Sharon Bell and Nuala O’Hare

Shared Education: Leading a Primary Partnership

Harmony Hill PS and St Joseph’s PS

Harmony Hill PS and St Joseph’s PS have been working together for many years and enjoy a very successful Shared Education partnership. Both schools are based in Lisburn, about 2 and a half miles apart. This allows them to make great use of their community venues and resources for their active learning shared activities, as they plan for and carry out activities for a large number of children.


Sharon and Nuala are currently the Shared Education Coordinators and have had many years’ experience in this role. They are responsible for the planning, delivery, monitoring and evaluation of Shared Education.


Key learning When considering ways to develop your Shared Education Partnership

  • Plan activities to be accessed by all children, including those with individual needs

  • Make use of your community facilities

  • Recognise the importance of building relationships and trust through regular staff contact

Questions to consider when developing a Shared Education Partnership

  • Have you established professional relationships with all staff from your Partner School(s)?

  • Are Boards of Governors and School Leaders incorporating Shared Education within the School Development Plans?

  • Is the Pupil Voice visible within the planning, implementation and evaluation of Shared Education?

  • Has the partnership informed the parents and the wider community of ongoing activity and events?