AUTUMN 2020 - Designed by E Foster - Ulster Teachers' Union
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AUTUMN 2020
1
Designed by E Foster
UTU NEWS
CONTENTS
03 PRESIDENTIAL
COMMENT
UTU President, Stephen
McCord and head of science at
Larne High School comment.
WELCOMED
08 WELLIES
Aughnacloy pupils decorate
local carehome with floral
34
wellies.
35
10 UN75 - TOGETHER
FIRST
Join ‘the conversation’ with the
UN for their 75th anniversary to
stimulate a global coversation on
realising a better world by 2045.
14 LOCKDOWN
HEROES
Pupils from every corner of
36
Northen Ireland share their
stories and lockdown heroes.
17 VIRTUAL CONFERENCE 2020
UTU leads the way with extraordinary first ‘Virtual
Conference’ with over 400 members and delegates
participating.
27 HEALTHY KIDZ AT HART
Pupils at Hart Memorial reaching their physical and
personal best in 2020.
29 MATHLETES OF DRUMGOR
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
Math week with Drumgor Primary School pupils making
the top 4 in the UK.
AND MUCH MORE!
2
UTU NEWS
PRESIDENTIAL COMMENT
I
t was a great honour and issues facing teachers continue and the
to be installed as UTU represent you the member both locally,
President of the nationally and internationally.
Ulster Teachers’ Union Locally, at the end of April the Teachers’
at our extraordinary Negotiating Committee, Management Side and
and virtual conference the Northern Ireland Teachers’ Council
in June. Little did formally ratified an agreement to resolve the long
I imagine when I running industrial dispute of teachers’ pay and
accepted the role workload. This agreement delivers a level of pay
a year earlier what which is in line with colleagues in the rest of the
different and difficult UK for the same pay periods, and NITC have now
circumstances submitted a pay claim for 2019/20 and 2020/21.
teachers and trade We were able to engage with members across
unions would be the province at Branch and Area Association
working under, not only locally but on a global meetings and, thanks to Zoom, the world has
level too. Indeed, it was a great privilege to suddenly become much smaller! We can network
have the opportunity to have a second chance with our members from the comfort of our own
to represent members, and I was fortunate classroom or home!
that my previous term of office gave me an Nationally, our General Secretary and I have
understanding of the mechanics and inner attended the British and Irish Group of Teacher
workings that allowed me to hit the ground Unions during the summer. A joint statement
running in April, as the challenges resulting from was issued and picked up by the press in all
COVID-19 changed the education landscape. jurisdictions. The issues around pupils, teachers
I already understood the huge sense of and these testing times are the same no matter
responsibility that the role of President where we live.
undertakes, representing our teacher and Internationally, it has been a great honour to join
principal members on issues regarding health and the European Trade Union Group of teachers
safety, employment rights, pay and conditions, and listen to the challenges across Europe. Then
mental health and well-being and professional following from that, we were also able to join
development. On this occasion, the issues are EI (Education International) and hear at times
very different. Now teachers require answers and some of the dreadful circumstances our teacher
guidance on remote & blended learning, care for friends across the World are meeting due to
key worker children, the preparation for returning lack of amenities or at times some governments
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
to school, the “new normal” followed by issues ignorance of the pandemic we now live with.
regarding identification of positive cases. Within As we enter the Winter, there will be many more
a few days the issues that you as teachers face challenges and trials that we will
change, and so the UTU adapts to your needs. meet. That has already been seen by our
Despite the Covid-19 situation the challenges Primary 7 teachers and pupils who have the
3
UTU NEWS
PRESIDENTIAL COMMENT
unnecessary worry regarding test dates being for the future. As a Union, we will continue
moved by a few weeks. Our post-primary to challenge those in positions of power and
colleagues have seen a lack lustre response from ensure that the needs of our teachers and pupils
our Education Minister regarding GCSE and GCE are met as we move post-covid.
examinations taking place in 2021. On the other At headquarters too we very quickly adapting
hand, we have recently engaged with a group to the changing circumstances.
of our Principal members and it was great to Our staff and officials are working from home
hear their positive comments regarding pupils, but continue to engage quickly with members’
parents and teachers who have all adapted to emails, queries and concerns. We have also
the new school day. been represented in consultations and meetings
Even before Covid our education system was with the Department of Education and
on its knees. Nothing has changed! Indeed, the Education Authority by our General Secretary
Jacquie White. From the start of lockdown
“What gives me most optimism is and right through the Summer, she has been
our young people themselves and advocating on behalf of our Union.
their ability to see opportunity The experience and professionalism that the
even though crisis.” UTU staff bring to our members is vast and I
wish to place on record my thanks to everyone
crisis we are living through has only deepened of them over these past few months. They have
and highlighted the failings of our undervalued been responding to members outside normal
and under resourced education system. For office hours, often advising and reassuring
too long teachers have lacked professional members regarding the ever-changing
development and as entered lockdown it was circumstances.
teachers own initiatives and resourcefulness In closing, may I thank you the member for all
that allowed the home learning to develop. that you have done over the past few months. I
There are some positives however, thanks to wish you well in your endeavours and trust that
Zoom the world has suddenly become much you and your families will remain safe and well
smaller! We can network with our profession in the coming months.
internationally to see how other countries cope,
and share our expertise. Hopefully we will see
education and its global context differently
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
going forward.
