Petrie and Teresa Livingstone. For full details: cqaf.com Kevin McAleer

Playwright Fionnuala Kennedy 81

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16/12/2020 12:49

EXTRACT

WORDS TO SHAPE MY NAME Extract from Words to Shape My Name, a powerful debut by Laura McKenna. The novel draws on an epic journey of a former slave from the US, to heart of Ireland. This excerpt focuses on the chapter – A journery to St Mary’s graveyard. Laura McKenna

12th May, 1857 A journey to St Mary’s graveyard May is a month what I hold in particular fondness after the gloom and damp of winter has passed. London offers little cheer during those earlier dark months and I look forward to my journey through the countryside and my visit to Baaba’s grave. So last week, I took a Hansom cab outside Euston Station as was my habit. The driver accepted my price once I told him I’d made the journey every year for the past twenty and knew better than he how far and how much and it would serve him ill to talk of half-mile fares and time spent standing, for I could just as easy give my custom to the next man, whose horse looked a deal livelier than his, and would likely do it for less than a pound. He raised both his hands in a gesture of defeat. We passed straight through Wimbledon and on to St Mary’s. I instructed the driver to take himself and his cab some distance hence for I had no wish that he should sit there up high looking down on my comings and goings, he being a cold sort, darkly whiskered and darkly dressed, in the manner of drivers who think they’re gentlemen when they are no such thing. I made for the far boundary wall, to my parents’ grave, marked not by any stonemason’s handiwork, but a metal cross, fashioned by myself from some ironmongery what came my way. Nothing fancy, only two spiralled bars wrapped tight with string on which I’d once chalked their names. But the rain is no observer of such formalities. I knelt to straighten the cross, and saw a peep

of yellow nodding above the grass. Cowslips. I’m most partial to them for their lowly beauty and the soft fuzz of their necks. The sun were beginning to warm the ground and I sat there waiting, waiting for a sign. And all the while my fingers worried the grass and delved into the claggy earth beneath. A black crow perched on a broken headstone nearby, stretched out one wing like a widow’s fan and reached under it to tidy and trim himself. Neither cawed nor made a sound. A shadow crossed my heart. The jackdaw’s feathers flared suddenly, and my eye were snagged by it. A breeze, I thought, struggling to my feet, while the bird struggled to take to the air, all aflap and afluster. The sky were overrun by a rabble of clouds. I heard the hedgerows seesaw, branch on branch, thorn on thorn and the weather vane screeched round sharp to the west. And there it was, the scatter of mayflower blossom. Now you may think it strange for a woman of my years, being almost sixty, to stand atop a grave, with her arms thrown wide and her eyes closed and her head flung back, while the mayflower shakes out her petals but so it was I received again the blessing of those white blossoms, their touch gentle, their smell familiar and dusty. An Sceach Gheal my Ma used to call it, in her Gaelic tongue, though she never cared for it being superstitious for such things. The jack-chat calls of the birds scattered my rememberings and I opened my eyes to see them circling above me, three of them, smuts blown about by the breeze. And then that cough, that sound, ahem. Excuse my impertinence but I wonder if I have the pleasure of addressing the daughter of a Mr Anthony Small. I turned — sharp mind — to see a scrawny man swamped under the weight of a thick coat, woollen muffler and felt hat, though Lord knows the weather hardly called for such. I took a step back, near stumbled over Baaba’s resting place. The man reached for my arm and steadied me. I must apologise. Miss Small. It is Miss Small, is it not. His cheeks were pink with what looked like excitement, though perhaps he weren’t used to exertion. What’s it to you, I may have said. Oh. It is you. I’m certain of it. I can hardly believe it. He clapped his hands together. Oh this is too, too good. What a happy occurrence.

I don’t mind saying my first thoughts were that my bastard husband, gone near thirty years, had sent someone after me. Looking for a stake in my house in Euston Grove. I started to walk away. You leave me alone, I said. Tell him he’ll not get a brass farthing out of me. He had no trouble keeping pace with me. No, no. Please Miss Small. I don’t know this man you speak of. I have been sent by another. A Lady Lucy Foley. You may have known her as Lady Lucy Fitzgerald. That stopped me in my tracks. His face fizzed with delight. Lady Lucy Fitzgerald. Was she still alive. She died six years ago. I turned from him. Wait, he called after me. She left detailed instructions. Please allow me to introduce myself. His legs crossed and dipped like a fold-up washstand. It seemed he were attempting to bow. He had my attention then. I am Mr John Butler. Solicitor. Of Tooley Street, Borough. His voice scooped up at the end as if in a question. How did you find me … how did you— Oh but I’ve been searching. You seem to shed your name each time you move. But just now, how did you— Pardon me, but I guessed you to be the daughter of Mr Anthony Small, he being a black man, and you … well, also black. And today being the anniversary of his death. Last year the verger mentioned a lady such as you had visited and I alas, too late, too late. I hoped against hope that you might visit on this day again, and that this year I might find you. He paused, removing his hat, one bonethin hand appearing from his over-long sleeve. His pale blue eyes swam over me. Where’s the harm, I thought, extending my hand to his

Extract from Words to Shape My Name by Laura McKenna (New Island Books).

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16/12/2020 12:49

The Word

DANSKE STEPS UP COMMITMENT TO TACKLING CLIMATE CHANGE WITH KEY APPOINTMENT AND SIGNING OF CLIMATE PLEDGE

Pictured are Chris Martin, Danske Bank and Geraldine Noé, Business in the Community.

Danske Bank has stepped up its commitment to addressing climate change by appointing a dedicated Head of Climate Risk and Strategy and signing the Climate Action Pledge for Northern Ireland, committing to significantly reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by 2030. The bank has also achieved the highest level in the latest NI Environmental Benchmarking Survey, retaining Platinum level for a second year. The annual survey is carried out by Business in the Community Northern Ireland and benchmarks organisations each other based on environmental management and performance, and green leadership. Danske Bank has participated in the survey for a number of years and is the top ranked bank. However, Danske Bank has now significantly stepped up its commitment to addressing climate change and sustainability, creating a dedicated Head of Climate Risk and Sustainability role to develop and implement this strategy in collaboration with colleagues across the business. Danske is part of a campaign steering group of Climate Champions made up of leading NI business representatives. Together they are working on a Business Action on Climate campaign to address the climate crisis. A cornerstone of the campaign, the Climate Action Pledge, invites signatories to commit to cut their greenhouse gas emissions by 50% or 30% by 2030, ahead of the UK government trajectory to achieving Net Zero by 2050. Chris Martin, Head of Climate Risk & Strategy, explained: “Businesses have an important part to play in addressing the climate crisis. At Danske we have embedded sustainability and climate change into our core business and have set ourselves ambitious targets. “Part of this is about looking at how we run our business and the impact we are having on the environment. Benchmarking ourselves forces us to look again at our approach but also to think differently about how as an office and retail based organisation we can contribute to making a difference.

“We’ve made a lot of great progress in recent years, reducing the environmental impact of our property estate through measures such as replacing inefficient gas boilers, installing LED lighting, installing solar panels, planting wildflower gardens and introducing initiatives to reduce the use of single-use plastic. “But we are on a journey and are continually challenging ourselves to be better in this area, which is why we have made a public commitment to reduce our greenhouse gas emissions by 50% by 2030. “NI businesses will increasingly be challenged about their approach to climate change by their customers and suppliers. It’s time to take action, but addressing climate change isn’t a one and done approach, it takes time, thought, effort and commitment. We would encourage other businesses starting to look at this to think big and start small and to get involved in Business in the Community’s Business Action on Climate Campaign.” Geraldine Noé, Head of Environment at Business in the Community, added: “Now is the time for business to step up and take action on the climate crisis and Danske Bank is demonstrating real green leadership through the appointment of a Head of Climate Risk & Strategy. In this role, Chris Martin will ensure that climate issues are front and centre of the bank’s future strategy, and this is to be commended. “I have no doubt that the bank will walk the talk when it comes to driving the Climate Action agenda – within the bank itself, with Business in the Community as Climate Champions of the Business Action on Climate campaign, and by inspiring others to make significant changes that make a positive difference to the planet.” The Pledge and the Business Action on Climate campaign is led by Business in the Community Northern Ireland in partnership with CBI, IoD, NI Chamber and FSB.

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17/12/2020 12:57

STAYCATIONS SPECIAL FOCUS

Winter Escapes

We chat to some prominent local ﬁgures about why Ireland, north and south, is the perfect place for a weekend retreat or a day trip this winter.

Culloden Estate& Spa .

Paul McEneaney, Creative Director at Cahoots NI Donegal is one of my favourite places to visit in the world. When I was growing up in Armagh we often travelled there on family outings. I’ve continued that tradition and we go a few times each year. I find it incredibly relaxing. Its natural beauty, friendliness and relaxed hospitality make it a favourite for the McEneaney clan. Harvey’s point is our go-to stay; the food is fantastic and the atmosphere is perfect. It’s a great location to explore all that Donegal has to offer including the breathtaking cliff walks of Slieve League and some of the best beaches on the planet.

Bernie Allen, Author of How to Succeed in Business & Life In my holiday lifetime, I am delighted to have been fortunate enough to have travelled the world and every year I say, “I must stay home sometime and explore what’s on my doorstep”. Within 15mins drive, either way, I am surrounded by some of NI beauty and historical spots that I truly underestimated. To name just a few Craigavon Lakes / watersports, walking, cycling, ﬁshing, olympic size swimming pool, and breathtaking scenery. Oxford Island situated on the biggest lake in the British Isles, ‘Lough Neagh’. Bird watching, sailing, national nature reserve not to mention the fantastic sunsets. Then there is the famous Lurgan Park & Castle, the largest urban park in NI, steeped in history from the 1800s. “Everything I want to do when I’m on holiday’s right on my doorstep”. 84

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17/12/2020 13:04

William Clegg, Author of Crime, Comedy and Combat

James Murphy, Author of the Terror Trilogy and Director of NI Festival of Writing There are two things we can’t wait to do. The first is a mini-break on the North Coast. It had always been a family tradition for my wife, Heather’s family to end their summer holidays in Portrush, one that we maintained whenever we got married and when we had our daughter. Not this year though. Highlights for us include a visit to Ramore restaurant, shopping in the Whitehouse and an unavoidable trip to the Jet Centre, Coleraine on the way home. The second thing we’re looking forward to is a road trip to Cork. We’re huge fans of live music and love the Marquee Cork as a venue. Highlights of this trip will include a trip to Fota Wildlife Park, an amazing day out for adults and children alike. As self-confessed foodies, a trip to TV cook Rachael Allen’s newly opened restaurant, and a return visit to the indoor food market will be a must. The produce here, particularly the pork sausages are worth the journey alone.

Tina Calder, Director of Excalibur Press & The Merlin Project There’s nothing better than getting out and about in the fresh winter air to clear the head and one of our favourite places to go as a family is Newcastle, Co Down. With a beautiful beach, Tollymore Forest Park and the Mourne Mountains there are plenty of places to enjoy the outdoors. Of course no visit to Newcastle is worth it without a trip to Paddy & Eileen’s lovely wee cafe Savoy on the main street where a wholesome home cooked meal is always on the menu. From the Hutt Hostel and Slieve Donard to the glamping fairy cabins there’s always somewhere fab to stay.

This autumn and winter have been somewhat different in many ways for me. Habitually, I travel to foreign locations for the temperate climate and my poor old joints! This year has been different. I have not wandered beyond my home county of Down with it’s fabulous vistas, coastal paths, mountains and drumlins framed by the Mourne mountains to the south east, Belfast Lough to the north and the coast of Scotland to the east. My staycation has been unexpectedly enriched by being in the sustained company of my son who will be 12 on December 31st. My blue bird of paradise!

James Mountstephens, DJ and Producer aka ‘Synyx’ & Angela Mountstephens (former Miss NI) As a family of four it’s important to try and get away where the kids and adults can all have fun and feel relaxed. Just before Lockdown at the start of the year we spent a few nights in Sligo. The hotel had a swimming pool and the food at the restaurant was absolutely stunning that we ate there both nights. We then had some blustery walks along the Wild Atlantic Way. The scenery is just stunning. Most recently at the end of the summer we spent three nights up at the North Coast near Castlerock and Downhill Beach. We found a lovely Air BnB which was big enough to accommodate eight of us as we had family over from England as well. The highlight of our trip was our boat trip on Kintra Boat Tours near Ballycastle. We’re so very lucky to live in such a beautiful part of the world and spend many winter Sunday mornings walking in Newcastle County Down as we only live 30min drive away.

Patience Bradley, Model and Author of The HouseWork WorkOut Somewhere that I love to go is the Killyhevlin Hotel. It really does have everything. I stayed before in one of the cabins with some other model friends and the staff were so lovely to us, they couldn’t have done more to make our stay amazing. Enniskillen is great for shopping, especially at this time of year, for getting my Christmas shopping started. The hotel is great too, as it allows dogs so it’s great for a relaxing weekend away with my husband and the dogs, with so much countryside for scenic walks.

