Specialist Schools - Dance, Drama and Media

Excellence Across the Curriculum

St Louise's is now a Specialist College in Performing Arts.  This status is awarded to schools that have been recognised as centres of excellence and expertise in particular areas.  Specialism enables us touse the expertise of our staff, our local schools, and community andbusiness partners in providing creative and enjoyable learning opportunities for all our pupils as we prepare them to be active citizens in the 21st century.

"Specialist Status will make a real difference not only to the Performing Arts departments but to all academic and vocational subjects across the curriculum.  It will focus on areas of expertise within Performing Arts and benefit partner schools in sharing the knowledge and skills ofthese subjects."  
Education Minister, Angela Smith

Specialist status is awarded to schools which are centres of excellence in teaching and learning.

We will continue to promote excellence in all subjects using the strengths in Performing Arts to support and nurture whole school development.

There are many benefits for our pupils including:

• High quality teaching and learning in all subjects

• New and interesting courses resourced through Specialism

• Extended opportunities through extra-curricular provision

• Additional resources for learning

Community Development

One of the most exciting developments that Specialism has facilitated isthe relationship that has flourished between our pupils and our Specialist partners.

We have established innovative partnerships with over ten schools from both the primary and post primary sector.   In addition we have an outstanding partnership with a North and West Belfast trust Drama group catering for young adults with learning difficulties.  Furthermore we have strong links with local businesses including Bombardier, LaganGroup and Calvert Technology.

Our pupils are enriched by the lift skills which these partnerships bring.

"Our partnership is a wonderful opportunity to promote integration though Drama.  Our adults feel very much a part of St Louise's and working here has helped to develop their skills and to feel valued as individuals."  
North and West Trust Leader, Briege Hawkins