What gives me most optimism is our young
people themselves and their ability to see
opportunity even though crisis. It’s their
resilience which allows me to believe in a
recovery from all this and to envision a hope
STEPHEN MCCORD
UTU PRESIDENT
4
UTU NEWS
GENERAL SECRETARY
FOREWARD
Colleagues
I
t is indicative of the nature of at the centre of our decision-making
education in these recent times that and, if we want to make the reopening
I am writing regarding the latest of schools sustainable, we need to
developments re Covid-19 in schools unpack what exactly is happening and
immediately prior to the release work out how to move forward with
of this edition of the UTU News whilst schools open but with a more robust
not knowing whether it will be current and effective range of mitigations to
when you, the member, reads it. keep everyone safe.
We now know that the planned The Minister has recognised that
reopening of schools on 2nd November the efforts of schools to put in
announced by the First and Deputy First place mitigations can be seriously
Ministers has taken place. undermined by the risks associated with
The return to school for this second the journey to and from school. He has
half-term of Covid embedded education firstly, therefore, strongly encouraged
has brought a different range of parents to wear face coverings in the
anxieties from our previous experience. vicinity of the school building. He has
In August we walked into the further announced that ‘the
unknown; we have now had wearing of face coverings on
the experience of positive all dedicated school buses
diagnoses, bubbles of “we must put the and public transport will
children self-isolating and health and well- be mandatory for all
engagement with the being of the school post-primary children
track and trace process. population at the when schools reopen next
And the number of cases centre of our decision- week’. Whilst these added
is growing. There is on- making” factors are welcomed and,
going political and medical if adhered to, could have a
debate as to whether schools very beneficial impact on the
should be open at all and school situation.
whether by being open they are However, the enforcement of these
serving to keep the R number at a level mitigations is for the Department of
which is not manageable by society. Education to consider and is not the
The overwhelming feeling, whether responsibility of schools.
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
from politicians, parents, children or What is the responsibility of schools
the principals and teachers themselves is the mitigations inside the school
is that the best place for our children is building and what is clear is that we
in school. There is no question that that need clear information, medically-based
is the case. But we must put the health advice and properly funded practices to
and well-being of the school population move forward.
5
UTU NEWS
UTU has serious concerns regarding the continue to move forward without
impact of absences of both staff and the appropriate financial support.
children in relation to positive Covid-19 Just prior to the return to school the
diagnoses and associated self-isolating Minister, Peter Weir, announced funding
and has been engaging with DE to of almost £64 million ‘to help schools
obtain relevant data. The functioning of manage Education Authority pressures,
our education system depends on the COVID-19 pressures and for free school
health and well-being of our principals, meals’.
teachers and other school staff and He stated that ‘the funding, which has
the manner in which the data has been been allocated as part of the October
reported to date appears disingenuous monitoring round, includes £49.4
and does not reflect the experiences million to cover additional costs such
of members. It is imperative that as maintenance, staffing, cleaning and
proper scrutiny is given to the actual other pressures, and £12.8 million to
situation in our schools and that the cover for a range of pressures including
direction of travel is grounded robustly those in Special Educational Needs, and
both in reality and in properly funded schools maintenance’.
mitigations. We are currently seeking clarification
UTU has been seeking a meaningful as to the distribution of and access
breakdown of the data regarding to this funding and the other issues
positive cases and numbers self- outlined above. We will keep you
isolating amongst both staff and informed of progress.
children. DE is working with us on
this and we hope to have statistics in PAY AND WORKLOAD AGREEMENT
the coming days which will serve as a Work continues with Management Side
starting point to reconsider and move regarding the workload elements of the
forward. Pay and Workload Agreement which
Whilst we are aware of a considerable was agreed in April 2020.
number of cases in primary schools The time budget element was the first
this is particularly of concern in post- priority with the intention being that
primary settings. The PHA has informed every teacher would have a time budget
the teaching unions that 11-17 year olds reflecting the varying demands of their
are ‘just as likely to spread infection as particular roles in schools in place by
an adult’ and we must therefore pose the beginning of the academic year.
the questions as to why the ‘relaxing’ Events, most notably Covid, impacted
of mitigations for this age group is on the original timetable and, in order
acceptable in comparison to those to facilitate training and advice, and
recommended for adults generally. This in recognition that there were many
would include the guidance around pressing issues for Principals to deal
social distancing and that of the wearing with in schools, the date was extended
of face coverings in public areas. This to 31st October with the time worked
is of particular concern considering so far to be taken into account.
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
the current plans to continue with UTU ran a series of virtual workshops
GCSE and A level examinations and the to answer queries and provide support
huge barriers being faced by both the and the Officials continue to work
teachers and the children in trying to with Principals and teachers on an
prepare accordingly. individual basis. Whilst it appears that
And, of course, schools cannot the majority of our schools now have
6
UTU NEWS
the time budget in place please do of Education and the Department of
not hesitate to contact us if you need Finance. This information has now
further clarification or guidance. been made available on the UTU
The other two priority issues website and further guidance will issue
were the establishment of Joint in the coming days.