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16/12/2020 12:53

A MEAL WITH A VIEW

The Scenic Inn Bar & Restaurant Local award-winning bar and restaurant

he Scenic Inn is a family run Bar and Restaurant situated just outside Armoy, a short distance from the famous Dark Hedges. They offer a wide range of dishes to suit everyone’s taste from their famous sizzling pepper chicken to the finest steaks which are all locally sourced. They are Passionate about sourcing all of their produce locally and ensure that all food is cooked from fresh. In 2017 The Scenic Inn won the very prestigious accolade “Pub Food of The Year” for the whole of Northern Ireland along with Community Bar of the year. Ulster Tatler chats to Pamela McFetridge who is the daughter of Shirley McKinley (Manager and Owner of The Scenic Inn). When was The Scenic Inn first established and how did it come to be? The Scenic Inn has been around for a long time but my mum took over it in November 2010 and it has gone from strength to strength. Northern Ireland was just coming out of recession so it was a risky move but it was the best move my mum had ever made, she put her heart and soul into it and made it a success and after 10 years the business is still growing Tell us a bit about the picturesque location of The Scenic Inn. We are situated near the beautiful seaside town of ballycastle and the iconic, famous dark hedges is just a few miles away Tell us a bit about the different menus on offer and the type of food you do. We would say our food offerings are modern classics and we use only local produce. Our potatoes are grown just a couple of miles down the road and at times like these, it is more important than ever to support local businesses. We have a lunch, evening and Sunday lunch menu. We have great allergen free options. Vegan and vegetarian options are also available Are there any exciting plans for 2021? We have some more projects in the pipeline for 2021 but we have just completed a very exciting project this year. We constructed a new building to help us social distance as our premises weren’t overly big. We decided to be pro-active and build a new timber framed building to help with the large amounts of people wanting to eat with us and also allow us to seat everyone safely at the recommended distance. 2020 has been a challenging year for our industry but we have tried to take the positives out of it and build our dream. We have always wanted to increase our capacity and this year we have been able to do this. We now have the extra space we have always dreamed of.

The Scenic Inn bar and restaurant

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38 Fivey Road, Ballymoney, County Antrim, BT53 8UT Call: 028 2075 1260 enquiries@thescenicinn.com OPEN DAILY noon till 11pm Serving food noon till 8:30 pm

16/12/2020 13:00

Winter Warmers & New Year Breaks The Ardboyne Hotel, Navan

Caravogue House, Trim

The Castle Arch Hotel, Trim

CityNorth Hotel, Gormanstown

Winter Escape to Ardboyne

Forever Pals Special Offer

Winter Escape to the CastleArch

January Blues 2021

From €99 per couple

€175 inclusive. 2nd night €25pps

From €99 per couple

€129

Escape to the Boyne Valley this winter with one nights bed and breakfast, an evening meal and a late checkout for only €99 per couple.

One night B&B for a group of 5 girls including: deluxe room with 3 double beds; bubbly on arrival; private area for pre-dinner drinks; late breakfast & check out.

Escape to the Boyne Valley this winter with one nights bed and breakfast, an evening meal and a late checkout for only €99 per couple.

1 night B&B for 2 guests, 2 course dinner in our Tara Lounge, bottle of Prosecco on arrival, late check-out, complimentary upgrade on arrival (subject to availability)

Offer valid until 30 April 2021

Offer valid January - March 2021

Offer valid until 30 April 2021

Offer valid January - February 2021

Book: +353 (0) 46 902 3119 ardboynehotel.com/winterescape.html

Book: +353 (0) 86 382 1224 caravoguehouse.ie

Book: +353 (0) 46 943 1516 castlearchhotel.com/winterescape.html

Book: +353 (0) 1 690 6666 citynorthhotel.com

Killeen Castle, Dunsany

Kiltale Holiday Homes, Kiltale, Dunsany

Knightsbrook Hotel, Trim

The Newgrange Hotel, Navan

Golf & Hotel Packages

Weekend Staycation

Couples Retreat

Winter Escape to the Newgrange

From €89 per person

€280 for a family of 4 for 2 nights €239

From €99 per couple

Play Killeen Castle and Headfort Golf Club (from €89 pp) Play Killeen Castle and Knightsbrook Golf Club + overnight stay at Knightsbrook Hotel (from €149 pp).

Enjoy the fresh air at the farm, and a family walk to explore Beewise Nature Garden (Sundays). Complimentary bottle of wine & goodie bag on arrival.

One Night B&B with a romantic 3 course dinner with glass of Prosecco, 25 min. back, neck & shoulder massage each, complimentary mud Rasul treatment.

Escape to the Boyne Valley this winter with one nights bed and breakfast, an evening meal and a late checkout for only €99 per couple.

Offer valid all year, subject to availability. T&C’s

Offer valid until 30 April 2021

Offer valid until December 2021

Offer valid until 30 April 2021

apply

Book: Contact Karen +353 (0) 1 689 3000 killeencastle.com

Book: +353 (0) 86 122 1589 meathselfcatering.com

Book: +353 (0) 46 948 2100 knightsbrook.com

Book: +353 (0) 46 907 4100 newgrangehotel.ie/winterescape.html

The Old Rectory, Trim

Slane Farm Hostel, Cottages & Camping

The Station House Hotel, Kilmessan

Trim Castle Hotel, Castle Street, Trim

Vintage Tea Room & Parlour Trim

Family Reunions at Slane Farm

B&B, Afternoon Tea & Prosecco

Winter Escape Offer

€25 per person

Group rates available

From €102 per person sharing

From €65.00 per person sharing

Enjoy old style Afternoon Tea in vintage surroundings.

Let our family cater for your family. Missed quality time with loved ones? 6 four-star self-catering cottages to choose from. Book now!

One night bed and breakfast with sparkling afternoon tea.

Overnight accommodation, dinner in The Bailey Bar, bottle of Prosecco, late check out at 1pm.

Offer valid until 22 December 2021

Offer valid 11 February - 30 April 2021

Offer valid until 31 March 2021

Offer valid throughout 2021 - just mention this ad

Book: +353 (0) 86 233 9229 theoldrectorytrim.ie

Book: +353 (0) 41 988 4985 slanefarmhostel.ie

Book: +353 (0) 46 902 5239 stationhousehotel.ie

Book: +353 (0) 46 948 3000 trimcastlehotel.com

Please check government websites for travel advice and restrictions. All bookings are to be made with the accommodation provider directly and are subject to availability and terms and conditions. Please quote ‘Boyne Valley Tourism’ when booking. Boyne Valley Tourism is a promotional company and does not accept responsibility for any of the special offers. For more information on Boyne Valley breaks see

discoverboynevalley.ie/rediscover

facebook.com/discoverboynevalley

#BoyneValley

JULIE NELSON Defender, Northern Ireland Senior Women’s Football Team

10. FAVOURITE Movie: Gladiator Band/Musician: Snow Patrol and Picture This Book: I don’t read. I can’t sit still long enough. Restaurant: Zen Holiday Destination: I love the USA and Australia. I also like to visit the Costa del Sol for a week in the sun Drink: Tea Meal: My mum’s roast chicken dinner

season, so I have a couple of strength and conditioning sessions to complete along with team-based football sessions and usually one match per week. Out of season we usually add in extra strength and conditioning sessions and team-based training.

1. What do you love most about playing football? I love the competition and the friendships I’ve made through football. It’s also a fantastic way to travel around the world and experience new countries and cultures. 2. What has been your career highlight to date? I’ve been fortunate to have many highlights throughout my career. On a personal note becoming the first female to win 100 international caps for Northern Ireland is a highlight. However, on Tuesday 1st December 2020, I was part of the Northern Ireland squad that qualified for a European Championship play-off for the first time in our senior women’s team’s short history. After spending half of my life wearing the green shirt it was an incredible feeling reaching the play-off and being part of such a special group. And it has to top any of my previous achievements.

3. What are your favourite hobbies/ activities outside of playing football? I enjoy going out for food with friends and spending time with my family. I have two young nephews, so I love spending time at the weekends with them, watching them grow and learn. I like to travel as well, but unfortunately at the moment that’s not really an option. 4. What is your daily routine? My working day – I work at Ulster University - begins at 8.45am and finishes at 5pm. I would usually complete a training session at lunchtime in the gym at work a couple of days a week, depending on how it fits in with my team sessions and matches. I spend most nights training, playing or coaching so I don’t spend much time in the house. 5. Do you have a specific fitness regime? Yes. I am quite strict with my training and don’t take many days off. At the moment we are in

6. Do you have any tips for staying positive during this time? Try to reflect on the things that you are thankful for in life when you go through challenging times and don’t be afraid to talk to people if you are struggling. I always find going for a walk in the fresh air helps clear your head. 7. What do you think is the best thing about living in Northern Ireland? The people and the landscape make Northern Ireland special. 8. What is your mantra or favourite quote that you live by? Don’t worry about competing with other people. Focus on being the best version of yourself and challenge yourself to get there. 9. Who has been your biggest influence? My parents have been the biggest influence on my life and my sporting career. Their support has been unwavering and no matter where in the world I’ve been or what I’ve been going through, they are always there encouraging me. Without their help throughout my life, and especially when I had knee surgery (an ACL reconstruction), I wouldn’t have achieved much of what I have to date.

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16/12/2020 13:44

NOW OPEN

MILLAR’S Restaurant & Wine Bar

Family friendly, ﬁne dining in the heart of south Belfast. Immerse yourself with local produce, beautifully crafted to create mouth watering dishes, perfectly complemented by a large selection of wines, gins, liqueurs and spirits. It all ties together under one beautiful roof to give you a dining experience you won’t forget.

Millar’s Restaurant & Wine Bar 135 Upper Lisburn Road, Belfast BT10 0LH Tel: 028 9600 1545 Email: millarsrestaurant@gmail.com www.millarsrestaurant.com

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16/12/2020 13:47

The Word

START THE NEW YEAR RIGHT, WITH MASH DIRECT With the new year inevitably encouraging people to focus on their health and making healthier food choices, what better DIRECTion to start than with local vegetable accompaniments brand, Mash Direct’s delicious farm, fresh, healthy vegetables. For vegetarians and vegans alike, Mash Direct offers fresh alternatives, without sacrificing flavour, texture, or desirability. The innovative and diverse range boasts 23 Great Taste Awards, ranging from Mashed Potato to Cauliflower Bites, with all products being 100% Gluten-Free. Mash Direct’s range is available in major retail multiples, convenience stores and independents throughout NI. www.mashdirect.com

OPPORTUNITIES FOR EVERYONE Driven by the vision of a world where everyone has a safe place to live, Habitat for Humanity has helped more than 34 million families build or improve the place they call home. Here at home Habitat brings people together to serve the most vulnerable through ReStore; their low-cost home improvement social enterprise and through a ‘House to Home’ programme which helps people who have been homeless to make their house a home. In 2021, make your resolution to serve the local community! Habitat ReStore has opportunities for people of all ages, backgrounds and abilities to learn new skills, build positive relationships and improve mental health and wellbeing.

www.skeaeggs.com

For more information or to apply: www.habitatni.co.uk/restore

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16/12/2020 13:51

SOCIETY

WEDDINGS Studd & Pearson Miss Lindsey Studd, daughter of David and Alison Studd from Ensbury Drive, Bangor recently married Arnie Pearson at the Clandeboye Lodge Hotel. The wedding had originally been booked for 27th March but was postponed until 20th September due to COVID-19 restrictions. Photography by David Burns Photography.

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17/12/2020 10:21

SOCIETY

WEDDINGS Peacock & Fyfe Joeleen Peacock, daughter of Paul and Lorraine Peacock recently married Paul Fyfe, son of Christine Fyfe. The couple, both from Bangor were married at Clandeboye Lodge Hotel on 6th September 2020. Photography by Jervis Wedding Photography.

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16/12/2020 13:52

Society Weddings

WEDDING LIST WISHES

Iguazu bedding by Ted Baker available at Wardens of Newtownards is the perfect addition to your wedding list. www.wardenbros.com

NEW BOUTIQUE FOR BRIDAL ELEGANCE

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Luxury Private Bridal room image by Caroline Smyth Photography

18 Main Street, Larne BT40 1SS Tel: 028 2832 9402 www.bridalelegance-boutique.co.uk Find us on: facebook and Instagram

45 - 47 High Street, Newtownards, BT23 7HS www.wardenbros.com | Tel: 028 9181 2147 93

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17/12/2020 16:39

SOCIETY

WEDDINGS Dines & Deering Marti-Louise Dines, daughter of Tom and Valerie Dines from Bangor, recently married Gareth Deering, son of Alan and Karen Deering from Carrowdore. The couple were due to get married in Greece but it got postponed twice, therefore decided to proceed with a wedding in Garethâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s grandparents front garden and tractor shed. Photography by Esther Irvine Photography.

