Board of Education (NI)16 Dec 22

Letter of thanks and encouragement for schools

Archbishop John McDowell has written to all principals of controlled schools in Northern Ireland, in his role of Chairperson of the Church of Ireland’s Board of Education (NI), to express thanks for all that they are doing in what is a challenging season for schools.

The Archbishop’s letter is in full below:

Dear Principal,

I hope you are well and no doubt looking forward to something of a break over Christmas and the New Year.

I would be grateful if you could pass on to your staff and governors the thanks and support of the Church of Ireland at this difficult time for schools.

We are very aware you are dealing with many issues such as pupils suffering due to the cost–of–living crisis and meeting the complexities of running a school in such conditions, dealing with medical issues such as Covid and Strep A, and all alongside the usual challenges posed by teaching and learning.

In these circumstances the Church of Ireland Board of Education (NI) wishes to send their prayers and encouragement for your work this term in keeping schools a safe and healthy space for children and young people to develop and flourish in.

Many blessings for this Christmas time.

Yours sincerely,

The Most Rev John McDowell
Archbishop of Armagh