Consultative Committees and the
workload proofing of New Initiatives. https://www.utu.edu/pension-
A working group comprising NITC and consultation-transitional-protection-
Management Side representatives arrangements/
are currently establishing Terms of
Reference and direction of travel A number of consultations have
for each of these areas and further been released in regard to Special
meetings are scheduled to take place Educational Needs: the ‘Public
in the near future. We will report back Consultation on the Draft Special
on progress. Schools Area Planning Framework’;
Progress has also been made in the ‘Public Consultation on the Draft
terms of the reviews. Following Framework for Specialist Provision
the reconstitution of the Teachers’ in Mainstream Schools and Draft
Negotiating Committee, efforts are Framework for Specialist Provision in
now being made to establish the Mainstream Schools – Pilot’ and the
appropriate frameworks and access New SEN Framework. Meetings will
and establish the required personnel be commencing shortly regarding
and expertise. It is the current aim that responses to these consultations. If
the work proper will commence in any member would like to be involved
January 2021. in the UTU response please email your
details to office@utu.edu and we will
CONSULTATIONS ensure you receive the details.
Despite the inevitable focus We wish you well for the next half-
on Covid-19 there are further term and can assure you of UTU’s
consultations on-going in respect of continued help and support in dealing
terms and conditions and practice in with any issues which arise. We
schools and in the wider system. encourage you to browse through
The most pressing is the consultation the UTU News – there are elements
on public sector pensions and the which offer a beacon of light in these
remedies required to redress the challenging times and will remind you
inequalities determined by the of why you’re continuing to do what
McCloud/Sargeant judgements. Many you do.
members have expressed an interest
in responding to this consultation and Enjoy – and keep safe.
have been seeking information and
guidance in that regard. A great deal of
work has been taking place behind the
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
scenes to ensure that the information
to be released by unions, both
teaching and public sector generally,
to their members is in line with that
to be provided by the Department JACQUIE WHITE
GENERAL SECRETARY
7
UTU NEWS
Welcomed wellies BRIGHTEN up carehome
Pupils from Augnacloy PS
colourful lockdown connection
with local carehome residents
T
he boys and girls
from Aughnacloy
Primary School have
all been really busy
over this past number
of months. They have been
working on their Home-learning Aughnacloy Primary School pupils with their wellie flower pots
Literacy, Numeracy and World
Around Us packs as well as looking at the flower
enjoying lots of different articles, pots and some even
challenges and reports on watered the plants.
NewsDesk.
We wanted to tell you about Special Connection
something that we are very We have a special
proud of. During lockdown we connection with the
challenged our pupils to plant home, as many of our
a flower in a Recycled welly pupils have relatives
boot to make a special kind of who live or work there.
flowerpot! Several times a year
We were amazed at just we visit the home and
how many pupils rose to the sing for the residents.
challenge. There were literally It took two car loads to
transport all the lovely We all look forward to
dozens of pairs of wellies! They seeing all the staff and
all looked different. wellies. Mrs McKeown, was
just delighted to receive residents in the near-
Many had been decorated and future.
jazzed up with special sparkles, the donations and she
positioned them around the If you want to see
paint and ribbons, while others some more pictures of
had messages attached to them. conservatory and along the
wall outside the home. the beautiful display of
The special flower pots were colourful wellies, check
heading to a new home. The residents, who were
not allowed any visitors at out Copperfields Private
Copperfields Private Nursing Nursing Home Facebook
Home in Aughnacloy. the time, really enjoyed
page.
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
8 Socially distanced wellies
UTU NEWS
Duneane Primary School classes move outdoors!
W ith the current
advice to use
outdoor areas as
much as possible for teaching
and learning, Duneane
Primary School have taken
full advantage of the space
available to them. As well as
regular outdoor play sessions,
pupils have been working
in their school garden and
making use of their seated
Forest School area in the
adjoining church grounds.
To enhance their outdoor
provision in the current
circumstances, the PTA
purchased a gazebo which has
been erected over existing
picnic tables. This provides
a great area for practical activities and working with learning space and the opportunities available to them,
groups of children. Sides can easily be attached when
making the challenging circumstances into a positive
required to provide shelter from the wind and rain.
Dunenae Primary School pupils are loving their extended experience.
Period poverty among Northern Ireland pupils
must not be sidelined
Period poverty among Northern Ireland pupils is in danger of being sidelined as schools battle
with the Covid crisis. “We are the only region in the UK not to have centrally-funded free
sanitary products in schools, relying instead on a charity to provide them,” said Jacquie White,
General Secretary of the Ulster Teachers’ Union.
