Teresa Keating, Executive Director of the Australian Ireland Fund began her afternoon in Belfast with a tour of Forge IPS where she met children of all ages and joined in maths games as well as being entertained with a song. She heard that Forge is celebrating its 25th birthday, and learnt something of the history of the school set up by parents in South Belfast.
Teresa then travelled to Glengormley IPS, a school more than 75 years old and which transformed to integrated status in 2003. Children here were eager to talk to Teresa about her life in Australia but also chatted about how so many different background and cultures are represented at their school.
The Ireland Funds have been proud supporters of integrated education for more than 25 years, believing integrated schools have a vital role to play in building a shared future for Northern Ireland. Support from The Ireland Funds has built and improved school facilities, purchased much-needed equipment and developed the range and quality of services available to pupils. Lady Mary Fairfax, of the Fairfax Group publishing empire, is a leading supporter of the Australian Ireland Fund and for a number of years has hosted a benefit party in the garden of her home overlooking Sydney Harbour.
The Sir Warwick Fairfax Trust and the Australian Ireland Fund have supported a host of integrated schools, including Blackwater IC, Ballycastle IPS, Fort Hill IPS, Drumlins IPS and Rowandale IPS.
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