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{{EngvarB|date=September 2014}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2014}}
{{Infobox school
{{Infobox school
| name = Elmgrove Primary School
| name = Elmgrove Primary School
| image =
| image =
| motto = ''Have the courage to do what you know is right''
| motto = ''Have the courage to do what you know is right''
| principal = Mrs Jayne Jeffers BEd(Hons) PQH(NI) <br/> Ms Pauline Russell BEd(Hons) DASE CCET
| location = [[Belfast]], [[Northern Ireland]]
| principal = Mrs Jeffers
| website = {{URL|elmgroveprimary.co.uk}}
| viceprincipal = Miss Andrea Brown
| classes =
| school colours = Green and red
| logo =
| address = Avoniel Road
| website = http://www.elmgroveprimary.co.uk/index.asp
| classes = }}
| city = [[Belfast]]
| county = [[County Down]]
'''Elmgrove Primary School''' (Sometimes referred to as simply '''Elmgrove''' and originally known as '''Elmgrove Elementary School''') is a large Primary School in [[Belfast]], [[Northern Ireland]]. It opened in 1932 as Elmgrove Elementary School.<ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/1937/nwhig32.html Opening of Elmgrove<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/1937/nwhig33.html Opening of Elmgrove<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/btele.html Opening of Elmgrove<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourschool/ourschoolindex.html Elmgrove PS - Our School<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourschool/About%20Elmgrove.html Elmgrove PS - About Elmgrove<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> In 2008 Elmgrove celebrated its 75th anniversary. Special medals made from Mambco, were given to all the pupils. Special balloons were also present and 2 students from each year group got a balloon and released it into the air with a note attached saying that, when found, contact the school, to see how far the balloon travelled. The farthest known distance was to [[Scotland]].
| postcode = BT5 4SF
| country = [[Northern Ireland]], [[United Kingdom]]
| staff =
| years = 8
| gender = [[Co-Educational]]
| lower_age = 3
| upper_age = 11
| houses = {{colour box|green}} Bingham<br>{{Colour box|blue}} Jones<br>{{Colour box|red}} Morrison<br>{{Colour box|yellow}} Ervine
| colours = {{Colour box|green}}{{Colour box|red}}
| schooltype = Primary
| established = {{start date and age|9 January 1933}}
| status = <span style="color:green">Open</span>
| local_authority = [[Education Authority]]
}}
'''Elmgrove Primary School''' (Sometimes referred to as simply '''Elmgrove''' and originally known as '''Elmgrove Elementary School''') is a state-controlled Primary School situated in East [[Belfast]], Northern Ireland. It opened on 9 January 1933 as Elmgrove Elementary School.<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/1937/nwhig32.html |title=Opening of Elmgrove<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2 September 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120708181350/http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/1937/nwhig32.html |archive-date=8 July 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/1937/nwhig33.html |title=Opening of Elmgrove<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2 September 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120711082940/http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/1937/nwhig33.html |archive-date=11 July 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/btele.html |title=Opening of Elmgrove<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2 September 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120708012346/http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/btele.html |archive-date=8 July 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourschool/ourschoolindex.html |title=Elmgrove PS – Our School<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120201013429/http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourschool/ourschoolindex.html |archive-date=1 February 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourschool/About%20Elmgrove.html |title=Elmgrove PS – About Elmgrove<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2 September 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120709020812/http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourschool/About%20Elmgrove.html |archive-date=9 July 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>

The original Elmgrove building at Beersbridge Road closed in November 2024. A new building at the former Avoniel site will be home to Elmgrove from December 2024.


