Author praises Markethill High School for placing high value on literacy for pupils
By Eleanor McGillie
AN author, who is about to have her ninth novel published, has praised a Co Armagh school for placing such a high emphasis on literacy for all of its pupils.
Emma Heatherington, from Co Tyrone, and mum of four teenagers, was the guest of honour at the Markethill High School Literacy Evening which was attended by parents and Year 8 pupils.
Author of novels such as One Night Only, All Over Again and Crazy For You, has also penned more than 30 short films, plays and musicals as well as her seven novels for Poolbeg Press, two of which were written under the pseudonym Emma Louise Jordan.
Her latest signing with Harper Impulse (Harper Collins) saw the re-release of Crazy For You in 2013 with new releases lined up in the near future.
Speaking after delivering a very powerful workshop on literacy, Emma said: “It’s always a pleasure to visit Markethill High School. As a mother of four teenagers, I truly believe that you can tell so much about a school from the moment you walk in through the doors. I have never been greeted so warmly.
“It is very refreshing to see a school driven so much by the importance of literacy. I was overwhelmed by the attendance from Year 8 parents and pupils, who not only took the time to turn up, but who also contributed extensively to the creative writing workshop which was great fun and informative for us all.
“I clearly remember the influence my own school had on my development and I have no doubt that Markethill High School is leading the way in their vision for influencing and encouraging their young students, and their parents, to strive for the very best in their young people’s lives, present and future.”
Echoing her words, Principal James Maxwell said: “We are honoured to welcome Emma Heatherington to our school. This is the second time Emma has delivered a lively workshop where she led a master class on techniques to encourage creative writing. This was greatly enjoyed by the entire audience who participated with enthusiasm in all the activities.
“I cannot emphasise enough the importance of literacy here in Markethill High School and its priority in our School Development Plan.
“Literacy continues to play an extremely vital role in all subjects across the curriculum and teachers are committed to raising standards in order to empower pupils with essential life skills.
“We are also running a successful Accelerated Reader Programme which has enabled Year 8 and 9 pupils to advance their reading skills over the last few years. The progress of pupils is tracked and monitored extensively by class teachers and special awards are presented when goals are reached by the children.
“We would like to thank Emma for her inspirational workshop and we are delighted many children availed of the opportunity to buy books and stationary from the Scholastic Book Fair.”
ENDS:
NOTES TO EDITOR:
- Markethill High School is the Best School in Northern Ireland for Modern Languages
- In September 2013, The Minister for Education John O’Dowd congratulates Markethill High School for being one of 11 schools in Northern Ireland which successfully bridges the gap between social disadvantage and educational attainment
- In October 2013 the ETI report that Markethill High School is a school of ‘very good practice’ and commends all aspects of school life
- In November 2013 Harper Adams University in Ireland announces a collaboration with Markethill High School to lead the way in education in Northern Ireland by encouraging pupils to take up careers in agriculture
- For further information contact Eleanor McGillie of MGMPR Ltd on 028 3756 9569| 07709805379| Education PR | Brand Journalism Experts | Brand Journalism UK | Brand Journalism Northern Ireland | PR Northern Ireland |
