Congratulations to Phoenix Integrated Primary school who were one of the three winners of the Derrytrasna Awards. This award scheme celebrates school communities who show exceptional pastoral care for the emotional health and wellbeing of pupils and their families. The scheme is run by the Department of Education and the Public Health Agency (PHA).
Phoenix IPS was nominated by a parent in the school community, who recognised the support the school gave to a Y2 child with complex SEN issues. The school worked alongside professionals who made sure the child’s needs were met. In addition they gave support to the family as they moved successfully through the adoption process.
Representatives of the school travelled to Stormont to receive a trophy and certificate from Education Minister Peter Weir, who said
“This is the second year of this exceptional award presentation and I am pleased to be here today to recognise this year’s recipients. Young people are faced with many challenges growing up and it is reassuring that schools can provide support and help during difficult times in their lives.”
The Minister went on to praise the winning schools for putting pupils’ need at the forefront of school life.
Andrew Dougal, Chair of the PHA Board said “Good pastoral care is essential in supporting pupils in terms of their personal and social development. This includes mental and emotional wellbeing, educational attainment and future life outcomes. I would like to commend this year’s recipients for their commitment to pastoral care.”
Principal of Phoenix IPS, Heather Watson, said the award was for everyone in the school who had worked together to offer the best possible care and support to everyone who needs it:
“We were absolutely delighted to have won the Derrytrasna Award for exceptional Pastoral Care in Phoenix IPS. Like many schools, we recognise the vital link between wellbeing and learning and each member of staff works alongside parents to meet the needs of every child. To be recognised with an award like this is humbling and deeply appreciated by the whole school community.”
The Pastoral Care Awards were launched in 2014 in recognition of the exceptional care shown by St Mary’s Primary School, Derrytrasna for terminally ill pupil, Adele Madden.
See also the video link below from Belfast Telegraph:
