On Wednesday 5th November, we welcomed the Minister of Education to our school for the official opening of the Nurture Classroom. This special occasion marked a significant milestone in our commitment to supporting the emotional and social wellbeing of our pupils.
We were delighted to be joined by invited guests including officials from the Department of Education and the Education Authority, representatives from Maghera Developments—the contractors responsible for the build—members of the Board of Governors, and school staff. Their presence helped make the event a memorable celebration of collaboration and progress.
Our celebration opened with our exceptional Senior Choir singing 'This Old Man' ..... voices bringing a smile to each and every guest. Thank you to Mrs Archibald, our Music Coordinator and Mrs Henderson, Choir Conductor for their leadership of this fantastic Choir.
(see video below from an earlier Choir practice)
Mrs McMaster shared with guests that this Nurture Classroom is a space that is not just bricks and mortar, but a vision, a commitment to care, connection, and growth. She added that today had been a long time coming as the journey to create this space began back in February 2022.... and after a wait for the much needed accommodation along with a shared understanding: that some children need a little more time, a little more support, and a little more nurture to thrive we are here today to mark the opening of this provision!
Mrs McMaster then asked the Minister to do the honour of cutting the ribbon outside the Nurture Classroom.
Once inside the Classroom both Mrs McMaster and Mrs Greer, Nurture Teacher/SENCO, explained to guests how the Nurture classroom is a carefully designed space that supports children who may be experiencing barriers to learning due to social, emotional, or developmental needs. Mrs McMaster went on to say the provision provides a bridge between home and school — offering a warm, welcoming environment where children feel safe, valued, and understood. Mrs Greer shared photographs with guests showcasing what a Nurture curriculum looks like on a day-day basis explaining how the Nurture classroom has quickly become a cornerstone of our inclusive ethos. Mrs Greer offered a special mention to Peter McCool, Centra, Antrim Road for his ongoing support to the Nurture Classroom by providing snacks for the pupils on a daily basis - school is extremely grateful for this.
Mrs McMaster concluded the afternoon by saying,
'We are incredibly proud of what has been achieved, and deeply grateful to everyone who helped make this vision a reality. Your support, belief, and investment in our children’s wellbeing has made all the difference.'
See photos below.
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