Belfast teachers have been awarded for a raft of activities from cross community work to helping ‘newcomer children’.
They were recognised for their ‘outstanding contribution to education’ at the 11th annual Blackboard Awards.
The ‘excellent work’ of principals, teachers, and classroom assistants from across Belfast was celebrated at an event at the Europa Hotel on Friday night which saw 40 teaching professionals ‘honoured for their contributions to the education of young people’.
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Award winners at the celebration include Suchitra Varma, a classroom assistant at Methodist College Belfast, who was recognised for her work to promote the education of newcomers with the ‘Newcomer Children’ award.
Principal at Belvoir Park Primary School Pamela Jones took home Principal of the Year, while Lisa Jane Rodgers of St Louise’s Comprehensive College was named STEM Teacher of the Year.
Also celebrated was Natalie Clarke, teacher at Integrated College Glengormley, who received the Cross-Community Ambassador Award. James Curran, Principal at Harberton Special School was named Special Needs Education Champion. St John the Baptist Primary School were winners of the Outstanding Community Impact Award.
The event came against a backdrop of looming strike action by teachers due to an ongoing dispute over pay and conditions. Every year, the Blackboard Awards celebrate the teaching staff from both primary and post-primary level who have ‘worked tirelessly to support the academic development of their pupils and help inspire future generations’.
With over 150 nominations, 2023 was a record year for entries across the profession.
Speaking after receiving her award, Natalie Clarke, Teacher at Integrated College Glengormley and Cross-Community Ambassador award winner said: “It is an immense privilege to be awarded the title of Cross-Community Ambassador. I am grateful every day that I get to work with my pupils and colleagues at Integrated College Glengormley. This is certainly a career highlight for me, and I thank those who supported my nomination.”
Northern Ireland Commissioner for Children and Young People, Koulla Yiasouma, added: “There is no denying that these are difficult times for so many children, young people and families as they emerge from the pandemic and grapple with the cost-of-living increases. It is to their teachers and education staff that children and young people turn to for sanctuary, for safety and for support in these difficult times.
“This is why I am delighted to have participated in this year’s Blackboard Awards as it was an opportunity to thank these extraordinary people for everything they do for our children and young people.”
The event was sponsored by H&J Martin Asset Management Services, and event partners Cirdan, St Mary’s University College, Maritime Belfast, Lidl, FLYNN and Comhairle na Gaelscolaíochta.
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