==History==
==History==
Elmgrove opened in 1932/3 as Elmgrove Elementary. Pupils from near-by schools were all moved into Elmgrove. Several famous/well known people from Belfast attended the school. In 2008 [[Peter Robinson (politician)|Peter Robinson]] visited the school and several P7 pupils got to ask him questions about his childhood and career.<ref>[http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P2-17137242.html Day Peter was pushed around when he met UK establishment ; ASSEMBLY NOTES - Belfast Telegraph | HighBeam Research<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> In 2009 [[Henry Winkler]] (The Fonz) visited the school to talk about reading books and his new book.<ref>[http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/ayyy-happy-days-for-local-pupils-14314831.html?service=Print The Independent - Print Article<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/news/the-fonz-gives-local-pupils-a-happy-day-14308037.html The Fonz gives local pupils a happy day - News, East Belfast - Belfasttelegraph.co.uk<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/ayyy-happy-days-for-local-pupils-14314831.html</ref> During Elections, the school is used as a polling station.<ref>http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/gallery/2010/may/06/general-election-2010-conservatives#/?picture=362280690&index=8</ref>
Elmgrove opened in 1932/1933 as Elmgrove Elementary School. Pupils from nearby schools were all moved into Elmgrove. Several famous/well-known people from Belfast attended the school. In 2008 [[Peter Robinson (Northern Ireland politician)|Peter Robinson]] visited the school and several P7 pupils got to ask him questions about his childhood and career.<ref>[https://web.archive.org/web/20121106115945/http://www.highbeam.com/doc/1P2-17137242.html Day Peter was pushed around when he met UK establishment; ASSEMBLY NOTES – Belfast Telegraph | HighBeam Research<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> In 2009 [[Henry Winkler]] (The Fonz) visited the school to talk about reading books and his new book.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/ayyy-happy-days-for-local-pupils-14314831.html?service=Print|title=The Independent – Print Article<!-- Bot generated title -->}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/news/the-fonz-gives-local-pupils-a-happy-day-14308037.html|title=The Fonz gives local pupils a happy day – News, East Belfast – Belfasttelegraph.co.uk<!-- Bot generated title -->}}</ref><ref>http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/ayyy-happy-days-for-local-pupils-14314831.html {{Dead link|date=February 2022}}</ref> During elections, the school is used as a polling station.<ref>{{Cite news|url=https://www.theguardian.com/politics/gallery/2010/may/06/general-election-2010-conservatives#/?picture=362280690&index=8|title = General election 2010: MPS cast their votes|newspaper = The Guardian|date = 6 May 2010}}</ref>


In 2008 Elmgrove celebrated its 75th anniversary. Special medals made from Mambco, were given to all the pupils. Special balloons were also present and two students from each year group got a balloon and released it into the air with a note attached saying that, when found, contact the school, to see how far the balloon travelled. The farthest known distance was to [[Scotland]].
===2012 Bomb scares===

====12 March====
Nearby Avoniel Primary closed in 2015 and was merged with Elmgrove. With the school building still used to teach students in.
On 12 March 2012 a pipe bomb was left yards from the school gates in the street opposite, Flora Street. Homes around the area where evacuated and so was Elmgrove and near-by [[Avoniel Primary School]], due to the close proximity of the bomb.<ref>http://www.u.tv/news/School-evacuated-as-viable-device-found/eb178cf8-e34b-448e-bd6b-ec1ae597af00</ref>

====13 March====
The school introduced a house system named after four past pupils of the school, [[Billy Bingham|Bingham]], [[Van Morrison|Morrison]], [[George Jones (radio presenter)|Jones]] and [[David Ervine|Ervine]].
On 13 March 2012 another pipe bomb was found in the area, near the Conn O'Neill bridge on the opposite side of the road where the other bomb had been found the day before.<ref>http://www.u.tv/News/Bomb-squad-at-east-Belfast-alert/21d207b1-7b54-4da3-b12b-d0b8ca6d2867</ref>
The original Elmgrove at Beersbridge closed in November 2024, after a final tour for past pupils and staff to see the building one last time. A new site was built on the former Avoniel Primary School site, with Elmgrove at Avoniel due to open in December 2024.


