MLA helps to Education Unit to Sort It Out?
Mid Ulster MLA and Chair of the Environment Committee Patsy McGlone recently visited St Mary’s P.S. Bellaghy to see for himself the good work carried out by Bryson Education in their Northern Ireland wide recycling education programme ‘Sort It Out!’ This innovative education programme, managed by the Northern Ireland Energy Agency, works with pupils using a variety of teaching methods including school presentations, class room work, site visits, crafts and drama and has made over 1500 school visits in the past three years.
Mr McGlone decided to visit the school after pupils had written letters to the Assembly enquiring about the future of the programme they had just enjoyed, as the current funding provided by the Northern Ireland Environment Agency is due to end in March 09.
During his visit Mr McGlone joined the pupils in a workshop, making their own recycled card from old newspapers and talked to them about what they had learnt from taking part in the programme.
Mr McGlone said, “I was surprised when told that the funding for this valuable programme was under threat. It is vitally important that the Northern Ireland Environment Agency renews the funding for educational programs like ‘Sort it Out’. Reducing and recycling waste material is essential for a sustainable future. That’s the message that programmes such as ‘Sort it Out’ bring directly to these pupils and it is an important message for their future.”
George Lyttle, Senior Education Officer with Bryson Education said “This paper recycling workshop is just one of the activities we offer schools as part of Sort It Out. It is a great activity as it’s very hands on so everyone can get involved regardless of age or ability.” He added “Unfortunately our current funding package is nearly finished and unless we can secure further monies other schools will not be able to benefit from our work.”
Mr Laurence O’Kane, a year seven teacher from St Mary’s said “The input of outside agencies is of great importance to the education of children. The workshops offered by Bryson Education run hand in hand with the Revised Curriculum, inspiring young people to recycle, making them feel like they are doing their bit for the environment.” He added “Encouraging good practice in the youth of today is very important as they are the adults of tomorrow.”