“Not having access to sanitary products because they can’t afford
them is undignified and humiliating. It impacts a young person’s
mental health and well being and that stigma can stay with them in
later life. “It is shameful that Northern Ireland is relying on a charity
to provide free sanitary products in schools when every other
1 in 10 girls and women aged
region in the UK has a centrally funded resource.” 14 to 21 years old said they
“The situation here wasn’t helped by the fact our Executive didn’t hadn’t been able to afford
sit for three years while England, Scotland and Wales were sanitary protection
pressing forward to help girls and young women. Then by the
time it did, Covid was top of the agenda. “Now we are returning
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
of 14 to 21 year olds have to some kind of normality and schools are operating again, we must ensure that issues like
missed an entire day of school period poverty are not forgotten.
because of their period - of “Research published by the charity Plan International indicated that one in 10 girls between
which 59% made up a lie or an the ages of 14 and 21 in the UK have been unable to afford sanitary products, while 49%
alternative excuse
have missed an entire day of school because of their period. “Given the pay cuts and job
losses which have and will in the future result from the pandemic, coupled with the acute
levels of poverty already existing here, it is more important than ever that girls don’t have to miss out on school because
they can’t afford appropriate products.”
9
UTU NEWS
T
ogether
First is
a new
worldwide
project
instigated this
year by the United
Nations (UN) for its
75th Anniversary to
stimulate a global
conversation on
realising a better
world by 2045, the
100th Anniversary
of the UN. Our
experience
is that ‘the
Conversation’ is
TOGETHER FIRST- JOIN
already flourishing
amongst young
people in Northern
‘THE CONVERSATION’
Ireland. The United
Nations Association
in Northern Ireland
(UNA NI) is one of
many worldwide UNA which affect us all new local Councils
groups which promote worldwide, such as with a school in their
the aims of the UN Human Rights, Gender district through the
and here in NI we have Inequality and Climate presentation of a copy
seen over many years Change. of the UN Charter.
that young people, Consider 2015, the None of us foresaw
in particular, seize 70th Anniversary of the extent of the
the opportunity to the founding of the enthusiasm of both the
participate in events UN. Here in Northern Councils and the many
which allow them to Ireland we, in UNA schools that eventually
voice their opinions NI, created a project took part. Invariably the
and concerns on issues to link each of the 11 Mayor of each Council
hosted a reception
for the event and the
students prepared
reports on the
international work
in which they were
engaged through
the curriculum or
extra-curricular
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
activities. They also
presented a copy
of the UN Charter
to the Mayor and
Council. Listening to
the pupils’ talk with
understanding about
10UTU NEWS
Sustainable Development, Climate Executive Officer of ChildFund Ireland,
Change, Food Security, Human Rights an organisation whose worldwide
and Fairtrade, for instance, and work includes promoting children’s
demonstrate their involvement in their rights and campaigning for policies
projects was truly inspiring. The series that protect children.
of events culminated in a reception at Last year we teamed up with the
Parliament Buildings, Stormont with a National Union of Journalists to
presentation of the UN Charter to the raise awareness for World Press
Speaker of the Assembly. These young Freedom Day in May with a seminar
for journalism students from Queen’s
University and the University of Ulster,
the Belfast Metropolitan College and
other senior pupils. Titled ‘The Media
and Democracy – Why Journalism
Matters’, the seminar was dedicated
to Lyra McKee and addressed by
senior journalists including Jim
Boumelha who spoke of the current
aim to encourage the UN to adopt a
convention on the safety of journalists.
The final young people’s event of 2019
was hosted by the Armagh Robinson
Library to mark the 30th Anniversary
people had a role to play, not only of the adoption of the UN Convention
in their own communities but in the on the Rights of the Child. The Library
wider world. prepared an exhibition of items from
Many of you will remember taking its collection on children’s rights
part in a Model United Nations from the 18th century and Primary
Assembly (MUN), where students 3 pupils from the Drelincourt School
take responsibility for representing celebrated with Koulla Yiasouma, the
a UN member country through role NI Commissioner for Children and
play. This particular introduction to Young People.
world politics enables them to have
the confidence to debate issues of
international concern. Throughtheir
preliminary research, the students gain
knowledge of their country’s culture,
economy and politics and a sometimes
temporary empathy for their values
and human rights.
UN Day, October 24th, is always an
occasion to celebrate and promote
the work of the UN. In 2018, we
arranged a meeting for sixth formers
at the Palace Demesne, Armagh and
invited Captain Tom Fitzpatrick of the
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
UN Training School Ireland to speak UNA NI has enjoyed the challenge
to local sixth formers on his service of seeking new ways to link with
abroad as part of the UN Irish Peace schools, colleges and universities
Keeping Force. He was joined by Kevin across Northern Ireland. We have
Hyland OBE, the UK’s first Independent endeavoured to organise visits from
Anti-Slavery Commissioner, who our colleagues based in London.
had since been appointed as Chief Sir Jeremy Greenstock spoke at a
11UTU NEWS
meeting in Stormont during his term on the wide range of issues that the
in office as the UNA UK Chairman. UN works on, day by day. They
Our Executive Director, Natalie have been sorted according to their
Samarasinghe, has inspired students suitability for Primary and Secondary
on two visits, including the pupils who Schools and are a valuable teaching
resource. Please take a look.
