Mathison Praises Knockevin Special School During Visit To The Downpatrick Site
Alliance Party MLA and Chair of the Education Committee, Nick Mathison, has commended the exceptional work of Knockevin Special School following a visit to its Downpatrick site on Thursday 4th December.
He was joined by party colleague, South Down Alliance MLA, Andy McMurray.
During the visit, the MLAs met with Principal Sara Liddell, along with pupils and staff, gaining firsthand insight into the positive, child-centred learning environment the team has created for children and young people with highly complex needs.
Mr. Mathison expressed his gratitude to Ms. Liddell and the entire school community for their warm welcome and said: “It was a privilege to spend time at Knockevin.
“The dedication, compassion and professionalism of the staff is clear in every classroom. They have created a nurturing, supportive and inspiring environment in which every child is enabled to thrive.”
The MLAs were delighted to watch pupils rehearse for their upcoming Christmas show, which Andy McMurray said “promises to be a wonderful celebration of the children’s talents and hard work.”
However, Nick Mathison also highlighted the serious challenges facing the school.
Knockevin continues to operate across three separate sites, a situation that places significant strain on staff and families.
“Urgent maintenance work is needed across several classrooms and facilities on the school estate. The school also continues to experience inadequate nursing provision for pupils with complex medical needs – an issue Mr. Mathison has long raised with both Health and Education Ministers.
“Knockevin’s leadership and staff go above and beyond every single day, but they cannot shoulder these pressures alone,” he said.
