Two Roscommon schools – Brusna National School and Ballinlough National School – have been officially recognised as Champion Schools of Sanctuary at a special ceremony hosted by the University of Galway.
A Champion School of Sanctuary is the highest level of recognition in the Schools of Sanctuary programme, which follows a ‘Learn, Action, Share’ framework to foster a culture of welcome, challenge prejudice, and build understanding about forced migration.
Brusna National School and Ballinlough National School were among those recognised for embedding inclusion across their school communities and promoting understanding among students, teachers, and parents alike.
The first ever Champion School of Sanctuary awards held in the west of Ireland, the event celebrated seven schools nationwide for their outstanding commitment to creating welcoming, inclusive, and safe environments for all students.
The Awards Ceremony was funded by the Office of the Vice-President for Equality, Diversity and Inclusion, the Access Centre, and Galway City Partnership.
Students from Brusna National School pictured with (back, L-R): Cllr Helen Ogbu, Galway City Council; Sara Hakim, Director of Schools of Sanctuary Ireland; teacher Fran Battle, Brusna National School, Roscommon; Dr Mary Surlis, Senior Academic Manager, Access Centre and Dr Daniel Savery, Widening Participation Officer, Access Centre, University of Galway; teacher Laura McMahon, Brusna National School, Roscommon, at the Champion School of Sanctuary awards ceremony held at University of Galway. Pic: Mike Shaughnessy
