Educators Attend Training on Teaching Troubles History in Northern Ireland Classrooms
Educators from across Northern Ireland took part in a two-day training programme focused on teaching histories linked to the Troubles. The sessions covered skills for addressing conflict, trauma, memory, identity, and reconciliation in classrooms.
The programme used content from a BBC documentary on Northern Ireland to examine personal accounts and experiences. It aligned with curriculum requirements for Key Stage 3 and GCSE History, including the module on changing relations between Northern Ireland and its neighbours.
A panel discussion featured Bronagh McConville, Billy McManus, and James Greer, participants in the documentary. Rachel Hooper of Walk on Air Films chaired the discussion.
Experienced History teachers from Northern Ireland provided input on classroom practices. The National Museums NI Education Service presented resources from the Ulster Museum's collections and exhibitions.
Emma Foster, Development Officer with PEACEPLUS ASPIRE, stated that the programme enabled teachers to reflect on challenging historical aspects through personal testimonies. She noted that participants gained confidence in guiding students on these subjects.
Workshops addressed strategies for students to assess various viewpoints and build historical empathy. The event involved collaboration between schools, the Ulster Museum, and the PEACEPLUS education network.