‘Together First’, from the title of this
article, is a 75th Anniversary initiative
from the UN to encourage new voices
to engage in the transformation of
global governance. Who better to do
this than our young people? Many
are already involved as we in UNA NI
have evidenced but even more could
join the discussion – there are so
many topics to get them thinking and
talking which will be of importance
to their daily lives. A quote from a
had set up the UNA NI website and pupil who spoke at the reception at
had the pleasure of speaking with her. our 70th Anniversary celebrations in
She is currently on sabbatical in New Parliament Buildings is an uplifting
York serving as UN75 Deputy and
Chief of Strategy but will be recording
a ‘Thought for the Day’ for BBC NI to
be broadcast on October 26th.
This year, we will be marking
the 75th Anniversary in NI, not as
expected with a special event and
dinner in the Belfast Harbour Office,
but in the on-line company of Liz
Weir, an NI award-winning storyteller
and writer who will be storytelling
to highlight the UN’s Sustainable
Development
Goals as part of the CADA One
World Festival NI, an event open to
conclusion: ‘… as young people on
the brink of adulthood, we are aware
of the challenges facing the world…
We are fortunate to live in a society
where we are valued as full citizens of
our nations and where we can grow,
flourish and create futures full of
opportunity, where we are protected
and cherished and an excellent
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
education is our birth right. … we
have a particular duty to use our skills
and opportunities to speak out for
young people in the world who are
all. We have also produced a list of still without even the basic essentials
excellent videos for the UTU website for a life worth living. …’
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Authority. Registered address: 95 Finaghy Road South, Belfast BT10 0BY.UTU Competition allows pupils to show creative
flair of their heroes or best day during lockdown!
T he annual
international
relations
competition this
year allowed pupils
to focus on Lockdown
Heroes or their
favourite day during
lockdown.
The entries
far exceeded
any previous
competition and
the standard
was absolutely
amazing. The
members of
the committee
had so many
wonderful entries
to look at, from
poetry to short
stories, art work
and even video
clips. Prizes were
distributed as e-gift
cards to the overall
winners. We hope
you enjoy looking
at some of the
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
winning photos,
stories and poems.
You can see many
more on the UTU
Facebook video.
14STAY AT HOME
STAY ALERT
When this is all over, we
will.............
Swimming on Saturdays,
lots of fun.
Travelling to Granny’s for
fun in the sun.
A lot of hugs because we
missed them most.
You and I will enjoy holidays
up at the coast.
Taking long walks in places
we have never been,
Our mission should now be
to keep our environment
clean.
Going to McDonalds, out
with some friends,
Everyone working together
to ensure that this ends.
This virus has taught us to
be grateful for school,
How I look forward to going
back, that day will be cool.
Every day we are closer so
keep this in mind,
Remember to hug when
you can and always be kind.
By Aflie Lee
The World is on Hold There are no new Going to the shop I can cope with isolation
------------------------- pictures Or splashing in the pool And the restrictions it
For hanging on the wall. Playing in the park can bring.
The clock’s ticking by For the NHS we clap at Even going to school! But my abrupt end to
But the world is on hold night primary school
In the warm mid-year air, It gives us hope Our concert time has I find the hardest thing.
still inside we are cold For the end of this come and gone
With worry and fear, tunnel, seeing light No chance to show what But this life is a journey
With doubt and dread we can do of tunnels and bridges
And nothing to go by If you can see through How inspiring it will be to Of twists and turns
except what is said the grey skies work And dips and ridges
and in to the blue In groups: choirs, But after a downhill
America says ‘yes’ and You will see all the things orchestras and lessons there’s always a rise
Australia says ‘no’ you can discover anew too Just think of the future
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
Scotland says ‘stop’ and and look up to the skies...
England says ‘go’ Like your hobbies, those We’re missing out on all
T.V, papers, Radio, news day trips, the things Katie Soper
Everyone, pushing Your friends too. that make a year, a year Age 11
So we will listen to their But the things we took The trips, concerts and KS2
views for granted tournaments P7
are the things I most I could have been in Strandtown Primary
Classes, empty want to do. Holland, not here! School
and silence in the hall
15INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS
What I am Looking The home-schooling is I really want to get WINNERS
Forward to After hard. playing again. Overall Winner: Alyssa E, Harding Memorial Primary School
Lockdown I really miss a teacher. I love my caravan and I Nursery
miss it so. 1st Prize
2nd Prize
Felicity M, Ballygawley Early Years
Charlotte W Millington Nursery School
When this lockdown’s I can’t wait to get hugs Can’t wait to get back 3rd Prize Eve J, Lisbellaw Community Nursery,
& Archie A, Cooley Primary School & Nursey unit
over. from Granny. there thou.
