Date: Wednesday 24th September
Time: 3:15pm – 4:00pm
Location: Lecture Theatre
Guest Speaker: Ulster University
Open to all year groups and parents, this event is an excellent opportunity to begin exploring future pathways.

The first of four of our Year 8 groups enjoyed an exciting and enriching day at Breckenhill, where they took part in a variety of outdoor pursuits designed to build teamwork, resilience, and cooperation. From challenging obstacle courses and problem-solving activities to group games and physical tasks, pupils were encouraged to work together, communicate effectively, and support one another.

The day was filled with laughter, learning, and plenty of muddy boots as students tackled each challenge with enthusiasm. Whether it was balancing on beams, navigating rope courses, or strategizing as a team, everyone had the chance to contribute and grow.

The trip not only strengthened friendships but also helped students develop key life skills such as leadership, trust, and perseverance. Most importantly, it was a fun and memorable experience that brought the whole year group closer together.

As the new school term begins, we know that our students will want to start strong on developing their success stories for the year ahead. Reading some of the new books that have arrived in our library would be a great way to help support this growth. The English Department were very grateful for the generosity of our PTA in making some funds available to purchase these new titles. We’re sure that our library will have something to develop the reading and imagination of all our students. Watch this space for more opportunities to drop in and find out more.

We’re delighted to welcome Mr Wenjian Guan to Ballyclare Secondary School!
Mr Guan will be joining us every Monday to teach Mandarin to our Sixth Form students as part of their enrichment lessons. He’ll also be taking our Culture Club along with Mrs Millar, at Monday lunchtimes, where pupils can explore Chinese traditions, language, and way of life.
We’re thrilled to have Mr Guan on board and look forward to the amazing experiences he’ll bring to our school community!

Alice (Year 12) has enjoyed an outstanding year competing in mounted games with her pony, Cali. She achieved notable victories, including winning the Northern Ireland Area Championships and the prestigious Balmoral Wilkinson Sword event with her team.

Her success continued as she proudly represented Northern Ireland at the Zone Championships in Scotland, where her team placed 8th overall and 6th in the pairs competition. Alice also demonstrated exceptional presentation, winning Tack and Turnout awards at the Area Championships, Zone Championships, and Balmoral.

The highlight of Alice’s year came when she was selected to represent Northern Ireland at the European Mounted Games Individual Championships. Competing against top riders from across the continent, Alice finished an impressive 6th in Europe—an extraordinary achievement as the only young rider from Northern Ireland to reach the final. Well done Alice!

Molly Keys, a Year 11 student, travelled to Edinburgh over the weekend to compete in an Irish dancing competition. She returned with an impressive set of results: 1st, 2nd, and 3rd place finishes, along with 3rd place in the Open Championship.
Molly proudly dances with the Royal Tara Dance Academy.

The first week of the academic year is complete! As you navigate drop-offs, packing lunches and following new routines, we extend our best wishes to all parents navigating the transition back to school. This week marks a fresh chapter filled with opportunity, growth, and learning. Your continued support, encouragement, and involvement play a vital role in your child’s educational journey. Here’s to a successful and enriching school year ahead for students, families, and educators alike.

Logan (Year 8) attends the Alfie Boe and James Huish Performing Arts Academy and regularly performs in shows across Northern Ireland. Between now and Christmas, he will appear in three productions, including playing the lead role of Kevin McAllister in Home Alone with NISMAT Theatre School this November. He will also portray Pugsley in The Addams Family with his academy and Jonathan Cratchit in A Christmas Carol with Fortwilliam Musical Society. Logan’s talent, dedication, and passion for the performing arts are truly inspiring, and we look forward to his involvement in Drama and Performing Arts at BSS.

Please find below our Weekly Communication Bulletin for Parents and Carers, and other important information, which has been sent out to you via Sims App.