Ripples of Peace: Weaving Friendship in the Shadow of the Shipyard is the latest impact case study in the Ripples of Peace series by Community Relations In Schools (CRIS).
This edition tells a story of two schools who are the beating heart of their respective communities in Belfast: St Matthews in the Short Strand, and Nettlefield Primary School on the Woodstock Road.
Traditionally, these were two areas that found themselves worlds apart, despite their geographic proximity. Still, the schools involved, and their wider communities, have made huge strides towards a better future by taking small, steady steps forward.
In both schools we find an ethos of warmth, compassion and welcome. The case study features interviews from teachers and principals for whom the wellbeing of their children is their number one priority and hears from children who have a vision for the future which underlines just how impactful their school has been in their growth and development.
Too often, these communities may have been overlooked, or ignored, based on an unfairly founded reputation. For CRIS, there was no greater motivation for this piece than to shine a light on the real story and the fantastic practice of these school communities, both of whom have overcome such adversity.
I remember people being frightened when I came here, frightened of stepping outside here, and we said, good growth takes time, small steady steps make great foundations.” Aileen, St Matthews Principal
Read the case study – Ripples of Peace: Weaving Friendship in the Shadow of the Shipyard.
Find out more about Community Relations In Schools (CRIS)