Things won’t be the And have a sleepover at Foundation
1st Prize Laura H, Enniskillen Model School
same. her house. Lockdown has given me 2nd Prize
3rd Prize
Emily B Fivemiletown Primary School
Olivia A, Cooley Primary School & Nursery unit
Social distances of 2 But I really miss my lots of things. &Ruby R, Dromara Primary School
metres to remain. Auntie Karen. Special time with my
Who is working hard for family. KS1
I can’t wait to be free of the NHS. Playing games and having 1st Prize
2nd Prize
Amelia M, Strathearn Prep
Alfie L, Aughnacloy Primary School
3rd Prize
lockdown fun. Alex H, Pondpark primary school
& Victoria G, Castle Gardens Primary School,
& Abigail W, Millington Primary School
So, I can visit my friends I can’t wait to get back to Riding my bike and & Anna W, Ballydown Primary School,
again. rugby. enjoying the sun. KS2
Riding motocross tracks. And playing golf. 1st Prize Darcie K, Howard Primary school
And visiting the Gortin So excited for so much But I can’t wait for it to 2nd Prize
3rd Prize
Jack B, Birches Primary School
Katie S, Strandtown Primary School
Glens. more. be over. & Amelie B, Carrowdore Primary School
Lennox B, Strabane CPS
Gracie M, Garryduff Primary School.
Can’t wait to get out the Katie S, Strandtown Primary School
I can’t believe I am saying door. Lennox KS3
this. P6, 1st Prize
2nd Prize
Sarah M, Larne High School
Sri L, Aquinas Grammar School Belfast
But I miss my school and I can’t stop thinking Strabane CPS 3rd Prize Ethan M, Ulida Ulidia Integrated College
Carrickfergus
friends. about my friends & Hannah R, Larne High school
Nicole T, Royal School Dungannon
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
16UTU NEWS
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
VIRTUAL CONFERENCE
2020 Leading the way with the first extraordinary
Virtual Conference
O
ver 400 ‘virtual’
delegates attended
an extraordinary
online conference
on Wednesday
17 June. With the UTU March
conference cancelled due to
the Government lockdown, the
central executive committee
decided to bring forward three
emergency motions which
were debated and supported
by members attending. “We
felt it was vital that grassroots
membership should have their
say in helping chart the future
for their profession during
this time of unprecedented
upheaval,” said Jacquie White,
General Secretary of the UTU. will demand assurances that
“The pandemic crisis has seen chance for them to air their things will change and schools
teachers become the fourth fears and demand better going will be adequately resourced,
emergency service as they man forward. “Before this outbreak, funded and staffed.” As well
schools, regardless of their rarely a day went by without as this, delegates will also vote
own health worries, to help on a another motion calling
keep key workers’ children in “The pandemic crisis for adequate post pandemic
class so their parents man the has seen teachers mental health support for
front line. “As some sort of new become the fourth pupils and staff, as well as a
normal starts to coalesce, we emergency service” third addressing workload and
have become aware of the key assessment. “Our children are
areas of concern exercising some sort of new financial crisis living through extraordinary
our members, and this rocking our education system times, which will leave their
extraordinary event is a as principals were forced to mark more deeply on some
make staff redundant, cut than others. Undoubtedly,
classroom resources and even there will be a mental health
ask parents to provide toilet fall-out for them and for their
roll in a desperate attempt teachers as they acclimatise
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
to reduce gro,wing deficits to a new normal following this
– some running into seven unprecedented crisis which
figures – and that was just to has taken hundreds of loved
keep afloat. Susan Thompson, ones from us,” continued
outgoing President, commented Mrs Thompson. “We want
Education Minister - Peter Weir
that “In our first motion we assurances that mental
17UTU NEWS
health support will be readily “We have seen Down principal said she had
available for all who need it, no leadership, no done door step food drops
while on a more practical level engagement and our to families who rang her in
we also need assurances on hard work has been desperation with nothing to
logistics. disregarded.” eat, while another said her
“What will a new school day phone would regularly ping
look like, for instance? How will Minister, and members of with messages from pupils
special educational needs and the Education Committee. at 3, 4 and 5am. A Belfast
assessment issues be handled The incoming President Mr teacher said she took a call
Stephen McCord branded the from a mum with two children
Education Minister’s attitude who have additional
towards his profession as
‘scandalous’. Addressing the
UTU’s emergency online
conference just after being
installed as President, he
blasted what he said was the
Daniel McCrossan - SDLP Minister’s ‘lack of leadership’.
“When Peter Weir spoke to
and what are the workload our conference today I didn’t Chris Lyttle - Alliance
ramifications for teachers of all hear any clarity. Unlike the
this? Health Minister who stood up educational needs and who
“These are the issues on and said he would not allow was also a key worker. “She
which we want – and deserve any worker in the NHS to be was distraught but I managed
– clarity. For too long the put in danger, we feel we have to talk her through things.
