NI Social Development Minister Margaret Ritchie has opened a new nurture classroom at St Luke’s primary school in Twinbrook, West Belfast.

DSD has provided Neighbourhood Renewal funding of over £19,000 for the fit out of the new classroom which includes a kitchen, soft seating and play areas to create a home from home learning environment.

According to the department, the classroom is designed to provide a more familiar and informal environment than a traditional classroom for children aged 5-6 to explore and learn. It will concentrate on emotional and social development as well as academic progress.

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"Nurture groups promote emotional, social and intellectual support for pupils while keeping them in close contact with their everyday class," said Minister Ritchie.

"The first few years of a child’s life has a profound effect on their future development and life chances. Making sure that the needs of children are met as they start primary school is, therefore, of utmost importance."

She continued: "The facilities at St Luke’s will allow a programme of early intervention in an area of social and economic disadvantage, and help to ensure children in the Colin Neighbourhood Renewal Area are given every chance to achieve their potential."

(NS/GK)