The students, staff and members of BOG were delighted to welcome Education Minister, Mr Paul Givan, MLA to our school this morning.

The Minister enjoyed a show-stopping music and dance presentation, which showcased the exceptional talents of the students, before embarking on a tour of the school, during which he visited PE, Art and Design, Science, Home Economics and Geography lessons.  Both he and his staff team were effusive in their praise for students and staff alike. As they walked along the corridors, all commented on the very positive and settled atmosphere around the school. They also took note of the use being made of every space available for learning and teaching.

The school leadership requested that the funds which had been allocated pre covid to extend the school to meet its growing enrolment, were made available once again, so that the school can continue to provide access to a wide, balanced curricular and extra-curricular programme, so that together we can secure ‘Achievement for All’.

The Minster then enjoyed some light refreshments, prepared, and served by GCSE Hospitality students and engaged in convivial conversation with members of our school community. The parents seized this opportunity to impress upon the Minister the benefits of the school providing a free breakfast and lunch for all the children, as this has really helped to reduce the burden of the cost-of-living crisis and relieved some of their stress and anxiety around financial pressures.

The morning ended with Kiera Calderwood, Year 9,  a very talented young artist, presenting the Minister with a framed portrait, to hang in his ministerial office to commemorate his very enjoyable, relaxed visit to Belfast Model School for Girls. Hopefully, we were able to remind the Minister this morning, that despite the challenges within our education system, children are thriving and they fill us with hope for the future.