St Paul’s High School, in partnership with Bolster Community, is proud to announce the launch of An Droichead (The Bridge), a groundbreaking Post-16 Programme designed for learners with special educational needs.

At the launch, Minister for the Economy, Dr Caoimhe Archibald MLA, stated that she was ‘committed to removing obstacles and making it much easier for these groups of people to take up an apprenticeship.” 

“Each organisation receiving funding will deliver pilot schemes that will test new and innovative ways to boost apprenticeships.” 

An Droichead is a full-time programme (five days a week) that mirrors the format of a traditional apprenticeship programme with a dual pathway model. Participants split their time between school, the community, and employers, ensuring a comprehensive learning experience.   

An Droichead aims to deliver impactful outcomes for all stakeholders:  

• For participants: Improved qualifications, real-world work experience and enhanced employability skills to prepare them for apprenticeships and sustainable employment.  
• For employers: Access to a diverse talent pool and the tools needed to create inclusive workplaces.   
• For the community: Greater inclusion and reduced social and economic inequalities for people with additional needs.   
• For the Department for the Economy (DfE): A scalable model that can address gaps in current apprenticeship access and increase participation rates among young people with additional needs.   

An Droichead is dedicated to bridging the gap for young people with learning difficulties by focusing on early intervention at a grass roots level.  Our goal is to provide the necessary support and resources to ensure our programme participants can thrive in their educational and professional journeys.   

We would like to extend an open invitation to parents and young people in Year 12, who would like to find out more about An Droichead.  We are holding an information session on Thursday 10 April at 3pm in Bolster Community (5-7 Marcus Street, Newry, BT34 1ET). 

Follow this link to the full Department for the Economy Press Release:   

Click this link for details of the successful applicant organisations.