Education Minister visits Saintfield schools

Education Minister, John O'Dowd, today paid a visit to Academy Primary School and Saintfield High School.
~ Wednesday, 10 October 2012

The Minister’s first visit was to Academy Nursery and Primary School. He said: “I would like to thank the Principal, Stephen Moore for his invitation to visit the school today. It was a pleasure to meet with the teachers, staff and pupils.

“As well as learning through the core curriculum the pupils here have the opportunity to participate in a wide range of extra-curricular activities. Professional coaching is offered in a variety of sports and specialist music tuition is also available. That is something to be commended and I encourage pupils to become involved in these activities.”

The Minister then visited Saintfield High School. He was brought on a tour of the school and had the opportunity to meet with the school prefects to discuss a range of educational issues. He said: “The young people attending Saintfield High School are undoubtedly being provided with a very high quality of education. I first met the Principal, Vivien Watt, in June when she attended the celebration event for those schools who had been evaluated as ‘outstanding’ or ‘very good’ following an inspection.

“Having visited the school today and met with the staff and pupils I can clearly see why the school received such a positive report. I was particularly pleased to have the opportunity to meet with the school prefects to hear their views on a range of issues. Their knowledge, confidence and enthusiasm shone through very clearly and they were great ambassadors for their school and community.”

In conclusion the Minister said: “I have thoroughly enjoyed my visit to both Academy Nursery and Primary School and Saintfield High School today and would like to thank all those involved for their warm welcome.”