New Ulster-Scots Learning Resource

21 October 2024

Jetpack Learning has launched Ballybarnock Eco School – an interactive educational resource which enhances environmental learning and celebrates Ulster-Scots language and culture for young learners.

Funded by Northern Ireland Screen’s Ulster-Scots Broadcast Fund, Ballybarnock Eco School aligns with the Northern Ireland Key Stage 1 and 2 curriculum topic World Around Us and is an extension of the Ulster-Scots Ballybarnock resource also available on the CCEA website. 

Ballybarnock Eco School combines environmental education with the Ulster-Scots language, considered by many to be “the language of the land” for rural communities in Northern Ireland. Stories are brought to life with humour, featuring busy bees or bummles, flatulent cows and cheeky seagulls. Mrs. Anderson, the teacher, and Mr. McClure, the school principal, experience slapstick moments when fruit falls on their heads, adding a playful tone to the lessons.

Inspired by visits to Derryboy Primary School in Crossgar while testing the original Ballybarnock website, the resource integrates cultural and environmental learning to create an engaging experience for young learners. The focus on environmental awareness aligns with the curriculum’s goals of teaching sustainability and conservation.

Tony Woods, Co-Founder, Jetpack Learning, said: “When we were testing the first Ballybarnock resource, we were really impressed with the wee garden the teachers and pupils at Derryboy Primary School had created. It got us thinking about how we could introduce environmental issues into Ulster-Scots language learning.”

The resource is divided into three sections:

• Reddin Up tha Schuil Yaird
• Bummles on tha Fairm
• Makin tha Schuil Gairden.

Each section offers a story accompanied by six interactive games, providing education and fun. Students are introduced to more characters within Ballybarnock Primary School which features a diverse cast of students, reflecting modern Northern Ireland.

Ballybarnock Eco School builds on the success of its predecessor by fostering environmental awareness while teaching the Ulster-Scots language in a way that resonates with young learners. It encourages cultural pride, promotes inclusivity, and ensures that students have fun while learning.

To view the new resource, click here. 

Pictured: The pupils of Derryboy Primary School with Mr McClure and some of the children from Ballybarnock Primary School.