Two of Belfast’s most historic schools, Campbell College and St Malachy’s College are marking School Archives Day (Thursday 12 March) by highlighting a joint school archive project. 

School Archives Day is a national event promoted by the School Archives and Records Association (SARA), to raise awareness of the importance of archive collections within schools.

Throughout this academic year, Year 13 and 14 pupils from both colleges have been involved in a joint enrichment programme, researching former students from their respective schools who went on to have a significant impact in the medical field.  Working together as a team with a range of primary and secondary sources has brought the lives of former pupils into sharper focus and strengthened the shared learning experience for the boys. 

This programme is a clear example of how archival materials can support curriculum learning, inspire curiosity and provide a rich foundation for historical understanding.  It introduces pupils to the correct handling of historic materials and helps them to develop research, analytical, and interpretation skills

The students are supported by Jenna Robinson, Archive Engagement Officer at Campbell College, Conor McGinn, teacher at St Malachy’s College, and former pupil John Gordon who created the programme to enhance and enrich learning. 

Jenna Robinson, Campbell College said: “This unique enrichment programme gives our students the opportunity to engage directly with our archival collections and to explore the stories of those who walked the same corridors before them.

“This year’s focus on alumni in the medical field has resulted in thoughtful, insightful biographical work. The students have surpassed my expectations with their level of interest, engagement, and commitment to the project. The enthusiasm with which they have approached the research, digging into archive materials, analysing evidence, and writing compelling profiles, has been inspiring. This partnership has demonstrated the educational power of school archives and the value of collaborative learning.”

Conor McGinn, St. Malachy’s College said: “This is the fourth year we have organised an enrichment project focused on researching past pupils.  It allows the students to tell the stories of their predecessors, and they gain not only the independent research skills that will be vital in higher education, but also a deeper appreciation of their school’s history and the people who have contributed to making them what they are today.  This year’s new collaboration with staff and students from Campbell College has been an excellent opportunity to enhance the programme.”