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ULSTER TATLER’S ESSENTIAL GUIDE TO HELP YOU MAKE THE BEST POST PRIMARY CHOICE FOR YOUR CHILD

Ulster Tatler

POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021 INSIDE

Campbell College • Rockport • Holywood Steiner School • The Royal Belfast Academical Institution • Grosvenor Grammar School • Victoria College • Wellington College • St Columbanus’ College • Integrated Education Fund • Lagan College • Antrim Grammar • Ashfield Girls’ High School • St Louis Grammar • Sullivan Upper School • St Joesph’s College • Down High School • Saintfield High School • Loreto College • St Louise’s College • Banbridge Academy • St Colman’s College • The High School, Cookstown • Rathdown School • St Columba’s College • Clongowes Wood College • St Mary’s University College • Liverpool John Moore University • Tutortoo

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CONTENTS

POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

A MESSAGE FROM EDUCATION MINISTER PETER WEIR

097 098 100 103 104 106 108 110 112 114 116 117 118 120 121 122 123 124 125 126 127 128

Campbell College Rockport School Holywood Steiner School The Royal Belfast Academical Institution Grosvenor Grammar School Victoria College Wellington College St Columbanus’ College Integrated Education Fund Lagan College Antrim Grammar Ashfield Girls’ High School St Louis Grammar School Sullivan Upper School St Joseph’s College Down High School Saintfield High School Loreto College St Louise’s College Banbridge Academy St Colman’s College The High School, Cookstown

Irish Boarding Schools 129 Rathdown School 130 St Columba’s College 132 Clongowes Wood College Universities 134 St Mary’s University College 135 Liverpool John Moores University Tutoring 136 Tutortoo

very year children face the exciting prospect of moving from primary school to ‘big school’. I clearly remember my sense of excitement and anticipation at the prospect of leaving the friendly and familiar surroundings of my first school. The move to secondary education is a huge step and the decisions about where children decide to continue their education will shape the rest of their lives. In Northern Ireland we have excellent post primary schools and it is important to take time to select the school that best meets your needs. The impact of Covid-19 has affected all areas of our lives and this year has been particularly difficult for teachers, pupils and parents all across Northern Ireland. I commend them all for their determination, professionalism and support for enabling our children to continue their education in the classroom in an environment where they can feel nurtured and safe. The pandemic has impacted many aspects of educational life. Many children in Northern Ireland are undertaking one or both transfer tests this month. This will be followed by the anxious wait to see if they

“I AM PROUD OF OUR REPUTATION AS A REGION THAT OFFERS A FIRSTCLASS EDUCATION SYSTEM THAT PLACES NI VERY FIRMLY ON THE INTERNATIONAL STAGE.” have been successful in gaining entry into the school of their choice and I wish them all well. For my part, I support the right of those schools who select on the basis of academic ability and those that don’t. Every child should have the opportunity to go to the school of their preference, regardless of background, postcode, social group, religion or ethnicity. I want to pay tribute to the excellent work being done in all of our postprimary schools to offer fantastic learning opportunities and excellent pathways for our young people. There is no doubt of the significant contribution they will make in the future to the social and economic prosperity of Northern Ireland and beyond.

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I am proud of our reputation as a region that offers a first-class education system that places Northern Ireland very firmly on the international stage. My aspiration is that each and every young person is nurtured and encouraged to realise their full potential and progress to further education and employment, both here and further afield. As Education Minister I want children to experience an education that builds belief in themselves and their ability to achieve their dreams. I believe that the world really can be their oyster. Peter Weir Education Minister

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“Parents “Parents and and students students can can expect expect to to become become part part of of a school a school community community which which feels feels likelike anan extended extended family family setset in in a beautiful a beautiful and and tranquil tranquil environment.” environment.” started started to read to read about about overover recent recent years. years. I have I have friends friends in America in America whose whose children children attend attend Steiner Steiner schools schools andand as I as was I was becoming becoming more more frustrated frustrated withwith the the mainstream mainstream curriculum, curriculum, I started I started to look to look beyond beyond it for it the for the answers. answers.

Peter Peter Chambers, Chambers, Headteacher, Headteacher, Holywood Holywood Steiner Steiner School School

TheThe model model focuses focuses on the on the cultivation cultivation of children’s of children’s imagination imagination andand creativity creativity instilling instilling in them in them a curiosity a curiosity to learn. to learn. As itAsisitresponsive is responsive to the to the individual individual child, child, teachers teachers have have a greater a greater levellevel of autonomy of autonomy in curriculum in curriculum content, content, withwith qualitative qualitative assessments assessments partpart of daily of daily life life andand quantitative quantitative assessments assessments keptkept to atominimum. a minimum.

Holywood Holywood Steiner SteinerSchool School welcomes welcomes aanew new Headteacher Headteacher

As the As the newly newly appointed appointed Headteacher Headteacher of Holywood of Holywood Steiner Steiner School School I amI am privileged privileged to have to have the the opportunity opportunity to bring to bring thisthis child child centred centred approach approach to atowider a wider audience, audience, to build to build awareness awareness of all of that all that is wonderful is wonderful about about the the Waldorf Waldorf curriculum curriculum andand our our school. school. I amI am looking looking forward forward to meeting to meeting withwith andand providing providing parents parents withwith the the knowledge knowledge thatthat there there is an is alternative an alternative to the to the mainstream, mainstream, oneone thatthat will will provide provide their their child child withwith the the skillsskills andand tools tools to progress to progress in life. in life. OurOur independent independent school school provides provides a rich, a rich, diverse diverse andand integrated integrated education, education, where where cooperation cooperation takes takes priority priority overover competition. competition.

Holywood Holywood Steiner Steiner School School is embarking is embarking on on anan exciting exciting period period of of development. development. With With growing growing school school numbers numbers and and a a waiting waiting listlist forfor their their preschool preschool thethe Board Board TellTell us a usbit a bit about about thethe history history of the of the school? school? of of Trustees Trustees and and Staff Staff areare preparing preparing thethe school school waswas founded founded in 1975 in 1975 andand is situated is situated on aon a school school forfor anan exciting exciting and and vibrant vibrant future. future. OurOur beautiful beautiful campus campus on the on the outskirts outskirts of Holywood. of Holywood. Since Since WeWe caught caught upup with with newly newly appointed appointed opening opening our our doors doors we we have have been been a Co-Educational, a Co-Educational, Headteacher Headteacher Peter Peter Chambers Chambers forfor a chat. a chat. Independent Independent andand probably probably the the firstfi‘integrated’ rst ‘integrated’ school school YouYou areare thethe new new Headteacher Headteacher at the at the Holywood Holywood Steiner Steiner School. School. All All of your of your previous previous experience experience hashas been been in mainstream in mainstream education. education. CanCan youyou telltell us what us what inspired inspired youyou to make to make thethe move? move? I have I have spent spent the the lastlast fourteen fourteen years years of my of my educational educational journey journey at aatco-educational, a co-educational, postpost primary, primary, selective selective Grammar Grammar School School in Belfast in Belfast andand recently recently made made the the move move to Steiner, to Steiner, onlyonly taking taking up post up post in November in November 2020. 2020. I saw I saw a unique a unique opportunity opportunity for for a transformational a transformational leader leader to positively to positively underpin underpin the the school, school, its approach its approach andand its ethos. its ethos. I was I was inspired inspired by the by the ambition ambition the the school school have have set set outout in their in their School School Development Development PlanPlan ‘Strategy ‘Strategy 2025’, 2025’, a truly a truly dynamic, dynamic, energetic energetic andand inspiring inspiring approach approach to the to the delivery delivery of education. of education. TheThe Waldorf Waldorf curriculum curriculum followed followed by us byhere us here at the at the Steiner Steiner school, school, is an is area an area of education of education which which I had I had

in Northern in Northern Ireland, Ireland, welcoming welcoming students students from from ages ages 3-17. 3-17. We We are are partpart of the of the world’s world’s largest largest independent independent school school network, network, withwith overover 1400 1400 schools schools spanning spanning across across 75 countries. 75 countries. There There are are currently currently 29 Steiner 29 Steiner schools schools in the in the UK UK andand 4 Steiner 4 Steiner schools schools in Ireland, in Ireland, we we are are the the onlyonly oneone in the in the north. north.

What What cancan parents parents andand students students expect expect from from a Waldorf a Waldorf education? education? At Holywood At Holywood Steiner Steiner School School we we offer offaerunique a unique education education thatthat develops develops the the whole whole child. child. OurOur students students are are nurtured nurtured to make to make a diff a erence difference to society to society withwith learning learning programmes programmes thatthat develop develop them them andand make make clear clear connections connections between between the the Waldorf Waldorf philosophy philosophy andand improving improving people’s people’s lives. lives. Parents Parents andand students students cancan expect expect to become to become partpart of aofschool a school community community which which feels feels like like an extended an extended

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to learn to learn andand develop develop at their at their ownown individual individual pace, pace, allowing allowing them them to fully to fully grasp grasp a concept a concept or achieve or achieve a a skillskill when when theythey are are ready. ready. ThisThis approach approach helps helps them them develop develop a love a love of learning of learning andand an enthusiasm an enthusiasm for for knowledge knowledge andand experiences. experiences. Most Most importantly importantly by by avoiding avoiding the the trap trap of comparing of comparing one one child child to another, to another, We We offer offthe er the Waldorf Waldorf curriculum curriculum within within which which childhood childhood and and expecting expecting each each child child to learn to learn at the at the same same rate, rate, development development begins begins withwith Preschool Preschool andand Kindergarten, Kindergarten, the the Waldorf Waldorf approach approach builds builds confi confi dence dence and and resilience, resilience, where where experimental experimental education education andand imaginative imaginative playplay are are something as aasschool a school community community we we believe believe is is key.key. Formal Formal instruction instruction in reading in reading andand writing writing begins begins at at something central central to atofulfi a fulfi llinglling educational educational experience experience andand seven seven years years of age, of age, in line in line withwith most most countries countries around around progression progression to atosuccessful a successful adult adult life.life. the the world. world. Each Each teacher teacher is regarded is regarded as aaspersonal a personal mentor mentor for the for the students students in their in their class, class, building building a very a very close close understanding understanding of each of each child child during during the the seven seven years years (class (class oneone to seven) to seven) theythey remain remain withwith them. them. OurOur teachers teachers are are regarded regarded as role as role models models the the children children will will naturally naturally want want to follow, to follow, gaining gaining authority authority through through fostering fostering a rapport a rapport andand nurturing nurturing curiosity, curiosity, imagination imagination andand creativity. creativity. TheThe curriculum curriculum encourages encourages moral moral responsibility responsibility andand empathy empathy in every in every child child resulting resulting in ainremarkable a remarkable emotional emotional maturity maturity in our in our students. students. A sense A sense of wonder of wonder for the for the world world is central is central to an to an education education thatthat delivers delivers excellence excellence through through a love a love of of andand genuine genuine connection connection to learning. to learning. OurOur approach approach is is to nurture to nurture each each students’ students’ lovelove of learning. of learning. We We provide provide students students withwith the the knowledge knowledge andand tools tools to have to have a deep a deep Why Why does does thethe Holywood Holywood Steiner Steiner School School place place understanding understanding of their of their subjects, subjects, aiding aiding the the academic academic such such importance importance on on children children building building resilience? resilience? achievement achievement andand personal personal development development required required to to bring bring them them to the to the nextnext level. level. Resilience Resilience cancan be defi be defi nedned as the as the capacity capacity to to recover recover quickly quickly from from diffidiffi culties, culties, the the capacity capacity for for resilience resilience abides abides in all in of all us, of us, but but whether whether it comes it comes What’s What’s thethe diffdiff erence erence between between a mainstream a mainstream to the to the fore fore or not or not depends depends on a on child’s a child’s own own nature, nature, education education andand a Waldorf a Waldorf education? education? upbringing, upbringing, andand education. education. TheThe Waldorf Waldorf curriculum curriculum TheThe Waldorf Waldorf curriculum curriculum develops develops pupils’ pupils’ intellectual, intellectual, looks looks at how at how a teacher a teacher cancan cultivate cultivate emotional emotional life life artistic, artistic, andand practical practical skills skills in an in integrated an integrated andand andand imagination imagination in children in children andand awaken awaken physical, physical, holistic holistic manner. manner. TheThe cultivation cultivation of pupils’ of pupils’ imagination imagination behavioural, behavioural, emotional, emotional, cognitive cognitive andand social social aspects aspects andand creativity creativity is aiscentral a central focus. focus. Smaller Smaller class class sizes sizes of each of each individual individual child, child, giving giving them them the the tools tools they they allow allow the the development development of each of each child child to be to fostered be fostered need need for for life. life. All children All children will will encounter encounter setbacks setbacks and and andand independent independent thinking thinking nurtured. nurtured. Children Children begin begin diffi diffi culties, culties, how how and and when when they they are are able able to recover to recover their their Steiner Steiner journey journey at Pre-school, at Pre-school, (aged (aged three) three) from from these these cancan have have a profound a profound impact impact on their on their followed followed by entry by entry intointo Kindergarten Kindergarten (the(the equivalent equivalent learning learning and and their their educational educational experience. experience. We We cancan of P1 ofand P1 and P2 in P2mainstream in mainstream education) education) where where theythey only only guess guess what what challenges challenges today’s today’s children children will will meet meet remain remain for for twotwo years. years. as they as they grow grow up. up. We We want want our our students students to be to survivors, be survivors, ableable to meet to meet life’slife’s diffidiffi culties culties withwith courage courage andand “The Waldorf curriculum develops “The Waldorf curriculum develops hope, hope, most most importantly importantly we we want want them them to thrive. to thrive. We We pupils’ intellectual, artistic, and pupils’ intellectual, artistic, and encourage encourage in them in them a sense a sense of responsibility of responsibility andand hope hope thatthat theythey will will consider consider howhow theythey cancan be of beservice of service to to practical skills integrated practical skills in in anan integrated others others andand to the to the world world at large. at large. TheThe teachers teachers at the at the and holistic manner.“ and holistic manner.“ Holywood Holywood Steiner Steiner School School build build wonderful wonderful relationships relationships withwith the the children, children, cultivating cultivating a warm, a warm, supportive supportive After After Kindergarten Kindergarten children children move move intointo Class Class OneOne environment environment where where loving loving care care protects protects and and nourishes nourishes (equivalent (equivalent to P3) to P3) andand remain remain withwith the the same same teacher teacher the the children children enabling enabling each each one one of them of them to become to become the the untiluntil Class Class Seven Seven (equivalent (equivalent to Year to Year 9), 9), at this at this time time very very best best version version of themselves. of themselves. theythey begin begin their their exploration exploration of the of the German German language. language. family, a beautiful tranquil environment. family, set set in ainbeautiful andand tranquil environment. campus a center of educational excellence. OurOur campus is aiscenter of educational excellence. TheThe school facilities function a community hosting school facilities function as aascommunity hubhub hosting community groups, markets, festivals community groups, markets, fairsfairs andand festivals throughout year. throughout the the year.