education system has been been totally disregarded,” said All these instances though
running on empty, shored up Mr McCord. “We have seen no take their toll mentally on the
by little more than the goodwill leadership, no engagement teachers too who are coping
of our profession. “It had, with their own lockdown
however, reached critical mass challenges, looking after older
and could not carry on. There parents and maybe home
has never been a better time schooling themselves,” she
for the Minister to listen to continued. In the first crisis
those at the chalkface, those motion of this extraordinary
who know best, and to do the conference, delegates called
right thing.” Susan Thompson for assurances on adequate
addressed attendees with Robbie Butler - UUP resources and funding
her Presidential address. The to ensure schools were
theme “Uniting, trusting and and our hard work has been adequately staffed, funded
understanding Teachers” was disregarded.” Some of the and resourced so no child
given even more poignancy most impassionate speakers would be adversely affected by
given the timing and addressed the motion calling the crisis as a result of being
circumstances. She made note on mental health support for from a lower income family. In
that never before was there all who need it as soon as they a third motion teachers also
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
a time for the profession to need it, including teachers. demanded clarity on what
stand up and demand to make Conference heard how they the new school term will look
change in education. She also were often working late into like regarding hygiene, social
made clear that we require the night and early hours distancing, PPE, school meals,
a culture of trust. Delegates taking calls and messages transport, pick up and drop off
attending were also addressed from parents and pupils about arrangements.
by Mr Peter Weir, Education home schooling. One Co
18UTU NEWS
MOTIONS FOR SPECIAL CONFERENCE
WEDNESDAY 17 JUNE 2020
1. Conference notes with concern the significant health of both pupils and teachers and ensure
disruption that has been caused to children’s that active and easily reachable services are
education. Conference commends the efforts available before and during the return to school.
of schools to provide learning opportunities
for their pupils and care for the children of 3. As we return to school, Conference wishes to
Key Workers. Conference demands that the place on record our serious concerns regarding
Education Minister and Education Authority give what a new school teaching day will look like, how
full assurance that schools will be fully financed, SEN issues and assessment procedures will be
resourced and staffed when we return to school managed and what workload may be demanded
in the next academic year. Conference calls on of teachers. Conference firstly demands time
the authorities to ensure that the health and well-
for school leaders and teachers to establish
being of both children and staff are prioritised.
routines and practices. This time should be
included clearly in the time budget to allow for
2. Conference commends the work that has
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
already started with stakeholders with regard the adaptation and assessment of work as we
to considering the safe return to school. introduce blended learning to pupils. Conference
Conference is also mindful of the trauma that instructs the General Secretary, Officers and
“Lockdown” will have on school communities. CEC to demand how the new agreement
Conference asks the Employing Authorities and which sets out clearly the statutory terms
Management to be cognisant of the mental and conditions of teachers should be fulfilled.
19UTU NEWS
At the recent FIT (Future
In Teaching) group
NEW FUTURE IN
AGM, Jillian Jones was TEACHING VICE
elected as the new Vice
Chairperson of the Future CHAIRPERSON
In Teaching Group
ELECTED
Jillian is currently a Key Stage 2 teacher many meetings. It was then I realised
(amongst wearing many other leadership how much the UTU do for teachers across
hats) in Desertmartin Primary School Northern Ireland. It was at this point that
and has been in this position for 4 years I knew that UTU was the union that I was
now. Here is a little bit about her teaching going to join after I had finished university.
journey so far and how she became I joined the FIT group after graduating and
involved with the UTU. found it highly useful when applying for
After completing four very fun filled jobs (finding out exactly how you fill out
years at Stranmillis University College, those extremely long applications). The
I took an alternative path in securing FIT meetings are informative and on a plus
my first teaching position. Rather than note, they’re a great way to meet other
going straight onto the subbing register, teachers (even if it’s not talking about
I interviewed for and was offered school!) and get help where you need it.
a Stranmillis internship working for One thing I find most beneficial about
Barnardo’s. This was an exciting and the FIT group is that all the members in it
creative job, working in one school as are in the same position – needing help
one of their support teachers, whilst in some aspect of their teaching careers
also juggling part-teaching a P7 class and or wanting to share ideas that have
helping parents find more creative and helped them along the way. It’s a group
active ways to help their children learn. of teachers who you can come to ask all
This also meant that I learnt to become the awkward questions about schoolwork
adaptable in a school scenario, which but it’s also somewhere you can go to just
in turn led me to my very first full-time listen to how others are dealing with the
teaching job in the same school with one everyday difficulties of being a teacher.
of their P1 classes. When my year was Any beginning/recently qualified
completed, I joined the whole host of teachers, I hope to see you at our next
other teachers on the subbing register. meeting. Watch out for the invite and
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
Fast forward a couple of years and (after why not introduce yourself to Ashton
countless interviews), I was lucky enough (Chair) or myself! If you want to find out
to land my current permanent position. more information about FIT, contact UTU
I completed my alternate placement with HQ and the office staff will pass on your
the UTU, shadowing Jacquie and Avril to details.
20UTU NEWS
To apply and find out if you are due a refund click here
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
21UTU NEWS
Early intervention ‘critical’ for autistic children in Northern Ireland
W ithout critical early
interventions for
children displaying
autistic tendencies, Northern
Ireland risks a lost generation.
funding to be used towards
early interventions for these
children.
“We have actively been
following up with some
before Covid was in crisis and
now teachers have been left
with even greater challenges.
