Hope
A bridge rises
over a river
that flows and flows
and does not hear
what went before
or fear what is to come:
a gift for our present,
a step from our past,
a beacon in white
to catch the light of our future,
a walk of peace for our children,
a rainbow over the Foyle.
Poem and illustration © Deirdre Devine
Once again, we are delighted to be working together with Galliagh Nursery School through the ASPIRE Shared Education project. The project is funded by the European Union’s Peace Plus Programme.
ASPIRE Shared Education brings early years settings together in cross-community partnerships, creating opportunities for children, staff, and the wider community to participate in collaborative and meaningful learning experiences.
In our city, Lisnagelvin Nursery School is located on the East Bank of the River Foyle, while Galliagh Nursery School is situated on the West Bank. Despite their different locations, there are many shared strengths between the two schools, particularly in our commitment to meeting the needs of young children, irrespective of socio-economic background, political views, geographical location, or religious tradition.
The children had the opportunity to explore one another’s settings, celebrate St. Patrick’s Day together, and enjoy outings to Wild Ireland and the Playtrail at Racecourse Road. Throughout the programme, we were joined by the wonderful Doreen Laird and Jo Jingles, who skilfully used music to engage the children, encourage participation, and support learning through fun and movement. We always looked forward to our joint sessions and thoroughly enjoyed watching the children’s friendships grow and develop over the course of the year.
Staff availed of joint training opportunities and the sharing of good practice.
“Being part of the Aspire shared education programme between Galliagh and Lisnagelvin Nursery Schools this year has been a wonderful opportunity for everyone involved. The children, staff and parent volunteers connected effortlessly, building friendships through shared play, learning and time spent together. The programme highlighted just how powerful early years education can be in bringing people together from across the city.”
– Caroline McDonnell (Principal of Lisnagelvin Nursery School)
