Ulster Scots Summer School

Yesterday, Loughries Ulster Scots summer school began as planned. This is the fourth year of the summer school and each year it gets better and better. Everyday around 60 children attend the event at Castle Gardens School and we plan a series of events for the children, aimed at developing their understanding of the Ulster Scots tradition and associated Cultures.

This year our summer school has been chosen by the Agency to be Inspected by the EDI Education Inspectorate. Today we have had a visit by Mr. Jim Millar, Director of Education who was very impressed by the facilities, quality of the professionalism of the leaders, the planning and overall standard of the summer school . We see as a vote of confidence not only for the summer school, but for the work that we at Loughries Historical Society put into promoting the Ulster Scots Tradition in Newownards.

Wednesday is our day trip away and this year we are visiting Delamont Country Park at Killyleagh in County Down. The children play in the large out door play park, go for a long environmental walk, ride on the train and receive an Ulster Scots Living History presentation by Andrew Mattison.

Thurday will see a visit by Mr. Nelson McCausland MLA, DECAL Minister. We are delighted that he has chosen Loughries Summer School to explore the work that an Ulster Scots summer schools - as around 30 are planned and take place throughout Ulster each year.

Friday will see a showcase event - where the children get a chance to display their work - such as crafts, cookery, art and also their skills such a music, song & dance, poetry, history and other wee bits n pieces in front of their family and friends. Last year 118 Adults turned up to see the showcase which was a great success - and this year, fingers crossed all will go to plan!

I would sincerely like to publish some pictures of the summer school, however with child protection issues I feel it is best not to post any. In my next post I will list events and activities that took place during the summer school week in order to give you an opportunity to read the diverse and wonderful activities that take place at our event.

HMA