Primary School children came together for a “twinning” initiative to learn about Good Relations, break down social barriers, and improve communication.
P6 pupils from six primary schools in east Belfast and Holywood participated in the initiative, which was supported by Clanmil Housing. It was delivered by Sport Changes Life with support from the NI Housing Executive and the Department for Communities Housing for All Shared Housing Programme.
Pupils from Nettlefield Primary School were twinned with St Matthew’s Primary School, while Harding Memorial Integrated joined Cregagh Primary School. St Patrick’s in Holywood teamed up with Knocknagoney Primary School.
Colin McIlwaine of Sport Changes Life said the initiative was a great way for primary school children to get to know each other and learn about good relations.
He said, “The Twinning project is designed to foster positive relationships, using sports as a tool for promoting good relations, teamwork, and understanding between two schools. The P6 children are taking part in a variety of sports and team-building activities, which aim to break down social barriers, improve communication, and encourage mutual respect. As well as making new friends, the children will be encouraged to become ambassadors for unity and inclusion in their communities.”
Lauren Hamidi Craig and Ashleigh Shaw, Community Investment Officers with Clanmil Housing added: “The children are having fun playing a variety of sports, but they’re also learning about important issues like equality, respect, friendship and the importance of trying your best, all of which we want to support as part of our good relations work.”
Karl Hogg, a teacher at Knocknagoney Primary School teacher said: “A huge thank you to Clanmil Housing for supporting the Twinning programme through Sports Changes Life. We had a fantastic time participating in the interactive and engaging sessions that taught the students how to communicate effectively as a team. Additionally, we had a great time at the festival event at St. Patrick’s Primary School.”
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