==Principals==
==Principals==
*John Sullivan 1932-1948<ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/misc/sullivan.html Mr. John Sullivan<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
*John Sullivan 1932–1948<ref>[https://archive.today/20120708024925/http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/misc/sullivan.html Mr. John Sullivan<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
*Arthur Clemitson 1948-1972<ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/misc/clemitson.html Mr. Arthur L. Clemitson<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
*Arthur Clemitson 1948–1972<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/misc/clemitson.html |title=Mr. Arthur L. Clemitson<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2 September 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120710180537/http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/misc/clemitson.html |archive-date=10 July 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
*Dr Jim Hunter 1972-1996<ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/misc/drh.html Dr. Hunter<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
*Dr Jim Hunter 1972-1995/1996<ref>[https://archive.today/20120711044034/http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/misc/drh.html Dr. Hunter<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
*Frazer Thompson 1995-2000<ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/ftretire/ftretire.html Mr. Thompson's Retirement<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
*Frazer Thompson 1995/1996-2000<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/ftretire/ftretire.html |title=Mr. Thompson's Retirement<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2 September 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120709094552/http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/ftretire/ftretire.html |archive-date=9 July 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
*David Hutchinson 2000-2011 (his death, 11 August 2011)<ref>[http://www.facebook.com/ripdavidhutchinson?ref=ts R.I.P David Hutchinson | Facebook<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/northern-ireland/ulster-school-principal-dies-after-ladder-accident-16036100.html Ulster school principal dies after ladder accident - Northern Ireland, Local & National - Belfasttelegraph.co.uk<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://www.seaviewps.org.uk/ Seaview Primary School Homepage<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://www.bigdug.co.uk/shelving-and-racking-blog/company-news/ulster-principal-dies-following-a-ladder-accident-bl3157 Ulster Principal Dies Following a Ladder Accident | BigDug News<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
*David Hutchinson 2000–2011 (his death, 11 August 2011)<ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.facebook.com/ripdavidhutchinson?ref=ts|title=Facebook|website=www.facebook.com}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/news/local-national/northern-ireland/ulster-school-principal-dies-after-ladder-accident-16036100.html|title=Ulster school principal dies after ladder accident – Northern Ireland, Local & National – Belfasttelegraph.co.uk<!-- Bot generated title -->}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=https://www.seaviewps.org.uk/home|title=Seaview Primary School, Belfast|website=www.seaviewps.org.uk}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.bigdug.co.uk/shelving-and-racking-blog/company-news/ulster-principal-dies-following-a-ladder-accident-bl3157|title=Ulster Principal Dies Following a Ladder Accident &#124; BigDug News<!-- Bot generated title -->|access-date=2 September 2011|archive-date=23 August 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110823145413/http://www.bigdug.co.uk/shelving-and-racking-blog/company-news/ulster-principal-dies-following-a-ladder-accident-bl3157|url-status=dead}}</ref>
*Andrea Brown 2011–2013 (Acting)
*Andrea Brown 2011–2013 (Acting)
*Mrs Jeffers April 2013 - Present
*Jayne Jeffers April 2013–present
*Pauline Russell 2024–present (Acting)


