‘It is a great privilege to educate a child’

Year 13 and 14 subject mentors at Banbridge High School along with Mr Andrew Bell, principal, with Mrs Siobhan Haines, head of 6th form. INBL4513-BBHS2

Principal Mr Andrew Bell paid tribute to the achievements of the young people of the school during his speech.

He revealed that the Year 12 external examination results were the best results the school has ever had and there was an overall improvement in the results. “All our pupils achieved at all levels whether it was GCSEs, Double Award BTec Level 2 qualifications or Occupational Studies. May I offer my congratulations to all,” he said.

Mr Bell thanked the Board of Governors, the senior management team, parents and staff.

He continued, “Banbridge High has had over 50 years of developing as a school. It has a skill of looking at the needs of its young people and responding in a way which helps facilitate their development in so many aspects of their lives, not just educationally, but also emotionally, physically and psychologically, “

The speech then addressed how the school engages with the community.

“For charity envolvement there have been Action MS sponsored walks in Tollymore and Slieve Donard Sponsored Climb in aid of Cancer Focus NI and the Tesco Bag Pack and more.”

The principal added, “The education of a child is one of the most important tasks that society delegates: it is the greatest of privilege and responsibility to be given to anyone. We need to nurture the young person, encourage and cultivate their strengths, give them positive role models so that their roots are deep, that they have confidence in what they believe and that they have a clear sense of direction.

“Whether we stand in a classroom, write in a newspaper or prepare the family meal we have a moral responsibility to give our young people the best possible opportunities.”