Leitrim school secures Peace Funding

Newtowngore NS along with Greaghrahan NS Ballyconnell, have successfully applied for funding from the ‘Peace IV Programme’.  This programme is funded by the European Regional Development Fund which aims to improve cross-community relations and integrate rural communities.

Pupils from both schools will take part in a shared education initiative with the aim of encouraging children from different communities to build positive relations and enhance their social and educational experiences.

Both schools are similar in that their pupils are drawn from small rural communities and all pupils shall benefit from this initiative. Staff and pupils from each school will work together on various curriculum topics involving field trips, educational outings, project work and the use of ICT.

Teachers agree that this sharing of knowledge and experience will greatly benefit their pupils’ all-round, holistic education and they shall also endeavor  to place more emphasis on ‘learning outside the classroom’.

Staff have already begun planning for the co-operative teaching strategies which will support the shared learning aims of the project. The central theme of the project involves staff and pupils working together and learning from each other in an atmosphere of openness, trust and co-operation.

As well as benefitting educationally, their aim is to build an understanding and tolerance of diversity among pupils and gradually through the wider community. From a social point of view children will also develop an attitude of mutual respect for traditions and beliefs and enhance their sense of responsibility for themselves, the wider community and their environment.