Business Details
39 Years
experience
Trusted Integrated Education in Portrush Since 1987
Established in 1987, Mill Strand Integrated Primary & Nursery School has been a cornerstone of inclusive education on the Causeway Coast for over three decades. As the only integrated primary school in the Triangle area, we are committed to fostering a community where diversity is celebrated, and every child thrives. Our curriculum is designed to nurture academic excellence while embedding core values of respect, harmony, and teamwork. With a state-of-the-art campus completed in 2024, we offer modern facilities that support innovative learning and holistic development. Our dedicated team of educators brings extensive experience in integrated education, ensuring pupils receive tailored support and opportunities to grow.We pride ourselves on maintaining strong partnerships with families and local churches, creating a supportive network that extends beyond the classroom. From our full-time nursery program to after-school childcare and unique experiences like our annual ski trip to Pamporovo, we provide a well-rounded education that prepares children for a shared future. Our commitment to continuous improvement is reflected in our recognition for sustained educational advancements and our focus on safeguarding and pastoral care. By balancing tradition with innovation, we remain at the forefront of integrated education, empowering generations of confident, compassionate learners.
Services
Nursery Education
Primary School
After-School Care
Religious Education
Ski Trip Program
Details
- Year established: 1987
Highlights and features
- We are Northern Ireland's only integrated primary school with 35+ years of pioneering inclusive education
- Our new 2024 campus features purpose-built facilities for modern, child-centred learning
- We offer full-time nursery provision with guaranteed progression to Year 1
- Our staff include specialist educators with decades of experience in integrated learning
- We provide unique opportunities like our annual Pamporovo ski trip and multi-faith education
What people say
Celebrates diversity
Dedicated staff
Excellent facilities
Strong community
Holistic education
Services
Nursery Education
Our full-time nursery program for 3-4 year olds provides a nurturing environment where children develop foundational skills through play-based learning. With two dedicated classrooms and outdoor spaces featuring gardens and play equipment, we foster social, emotional and cognitive development. The curriculum follows Northern Ireland's Foundation Stage guidelines, focusing on six key areas including literacy, numeracy and personal growth.
Primary School
We deliver a comprehensive primary education for children aged 4-11 across seven year groups. Our integrated curriculum promotes academic excellence while nurturing core values of respect and teamwork. Classes operate in modern facilities with staggered dismissal times to accommodate family needs. Specialized programs include religious education, sports coaching and preparation for sacraments as part of our inclusive approach.
After-School Care
The Mill Strand Integrated Children's Centre provides supervised care from 2:00-6:00pm daily and full-day holiday programs. Our Ofsted-registered facility offers structured activities, homework support and outdoor play in a safe environment. Sessions include healthy snacks while parents benefit from flexible booking options and potential tax savings through childcare voucher schemes.
Religious Education
Our inclusive RE program educates children about major world religions and non-religious beliefs. We hold annual services at local churches while providing denominational instruction for Catholic pupils preparing for sacraments. The curriculum promotes understanding through cultural celebrations and dialogue, aligning with our integrated ethos that respects all faiths and backgrounds.
Ski Trip Program
Annual ski trips to Pamporovo, Bulgaria, offer Year 6-7 pupils professional instruction on safe slopes with child-friendly accommodation. These educational experiences combine physical activity with cultural exposure, featuring guided lessons and participation in international ski festivals. The program includes pre-trip preparation and digital updates for families during the week-long excursion.
People
Mr Callum Hannigan
Principal
Leading Mill Strand since its inception, Mr Hannigan brings decades of experience in integrated education. He oversees safeguarding and strategic development while maintaining close ties with the school's founding principles.
Mrs Rebecca McIntyre
Vice-Principal
With specialist expertise in early years education, Mrs McIntyre manages Key Stage One and child protection protocols. She ensures consistent implementation of the school's pastoral care framework.
Ms Deirdre Doherty
Head of Nursery
A qualified early years specialist, Ms Doherty leads nursery operations with focus on child development. She coordinates the transition program ensuring smooth progression from nursery to primary education.
Mr David Elwood
School Ski Trip Leader
Organising annual ski expeditions since 2005, Mr Elwood manages logistics for these educational trips. His outdoor pursuits expertise enhances the school's extracurricular offerings.
Mrs Stephanie Thom
Head of Foundation Stage
Specialising in early childhood development, Mrs Thom oversees nursery curriculum implementation. She coordinates pastoral care initiatives and maintains strong home-school communication channels.
Questions
What makes Mill Strand an integrated school?
We actively promote an ethos where children from different backgrounds learn together daily, with curriculum elements that celebrate diversity and prepare pupils for life in a pluralist society.
How do I apply for nursery or primary school places?
Applications are processed through the Education Authority's online system, with priority given to families seeking integrated education as their first choice for nursery placements.
What after-school care options exist?
Our registered childcare facility operates daily 2:00-6:00pm and full days during holidays, offering structured activities, homework support and outdoor play with qualified staff.
Are school uniforms required?
Yes, we have a mandatory uniform policy with specific requirements for different year groups, available from designated suppliers in Portstewart and Coleraine.
What special educational trips occur?
Annual ski trips to Bulgaria's Pamporovo resort provide winter sports experiences for upper primary pupils, with preparatory sessions and parental updates throughout the program.
How is religious education approached?
We teach about major world religions while offering denominational instruction for Catholic pupils preparing for sacraments, maintaining an inclusive approach respecting all beliefs.
Reviews (6)
Richard Reid
Mar 21, 2019
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High quality education in a completely inclusive environment. One of the first integrated school in Northern Ireland.
Tara E. Mulholland
Dec 12, 2018
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Tremendous Nursery. The growth and development in my three year old in the space of four months is quite incredible. There may be closer nurseries and schools - however, in my opinion, this is the best.
Hanno Windisch
Jun 07, 2018
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Very caring and approachable staff who create a brilliant, nurturing, inspiring and inclusive learning environment for everyone.
Martine Finlay
May 22, 2017
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Just wanted to let mums and dads of children who made confirmation in March photographs are ready if anyone wishes to order they can contact shelia the photographer direct on 07900028805 thanks xx
Alan Hook
Dec 19, 2016
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An amazing community to be part of, the staff are caring and supportive, and the parents are kind and always welcome
Laura Elliott
Jan 22, 2016
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My kids are so happy in School and love going out and about to the beach to learn. Such a lovely nurturing School where everyone is welcome.