In addition In addition to the to the Waldorf Waldorf curriculum, curriculum, students students in in Class Class Eight Eight through through to Class to Class Twelve Twelve study study KeyKey Stage Stage 3 3 andand GCSE GCSE subjects subjects similar similar to atomainstream a mainstream education. education. All of Allthe of the KeyKey Stages Stages are are involved involved in outdoor in outdoor education, education, through through our our forest forest school school andand gardening gardening programme programme andand specialist specialist teachers teachers deliver deliver classes classes in in languages, languages, art art andand craft, craft, woodwork woodwork andand music. music. Unlike Unlike mainstream mainstream education, education, the the Waldorf Waldorf model model provides provides the the space space andand time time for for each each child child time time

If you If you wish wish to ﬁ tond ﬁnd outout more more about about Holywood Holywood Steiner Steiner School School please please visit visit holywood-steiner.co.uk. holywood-steiner.co.uk. To arrange To arrange an an appointment appointment to speak to speak with with Headteacher Headteacher Peter Peter Chambers Chambers please please email email info@holywood-steiner.co.uk info@holywood-steiner.co.uk

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HOLYWOOD STEINER SCHOOL Engage. Enthuse. Inspire. An independent day school for boys and girls aged 3-17 years. OďŹ&#x20AC;ering a rich curriculum that develops the whole child, building resilience and preparing them for life. Now accepting applications for Pre School, Kindergarten, Lower School and Upper School for September 2021. Take a virtual tour and discover more about us at

holywood-steiner.co.uk

028 9042 8029 holywoodsteiner Registered with the Charity Commission for Northern Ireland NIC 103712

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THE ROYAL BELFAST ACADEMICAL INSTITUTION

“I came to Inst to get an education,

but I got so much more!”

Alex, Year 10

As educators of boys for over 200 years, Inst prides itself on knowing what matters to boys and their parents: academic excellence, co-curricular opportunities and most of all, the individual. In our two centuries we have created a supportive extended family of pupils, staff and alumni. At Inst, your son’s school experience will be built on a foundation of academic excellence and the highest level of pastoral care. He will grow through an extensive well-being programme, coupled with a personalised curriculum pathway and access to an extensive range of co-curricular activities. We will teach him how to strengthen his well-being and nurture empathy for others, whilst also developing his resilience. Inst continues to evolve, providing our pupils with bespoke opportunities and state of the art facilities.

Take our Open Day tour at your own pace: watch our film at www.rbai.org.uk Check out the latest news on Facebook. PAGE103.indd 2

College Square East, Belfast Co. Antrim, BT1 6DL Tel: +44 (0) 28 9024 0461

16/12/2020 12:20

POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

LIFE AT GROSVENOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

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. For the past 75 years, the School has upheld 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. Music and drama have always been two of our most successful extra-curricular fields and events such as the Carol Service, Spring Concert and annual School Production have provided the perfect opportunity for Grosvenor pupils to showcase their amazing talent. In sport, Grosvenor pupils have enjoyed fantastic success in a plethora of team and individual disciplines, while the pupils have also benefitted from many sporting and educational trips to such varying destinations as Spain, Germany, France, Portugal and Poland in recent years. The Grosvenor pupil experience in 2020 has had to be a little different to what has been customary in previous years, yet all members of its teaching and support staff have pulled together to ensure minimum disruption to pupilsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; learning; continuing to provide the highest standard of education for all, be it through remote, blended or traditional classroom teaching methods.

Dr Vasey, Principal.

Further information is available on the School website www.grosvenorgrammarschool.org.uk where, amongst other things, you will be able to enjoy our 2020/21 promotional video and virtual tour. 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 105

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VICTORIA COLLEGE BELFAST YOU AN EXCEPTIONAL SCHOOL IN SOUTH BELFAST INSPIRING EACH PUPIL TO REALISE THEIR FULL POTENTIAL Victoria College is a leading non-denominational school that provides an outstanding and rounded educational experience. The College is conveniently located between the Lisburn and Malone Roads, close to town and country bus routes and the local railway network; hence pupils travel from a wide catchment area to avail of the high quality teaching and learning. The school takes pride in its strong record of academic achievement, sporting success and outstanding pastoral care. Pupils are inspired, supported and challenged to reach their full potential and achieve their aspirational goals. The personalised learning needs of each pupil are met through a broad and balanced curriculum allowing each individual pupil to blossom, whilst enjoying the freedom to explore fully all the educational and cultural opportunities available. “An exceptional school that provides high quality education. Staff members show real care, dedication and display a high level of professionalism to ensure that the College provides a safe, secure and challenging environment for students to learn and grow academically, emotionally and personally.” Inclusion and Quality - Mark Assessor

Please visit our school website and social media to see what we have to offer.

BE A PART OF VCB!

Careers Education, Information, Advice and Guidance (CEIAG) is an integral part of the school experience and across the Key Stages pupils are engaged in innovative programmes. Pupils may also avail of a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities allowing them to develop the knowledge, skills, values, attitudes and dispositions which prepare them for success in work and in life.

In sports pupils represent Ulster and Northern Ireland at local, national and international levels and in school they can enjoy an exciting range of activities from athletics, gymnastics, hockey, netball, squash and tennis to swimming, trampolining, rugby, camogie, Gaelic games, golf, dance and equestrian events.

The College boosts a modern sports hall on campus and the PE Department also benefits from access to facilities at the nearby Queen’s University Belfast and Stranmillis. “Pupils benefit significantly from the opportunities provided for participation in an extensive range of sporting, cultural and other additional enrichment activities, which further develop their personal and social skills.” - ETI Music, theatre, languages, art and humanities are 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 and through a wide range of educational trips and visits each year, further augmenting the international dimension that permeates the school.

SCAN TO VISIT OUR WEBSITE.

SEE WHAT YOU CAN BE AT VCB 13021.001 Ulster Tatler Ad ART.indd 2

04/12/2020 14:15

www.victoriacollege.org.uk

13021.001 Ulster Tatler Ad ART.indd 3

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

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 Huma

nity.

n College including r activities on offer at Wellingto There are many extra-curricula nic Gardens. Bota to trip al annu their at here the Photography Club pictured

Pupils have many opportunities

to expand their horizons on Colle

ge trips.

1st XV Rugby Squad on tour.

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

WELLINGTON COLLEGE

ENGAGE - EDUCATE - EMPOWER Wellington College is a co-educational grammar school situated in one of Belfastâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

Year 8 enjoying their Team Building day at Crawfordsburn.

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 pupilâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

The annual Ski Trip.

1st XI Hockey Squad.

A charitable school.

A Virtual tour as well as other information can be accessed via our website at www. wellingtoncollegebelfast.org

Year 13 prize winners 2020.

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

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

LIFE AT ST COLUMBANUSâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; COLLEGE

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

ST COLUMBANUS’ COLLEGE, BANGOR

A SCHOOL FOR THE WHOLE COMMUNITY

St Columbanus’ College is a wellestablished and very successful 11-19, all-ability, co-educational, 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 contented children working in a climate of co-operation 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 2020 we had another outstanding set of GCSE and A Level results. 93% of our pupils achieved at least 5 A*C grades at GCSE level, 69% achieved 5 GCSEs including english and maths. At ‘A Level’, 65% of our pupils achieved 3 A*-C grades, 98% achieved 2 A*-C grades and 100% achieved 2 A*-E grades. In all of the indicators used by authorities to measure academic performance, our College performed at levels well above the national average. As a Catholic, co-educational, 11 -19 College, we strive to achieve success in a happy and hard-working environment. This success is evident in many ways, including 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 111

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

PARENTS SAY YES TO ‘INTEGRATE MY SCHOOL’

Integrated education brings together pupils, staff and governors from both the Protestant and Catholic traditions in the same school. The integrated school provides a learning environment where children and young people from these traditions, as well as those of other faiths and none, can learn with, from and about each other in the classroom every day. There is a strong focus on an anti-bias approach to teaching and learning. Parents have more representation on integrated schools’ Boards of Governors, and the promotion of equity and good relations extends to everyone in the school and to their families. Research, through opinion polls and detailed community conversations, has shown solid support from parents for integrated education. Demand exceeds current provision, so how can parents access integrated education for their child if there isn’t an integrated school close by, or if the local integrated school is oversubscribed? 2019 Good Relations Indicators have shown that 21% of firstchoice applications to integrated colleges cannot be accommodated because of the popularity of a number of these schools. One possibility is to bring integration to your local school. Parents are leading the way in encouraging the growth of integrated education by voting for their child’s school to become integrated. A website called www.integratemyschool. com provides an opportunity for parents to register - confidentially - support for their child’s school taking this path. When enough parents register for their school to become integrated then the conversations about moving forward can begin. If the parents of at least 20% of pupils at a school register, then the school will start to formally explore the possibility of becoming integrated through a legal process called “Transformation”. The Integrate My School website also offers a way for school principals and leaders

to assess the appetite among parents for developing an integrated ethos. Of the 65 integrated schools in NI, more than a third of these – 20 primaries and five colleges – have developed to become integrated through this process of Transformation. Some schools which have Transformed to become integrated are among the fastest-growing schools in Northern Ireland. Since February 2019, eight schools have held successful parental ballots in favour of becoming integrated, with others planning to do the same soon. Parents in three Catholic Maintained schools voted for integration in 2019: • St Mary’s High School in County Fermanagh, 100% in favour • Ballyhackett Primary School near Castlerock, 100% in favour • Seaview Primary School in Glenarm, 95% in favour In addition, four Controlled schools voted for integration in 2019: • Bangor Central Nursery School, 97% in favour • Brefne Nursery School in North Belfast, 92% in favour • Carrickfergus Central Primary School, 86% in favour • Harding Memorial Primary School in East Belfast, 87% in favour In February 2020, Glengormley High School also held a successful ballot of their parents, with 71% of parents voting in favour of the school becoming integrated, and have already seen their school grow since this proposal. You can join this movement by registering your support on www.integratemyschool. com. If you would like to find out more information, please contact Jill Caskey at the Integrated Education Fund (IEF) by phoning 028 9069 4099 or by emailing jill@ ief.org.uk

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Integrated Education It doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t subtract. It adds. More schools than ever before are starting to explore the benefits of an integrated education. Almost any school can become integrated with the support its parents. @Integratemyschool

Be part of this positive change.