==Notable Former Pupils==
==Former pupils==
*[[Billy Bingham]], Footballer<ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/misc/bingham.html Billy Bingham<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/40ball/40ball.html Elmgrove 1940s Football Team Presentation<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
*[[Billy Bingham]], footballer<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/misc/bingham.html |title=Billy Bingham<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=3 September 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120711172311/http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/misc/bingham.html |archive-date=11 July 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/40ball/40ball.html |title=Elmgrove 1940s Football Team Presentation<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=3 September 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120717220349/http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/40ball/40ball.html |archive-date=17 July 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
⚫
*[[Van Morrison]], musician<ref>{{cite web| url = http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/163235m-lottery-cash-boost-for-connswater-13889694.html| url-status = dead| archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20121021010238/http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/163235m-lottery-cash-boost-for-connswater-13889694.html| archive-date = 2012-10-21| title = £23.5m lottery cash boost for Connswater - East Belfast, Community Telegraph - Belfasttelegraph.co.uk}}</ref>
*Wayne Drummond, Footballer<ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/childrens/Wayne.html Untitled Document<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
*[[George Cassidy (jazz musician)|George Cassidy]], jazz musician<ref>{{Cite web |title=History {{!}} Elmgrove Primary School |url=https://www.elmgroveprimary.co.uk/history/ |access-date=2024-11-20 |website=www.elmgroveprimary.co.uk}}</ref>
*[[Van Morrison]], Singer<ref>http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/163235m-lottery-cash-boost-for-connswater-13889694.html</ref>
*[[Sammy Wilson]], Politician<ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/samwilson/sam.html Lord Mayor's Visit<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/misc/wilson.html Picture of Girl and Boy in Uniform<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
*[[Sammy Wilson (politician)|Sammy Wilson]], politician<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/samwilson/sam.html |title=Lord Mayor's Visit<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=11 September 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120721121631/http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/samwilson/sam.html |archive-date=21 July 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web |url=http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/misc/wilson.html |title=Picture of Girl and Boy in Uniform<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=11 September 2011 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20120709154433/http://elmgrove.belfast.ni.sch.uk/htmlfiles/ourhistory/archive/misc/wilson.html |archive-date=9 July 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>
*[[David Ervine]], politician
⚫
*[[Christopher Lynn]]<ref>http://twitter.com/#!/WEE_CHR1S</ref><ref>http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/163235m-lottery-cash-boost-for-connswater-13889694.html?action=Popup&gallery=no</ref><ref>http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/163235m-lottery-cash-boost-for-connswater-13889694.html</ref>
*[[Ian Paisley Junior]], Politician
*[[Ian Paisley Junior]], politician
*[[George Jones (radio presenter)|George Jones]], musician and presenter
* Alan Wherry, book publisher, director of Penguin Books and co-founder Bloomsbury Publishing PLC


==Projects==
==Projects==
===Out of this world===
===Out of this World===
In 2006 pupils from Elmgrove took part in a new CCEA teaching resource called ''Out of this World''. They were joined with St. Teresa's Primary School for the activity. Pupils made different objects with recycled materials.<ref>http://www.rewardinglearning.org.uk/newsroom/2006/031106.asp</ref><ref>http://www.rewardinglearning.org.uk/newsroom/press/2006/press_031106.asp</ref>
In 2006, pupils from Elmgrove took part in a new CCEA teaching resource called ''Out of this World''. They were joined with St. Teresa's Primary School for the activity. Pupils made different objects with recycled materials.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.rewardinglearning.org.uk/newsroom/2006/031106.asp|title = 404 Not Found}}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.rewardinglearning.org.uk/newsroom/press/2006/press_031106.asp|title = 404 Not Found}}</ref>

===Connswater Community Greenway Project===
===Connswater Community Greenway Project===
Elmgrove has been involved with the local project to refurbish the local walkway and river next to the school. Over the years, the Conn O'Neill bridge and river near-by has been vandalised.<ref>[http://www.communitygreenway.co.uk/ Connswater Community Greenway - Home<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> The school has represented the project several times, first on 14 November 2007<ref>[http://www.communitygreenway.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogsection&id=2&Itemid=15&limit=10&limitstart=60 Connswater Community Greenway - News<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref> and the second on 24 October 2008.<ref>[http://www.communitygreenway.co.uk/index.php?option=com_content&task=blogsection&id=2&Itemid=15&limit=10&limitstart=50 Connswater Community Greenway - News<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
Elmgrove has been involved with the local project to refurbish the local walkway and river next to the school. Over the years, the Conn O'Neill bridge and river nearby has been vandalised.<ref name="auto">{{Cite web|url=https://www.eastsidegreenways.com/|title=EastSide Greenways}}</ref> The school has represented the project several times, first on 14 November 2007<ref name="auto"/> and the second on 24 October 2008.<ref name="auto"/> One of the bridges along the Greenway was named after former principal David Hutchinson.

