This event, hosted by Queen's Communities and Place (QCAP), was a powerful demonstration of the University’s commitment to supporting local schools and the communities they serve, reinforcing its role as a civic anchor institution.

The Colloquium marked a significant step forward in our collective efforts to improve education through a place-based approach that centres on the needs of our local communities. Dr Gareth Robinson, QCAP’s Engaged Research Lead for Education, opened the event by emphasising the crucial role of collaboration in overcoming the challenges faced by schools today. Following this, Maria Lee, the University’s Director of Academic Services, highlighted the importance of such gatherings for promoting meaningful change in local education, underscoring the University’s dedication to supporting South Belfast schools and the wider community.

 

Keynote Address: A Vision for Collaborative Learning in South Belfast

The day’s keynote was delivered by Professor Chris Chapman from the University of Glasgow, who introduced the concept of a Networked Learning System (NLS). This innovative approach encourages schools to work together more closely, sharing resources and expertise to enhance educational outcomes. Professor Chapman’s address was a call to action for schools to move beyond traditional methods and embrace a more integrated, collaborative approach to education.

 

Breakout Sessions: Practical Strategies for Inclusive and Effective Teaching

The Colloquium featured several breakout sessions, each designed to equip educators with practical tools and strategies they could implement in their classrooms.

• Pedagogy for Inclusion: This session brought together a dynamic team of contributors, including Professor Bronagh Byrne, Dr Nichola Booth, Dr Shawna Draxton, and Jessica Oney. The session began with a theoretical exploration of the values of inclusion and children’s rights, laying the foundation for a deeper understanding of inclusive education. Nichola Booth provided a closer look at behaviour function, offering strategies that teachers can apply directly in the classroom. The session concluded with Shawna and Jessica from WISH Charter in Los Angeles, who shared the systems and processes they use in their school to create an inclusive environment. Their comprehensive discussion provided invaluable insights into how to build and maintain a supportive, inclusive school culture.

• Literacy and Reading Strategies: Dr Geraldine Magennis-Clarke’s session focused on the ‘Science of Reading,’ connecting the dots between neuroscience, linguistics, and classroom practice. This session was particularly valuable, offering educators practical, research-based strategies for teaching reading that are grounded in an understanding of how children learn to read.
• Middle Leadership and Collaboration: Dr Gavin Duffy led this session, which explored the critical role of middle leaders in fostering collaboration and shared leadership within schools. Participants discussed ways to enhance teamwork and develop a school culture that supports collaboration at all levels.
• Numeracy for Primary: In this session, Dr Ian Cantley and Geraldine Parks tackled the challenges of teaching maths, focusing on strategies to reduce maths anxiety and improve numeracy skills in primary education. The session offered practical solutions that educators can use to make maths more accessible and engaging for their pupils.

 

The Importance of Connection

One of the most valuable aspects of the Colloquium was the opportunity for educators to find time between sessions to talk, catch up, and reconnect with colleagues. In education, relationships are an often-overlooked resource – so it’s essential to nurture these connections. Attendees were provided space to share experiences, exchange ideas, and build the relationships that are crucial for effective collaboration and professional growth.

 

QCAP’s Vision in Action

The South Belfast Education Colloquium is more than just a one-off event; it’s a reflection of QCAP’s ongoing commitment to improving education in Belfast through community engagement and collaboration. By bringing educators together, QCAP is helping to build a stronger, more connected community where schools can support each other and work collectively to overcome the challenges they face.

QCAP’s place-based approach is all about working with local communities to ensure that educational initiatives are tailored to meet the specific needs of each area. This event exemplifies how QCAP is making sure that schools and teachers have the support they need to succeed, with a focus on practical solutions and shared learning.

 

Looking Ahead

The success of the South Belfast Education Colloquium is just the beginning. As we move forward, QCAP remains committed to supporting schools across Belfast, helping them to navigate the challenges of today’s educational landscape. We are excited to continue this journey, working alongside our school partners in South Belfast to create a future where every child has the opportunity to thrive.

For those who couldn’t attend, stay tuned—there will be plenty more opportunities to get involved. Together, we can build an educational environment where collaboration and community are at the heart of everything we do.