Integrated education brings together pupils, staff and governors from Catholic, Protestant and other cultural traditions within a single school community. You can register your support for your childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s school to become integrated at www.integratemyschool.com

The IEF is registered with The Charity Commission for Northern Ireland, NIC104886, and with Companies House, NI636289

@IntegrateMS

Integrated Education Fund Forestview Purdy's Lane Belfast BT8 7AR

POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

A SCHOOL FOR ALL CHILDREN AT LAGAN COLLEGE

UT SINT UNUM PAGE 114

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

LAGAN COLLEGE, BELFAST

NORTHERN IRELAND’S FUTURE As Northern Ireland’s first planned integrated school, Lagan College is very proud to be a co-educational 11-18, all ability school that meets the learning style of all children within the same family. We celebrate the diverse backgrounds and cultures of children from over 50 feeder primary schools, city and countryside wide. We are committed to academic excellence and helping each child to reach their learning potential. We value the uniqueness of each young person and offer high quality pastoral care, as well as creating and promoting a strong integrated and inclusive ethos based on core Christian values of respect, equality, reconciliation and service. We are fortunate to reside on a National Trust site of natural beauty and have achieved 5 Eco Awards as well as holding the accolades of being an international, ‘Cross of Nails’ School, ‘Rights Respecting’ Community and an ICT Award winning learning hub. Learning and developing together is at the heart of what we do. We enjoy having fun in class, on the sports fields or by being dramatic, musical and artistic! We celebrate effort, achievements and diversity and we offer a diverse range of courses designed to appeal to all styles of learner, our students can choose from 44 GCSEs and 25 A level courses. We also provide a range of learning opportunities and educational visits beyond the classroom as well as offering over 40 different extra-curricular clubs. We passionately believe we have something to offer every child and focus on their strengths, interests and talents, be that in music, drama, coding or those who enjoy public speaking, debate and STEM innovation with the ultimate goal of nurturing important personal qualities of self- belief, confidence and happiness in our students. We are winners of the JJ Riley Cup for Gaelic and All Ireland Basketball. We are the Northern Ireland Hockey Champions and often win the North Down Football Cup, in all leagues. Whilst we work hard and play as a united team, individually many

of our young men and women represent Ulster in Rugby, Gaelic and Athletics and Northern Ireland in Netball, Football, Dance and Tennis, to name but a few sporting disciplines! In September 2021 we will be celebrating our 40th Anniversary and we continue to look forward to a positive future supporting more children to learn and grow together. Lagan College is proud to play its part in peace building as an intentionally, integrated, inclusive and all ability school in Northern Ireland.

By mid-January, families can access a copy of our Online Prospectus, enjoy an Online Virtual Tour and listen to a Welcome Address by the Principal.

For more information contact: Lagan College, 44 Manse Road, Belfast BT8 6SA Telephone: 028 9040 1810 web:www.lagancollege.com Email: info@lagancollege.com PAGE 115

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

CHOOSING THE RIGHT SCHOOL Having a lot of options can be very confusing when it comes to picking a suitable school for your child. In rural areas, families may have limited schools to consider whereas urban areas can leave your head spinning from all the options available. Below are some tips to help you with the decision making process. Do you research Arm yourself with information on all the types of schools you are interested in. School websites and The Ulster Tatler Schools Guide will give you lots of useful details about each of their aims and expectations of pupils. Character Every pupil is different and there is a school out there to suit each individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s needs. Have a think about whether your child would do best at a same sex school or if co-ed would be important to you and them. Being educated with pupils from all backgrounds might be high up in your priorities. The feepaying sector may suit your needs better to allow for smaller classes.

Extra Curricular Do some research into the creative outlets and extra curricular activities available at the schools you have in mind. Schools can offer so much more than just exam results and it is important to think about the kind of extra activities your child may enjoy too.

Talk to others If possible, talk to as many people as you can about the schools you have in mind. There is nothing as valuable as first hand experience and word of mouth.

Virtual visits Normally, visiting a school in person would allow you to get a proper feel for it but unfortunately we are having to do things very differently this year due to the Covid-19 pandemic. A lot of schools are providing virtual online visits to allow parents and children to see as much of the school as possible.

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Ashfield Girls’ High School “Each different. Each talented. All valued.”

VIRTUAL OPEN EVENING

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 cross-curricular 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. All valued.” We are proud to see our pupils leave Ashfield Girls’ High School as independent, confident and articulate young women ready to embark on their chosen career pathway. On Friday 12th February 2021 our virtual Open Night will go live. The virtual Open Night can be found on our website www.ashfieldgirls.org Having viewed our virtual Open Night, if you have any further queries please forward them to info@ashgirls.belfast.ni.sch. uk or alternatively use our ‘Contact Us’ tab on the school website.

Available at www.ashfieldgirls.org from Friday 12th February 2021

Challenging girls today; creating women of value in the future Ashfield Girls’ High School • Holywood Road • Belfast • BT4 2LY Tel: 028 9047 1744 • www.ashfieldgirls.org • info@ashgirls.belfast.ni.sch.uk

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

ST LOUIS GRAMMAR SCHOOL, KILKEEL

A2 Results.

Beauty and the Beast.

Global Passport.

Geography field work.

A SCHOOL WITH A GREAT TRADITION AND FUTURE

St Louis Grammar School, Kilkeel.

Girlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; football.

Strong Community Links.

Specialist School.

Paris Trip.

Hans Sloane Medal recipient with Hans Sloane Medal.

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021 Blessed with a wonderful view of the southern flanks of the majestic Mourne Mountains, St. Louis Grammar School, Kilkeel, has offered a high-quality education to the young people of south Down and beyond for nearly 100 years. Celebrating its centenary in 2021, St Louis is an inclusive school for boys and girls, whose aim is to provide opportunities for all students, enabling them to develop their talents and skills so they can realise their full potential, academically, socially and personally. St. Louis seeks to provide a secure and happy environment for all children whilst promoting our Catholic ethos in a supportive and caring environment. The provision of an academic education of a high standard whilst striving to create an environment which encourages pupils’ physical, moral and spiritual well-being is central to the ethos of the school. This is a learning school where the learning experience is relevant, rewarding, empowering and enjoyable, and where everyone is encouraged to work hard and aim high. Students enjoy the benefits of a disciplined, happy environment, conducive to study under the guidance of wellqualified teachers. The school is committed to working in partnership with parents to ensure that high expectations are met in the form of excellent examination results and high quality extra-curricular experiences.

Sporting success.

We Care St Louis is a caring school, where students are encouraged to live out their faith by supporting a range of charities, local, national and international. Fundraising takes several forms including ticket sales, sponsored fasts, goal shoots, sponsored walks and bag packs. In the past, groups of students and staff have travelled to Rwanda and Romania to work in orphanages bringing with them substantial funds and resources to aid their development. We have strong links within the St Louis Network with St Louis schools worldwide. Each year thousands of pounds are donated to a range of charities including Macmillan Cancer Care, Action MS, SERVE, Trocáire Lenten Appeal, the Hospice, and St Louis Mission work in less economically developed countries. A Learning School The school’s philosophy of education is based on the view that education must

endeavour to develop the whole person. The curriculum and life of the school is therefore imbued with the values of the gospel so that children may become mature Christian adults. It is recognised that it is not enough to inspire pupils to high ideals unless they are given the opportunity to acquire the knowledge and skills to bring these to fulfilment in the real world. The curriculum in St Louis Grammar School has been organised to provide a broad, balanced, relevant and coherent experience for each pupil at all Key Stages. Sixth Form at St. Louis is a time of academic rigour, independent learning and preparation for life. It is also a time when leadership qualities are emphasised and developed. Students hold various posts of responsibility within the school and act as role models for younger pupils. Something Extra At St. Louis there is something for everyone to join in with and enjoy and that participation and social interaction is what really matters. Our students participate successfully in sporting life, with a very large number taking part in sporting activities outside normal lesson time. There is a wide range of activities on offer including athletics, camogie, crosscountry, Gaelic football (boys and girls), golf, netball, soccer, tennis, volleyball and swimming. Internal competitions in some sports are held annually and the school organises and hosts annual primary school competitions in Gaelic football and netball. As well as participating in internal competitions, netball teams play in the Newry and Mourne League at various levels and teams have reached the final or semi-final in all these competitions in recent years. There has also been great success in Gaelic football including MacRory and MacLarnon cup final appearances as well as success in All-Ireland Colleges’ competitions. Students past and present continue to achieve tremendous success at local, national and international level in a range of sports including Gaelic football, Camogie, Australian Rules football, golf and rugby. The school has a long tradition of music and drama. As well as regular musical lessons, students are able to take part in further musical study, where they learn to play a wide variety of musical instruments taught by a team of specialist musicians. Students perform at assemblies, Masses, concerts and musicals. They also have opportunities to perform in a variety of plays and the annual Drama Festival. St. Louis have staged some magnificent musicals in recent years, such as Jesus Christ Superstar, My Fair Lady, Oliver and most recently Beauty and the Beast. High levels of success have been achieved by pupils both individually in competitions at local feiseanna and in the annual Schools Irish Drama Festival.

Each year a concert of music, drama, song, poetry and fashion is staged to bring together the talents developed throughout the year. Preparation for life St. Louis is a magnificent platform from which students go forward to a diverse range of careers. University, college and employment destinations of the recent ‘Class of 2019’ reflects the unique interests, abilities, talents and aspirations of each individual St Louis student. 19 students have continued their studies at Queen’s University Belfast electing to study courses extending across a full range of disciplines; physics and astrophysics, biological sciences, software engineering, business management, business information technology, geography, environmental planning, music and audio production, history and sociology, law, philosophy, nursing and midwifery.

Grease.

St. Louis students also attended Ulster University studying degree courses in mechanical and biomedical engineering, building surveying and quantity surveying featuring as popular choices. Law and business also proved popular along with degree courses in screen production and foundation art and design course based at the School of Art located within the Belfast Campus of the Ulster University. St. Louis students also commenced their undergraduate studies in other parts of the UK with Liverpool John Moore, the University of Liverpool and Staffordshire University, proving popular. St. Louis students also opted to continue their studies in Republic of Ireland with Honours Degree courses in DKIT and UCD. Other students have embarked on food related Hons degree course at CAFRE (Loughry College) and Higher Apprenticeships in Accounting. A school with a great tradition and future St. Louis Grammar School, Kilkeel, has certainly delivered on the vision of its founders and can look forward with confidence that it is meeting the needs of current and future generations. St. Louis Grammar School 151 Newry Road, Kilkeel, Co. Down BT34 4EU Tel 02841762747 Fax 02841765694 www.stlouis.org.uk

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Sullivan Upper School Sullivan Upper is a co-educational, non-denominational, voluntary grammar school. The school was founded in 1877 and, since 1939, has occupied extensive grounds on the edge of Holywood. The school’s aims remain very much as they originally were: to provide the best possible education for all pupils, regardless of race, gender, background or religious denomination. Pupils come to Sullivan from a large catchment area,

covering North Down, Ards and East Belfast. Sullivan Upper takes great pride in providing its pupils with a broad and balanced curriculum, supported by a much praised pastoral care system – truly living up to the school motto ‘lamh foisdineach an uachtar’ or ‘the gentle hand foremost’, a constant reminder of the virtue of gentleness in dealing with others. In order to ensure that all pupils are granted a well-rounded education

in every aspect, the curriculum is extended through a wide range of cocurricular and extra-curricular activities, for example in sports, music and drama. A dedicated team of teaching and non-teaching staff helps all pupils to develop their talents to the full and to prepare themselves effectively for the challenges and responsibilities of adult life. Sullivan Upper School’s emphasis is strongly academic and we place a high value on academic achievement. The vast majority of pupils remain at school after GCSE to take A Level courses before heading off to universities at home or further afield, including Oxford and Cambridge. Sullivan Upper’s proud record of outstanding results in public examinations shows that all pupils are empowered to realise their potential. To find out more, visit the school website where you can participate in the school’s Virtual Open Day.

Contact:

Sullivan Upper School Belfast Road, Holywood, BT18 9EP Tel: 028 90428780 Email: info@sullivanupper.holywood.ni.sch.uk Website: www.sullivanupper.co.uk PAGE 120

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

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 view our promotional video on our website and other social media platforms. 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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POST POSTPRIMARY PRIMARYGUIDE GUIDE2021 2021

DOWN HIGH SCHOOL

MAXIMISING POTENTIAL IN A WARM AND FRIENDLY ENVIRONMENT

Down High is a thriving co-educational grammar school situated in the historic town of Downpatrick. Benefiting from several direct bus routes, the school attracts pupils from a wide hinterland. High quality pastoral care guides every aspect of school life and sits at the heart of the pursuit of excellence. The warm, friendly and caring atmosphere of Down High comes from the high value placed on relationships between pupils, staff and parents. The Principal, Mrs Perry, describes the school as, “A warm and friendly environment where children thrive. Pupils are encouraged to learn from challenges and to believe in their ability to find a pathway to success. Intelligence and ability are not fixed qualities. Reflected in our motto Absque Labore Nihil (nothing achieved without effort) is our belief that there is no limit to what can be accomplished through hard work.” Mrs Perry said, “At Down High we celebrate the many talents and achievements of our pupils but in particular we value effort. Each year our pupils attain the highest possible academic standards and feature regularly in CCEA’s subject rankings for top achievers in Northern Ireland. We expect our students to be committed and resilient learners, to give their best in the classroom, as well as discover genuine interests that extend beyond the classroom.”