===Over the Halfpenny Bridge===
===Over the Halfpenny Bridge===
In 2009 Elmgrove stated that a new production was in the works with Dance United NI. The show was later named ''Over the Halfpenny Bridge''. It was about the History of Belfast and starred the P7 pupils of that year, and Elderly members from near-by nursing homes, Elmgrove Manor and Greenville Court. 'I am staggered by the range and the quality of what has been produced this evening,' said school principal David Hutchinson. 'The children have acquired so many new skills by working with this terrific company and, through them, all of our minds have been opened.' The children worked with Writer Ruth Carr, Rastafarian poet [[Levi Tafari]], print maker Robin Cordiner, musicians Nikki Such, Patrick and Bronagh Davey and Irish, Greek and Indian dancers. On 2 April 2009, the show was performed live in [[St George's Market]], [[Belfast]].<ref>[http://www.danceunitedni.com/index.php/projects/closing-the-gap/ Closing the Gap « Dance United<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref><ref>[http://www.culturenorthernireland.org/article/2651/dance-united-ni Dance United NI<!-- Bot generated title -->]</ref>
In 2009, Elmgrove stated that a new production was in the works with Dance United NI. The show was later named ''Over the Halfpenny Bridge''. It was about the History of Belfast and starred the P7 pupils of that year, and Elderly members from nearby nursing homes, Elmgrove Manor and Greenville Court. 'I am staggered by the range and the quality of what has been produced this evening,' said school principal David Hutchinson. 'The children have acquired so many new skills by working with this terrific company and, through them, all of our minds have been opened.' The children worked with Writer [[Ruth Carr]], Rastafarian poet [[Levi Tafari]], printmaker Robin Cordiner, musicians Nikki Such, Patrick and Bronagh Davey and Irish, Greek and Indian dancers. On 2 April 2009, the show was performed live in [[St George's Market]], [[Belfast]].<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.danceunitedni.com/index.php/projects/closing-the-gap/ |title=Closing the Gap « Dance United<!-- Bot generated title --> |access-date=2 September 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120120154952/http://www.danceunitedni.com/index.php/projects/closing-the-gap/ |archive-date=20 January 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref><ref>{{Cite web|url=http://www.culturenorthernireland.org/article/2651/dance-united-ni|title=Dance United NI<!-- Bot generated title -->|access-date=2 September 2011|archive-date=9 April 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110409155827/http://www.culturenorthernireland.org/article/2651/dance-united-ni|url-status=dead}}</ref>

This was the last night james mcmaster was found to be northern irish as he was caught sniffing melted plastic the next morning aftr a boozey night with mags and michael ozzy.
⚫
===Eco-Schools programme===
Since 2009, the school has taken part in an Eco programme to make the school more eco-friendly. The School has Recently won the [[Green Flag Award]]<ref>{{Cite web |url=http://www.eco-schoolsni.org/news.aspx?dataid=431384 |title=Eco-Schools Northern Ireland |access-date=15 October 2011 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425070109/http://www.eco-schoolsni.org/news.aspx?dataid=431384 |archive-date=25 April 2012 |url-status=dead }}</ref>


⚫
===Eco-Schools Programme===
Since 2009 the school has taken part in an Eco programme to make the school more eco-friendly.<ref>http://www.eco-schoolsni.org/news.aspx?dataid=431384</ref>
===Sesame Tree===
===Sesame Tree===
In 2010 P2 pupils from the school starred in a T.V series that aired on CBeebies called Sesame Tree, Northern Ireland's version of Sesame Street.<ref>http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/news/elmgrove-children-branch-out-into-new-sesame-tree-14886102.html?r=RSS</ref>
In 2010, P2 pupils from the school starred in a T.V series that aired on CBeebies called Sesame Tree, Northern Ireland's version of Sesame Street.<ref>http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/news/elmgrove-children-branch-out-into-new-sesame-tree-14886102.html?r=RSS {{Dead link|date=February 2022}}</ref>


==References==
==References==
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[[Category:Primary schools in Belfast]]
[[Category:Primary schools in Belfast]]

