Chairman Hosts American Trainee Teachers

Newry, Mourne and Down District Chairman, Councillor Mark Murnin marked the arrival of visiting trainee teachers from James Madison University in Virginia with a reception in Bagenal’s Castle on Tuesday, 7 May 2019.

Speaking at the event the Chairman said, “I am delighted to welcome 13 trainee teachers and two professors of education to the district; this continues our long-standing collaboration with James Madison University. In the five years we have been working together some 72 visitors have come to our area. This is a fantastic way to develop relationships between our regions, expanding our educational links and enhancing the learning capabilities of our young people.

"Our district has first class educational establishments that provide an unrivalled education, tailored to the many different needs of all our students. The education of our children and young people is fundamental to the Council’s mission of leading and serving a district that is prosperous, healthy and sustainable.

“This project is growing from strength to strength, with wide support from St Colman’s College, St Paul’s High School, Bessbrook Primary School, Mullaglass Primary School, Rathore Primary School, Sacred Heart Grammar, St Ronan’s Primary and Windsor Hill Primary School. We are always keen to further expand relationships like this one, as they are extremely beneficial for all the local schools involved and the community as a whole.

“I want to thank our local teachers, and especially those with us today from the local schools for taking the opportunity to develop these international educational links. These links help our young people to acquire knowledge and skills outside of the classroom environment which will benefit them in their future careers.

“To all of our students, I thank you for being excellent ambassadors for our area. I wish you every success in your studies and future careers.

“Aim high, be happy and never forget to advocate on behalf of our district – we are proud of you and hope, in turn, that you are proud of Newry, Mourne and Down.”