Education Minister highlights vital role of early years education

The early years of a child's life are the most important in shaping their intellectual, emotional, social and physical development.
~ Wednesday, 3 October 2012

That was the message from Education Minister, John O’Dowd, as he visited College Farm Nursery School in Armagh.

Mr O’Dowd said: “It is my clear view that the early years of a child’s life are of critical importance to their future educational development. I therefore value very highly the excellent work being done by teachers and staff in nursery schools and other pre-school settings across the north.

“This good work has been very much in evidence at College Farm Nursery School today. The school has a supportive and caring atmosphere that shines through in the relationships between the children and staff. There is a strong emphasis on building children’s personal, social and emotional skills during what is a vitally important period in their development.”

The Minister also emphasised that families have an important role to play in complementing the work being done by schools. He said: “Whilst our schools do a great job at educating our children and young people, they cannot do this job alone – education does not start and end at the school gates. Parental involvement and encouragement, no matter how small, can have a direct and long-lasting effect on a child’s educational achievements.

“I recently launched a campaign which encourages parents to ‘get involved’ with their child’s education. Simple things like reading a bedtime story, teaching nursery rhymes or even helping them learn to count on their fingers and toes can have a major impact on the child’s educational development.

“Not all parents will have had a positive experience with their own education. The international evidence, however, is clear – no matter who you are, no matter what your background, you can make a difference to your child’s education.”

To help support the campaign, a new website has been set up which provides advice and guidance for parents on the simple games and activities that will help their children with structured play and to develop their talking, reading and counting skills. This can be accessed on the nidirect website.

In conclusion the Minister said: “I would like to thank the Principal, Brenda Murphy for her kind invitation to visit College Farm Nursery School today and wish everyone involved with the school every success for the future.”