“The Minister has secured
some funding and we
Jacquie White, General would urge this should be
Secretary for the Ulster used towards an increase
Teachers’ Union, which in capacity for early
represents about 6,000 intervention among nursery
members, was speaking after and foundation stage children
comments made to Ministers who are awaiting assessment
on 21 October 2020 by so they can get extra support.
parents and charities involved of these support services, “Without these critical
in the autism sector. especially regarding their role assessments, these children
They highlighted the in schools,” said Ms White. – as well as their families and
challenges being faced by “Children with autism have their teachers - will be left
both children and their been disproportionately struggling.
parents who, they said, had affected by the pandemic, Without
been left without support. and now that schools are it we risk
back teachers too are facing letting
“Without it we risk letting the full impact and fall- down and
down and losing this out from that among both losing this
generation of young people.” children who have autism as generation
well as their other pupils. of young
Now Northern Ireland “The situation regarding people.
teachers are calling for extra support for these children
Pond Park Primary Principal Honoured
The Principal of Pond Park Primary School, Lisburn, Mr Geoffrey
Cherry has recently been honoured in the Queen’s Birthday
Honours List for services to Education and awarded the MBE.
Geoffrey is the Principal of the role of my school Governors who have
Pond Park Primary School selflessly invested so much time into Pond Park.
and the pupils are regular I only ever wanted to teach and this award is
competitors in the BBC School Choir of the Year dedicated too to the children I’ve met along the
and have been placed both as runners-up and way.
winners in recent years. He is also a popular Mr Cherry has also been involved in the music
choirmaster and pianist in Belvoir Parish Church team in Belvoir Parish for almost 25 years. He
of Ireland. said that “Belvoir is a wonderful, accepting
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
“I was obviously delighted to receive the news community of people. I’m ‘in charge’ of the
a few weeks ago,” said Geoffrey. “It is an choir, a unique group of people who support
honour I accept on behalf of many people who each other in so many ways. Belvoir is such an
have journeyed with me. I’ve been blessed exciting church to belong to and the music and
to have worked with outstanding colleagues worship is valued and appreciated by all.”
who have supported me professionally and The Ulster Teachers’Union sends our warmest
22 personally throughout my career. I also value congratulations to Mr Geoffrey MBE.Your new UTU Membership Plus Card
has arrived! Activate it now to access
over 1,500 savings.
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ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
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ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
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24 Offer details correct at time of publication. Please always check the website or app for full details of each offer before redeeming.Discounts on your doorstep...
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ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
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26
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Offer details correct at time of publication. Please always check the website or app for full details of each offer before redeeming.UTU NEWS
Wellbeing at the Hart of
everything they do!!!!!
By Susan Thompson
H art Memorial Primary School is
stepping out to ensure all children
reach their physical and personal
best in the year ahead. Hart Memorial has
teamed up with Healthy Kidz, bringing real
enthusiasm for physical activity, building
core strength, co-ordination, agility,
balance and speed. Now, in 2020, we are
also bringing Healthy Mind lessons into the
classroom as well.
Every class has three full outdoor PE
sessions per week – regardless of weather:
just get on the wet weather gear and go!
– and an additional outdoor activity to
maximise the time spent outdoors and
the positive effect this has on mental and
emotional health. The weekly sessions are “In the Hart, the needs
based at each year group’s level of skill, of our pupils are at the
and link to all aspects of the NI Physical heart of every decision we
Education Curriculum. The sessions are make!”
incredibly popular with all classes from
Nursery to P7. Children love to see
Healthy Kidz coaches around the school
– Coach Steve and Assistant Coach Jamie
are total celebrities in the Hart!
This high level focus on physical and
emotional wellbeing took off in response
to educational research into the effects of
the Covid lockdown on children and young
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
people. Following their mission statement
“In the Hart, the needs of our pupils are
at the heart of every decision we make!”
the Hart Memorial staff embraced the
broadening of the Healthy Kidz approach
with open arms.
27UTU NEWS
The new Healthy Kidz’
Emotional Wellbeing
website means all staff can
access a wealth of resources
and link the physical activity
focus to all other areas of
the statutory curriculum:
PDMU, WAU, Literacy,
Numeracy and more! The
activity planning aspect of
the Healthy Kidz website
has ensured teachers have
time to deliver inspiring
lessons which create
enthusiasm and excitement
among pupils. The range
of activities that can be
delivered in the classroom
require minimal equipment
and no physical contact
between pupils. Staff and
children work together
to ensure all lessons are
recorded on the bespoke
Healthy Kidz app and are
linked to physical homework
activities. Certificates for
all children taking part plus
additional rewards and
bonus prizes are distributed
each half term.
An additional benefit of
Healthy Kidz is that it has enabled P6 and P7 children to
enjoy after school clubs for each class during September and
October, at a time when most schools have had to suspend
their extra-curricular activities. This will be rolled out to
different classes during each term of the school year!
ULSTER TEACHERS’ UNION
The pupils at Hart Memorial Primary School, Portadown,
are certainly lucky as well as healthy kids!!
For more information contact
paul@healthy-kidz.com
Tel: 07708 519 249
www.healthy-kidz.com
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