Aims & Information

Overall Aim of the Programme:

To develop an innovative, challenging and varied programme of purposeful Community Relations projects using the Verbal Arts e.g. storytelling, literature, debate, journalism, reader development, etc.

Specific Aims:

1. To promote among young people, within and without the education system, an understanding of the different political, religious and cultural traditions.
2. To enable young people to effectively investigate and communicate how identity is formed.
3. To increase teacher/youth leader/librarian confidence through the provision of Community Relations resource materials and training.
4. To increase cross community encounter opportunities for young people.
5. To expand knowledge of Community Relations environment through partnership working. (Partnerships include schools, statutory agencies, community/voluntary organizations, etc.)

Geographical Area of Implementation
Western Education and Library Board Area
North Eastern Education and Library Board Area.

There is a need for the delivery of the programme in both urban and rural areas. The programme for each will, of course, need to be adapted to suit the particular area. The VAC place particular emphasis on the implementation of the programme in areas that have been designated for Targeting Social Need and also areas where the two main traditions are living in close proximity to each other with little opportunity for them to meet.

Implementation Team

Sarah Lapsley – Education Services Coordinator
Ciaran Flanagan – Community Relations Officer
Katie Fitzpatrick – Drama Facilitator

The implementation team has many years experience in education both primary and secondary, community relations and facilitation and the delivery of programmes integrating the arts into education at all levels.