Ballakermeen High School has become the first school on the Island to win a Leading Parent Partnership accreditation.

Education Minister Mrs Anne Craine has presented the LPP certificate and plaque to Ballakermeen Headteacher, Adrienne Burnett in a special ceremony.

The award is the culmination of months of intensive work involving parents and members of staff to meet the stringent conditions of accreditation.

Deputy Headteacher Annette Baker, who led the project; gave an outline of what had been done; thanked all who had contributed to the project, especially the parents and Mrs Evans, the co-leader; and revealed figures showing the powerful effect of parental involvement in raising achievement.

Councillor Mrs Sarah Hackman, a parent on the steering committee, spoke of her pleasure in being involved and sharing in a learning partnership.

Mrs Craine spoke of the great usefulness of the scheme and the importance of working in partnership.  She recalled the days when schools only opened their door to 'Mums and Dads' on parents' evenings, and welcomed this breaking down of barriers.

"This wonderful scheme," said Mrs Craine, "will be of value to everyone.  I congratulate everybody involved on the work they have put in.  There will be great benefits for students, parents and the community."

Mrs Burnett spoke of her gratitude for the efforts of parents and staff, "Through open and honest dialogue you have created a collaboration ensuring that our children can achieve individual excellence and personal fulfilment."

She went on to thank the Department of Education for their support.

Pictured (l-r): Debra Evans; Sarah Hackman; Anne Craine, Minister of Education; Adrienne Burnett, Head of Ballakermeen; Stephanie Gregg; Annette Baker.