Business Details
Your Trusted Integrated Primary School in Belfast
We are proud to lead Forge Integrated Primary School, Northern Ireland's pioneering institution in integrated education. Our school fosters a warm, inclusive community where every child feels valued and supported to achieve their full potential. With a child-centred approach established since our founding as the joint first integrated primary school in the region, we combine academic excellence with character development. Our dedicated team cultivates a family environment that celebrates diversity while maintaining shared values.Through innovative programmes like our PATHS Model School and Forest School initiatives, we provide holistic education that extends beyond traditional classrooms. As active members of the Belfast community, we welcome families to experience our unique approach through guided tours and open dialogue with our principal.
Services
Primary Education
Integrated Preschool
Forest School Programme
PATHS Social Development
Music Education
Environmental Studies
Cultural Integration
Special Educational Needs Support
Highlights and features
- We pioneered integrated education in Northern Ireland as joint first established integrated primary
- Our child-centred approach values individual needs within a supportive community
- We implement the PATHS Model for social-emotional learning and conflict resolution
- Our Forest School programme provides unique outdoor learning experiences
- We maintain strong community partnerships for enhanced educational opportunities
Services
Primary Education
We deliver comprehensive primary education for children aged 4-11 through Foundation to Year 7 stages. Our curriculum combines academic subjects with social development and cultural awareness. The programme supports individual learning needs while fostering community values through integrated classroom activities.
Integrated Preschool
Our preschool provision offers early childhood education for 3-4 year olds, focusing on foundational skills through play-based learning. The programme prepares children for primary education while introducing them to our integrated community environment. Activities develop social skills, creativity, and basic literacy and numeracy.
Forest School Programme
This unique outdoor education initiative uses natural environments to develop children's confidence and practical skills. Through structured activities in our outdoor spaces, pupils learn teamwork, problem-solving, and environmental stewardship while connecting classroom learning to real-world experiences.
PATHS Model School
Our implementation of the Promoting Alternative Thinking Strategies (PATHS) curriculum develops emotional literacy and conflict resolution skills. The programme teaches children to understand emotions, manage behaviour, and build positive relationships through structured classroom activities and peer interactions.
Cultural Integration
We promote mutual understanding through interfaith initiatives and cultural exchange programmes. Our calendar includes events celebrating diverse traditions, language learning opportunities, and collaborative projects that help children appreciate different perspectives within our integrated school community.
People
Joanne Bryans
Principal
Joanne leads our school with over 20 years' experience in integrated education. She champions inclusive learning environments and community engagement. Her leadership focuses on maintaining our founding values while developing innovative educational approaches.
Questions
What makes Forge an integrated primary school?
We intentionally integrate children from diverse backgrounds in all our activities, following Northern Ireland's integrated education model that promotes mutual understanding.
What age groups do you cater for?
We provide education for children aged 3-11 through our preschool and primary stages from Foundation to Year 7.
What specialist programmes do you offer?
Our unique programmes include Forest School outdoor learning, PATHS social development model, and environmental studies initiatives.
How can parents arrange a school visit?
Contact our office to schedule a tour with Principal Joanne Bryans, who will personally guide you through our facilities.
What extracurricular activities are available?
We offer music groups, British Sign Language club, SEAG academic support, and special events like our annual Viking trip.