“A school large enough to offer a broad and balanced curriculum yet small enough to enable strong personal relationships. City opportunities in a safe rural environment just 40 minutes from Belfast.” A major capital investment project to provide a new purpose-built school for 950 post-primary pupils and staff at Down High School is well under way. The site for the new build on the Strangford Road has been purchased by the Education Authority and full planning permission is in place. The project will be tendered in spring 2021, with a target to commence construction in late 2021. A significant number of new pupils join Down High’s thriving Sixth Form each year. Pupils are attracted by the unique ethos and the exceptional quality of teaching, in addition to the broad curriculum which includes Software Systems Development, and Further Maths as well as Applied A-Levels and vocational qualifications. Find out more about Down High School and view a virtual tour by visiting the school website.

Down High School, Mount Crescent, Downpatrick BT30 6EU Tel: 028 44612103 Email: info@downhigh.downpatrick.ni.sch.uk www.downhighschool.org.uk

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Loreto College, Coleraine Voluntary Grammar School Celebrating 90 Years 1930-2020 “Spirituality and Excellence in all aspects of school life.”

Loreto College is a Catholic CoEducational all ability voluntary grammar school which has established a renowned tradition of academic excellence, extracurricular success and high standards in all areas of school life. The College promotes a disciplined atmosphere in which mutual respect is fostered. Within the school there is a great sense of community and common purpose. The caring and supportive Pastoral Care system aims to develop students’ selfesteem to the full. Our defining characteristic is our unique Loreto Ethos which makes us a warm,

friendly, welcoming and inclusive school. The College continues to evolve, develop and adapt to an ever changing educational landscape whilst preserving its core values of “Spirituality and Excellence”. The College celebrates its 90th Year in Coleraine and is very proud of it’s fine tradition and heritage. It continues to offer students a broad and balanced curriculum via its academic and vocational pathways whilst remaining true to the traditions and values of the Loreto Order. Preparing our young people to excel at university, further education, and the world of work.

Virtual Open Day Available to view on our school website Saturday 16th January 2021

For more information, contact: Loreto College, Castlerock Road, Coleraine, BT51 3JZ Tel: 028 7034 3611 | Email: info@loretocollege.coleraine.ni.sch.uk | www.loretocollege.org.uk PAGE 124

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

ST LOUISE’S’ COLLEGE, BELFAST

SPIRIT OF GENEROSITY REMAINS STEADFAST As with all schools around the world, this year has been one of the most challenging in light of the Coronavirus pandemic and the impact this has had upon school life as we know it. However, even a global pandemic cannot suppress the steadfast spirit of the students of St Louise’s! As a Vincentian school, St Louise’s has a strong affiliation with the St Vincent de Paul charity. Our staff and students have been most generous and gracious in their contributions to the charity throughout the years and this year sees no exception to this ongoing partnership. Famed for their generosity of spirit, our Year 8 students are continuing to put the needs of others before their own. Our Year 8 ‘Christmas Elves’ have been busy creating hampers for the most vulnerable members of our community. They have been donating toys, blankets, clothing, food and healthcare items to the charity which will be dispatched to those in our community most in need. We praise our students for remaining resilient in these most challenging times and we look forward to resuming school life in its entirety in the near future. We invite prospective students and parents to view our ‘Virtual Open Night’, coming soon on our school website: www.stlouises. org.uk The Board of Governors, Principal, Staff and Students of St Louise’s wish you all a happy and blessed new year.

St Louise’s Proudly Presents our

Virtual Open Night Tour AVAILABLE TO VIEW ON OUR WEBSITE For Primary 7 Girls and Boys and Prospective Post 16 Students For further information regarding transition please contact us at:

E: info@stlouises.org.uk | T: 028 9032 5631 For more information contact: St Louise’s College 468 Falls Rd, Belfast BT12 6EN Tel: 028 9032 5631 Email: info@stlouises.org.uk www.stlouises.org.uk

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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. 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.

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 have included A Midsummer Night’s Dream, Guys and Dolls, The Sound of Music and Show Stoppers. The Principal, Mr Robin McLoughlin, extends a welcome to our virtual Open Night. An interactive video, prospectus and brochure will be placed on our school website: details will be published following the AQE Assessments. Please take time to visit the school website and experience the warmth and energy of the friendly, caring ethos that defines Banbridge Academy.

Open Night (Virtual) Pupils and their parents are most welcome to visit the school website. An interactive video, prospectus and brochure will be placed on our school website: details will be published following the AQE Assessments.

T: 028 4062 3220 or visit www.banbridgeacademy.org.uk BBA Ulster Tatler Dec 2020.indd 1

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

ST COLMAN’S COLLEGE, NEWRY

ACADEMIC AND EXTRA-CURRICULAR EXCELLENCE St. Colman’s College is a Catholic Voluntary Grammar School located in a magnificent 65 acre site close to the centre of Newry. It is a school with a proud tradition dating back 198 years to 1823 when it was established as the Dromore Diocesan Seminary. We are already looking forward to celebrating our bi-centenary in 2023. Known throughout Ireland and beyond as Violet Hill, it is characterised by excellent academic achievements and also by the wide range of extra-curricular activities including sport, music, drama, debating and quizzes that its dedicated and hardworking staff provide for all our students. We are very proud of the warm, caring and friendly atmosphere, the opportunities for each student to reach his full academic and extra-curricular potential and the magnificent facilities and surroundings all who come to the school enjoy. The motto “Bonitas, Disciplina, Scientia,” translates as “Kindness, Self-discipline and Knowledge”, the mainstay on which the work of the college is based. The school is committed to nurturing the personal, social, spiritual and moral development of each student in its care. We are an inclusive Christian community that cares for all its members. The Catholic ethos of the college provides a strong foundation for the students throughout their school life and beyond. The caring and supportive pastoral care system aims to develop students’ self-esteem to the full, and all who are associated with the college. The students are supported throughout their time at the College to ensure they are cared for through all aspects of their lives as St. Colman’s students and who leave as fulfilled and mature young men.

You will be able to get further information, including our wide-ranging prospectus, through our website www.stcolmans.org.uk and you can keep up to date with College life through our Twitter feed @st_colmans. If you have any further questions you can make contact through the school office (028) 3026 2451 or info@stcolmans.newry.ni.sch.uk.

For more information contact: St Colman’s College 46 Armagh Rd, Newry BT35 6PP Tel: (028) 3026 2451 Email: info@stcolmans.newry.ni.sch.uk. www.stcolmans.org.uk

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

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 modern hockey pitches (one sand-based, one water-based) and two splendid grass pitches, rugby pitches and a state-of-the-art fitness suite. As a combined grammar and secondary school 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. With a strong academic performance, pupils achieve highly through the provision of an all-round education through inspirational teaching and the very best pastoral care. Parents comment that ‘there is a lovely sense of community where all feel valued, respected and well cared for as individuals’. Pupil creativity is encouraged, and different talents and gifts are celebrated to encourage fulfilment of their potential. Pupils showcase their skills in various events through the school year including competitions, House events, the Spring Concert, Carol Service and Art and Technology exhibition. 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. The school also has an excellent Learning Support Centre where pupils with moderate learning difficulties thrive in a supportive, nurturing environment. There is a large Sixth Form, almost all of whom progress to their first choice of university. In the last decade 17 pupils have been offered places at Oxford or Cambridge. The school places a strong emphasis on character development and community

engagement with over 40 extra-curricular activities on offer contributes significantly to widening pupil experiences and opportunities. Pupils are encouraged to develop their skills in music, sport, art, science, technology and ICT through groups, teams, clubs and ensembles. Every pupil is regarded as an individual with an important contribution to make to the life of the school and the wider community, and through excellence, opportunity and support, The High School continues to meet the needs, and develop the skills of all of its pupils. Coolnafranky Demesne Cookstown, Co. Tyrone BT80 8PQ www.cookstownhighschool.org

GROSVENOR GRAMMAR SCHOOL, BELFAST

THE ARKWRIGHT ENGINEERING SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMME Congratulations to Grosvenor Grammar School pupils Louisa and Olivia Millar, each of whom were recently informed of their success in applying for The Arkwright Engineering Scholarship Programme, a prestigious initiative that aims to inspire the younger generation to become engineers of the future. The two girls, who are twins and are in Year Thirteen, have enjoyed a fantastic few months

following the award of 11 A* grades each in their GCSEs. Only 279 candidates were offered a place from in excess of 1500 initial applicants and, from this number, only 9 are from Northern Ireland. For her participation in the programme, Louisa has been sponsored by ‘WSP Group Limited’, one of the world’s leading engineering professional services consulting firms, whilst Olivia has been sponsored by ‘Crowdstrike’, a leader in cloud-delivered, nextgeneration services for endpoint protection, threat intelligence, and response. Louisa and Olivia’s success is the latest in a long line of impressive achievements for Grosvenor’s Technology and Design department; in 2018, Louisa and Olivia, along with two fellow pupils, were invited to attend the prestigious ‘Big Bang’ Science and

Engineering Fair in Birmingham, following victory at the province-wide ‘Young Engineers of the Year’ competition. Head of Department, Mrs McMillen was delighted for the girls, saying “I was so thrilled and proud to learn that Louisa and Olivia were awarded the Arkwright Scholarship this year. It is an amazing achievement to have two girls from the same school achieve this success, let alone from the same family! Both girls are exceptionally talented and are very worthy recipients of such a prestigious award.” Principal, Dr Vasey, was equally delighted for the girls, saying “Olivia and Louisa are such wonderful ambassadors for our school and deserve this prestigious accolade. I am so delighted for them and for Mrs McMillen. The girls have achieved so much during their time in Grosvenor and we know they have a very bright future ahead of them. They are a credit to themselves, their family and their teachers.” A huge congratulations to Louisa and Olivia on their selection onto such a highly prestigious programme; they deserve much credit for such an impressive achievement and will no doubt make the most of this fantastic opportunity.

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RATHDOWN SCHOOL, DUBLIN

A PLACE OF BELONGING We are a voluntary, fee-paying school for girls aged 3 – 18 years, providing education to both boarding and day pupils. The School is set within 16 acres of beautiful grounds in Glenageary, Co. Dublin on a hill overlooking the sea at Dún Laoghaire with inland views of the Wicklow Mountains. We are within easy reach of Dublin city, surrounding counties and Dublin Airport with accreditation from the Boarding School Association. Our ethos is ‘A Place of Belonging’ and we hope you will gain a sense of what makes Rathdown School unique. Whether your daughter joins us as a day girl or boarder, she will be joining a family community where she will be well known and cared for as an individual. As a combined day and boarding school, we welcome students of all nationalities, helping to promote an awareness of cultural diversity throughout the school. Our exemplary pastoral care and nurturing environment encourages every student to achieve her personal best. From a group of three-year-old girls holding hands in the playground of our pre-school, to a thriving junior school where a passion for discovering and exploring new horizons is ignited through to our exceptionally high-achieving senior school where

lifelong friendships are forged and academic, sporting and personal triumphs are shared; the Rathdown School journey is a seamless one, full of life-enhancing experiences along the way. Our school campus buzzes with confident, capable young women ready to take their place in the world. We are a school with a Protestant background. We welcome students and families of all faiths, and none, and from all traditions and cultures. We have a diverse and inclusive student body, where all are equally valued and all are equally important. Students receive an outstanding education and make excellent progress at Rathdown School. Your daughter will be encouraged and expected to achieve her personal best in all she does. We believe that teaching and learning should be both challenging and enjoyable for students of all abilities and we aim for the highest possible standards. Whether she is the most gifted academically, a good all-rounder or needs additional help in some areas, your daughter will receive a stimulating and rewarding educational experience suited to her needs. Girls are taught by professional and dedicated staff within small class sizes across a broad range

of subjects with high academic standards. We also offer a range of extra-curricular and sporting activities in the belief that these assist a sound general education and contribute to the whole person. Our academic results are testament to the way the girls are challenged and motivated to give their best in all they do. Rathdown has a long tradition of academic excellence and for moulding well-rounded, confident students. Our students achieve excellent results in their state examinations and secure places in third level education across Ireland, the UK and beyond. Our doors are always open to welcome Irish and international students who come here to achieve their very best academically, socially and personally, have fun, make friends, and develop a global perspective. If you are looking for an outstanding school for girls, please come and visit us - we promise you a warm welcome. Girls leave Rathdown School as confident and responsible young adults. Virtual Tours available on our website.