Latest revision as of 01:34, 24 December 2024

Elmgrove Primary School
Address
Map
Avoniel Road

Belfast
,
County Down
,
BT5 4SF

Northern Ireland, United Kingdom
Information
School typePrimary
MottoHave the courage to do what you know is right
Established9 January 1933; 91 years ago (9 January 1933)
StatusOpen
Local authorityEducation Authority
PrincipalMrs Jayne Jeffers BEd(Hons) PQH(NI)
Ms Pauline Russell BEd(Hons) DASE CCET
Years offered8
GenderCo-Educational
Age3 to 11
Houses  Bingham
  Jones
  Morrison
  Ervine
Colour(s)  
Websiteelmgroveprimary.co.uk

Elmgrove Primary School (Sometimes referred to as simply Elmgrove and originally known as Elmgrove Elementary School) is a state-controlled Primary School situated in East Belfast, Northern Ireland. It opened on 9 January 1933 as Elmgrove Elementary School.[1][2][3][4][5]

The original Elmgrove building at Beersbridge Road closed in November 2024. A new building at the former Avoniel site will be home to Elmgrove from December 2024.

History

[edit]

Elmgrove opened in 1932/1933 as Elmgrove Elementary School. Pupils from nearby schools were all moved into Elmgrove. Several famous/well-known people from Belfast attended the school. In 2008 Peter Robinson visited the school and several P7 pupils got to ask him questions about his childhood and career.[6] In 2009 Henry Winkler (The Fonz) visited the school to talk about reading books and his new book.[7][8][9] During elections, the school is used as a polling station.[10]

In 2008 Elmgrove celebrated its 75th anniversary. Special medals made from Mambco, were given to all the pupils. Special balloons were also present and two students from each year group got a balloon and released it into the air with a note attached saying that, when found, contact the school, to see how far the balloon travelled. The farthest known distance was to Scotland.

Nearby Avoniel Primary closed in 2015 and was merged with Elmgrove. With the school building still used to teach students in.

The school introduced a house system named after four past pupils of the school, Bingham, Morrison, Jones and Ervine.

The original Elmgrove at Beersbridge closed in November 2024, after a final tour for past pupils and staff to see the building one last time. A new site was built on the former Avoniel Primary School site, with Elmgrove at Avoniel due to open in December 2024.

Principals

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  • John Sullivan 1932–1948[11]
  • Arthur Clemitson 1948–1972[12]
  • Dr Jim Hunter 1972-1995/1996[13]
  • Frazer Thompson 1995/1996-2000[14]
  • David Hutchinson 2000–2011 (his death, 11 August 2011)[15][16][17][18]
  • Andrea Brown 2011–2013 (Acting)
  • Jayne Jeffers April 2013–present
  • Pauline Russell 2024–present (Acting)

Former pupils

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Projects

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Out of this World

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In 2006, pupils from Elmgrove took part in a new CCEA teaching resource called Out of this World. They were joined with St. Teresa's Primary School for the activity. Pupils made different objects with recycled materials.[25][26]

Connswater Community Greenway Project

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Elmgrove has been involved with the local project to refurbish the local walkway and river next to the school. Over the years, the Conn O'Neill bridge and river nearby has been vandalised.[27] The school has represented the project several times, first on 14 November 2007[27] and the second on 24 October 2008.[27] One of the bridges along the Greenway was named after former principal David Hutchinson.

Over the Halfpenny Bridge

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In 2009, Elmgrove stated that a new production was in the works with Dance United NI. The show was later named Over the Halfpenny Bridge. It was about the History of Belfast and starred the P7 pupils of that year, and Elderly members from nearby nursing homes, Elmgrove Manor and Greenville Court. 'I am staggered by the range and the quality of what has been produced this evening,' said school principal David Hutchinson. 'The children have acquired so many new skills by working with this terrific company and, through them, all of our minds have been opened.' The children worked with Writer Ruth Carr, Rastafarian poet Levi Tafari, printmaker Robin Cordiner, musicians Nikki Such, Patrick and Bronagh Davey and Irish, Greek and Indian dancers. On 2 April 2009, the show was performed live in St George's Market, Belfast.[28][29]

