The students of Erne Integrated College who were celebrated at their annual Evening of Celebration have been told they are "fantastic ambassadors" for the school and Integrated education.

In welcoming the families of students and members of the Board of Governors to the event he thanked them for their unwavering support and commitment to the school and welcomed Guest of Honour, Catherine Gilliland from St. Mary's University College, Belfast.

Speaking at the event last Thursday, Erne Integrated principal, Jimmy Jackson-Ware described the students as pioneers saying: "We are the only Integrated Post Primary school in Fermanagh - it is so important that we promote our founding principles and values particularly in the light of the polarisation of society with Brexit."

The principal spoke of highlights from the school year including the brilliant Christmas concert, the completion of the £4million state of the are new build and the girls U15 All-Ireland champions who were nominated as sports team of the year by Impartial Reporter and won the Fermanagh Herald Sports Team of the Year.

He also wished health and happiness to long serving members of staff who were leaving the school, Senior teacher Andrew Kerr and Music subject leader Dr. David Baxter.

Mr. Jackson-Ware commended the school on their best ever examination results in their 25 year history in which 81 per cent of the Year 12 students achieved five or more GCSEs at Grade C or above.

"All our Year 12 students who wished to study GCEs / BTEC Level Three’s returned to our Sixth Form. This is testament to the confidence and faith they have in our school."

He spoke of the pride he has for the students of the college who represent the school with pride.

"I am so proud of you and privileged to be your Principal. Sometimes on a Friday afternoon (after school of course) I go down to the Erneside for a coffee with a friend. I am so proud when I see our students wearing their uniform, they are fantastic ambassadors for our school and Integrated Education."

Founding principal of Erne Integrated Tom Noble passed away this year, and Mr. Jackson-Ware paid tribute to Mr. Noble along with the teachers and staff who continue to do so much fantastic work in the school for the students.

"The key to successful learning is positive caring relationships. Many Post Primary teachers recently attended a learning conference hosted by the FLC. The key note, The Real David Cameron asked where is the love? The love shines out in EIC. The staff's love for learning and the desire to support

"EIC is going from strength to strength and I am really looking forward to the year ahead," added Mr. Jackson-Ware.