College honoured with two Northen Ireland Education Awards
We are delighted to announce that, last Saturday, Shimna was recognised at the prestigious Local Women Education Awards 2026 ceremony with the award of two honours: Post-Primary School of the Year for County Down, as well as the Excellence in STEM Award for schools in Northern Ireland.
Held at the Europa Hotel in Belfast, the Education Awards celebrate the achievements and dedication of teachers and school leaders across Northern Ireland. This unprecedented success for Shimna rounds off a fantastic couple of weeks, with the Official Opening of our new school on Wednesday 7 October and this week’s annual Celebration evenings.
Principal Steve Pagan informed staff on Tuesday morning: “These awards are a tribute to the hard work and commitment of every single member of staff at Shimna. Everyone plays their part. They also reflect the achievements of our students, who are living proof that education is not only important, it can also transforms lives.”
The panel of judges reviewed nominations for the post-primary award across three categories:
Holistic & Nurturing Approach: balancing high academic and vocational achievements with the personal growth and self-confidence of every student;
Visionary Leadership: strong school leadership and a clear strategic direction for teaching excellence across all departments;
Exceptional Pastoral Care: the quality of the school's support systems, inclusivity and student-centred values.
Collecting the awards on behalf of the College, Assistant Vice Principal Joanne Poland said: “Having taught at Shimna for 28 years, I have had the privilege of watching our school grow, flourish and make a positive difference in the lives of so many young people. I am so proud.”
Pictured with Joanne is Awards Ceremony host, Frank Mitchell of U105 – co-opted as an honorary member of the Shimna staff for one night only!
Stephen McCormick, Head of Science, said: “We’re honoured to receive this award for our STEM work. We have an amazing team of teachers who go above and beyond for our students, including the provision of a range of extra-curricular opportunities.” It includes the recent achievement of the CyberFirst Gold Award, the highest level of recognition for schools, given by the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre.
Mr Pagan thanks the parents, former parents and former students who nominated the College for these awards. “On behalf of the Shimna staff, your support is very much appreciated. It is testament to the strength of the College community and our integrated ethos.”
We also thank the Local Women Magazine Team for its message of support: “Thank you for being such an inspiring part of this year's awards and for the incredible positive impact you continue to make within the education sector. We are so proud to highlight your work and wish you every continued success in the future.”
Finally, we congratulate our fellow award winners, including St Ita's Primary School, named Best Primary School in County Down; Lagan College, Best Post-Primary School in Belfast; and Abbey CBS Grammar School, which also scooped two awards.
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