Eco-Schools programme

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Since 2009, the school has taken part in an Eco programme to make the school more eco-friendly. The School has Recently won the Green Flag Award[30]

Sesame Tree

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In 2010, P2 pupils from the school starred in a T.V series that aired on CBeebies called Sesame Tree, Northern Ireland's version of Sesame Street.[31]

References

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  1. ^ "Opening of Elmgrove". Archived from the original on 8 July 2012. Retrieved 2 September 2011.
  2. ^ "Opening of Elmgrove". Archived from the original on 11 July 2012. Retrieved 2 September 2011.
  3. ^ "Opening of Elmgrove". Archived from the original on 8 July 2012. Retrieved 2 September 2011.
  4. ^ "Elmgrove PS – Our School". Archived from the original on 1 February 2012. Retrieved 2 September 2011.
  5. ^ "Elmgrove PS – About Elmgrove". Archived from the original on 9 July 2012. Retrieved 2 September 2011.
  6. ^ Day Peter was pushed around when he met UK establishment; ASSEMBLY NOTES – Belfast Telegraph | HighBeam Research
  7. ^ "The Independent – Print Article".
  8. ^ "The Fonz gives local pupils a happy day – News, East Belfast – Belfasttelegraph.co.uk".
  9. ^ http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/ayyy-happy-days-for-local-pupils-14314831.html [dead link‍]
  10. ^ "General election 2010: MPS cast their votes". The Guardian. 6 May 2010.
  11. ^ Mr. John Sullivan
  12. ^ "Mr. Arthur L. Clemitson". Archived from the original on 10 July 2012. Retrieved 2 September 2011.
  13. ^ Dr. Hunter
  14. ^ "Mr. Thompson's Retirement". Archived from the original on 9 July 2012. Retrieved 2 September 2011.
  15. ^ "Facebook". www.facebook.com.
  16. ^ "Ulster school principal dies after ladder accident – Northern Ireland, Local & National – Belfasttelegraph.co.uk".
  17. ^ "Seaview Primary School, Belfast". www.seaviewps.org.uk.
  18. ^ "Ulster Principal Dies Following a Ladder Accident | BigDug News". Archived from the original on 23 August 2011. Retrieved 2 September 2011.
  19. ^ "Billy Bingham". Archived from the original on 11 July 2012. Retrieved 3 September 2011.
  20. ^ "Elmgrove 1940s Football Team Presentation". Archived from the original on 17 July 2012. Retrieved 3 September 2011.
  21. ^ "£23.5m lottery cash boost for Connswater - East Belfast, Community Telegraph - Belfasttelegraph.co.uk". Archived from the original on 21 October 2012.
  22. ^ "History | Elmgrove Primary School". www.elmgroveprimary.co.uk. Retrieved 20 November 2024.
  23. ^ "Lord Mayor's Visit". Archived from the original on 21 July 2012. Retrieved 11 September 2011.
  24. ^ "Picture of Girl and Boy in Uniform". Archived from the original on 9 July 2012. Retrieved 11 September 2011.
  25. ^ "404 Not Found". {{cite web}}: Cite uses generic title (help)
  26. ^ "404 Not Found". {{cite web}}: Cite uses generic title (help)
  27. ^ a b c "EastSide Greenways".
  28. ^ "Closing the Gap « Dance United". Archived from the original on 20 January 2012. Retrieved 2 September 2011.
  29. ^ "Dance United NI". Archived from the original on 9 April 2011. Retrieved 2 September 2011.
  30. ^ "Eco-Schools Northern Ireland". Archived from the original on 25 April 2012. Retrieved 15 October 2011.
  31. ^ http://www.belfasttelegraph.co.uk/community-telegraph/east-belfast/news/elmgrove-children-branch-out-into-new-sesame-tree-14886102.html?r=RSS [dead link‍]

54°35′29″N 5°53′29″W / 54.5913°N 5.8914°W / 54.5913; -5.8914

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