Rathdown School Glenageary Rd Upper, Glenageary, Dublin, A96 H5N3, Ireland Tel: +353 1 285 3133 email: admin@rathdownschool.ie www.rathdownschool.ie

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

LIFE AT ST. COLUMBAâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S COLLEGE

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

ST. COLUMBA’S COLLEGE, DUBLIN

A SCHOOL LIKE NO OTHER

St. Columba’s College is a co-educational, Church of Ireland boarding school, perched on the edge of the Dublin Hills and overlooking the city of Dublin. We have a great sense of tradition, an enviable academic record and a commitment to a very full and varied extracurricular programme, set in 140 acres of countryside. With a total of 335 pupils, and with the majority of our academic staff living on the College site, we are a close-knit community, which creates an intimate, nurturing atmosphere. Parents can apply for admission to the College for their sons or daughters to all forms. However, we recommend entry at Form I (aged 12). The Irish system means that pupils sit the Junior Cycle exams at the end of Form III (Year 10), before entering the transition year, an enriching year of academic work, infused with work experience, service projects and a variety of other imaginative additions, designed to broaden the education of our pupils, without the stress of public exams. In their last two years pupils study seven subjects in preparation for the Irish Leaving Certificate. This examination provides

a much broader academic experience for pupils in comparison to the A Level system. Maths, English and a Modern Language are compulsory, while there is a free choice from a varied selection for the other four subjects. Our leavers go on to further education in fairly equal numbers to Irish, UK or international universities. Whilst our pupils achieve excellent results in the Leaving Certificate, we believe very strongly in an all-round education that puts value on all aspects of a child’s development, academic, physical, cultural, social and spiritual. The large majority of our pupils are boarders in one of our seven boarding houses and we are committed to full-time boarding. Sport takes place for all every day; we have Saturday morning school and a busy Saturday evening programme. Sunday is more relaxed and many pupils make use of our wonderful nine hole golf course and sports facilities. The College has bed space for 240 boarders and usually awards approximately 95 day places. We have seen a growth in interest in boarding during the last few months, as parents look to ensure that their children’s education is not disrupted by

the pandemic. 2020 has not been an easy year, but we have kept going with as full a programme of activities as possible and we believe strongly that boarding offers an unparalleled educational experience for young people.

For all enquiries regarding Admissions to the College and for details on future Open/Virtual Open Day Information please contact: admissions@stcolumbas.ie Telephone: +353 (1) 4906791

For more information contact: St. Columba’s College, Kilmashogue Lane, Whitechurch, Dublin 16, D16 CH92, Ireland Phone: +353 (1) 4906791 Email: admissions@stcolumbas.ie www.stcolumbas.ie

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

A LEADING BOARDING SCHOOL IN THE HEART OF CO. KILDARE

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

CLONGOWES WOOD COLLEGE

A SCHOOL THAT OFFERS MORE

Clongowes is a Jesuit boarding school set in 550 acres in Co Kildare. A home from home for some 450 boys from all over Ireland, the UK and further afield. All our students enjoy our 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. The Ignatian value of Magis â&#x20AC;&#x201C; the Latin word for more or greater - is a key philosophy

in Jesuit education and its expression is apparent at Clongowes. Clongowes aspires to do more, to be better, we are constantly striving for excellence. This is embodied in the teaching and boarding staff who empower our students to be the very best that they can be in all that they do. Undoubtedly Clongowes has breathtaking grounds, state of the art co-curricular as well as teaching and learning facilities, but it is the teachers and boarding staff at

the heart of the Clongowes community that sets this school apart. Our innovative and ambitious teachers work hand in hand with our dedicated and caring boarding team to inspire our students achieve to the fullest of their potential. Our students are competitive but also work together as a team on the pitches, in the classrooms and during study time. In our unique boarding setting they are constantly learning from each other. This nurturing of co-operative learning is central to what we do at Clongowes and gives our students a huge advantage as they develop a team ethic and problem solving skills through living and learning together. Our built environment such as the James Joyce Library and the Bellarmine Learning Centre is designed to encourage even greater cooperation amongst students as they grow and learn together. The spirit of Magis stays with our graduates and drives them to do more, not only for themselves but for the greater good of society. At the heart of our school is the Jesuit maxim, Cura Personalis or care for the individual. We get to know our students exceptionally well, we get to know their strengths, their weaknesses and importantly guide and empower them to discover and nurture their talents in a safe and supportive environment. 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.

To discover what makes Clongowes such a special place, please contact our Admissions team to request more information or arrange a visit to the school.

For more information contact: Clongowes Wood College SJ, Clane, Co Kildare, Ireland. Tel:+353 (0)45 838258 Email: admissions@clongowes.net www.clongowes.net PAGE 133

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

ST MARY’S UNIVERSITY COLLEGE

HIGH QUALITY EDUCATION WITH A REPUTATION FOR EXCELLENT PASTORAL CARE St Mary’s University College is a small and specialist institution of higher education with an ethos that is welcoming to all, where valueseducation is actively promoted, and respect is intrinsic. The College has had a long-standing academic partnership with Queen’s University Belfast whereby it has a sufficiently high degree of autonomy to offer a distinctive educational experience for its students while also engaging in collaborative provision with a world-class university. The academic programmes at St Mary’s are validated by Queen’s. In addition, the College has an exceptionally high profile of both community engagement and international study opportunities as well as a strong commitment to widening access and participation in higher education. The College advances a faith-based approach to education which emphasises the desire to build and PGCE programmes, and for the second successive year, a dynamic community of learners, united through the fusion of St Mary’s had an exceptional outcome. The programmes placed Christian faith, reason and scholarship. Most observers agree that either first or second in each of the seven evaluative categories, St Mary’s has been successful in creating such a community, one which covered the full range of the educational experience that is remarkably student friendly. St Mary’s is fortunate to be including the quality of the teaching, skills development and able to recruit students who are highly engaged in the life of the learner experience. College. The Students’ Union, as well as the clubs and societies, play an important role in College life by promoting a stimulating and fulfilling student experience through sport as well as cultural and social activities. Recently, most of the College’s academic provision has been online due to the pandemic, and the students have responded with resilience to this form of tuition. The student body is supported by members of the academic staff who are committed to providing pastoral care for students, when they require it, as well as developing the transferrable skills that lead to graduate Applications are welcome for admission to the following programmes employment. Likewise, members of the support staff Programme Deadline for receipt of provide the necessary professional services to ensure applications that students can make the most of their educational Undergraduate experience. The excellent relationships that exist BEd (Hons) Primary Degree Wednesday, 13 January 2021 between staff and students are a key factor in enabling BEd (Hons) Post-Primary Degree Wednesday, 13 January 2021 St Mary’s to be a warm and welcoming place. BA (Hons) Liberal Arts Degree

Undergraduate Student Experience A recent survey of the BEd (Hons) Primary and Postprimary degree programmes by the Education and Training Inspectorate (ETI) identified important strengths in the College’s educational provision, including a very good level of retention and modules that are well designed to ensure student teachers are prepared for their school-based work. The most recent report on the BA (Hons) Liberal Arts degree programme was received from external examiner, Dr Thomas Nörgaard, University of Winchester, who provided this summary assessment of the programme: “I continue to be impressed by the programme. It is thoughtful and well-designed. The learning outcomes make good sense in the light of the liberal arts ideals that inform the programme and the local context in which the programme is implemented.”

Wednesday, 13 January 2021

Postgraduate Postgraduate Certiﬁcate in Education (Irishmedium Education) Primary

Friday, 26 February 2021

Teacher Professional Learningg Master M t of Education Ed ti (MEd) Postgraduate Diploma (PgDip) Postgraduate Certiﬁcate (PgCert)

Deadlines are dependent on Spring or Summer entry. Please contact Academic Registry on 028 9026 8320 for confirmation

Information Event for Undergraduate Programmes Information Event

Details

Virtual Open Day

Visit: https://tinyurl.com/y669nw2a

Entry qualification guidelines are available from the College website www.smucb.ac.uk/admissions Or contact: 028 9026 8320

Postgraduate Taught Experience Survey (PTES) The annual PTES covers students on the College’s MEd

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LIVERPOOL A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE AND STUDY Liverpool John Moores University (LJMU) is the number one destination university for Northern Irish students studying in Great Britain.*

VIRTUAL EVENTS

LJMU offers over 20,000 students an unbeatable experience in a modern, city centre based university.

Find out why LJMU has everything you need for a brilliant student experience, from the comfort of your own home.

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.

Sign up and be the first to hear about open days, subject-specific events and our plans for LJMU’s annual Northern Irish Summer School 2021.

LJMU has a special relationship with Northern Ireland, built over 20 years, and we are committed to offering the best possible advice, support and guidance to Northern Irish students considering study at the university. Our dedicated recruitment team usually spend a great deal of time in Northern Ireland, attending higher education fairs and visiting local schools and colleges. We hope to resume our visits as soon as it’s safe to do so, but in the meantime, we have adapted our sessions to provide higher education advice and support virtually.

Virtual invite-only applicant events give you a further opportunity to learn more about LJMU, in addition to an exclusive event for Northern Irish applicants and their families. Go to ljmu.ac.uk/opendays for details.

YOUR HOME FROM HOME

Email nioutreach@ljmu.ac.uk for details.

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.

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: nioutreach@ljmu.ac.uk *The Department for the Economy Northern Ireland (DfENI) 2018/19

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POST PRIMARY GUIDE 2021

WE ARE TUTORTOO by excellent customer care. When parents come to us, we want them to feel reassured that we are invested in the success of their child and that we have the expertise to ensure that quality teaching and learning takes place. Our combined academic, professional and leadership experience has equipped us to lead a dynamic team of professional tutors who inspire students to get motivated, get ready and get the results they desire. How many tutors currently work for Tutortoo? Trevor - We have 40 Tutors on our register at present. All our Tutors are highly qualified and dedicated professional tutors who are passionate about teaching their subject specialism, our Tutors are interviewed, referenced and AccessNi checked. At Tutortoo we have tutors for all subjects, all ages and stages of education, including specialists for those children with additional learning needs.

Husband and wife, Trevor and Jenine Jamison.

Ulster Tatler chats to Trevor and Jenine Jamison of Tutortoo Belfast. Tell us a bit about Tutortoo and what services you provide? Jenine - Tutortoo is an Educational Consultancy business, we provide supplementary education services to parents, students and schools, offering one to one tutoring services, home education programmes and additional learning support tailored to the individual needs of our students. We aim to unlock the potential of each student, building their confidence and transforming their goals into achievements. We respond to the needs of our clients and provide the highest standard of customer care and support to all families who entrust their children’s education to us. Our personalised service meets the academic needs of our students. When students enrol with us, they are often really struggling, and their parents don’t always know how to help them. From the first contact, we take steps to address the student’s mindset and help change their perspective We give them the skills they need to unpack the curriculum, filling in knowledge

What do you love most about your job? Jenine - For me it’s the consultations with the families. I love to listen and understand the problems the student is facing and to begin formulating a learning plan that will lead them through that feeling of being “stuck”. Reading our tutors reports is also an absolute pleasure. To see progress being made on a weekly basis and to celebrate our student’s successes. This is the real joy of educating.

gaps and misconceptions. Ultimately, we encourage and support every student to plan a pathway to success. Our aim is to stretch and challenge all students developing their thinking and application skills, ensuring they are exam ready and forward focused.

Trevor - For me it is being able to help alleviate pressure from parents and students. Being able to provide guidance, advice and a listening ear is a privilege. I also enjoy recruiting and matching excellent Tutors to each student and seeing the results they can achieved.

How did you get into tutoring? Jenine - Before launching Tutortoo my husband and I had been teaching in north Belfast for the past 19 years. We love teaching and are passionate about improving the life chances of children and young people through education. As parents with three children currently going through the education system, we understand the challenges that families face. As teachers however, we also understand the incredible pressure that schools are under to deliver individualised learning support to their students. We have taken the opportunity to get back to helping individual students, we long to make a difference to those students who get lost in the crowd and to bring hope to parents who can often feel like no one is listening to what their child actually needs to make learning happen. Our priority is to provide a professional service that is hallmarked

What would you say are the benefits of someone getting a private tutor for their child? Jenine - Having your own personal learning mentor has many benefits, lessons can move at the student’s pace, questions can be asked and explored in depth, topics can be revisited until they are grasped, teaching methods are adapted to the individual learning style. Revision, regular testing and exam preparation are also provided. Students have a focused study period built into their week and relevant homework to compliment the learning. Parents are supported by our education consultants and benefit from their knowledge and experience. The weekly report allows parents to see their child’s progress. www.tutortoo.co.uk Tel: 028 9446529

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tutortoobelfast 16/12/2020 13:41

Festive fun at Lagan College

To celebrate the season, Sixth Form students at Lagan College organised a fancy dress event to raise spirits and funds for Habitat for Humanity. Santa and Mrs Claus even called in to give out candy canes to the Year 8 students. In all ÂŁ600 was raised on the day.

