Education Minister Michelle McIlveen has today launched a series of resources, including 'A Time Capsule for 2021' and 'Life in the 1920's' curricular projects for schools.

The resources form part of the Department's NI100 Education Programme to mark the centenary of the establishment of Northern Ireland in 1921 and have been developed by the Council for the Curriculum, Examinations & Assessment (CCEA) and Education Authority.

Marking the launch during a visit to Banbridge High School, Michelle McIlveen said: "I am pleased to launch these excellent resources today. The Time Capsule project will enable participating schools to come together to reflect on and capture their experiences as a school community during the current pandemic through art, photography, writing and media.

"The 'Life in the 1920s' project provides an opportunity for pupils to learn about and experience different aspects of school life 100 years ago, such as playground games, food, clothing and the classroom environment.

"These exciting education projects have a strong curriculum focus and are designed to enhance the teaching of key areas of learning. History will feel more real and engaging as pupils participate in these hands-on classroom activities."

The NI100 Education Programme also includes 'From Ulster to Northern Ireland' CCEA Shared History Hub, which includes a wide range of learning materials, curricular guides and links to explore around partition and the creation of Northern Ireland. The hub provides digital tools to support schools to learn about shared history in a positive, inclusive and constructive environment. 

Concluding, the Minister said: "It is a privilege to mark Northern Ireland's centenary and these projects will have a significant positive impact in enhancing learning experiences for our pupils."

CCEA's Curriculum and Assessment Programme Manager, Roisin Radcliffe said: "We are delighted to launch our latest learning resources which will be of great use to both teachers and pupils. Both lessons have been designed to be inclusive for all schools and are broad in context to enable use and learning for years to come."