Recently the AS Home Economics students have been involved in a programme organised by the University of Ulster, Jordanstown called Ethics4schools.

The programme was aimed at making pupils think and evaluate some controversial topics in science such as:

• “Should genetically modified animals be used for food production?”
• “Should vaccination be mandatory?”;
• “Should drugs be allowed in sport?” and
• “Should junk food be banned in school?”

Pupils submitted essays based on their own research into their chosen topic with their argument for or against the topic with recognition of the counter argument.

Dr Kay Hack, from the Faculty of Life and Health Sciences assessed each essay and provided valuable constructive feedback to all individual pupils.

All pupils were then awarded with certificates in recognition of their contribution.

The next stage of the competition was a debate evening which took place at the Jordanstown campus on Thursday 10th April.

Teams from Glenlola Collegiate, Bangor, Shimna Integrated College, Newcastle, St. Michael’s Grammar School, Lurgan, St Eugene’s College, Castlederg, CAFRE, Loughry campus and University of Ulster, Coleraine all participated in very interesting and lively debates.

All AS Home Economics attended the debate evening accompanied by Miss O’Neill and Mrs McConville.

Rebecca Quinn, Amy McShane, Niamh O’Hara and Maeve Mulholland all took part in the debate.

Each pupil put forward very convincing arguments proposing that Northern Ireland should be in favour of fracking as it could be the answer to the energy crisis here.

This was a difficult point to argue, however, all girls did an exceptional job and were given a highly commended award for their efforts.