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25/07/2024

£5,000 Boost Brings Joy to Special Schools’ Summer Schemes

Students at the Special Educational Needs (SEN) schools across the Borough, including Riverside School, Jordanstown School, Rostulla School, Hill Croft School and Thornfield School have been enjoying a vibrant Summer Scheme thanks to a £5,000 grant from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council.

With this funding, the schools have introduced a variety of engaging activities and resources for the children. The pupils have delighted in kite-making, Wee Critters, Kidz Farm, and Rich Music, among other activities. Additionally, the funding has enabled the purchase of new equipment that will benefit future academic years.

Mayor of Antrim and Newtownabbey, Councillor Neil Kelly shared his enthusiasm for the schemes,

"It was wonderful to visit Hill Croft School in Newtownabbey and Riverside School in Antrim for their Summer Schemes and witness first-hand the enriching activities made possible by this funding. Seeing the children's excitement and engagement in these activities was truly heart-warming."

Caitlín McCann from Riverside School expressed gratitude,

“Riverside School is so appreciative of the funding we have received from Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council. It has allowed us to provide an excellent Summer Scheme for our pupils across two weeks - packed with a variety of activities, fun and laughter. Our pupils all have severe learning difficulties and their summer holidays can often be very long for them and their families, and so our School Summer Scheme has been a massive support.  Our pupils, families and extended Riverside Family will be forever grateful for the Council’s support.”

Linzi Blair from Hill Croft School added,

“Hill Croft Summer Scheme has been attended this year by over 160 of our pupils across a two-week period. The scheme is vital for both our pupils and their family during the summer months to support routines and allow social experiences with their friends. We are incredibly appreciative of Antrim and Newtownabbey Borough Council for supporting our scheme again this year, which has allowed us to purchase a Treat Lunch on Friday of each week for the pupils’ celebration day. We have also benefited from resources such as messy play items and craft boxes, as well as larger purchases, which future-proof the activities we can provide. It was lovely to show Council Representatives the items from previous years’ funding in use again this year and the pupils’ engagement and enjoyment throughout.”