Pupils from Scoil an Droichid, St Joseph’s Primary School, and St Malachy’s Primary School participated in a storytelling project led by poet and author Nandi Jola, exploring themes of home, community and belonging.
Through interactive workshops, students reflected on what “home” means to them by engaging in storytelling and creating artwork and poetry.
And their work has now been brought together in a published book, giving young people from the Market area of South Belfast a meaningful platform to express their voices and extend a warm welcome to new residents of the Gasworks shared housing development.
A celebration event took place on Friday 22 May 2026 at the Parliament Buildings at Stormont.
The event marked the official launch of the book, entitled Knock, Knock, and celebrated the pupils’ participation in it. A copy of the publication will be given to all new families who move into the 94 new homes currently being built and allocated in the Gasworks site in Belfast. It will also be distributed across the participating schools, as well as in community spaces throughout Belfast.
Stephen Reynolds, Housing for All Manager, Northern Ireland Housing Executive, said: “The Knock Knock project is a great example of children coming together to creatively explore what home really means to them. Community support, family and a sense of belonging are key themes helping to building strong sustainable communities which celebrate friendship and diversity. The project reminds us that ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing is not just about where we live, but about creating places where everyone feels that they belong.”
Deirdre Hargey, MLA, said: “I am delighted to support the Knock Knock project and the pupils from St Joseph’s College, St Malachy’s Primary School, and Scoil an Droichid. This project has highlighted the importance of community, inclusion, belonging and respect, allowing pupils to reflect on what home means to them through art, poetry, and storytelling. This booklet serves as a reminder of the diverse and vibrant community we are building together.”
Knock Knock is supported by the Department for Communities and the Northern Ireland Housing Executive’s ‘Housing for All’ Shared Housing Programme. The Programme has its origins in the NI Executive Together: Building a United Community Strategy which reflects the Executive’s commitment to improving community relations and continuing the journey towards a more united and shared society. A potential £14.4m will be invested in the Gasworks shared housing development and associated five-year Good Relations Plan.