Press Release

31 January 2008

EDU 01/08

EDUCATION COMMITTEE GO BACK TO SCHOOL!

The Northern Ireland Assembly Committee for Education are to visit to St Mary’s College, Creggan next Friday (8 th February) in its first meeting to be held outside Parliament Buildings.

During an informal session the Committee will meet with pupils from St Mary’s and Lisneal College to hear directly their views and opinions on various education topics. The topics, which have been chosen by the pupils themselves, include issues such as ‘the great grammar school debate’ and ‘testing pupils to infinity’. Members will also have informal discussions with teaching staff.

Committee Chairperson, Sammy Wilson MP MLA, said: “The Committee and I are delighted to visit St Mary’s College and have the unique opportunity hear directly from pupils and teachers on their views and concerns.”

Marie Lindsay, Principal of St Mary’s College, said: “I am so pleased the Committee will be visiting St Mary’s and that both pupils and teachers will have the opportunity to speak to the members.”

The Committee will also hold their weekly formal public meeting while visiting the school. Representatives from Roe Valley Learning Community and Foyle Learning Community representatives will inform members of their work on collaboration between schools.

ENDS