%20and%20pupils%20from%20Harberton%20School%20and%20Taughmonagh%20Primary%20School-1.png?width=1200&length=1200&name=Willie%20Anderson%2c%20Antoin%20Moran%20(Project%20Manager%20of%20PEACEPLUS%20ASPIRE%20Project)%20and%20pupils%20from%20Harberton%20School%20and%20Taughmonagh%20Primary%20School-1.png)
The symposium, hosted in the Crowne Plaza, Belfast, showcased the remarkable achievements of the PEACEPLUS ASPIRE initiative, creating a vibrant space for shared learning, lively discussion, and inspiration. Educators engaged in five interactive workshops, delivered by a diverse range of organisations. These sessions explored innovative Shared Education best practice approaches in schools and preschool settings, which foster good relations, and practical strategies for inclusivity.
Renowned keynote speaker and former rugby international Willie Anderson opened the event, energising attendees with insights on leadership, resilience, and the transformative power of teamwork and unity.
Another highlight of the day was the moving presentations from young people involved in the PEACEPLUS ASPIRE programme. Their personal stories and visions for peaceful, inclusive communities offered a powerful testament to the project’s impact.
Willie Anderson said:
“It was a real privilege to speak at this Shared Education event. Shared Education goes beyond the classroom; it’s about forging lasting connections, crossing the line and building better communities that will benefit generations to come.”
Antoin Moran, PEACEPLUS ASPIRE Project Manager, said:
“The Connect theme of Good Relations Week 2025 encapsulates what Shared Education is all about – bringing people together, breaking down barriers, and creating opportunities for everyone to thrive. The Symposium has been a fantastic opportunity to celebrate the progress we’ve made and to inspire continued collaboration across all our communities.”
PEACEPLUS ASPIRE (Advancing Shared Partnerships through Inclusive Relationships in Education) is led by the Education Authority (EA), alongside Léargas, Early Years- the organisation for young children, National Childhood Network (NCN) and the Fermanagh Trust. The project is supported by PEACEPLUS, a programme managed by the Special EU Programmes Body (SEUPB).
Through collaboration between and within schools and pre-school settings PEACEPLUS ASPIRE will promote good relations and empower children and young people to contribute to a more cohesive, peaceful and prosperous society. Good Relations Week 2025 has brought communities across Northern Ireland together under the unifying theme of ‘Connect’. The week has placed a strong emphasis on the essential pillars of People, Planet, and Prosperity, all interlinked by the pursuit of lasting Peace.
Watch the highlights of the symposium on youtube here.