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17/12/2020 16:12

124 All Things Christmas

The Word

CUTTING EDGE ARCHITECTURE

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The award winning 2020 Architects have continued, despite the challenges of this absurdRETROBEAUTYCAMLOUGH year, to create beautiful spaces for living, working and enjoying. They see the need for inspirational homes RETRO_BEAUTY_SALON and clever design to be more important now than ever and have responded beautifully as seen in some of their most recent projects including this family home (pictured right) which uses the forms and materials of the Irish countryside and results in something spectacular. The practice is located near the North Antrim coast and owners Gareth, Michael and Richard have in less than a decade grown the business into a recognisable brand throughout It is Smyth clear Ulster Tatler talksIreland. to Johnny Keens Furniture Store about from looking at a 2020 buildingfrom which can be found across the North what he likes get upchanging to over the and increasingly the Republic of Ireland that to they are the face of Irish architecture and forChristmas the better.period. Their work is modern, intelligent and subtle and somehow manages to preserve the What doand you like most about essence of traditional Irish architecture shaping it into something Christmas time? cutting edge and beautiful. They work on a variety of projects from Two things really, I love being at extensions to commercial buildings, but they are best known for home with my family watching stunning, sustainable, bespokeChristmas homes. movies and TV specials

• Multi award winning, including Great Taste, Irish Quality Food Awards and Blas na hEireann Gold awards

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• Family run business • Farm to fork • All hens are free range • High welfare standards • British Lion accredited

and I also really love being about www.2020architects.co.uk Belfast City Centre soaking in the 028festive 2766spirit 7999around the shops and Belfast City Hall!

How do you normally spend Christmas day? Santa time with our little kids first, followed by a good old family get together. Plenty of food and ending up with our annual party games, including Articulate!

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What is the best Christmas gift you have ever received? Afraid of offending people here but going to go with an awesome shirt my wife Jill bought me. It’s from Lansky Brothers, Memphis where Elvis Presley bought his original shirts from back in the fifties!

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16/12/2020 15:09

Column / Know the Law

Lorraine Keown

Lorraine Keown is an Associate Director in Cleaver Fulton Rankin with significant experience in dealing with family law matters.

New Year, New Start This month, Lorraine Keown offers advice on matrimonial agreements and separation.

In January 2019 a number of media outlets reported the fact that thirteen people filed for divorce on Christmas Day in England and Wales. They were among 455 online divorce applications submitted between Christmas Eve and New Year’s Day; 26 people submitted applications on Christmas Eve, 23 on Boxing Day and 77 on New Year’s Day.1 Whilst it has been possible to complete the divorce application process using the internet in England/Wales since April 2018 it is not yet an option available to separating couples in Northern Ireland. Solicitors however do experience an increase in enquiries relating to divorce at this time of year. It is understandable that parties with children decide to hold off changing the dynamic within their household until post-Christmas, or that couples who have been separated for some time make it their new year’s resolution to finalise arrangements that have been outstanding. In 2020 with the global pandemic affecting our lives in a way unlike ever before, it is also understandable that this has had an impact on the number of divorcing couples. The stresses of strains of lockdown, as well as financial pressures and living life in a whole new way have all been contributing reasons for people filing for divorce or seeking to financially separate from a partner. It seems inevitable that the repercussions of 2020 will also continue to have an impact going forward, and so an increase in the numbers of separating couples now, is likely to continue to be felt for quite a while. Once you have made the decision to divorce there are a number of options available in order to finalise matters. Financial matters for example can be dealt with through the drafting of a matrimonial agreement. This is often an amicable solution and there is the advantage of it being more cost and time efficient. Once agreed it is made an order of the Court when divorce proceedings are being dealt with. If agreement is not possible Court proceedings can be issued which has the benefit of the Court overseeing matters and being available to address issues which may arise. If the parties cannot reach agreement during this process, then the Court will decide what

final order should be made. The financial arrangements are then carried out in accordance with the terms of this Court Order. Regardless of which route is taken, the most common and substantial assets to be dealt with are usually the matrimonial home and pensions. With property there are options for it to be sold with proceeds split between the parties, it can be transferred in full or in part to a party, or for example with the matrimonial home, a right to occupy can be granted to one party with ownership remaining joint. Pensions are often viewed as being more complicated. A cash equivalent transfer value (CETV) is obtained to determine the cash value placed on pension benefits. There are then a number of options such as a pension sharing order, earmarking/attachment orders or offsetting which can be agreed in order to ensure fair settlement. Whilst it may seem daunting dealing with financial matters we will work with you to make sure the process is clear. Your renewed financial position at the end of any separation should always be considered in the context of your estate planning, and so it is important to remember to update your Will to reflect your new position once matters are concluded. Similarly, in the context of the global pandemic in particular, we encourage clients to consider their circumstances and planning for the future; our Private Client team is available to offer advice and assistance, as well as answer your queries. Lorraine Keown is an Associate Director in Cleaver Fulton Rankin. With over 15 years of experience in dealing with family law matters, she is well versed in dealing with financial separation and divorce. Should you wish to make an appointment or speak to us about your situation telephone Lorraine on 028 9024 3141 or email l.keown@cfrlaw.co.uk

https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-46761442

At Cleaver Fulton Rankin we recognise the importance our clients attach to providing financial security for themselves and their families. Our Private Client team offers practical advice and sound guidance, based on many years’ experience, in the following areas:

• Professional executor and trustee service • Wills • Trusts • Administration of Estates • Nursing Care issues

• • •

Enduring Powers of Attorney and Office of Care & Protection matters Family Law Residential Conveyancing

Cleaver Fulton Rankin - 50 Bedford Street, Belfast BT2 7FW | T: 028 9024 3141 | W: www.cleaverfultonrankin.co.uk | @ CFR_Law

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The Word

FOSTER CARERS URGENTLY NEEDED IN NORTHERN IRELAND Action for Children have made an urgent call for potential foster carers to come forward in Northern Ireland. Avery Bowser, children’s services manager, explained: “The need is very great in Northern Ireland at the moment but the numbers coming forward have been too small. “We know that there are lots of people who have the space in their home to foster but they are often put off by myths about fostering. They think it’s only for certain types of people. “We need people from different backgrounds and communities to become foster carers because our children are all so different. “At Action for Children we provide foster families that have the warmth and stability that enable children to cope with the changes that life brings them. “We do that by recruiting ordinary people, from all walks of life, who do something extraordinary – become a foster carer.” Avery is asking readers to think about fostering or encourage someone else who could foster. “All kinds of people can foster. You have to be over 21, have a spare room, the ability to work with children and have the time in your life to give. “So please give our friendly fostering team a call. The need in Belfast is very urgent and I am appealing for your help.” If you are interested in becoming a foster carer or would like to find out more, please contact Action for Children’s fostering team on 028 90460500 or email fostercareni@ actionforchildren.org.uk

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16/12/2020 15:10

COLUMN // KNOW KNOWTHE THELAW LAW

Sarah Elliott Sarah Elliott is a Solicitor specialising in Family Law at Worthingtons Solicitors

DIVORCE IN A COVID CLIMATE Sarah Elliott, Solicitor specialising in Family Law at Worthingtons Solicitors, considers how challenges to ﬁnancial settlements in these uncertain times might be viewed by the Courts.

Issues surrounding financial settlements are on the increase given concerns surrounding the economic impact of COVID. For those going through a separation and who have been negatively impacted, perhaps due to redundancy or loss of business turnover, they may have problems in keeping up maintenance payments, or adhering to lump sum Orders, which may have been directed by the Court. Business and asset valuations are proving more difficult within this financial climate, given the potential for dramatic changes in an unpredictable market. Pre-COVID valuations may no longer be accurate and could require to be updated, adding to costs and delays in parties’ cases. The pandemic has had an impact on a range of businesses, especially in travel, hospitality sector and in close contact services. Add to COVID, the uncertainty looming with Brexit, it is hard to imagine a more precarious climate within which people might have to take decisions as to their financial future.

Some business owners facing a downturn in income may consider it an opportune time to enter in to negotiations for a financial settlement whilst others will consider holding off financial discussions to ascertain clarity on what the future holds. Many, however, do not have the luxury of time and need to make decisions sooner rather than later. Currently, homeowners are experiencing a buoyant property market with many houses selling quickly, helped by the introduction of the stamp duty holiday, but this seems likely to change in the near future once the wider economic fallout of the pandemic is felt. For a minority who have had their proceedings concluded pre-COVID but who as a result of the unforeseen changes in their circumstances have experienced difficulties with abiding by Court Orders, it may be possible to ask the Court to reconsider their position. But this comes with a health warning. Whilst an application to vary could be issued in respect of the likes of spousal or child maintenance payments,

it is not clear whether challenges to a clean break settlement will succeed. After the 2008 economic crash, many experienced similar difficulties and such challenges were not successful. Any change of circumstances has to meet the ‘Barder test’ as set out in the case of Barder v Barder 1998, wherein the Court did permit a final Order to be varied where one party had tragically died soon after the final determination of the finances. No reported cases have yet been published in relation to ‘the COVID effect’ so it is unclear whether a court would change the outcome in those clean break cases where the circumstances have materially changed. Lawyers await with interest to see whether any such is successful, but it would seem unlikely. If you have a query of a matrimonial nature, please do not hesitate to contact our specialist family team here at Worthingtons Solicitors by email at familylaw@worthingtonslaw.co.uk or by phoning our Matrimonial Department directly on 028 9128 2905.

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ISSUE: JANUARY 1982

LOOKING BACK ULSTER TATLER

Pictured at North-West Show Jumping Club Annual Dinner are Trevor Coyle, Mrs Margaret Coyle, Alwyn and Suzanne Coyle, Gerry McCloskey and Dolores Little with Heather Gahan, Jonathan Coyle, Ann Glenn, Alexis McClements, Michael Coyle and Philip McVeigh.

Pictured at an Ulster Jewellers Association press conference at the Europa Hotel, Mr Jack Murphy, Convenor of the code of practice, Hazel Scott, Belfast Consumer Advice Centre, Judi Allen, N.I. Consumer Council, Cyril Rosenberg, President of U.J.A.

Pictured at the Reform Club Dinner Dance Mr and Mrs B Robertson , Prof. and Mrs Helwood, Dr and Mrs R Cromey, Mr and Mrs D Rodgers.

Pictured at the Publicity Association(NI) Ball are Mr and Mrs Stanley Smith, Mr and Mrs James Rafferty, Mr and Mrs Steven Orr.

Pictured at Northern Ireland Council for Orthopaedic Development Charity Ball at Belfast City Hall Margaret J Clarke, Mollie Brown, Avril Suckling, Margaret Brownlee, Pat Lawther.

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An Oasis of Delights along the Carrickfergus seafront The Courtyard, Carrickfergus is an oasis of shops and businesses located on the edge of the medieval town centre. Surrounding a beautiful courtyard and garden, it provides a tranquil and interesting place to visit. Our selection includes: Local artist Tom Stephenson - from local scenery to his pun-filled sheep collection, part of The Whimsical World of Thomas Joseph, Tom can often be found in his gallery situated in the front courtyard painted in coral and blue, working on his latest piece and is always happy to share a bit of his knowledge on any of his art. The Silver Store is a unique jeweller, set in the front courtyard. Their beautiful selection includes a wide variety of gold, silver and platinum pieces along with the unusual and stunning Alchemy range, so there is something for everyone. They also buy, fix and size, catering for all your jewellery needs. Opened only last month, we have a Brand New barbershop in the front as well, the Lodge Menʼs Room! A funky, fresh atmosphere where youʼre guaranteed to get your next favourite fade. In our rear courtyard, turn immediately right to find The Secret Bookshelf. Here you will find a selection of new and pre-loved books, literary gifts and local artwork, and if you canʼt find what youʼre after, speak to Chris and Jo to see what magic they can work! In the far corner, you can enjoy an afternoon of pampering in The Nail Room. Home to an array of professionals, you can experience all types of nail treatments and styles. Beside the Nail Room, through the black door resides Dreamy Gifts and Crafts, another NEW tenant!

Lucindaʼs lovely shop is full of gifts suitable for all ages, from baby grows and blankets to gins glasses and silk pyjamas, and everything can be personalised for that special someone! Lucinda also does a large range of balloon displays and arches to brighten up a special day. Aletheia Consultancies are on the first floor overlooking our garden water feature and are available for all your contract carpet needs. JAVART, painted in teal, provides an eclectic mix of homeware and giftware, where you can easily find that perfect present. As only one of four Annie Sloan Chalk Paint stockists in Northern Ireland, Alison is full of experience and ready assist you with your latest upcycle project. Beside JAVART, you will find Take Thyme. Take some ʻthymeʼ to visit our comprehensive delicatessen where you can indulge in decadent treats. Weather dependant, you can enjoy these treats and a coffee in our beautiful aromatic garden. The Courtyard 38 Scotch Quarter, Carrickfergus, BT38 7DP E: courtyardcarrickfergus@gmail.com W: www.thecourtyardcarrickfergus.com

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