We are thrilled to have received a PEACEPLUS, Changemakers grant which will enable our pupils to collaborate with their peers from St. Patrick’s PS, in exciting STEM activities delivered by W5, Northern Ireland’s leading interactive science centre and learn new digital skills. This project is supported by the PEACEPLUS Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB) and aims to facilitate pupils and staff from both schools ‘thriving together in Rasharkin’. A total grant of €14,732, including €11,786 ERDF/UK Equivalent ERDF and governmental match provided by the government of Ireland and Northern Ireland Executive of €2946, has been awarded.
The first session was a special Christmas themed workshop where children worked together to explore science, technology, engineering, and maths in a fun, hands-on environment—building curiosity, creativity, and lasting friendships. This initiative not only sparked innovation but also promoted understanding and cooperation, helping to shape a brighter, more connected future.
Our P6/7 pupils had an exciting opportunity this term to take part in a series of Shared Education workshops delivered by the brilliant team from W5. Thanks to generous support from the Changemakers grant, our pupils were able to dive into hands-on STEM learning through the “Amped Up” and “Spike” workshops.
In the Amped Up workshop, pupils explored the world of electric circuits and renewable energy. Working together in Shared Education groups, they experimented with circuits, investigated how electricity flows, and even created their own powered models. The room buzzed with excitement as pupils tested ideas, problem-solved, and celebrated their successes.
The Spike workshop introduced pupils to the fun of robotics and coding. Using Spike LEGO kits, pupils designed and built their own programmable robots. They learned how coding instructions translate into movement and actions, using teamwork and perseverance to overcome challenges. The pride on their faces when their robots finally completed tasks was wonderful to see!
We are extremely grateful for the Changemakers funding, which made these engaging and meaningful learning experiences possible. Opportunities like these help inspire curiosity, develop confidence, and encourage pupils to see themselves as future scientists, engineers, and problem-solvers.
We were delighted to be able to offer our pupils, alongside those from St. Patrick’s PS the opportunity to learn about the importance of keeping safe online. Deborah, Thrive academy came into school to deliver the first of four sessions. This project supported by the PEACEPLUS Programme, managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
P1-3 have enjoyed all their Shared Education activities this term with our friends from St Patrick’s Primary School. This project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
During the sessions in our schools, we have been music makers and learnt lots of fascinating facts about minibeasts. The highlight of our Shared Education activities was a joint trip to W5. We split into two groups and enjoyed the exhibition that W5 offers. We completed different activities in a workshop to help us learn about our senses. Thank you to the staff at W5 for all the activities and hands-on learning in both schools and for facilitating our trip. We are looking forward to lots more adventures with St Patrick’s in the years ahead.
P4/5 trip to the Ulster Transport Museum was a fantastic day of learning and fun for everyone! Pupils explored impressive exhibitions showcasing the history of transport in Northern Ireland, from vintage trains and buses to iconic cars and aircraft. The hands‑on displays sparked curiosity and encouraged discussion, bringing history and technology to life outside the classroom. Everyone enjoyed discovering how travel has changed over time, and the galleries made it easy to explore and learn together. It was a memorable, engaging experience that inspired questions, excitement, and plenty of smiles all round!